Updated: May 12, 2024
The best way to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan and vice versa, for time and money savings, including price, schedule, and alternative details.
The journey between Georgia and Armenia's capitals is a classic, being just 276 km apart, making it easy to explore both magnificent Caucasus countries.
In this article, I'll share insights on the best transportation, immigration, visas, stops, and plenty of tips to prep you. All based on my experience of living in Georgia for 1 year and traveling to Armenia several times.
In addition, I have included other ways to travel between Georgia and Armenia so you can check the one that best suits you.
✅ Georgia: tour to Kazbegi and Ananuri – spectacular mountains.
✅ Georgia: excursion to Kakheti with visit to a winery and wine tasting – guaranteed fun.
✅ Armenia: tour to Garni, Geghard, Lake Sevan and Sevanavank – prepare to be amazed.
✅ Armenia: Khor Virap, Noravank and Tatev tour including the fabulous Wings of Tatev cable car ride.
Traveling between Georgia and Armenia
The most convenient way from Tbilisi to Yerevan is by minibuses, commonly called marshrutkas.
Sure thing, I should mention that driving in the Caucasus is pretty aggressive and fast-paced. And with the whole region being so mountainous and full of twists and turns, it's no wonder many tourists feel a bit wary about hopping on a marshrutka. But hey, accidents involving marshrutkas are actually pretty rare.
Additionally, if you're exploring the Caucasus, you should be aware that marshrutkas are the primary means of transportation. Many destinations are exclusively reachable by these minibuses; there's simply no other option.
Of course, you can also drive, but considering the driving style around here, I assure you that you'll be safer in a minibus. They're experts at navigating these roads.
Minibuses Between Tbilisi and Yerevan
Departures from Tbilisi
Marshrutkas from Tbilisi to Yerevan leave from Avlabari at 9:00, 11:00 am and 1:00, 3:00, and 5:00 pm, priced at 50 lari (17.97 euros).
📢 Important: There used to be minibuses from Square Station to Yerevan now only depart from Avlabari.
The most convenient way to reach Avlabari from Tbilisi is by metro, or you can opt for a Bolt ride.
The minibus stop in Avlabari and the payment system has changed in 2023.
Now, from the Avlabari metro station, head left and walk to the corner, cross the street, and continue straight for about 50 meters, where you'll see the marshrutkas (sometimes 8-seater cars).
Minibuses usually display the Armenian flag and "Yerevan" written in Latin characters, like in the photo below.
Another change is that you can no longer pay onboard the minibus.
Since 2023, tickets are purchased at the Comfort office directly across from where the minibuses are parked. Or you can buy it in advance online to secure your spot or you can use the search tool below:
Departures from Yerevan
The marshrutkas from Yerevan to Tbilisi depart from the Kilikia bus station at 8:30, 10:30 am and 1:00, 3:00, and 5:00 p.m. and cost 8,000 drams (20.10 euros).
To reach Kilikia in Yerevan via public transportation, your best bet is bus number 5, costing 100 drams (0.25 euros), payable directly to the driver.
Alternatively, a Yandex ride will run for around 1000 drams (2.51 euros). Keep in mind that prices may vary during peak hours, rainy days, etc.
The minibuses in Yerevan are operated by Comfort Armenia, with their office located on the exterior left side of the station building.
👍 Friend's tip: This is the main minibus station in Yerevan, if you can't find the one that goes to Tbilisi, just ask any marshrutka driver, and they'll point you in the right direction.
In Yerevan, you can buy your ticket at the Comfort office or purchase it in advance on this website.
🚕 Check out my articles for detailed tips on How to get around Tbilisi and Georgia and How to get around Yerevan and Armenia.
Route, Travel Time, and Immigration
The journey typically lasts around 5:30 hours, give or take a bit.
Throughout the trip, there are a few stops, including a 20-minute break on the Armenian side and two stops at each country's immigration offices.
To clear immigration, it usually takes about an hour in total between the two immigration offices.
First, you'll go through the immigration office of the country you're leaving, then hop back on the minibus. After a short while, you'll get off again to go through immigration for the country you're entering.
When passing through immigration into the next country, you'll need to unload all your luggage, including handbags.
In Armenia, luggage needs to go through a scanner, while in Georgia, they don't check anything, although you have to carry it with you.
Entering Armenia typically involves standard questions about the purpose and duration of your trip; they'll stamp your passport, and you're good to go.
You might face some additional questions if you've been to Azerbaijan before or if it's not your first trip to Armenia, but they're usually routine.
On the flip side, entering Georgia might involve some more creative questioning, but it's nothing to worry about; it's normal.
⭐ In this guide about Tips for Traveling to Georgia, you can read more about immigration questions and lots of useful tips.
The first time I traveled to Armenia, I was a bit anxious at immigration because I was the last one to go through at both offices (Georgia and Armenia), and I feared the marshrutka was going to leave without me. 😅 Don't worry; The driver will wait for you, but don't dawdle. 😉
Practical Tips for Marshrutka Travel
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure: Marshrutkas typically leave once they're full, but they usually don't wait long after the scheduled time. If the minibus fills up quickly, it might depart earlier than planned. If you've already bought your ticket, you can arrive closer to departure time, but don't be late.
- Traveling with bulky luggage: While minibuses have space in the back for luggage, it's limited. If you're carrying a large suitcase, it's best to arrive well in advance. If the back space fills up with luggage from other tourists, you may need to stow yours inside the minibus.
- Seat comfort: The seats are comfy, much better than trains, though the space is a bit tight. It's similar to economy class on a plane, where the legroom is limited. If you're over 6 feet tall, consider arriving early and sitting up front next to the driver for more legroom.
- Food and drink: Bring water and snacks with you. At the Armenian immigration stop, there's a coffee machine, and there's usually a break in Armenia where you can buy food and drinks.
- SIM card: You can't buy SIM cards at the Armenian rest stop, so you will need to wait until you reach Yerevan. In Georgia, there are no stops, so get your SIM card in Tbilisi. Alternatively, consider purchasing an eSIM for Georgia and Armenia, so you can have internet connection from the moment you cross the border. You can get a 5% discount with those links.
- Currency exchange: There's no currency exchange at the stops along the way, so it's best to exchange money beforehand or use your card for payment.
- Wifi: Marshrutkas don't have WiFi, but 8-seater cars usually do, although the signal is weak in the mountains.
- Entertainment: If you haven't bought the recommended eSIMs, bring some entertainment with you as there won't be internet access.
- Motion sickness: If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before boarding the marshrutka. With the combination of fast driving and winding roads, dizziness is almost certain.
- Restrooms: There are restrooms at the immigration offices, but I suggest using the restroom during the stop in Armenia as the border restrooms can be unpleasant. 😖
Alternatives to Get from Tbilisi to Yerevan
1.- Driving
The stretch between Tbilisi and Yerevan, particularly in Armenia after crossing the border, showcases breathtaking mountain scenery.
That's why driving can offer the flexibility to make stops and explore further.
However, as I mentioned earlier, driving in this region can be aggressive and fast-paced, with frequent encounters with animals on the road, especially cows.
So, if you're not accustomed to driving in the Caucasus, it's safer to choose public transportation.
If you opt to rent a car, I recommend using this search engine that partners with reputable and budget-friendly local Georgian companies, or here to rent a car in Armenia.
👍 Interesting info: This car rental search engine allows you to pick up in one country and drop off in the other at a reasonable rate.
⭐ You may also be interested in this article where I talk in detail about How to rent and drive a car in Georgia and neighboring countries.
2.- Flight
Flying from Tbilisi to Yerevan takes just 30 minutes, which saves you a considerable amount of time. However, there aren't many affordable choices for such a short trip.
Additionally, there are only a few flights per day, operated by FlyOne, Armenian Aircompany, and Georgian Airways.
During the low season, you can book the journey for less than 90 euros. However, during the high season, prices typically start from around 130 euros.
You can check flight schedules, prices, and make reservations on this website.
3.- Train
I usually suggest taking the train for travel, but not in the Caucasus, the only exception is the route from Tbilisi to Batumi.
In Georgia, there are two types of trains: modern ones that are fast and comfortable, and then there are the old Soviet trains that are uncomfortable, very slow, and not very economical.
As you can imagine, the train journey from Tbilisi to Yerevan is on the old trains that don't offer any advantages, which is why I don't recommend them. 😅
However, here are all the details:
– Travel Time, Schedules, and Train Operation Days
The train journey takes approximately 10.5 hours, though this duration can fluctuate depending on the time spent at the border undergoing immigration procedures for each country.
From Tbilisi, the overnight train departs from Square Station at 8:20 PM, arriving in Yerevan at 6:55 AM. Ticket prices range from 80 to 180 lari (28.83 to 64.86 euros) depending on the class.
The border stop typically occurs between 10:00 PM and 12:40 AM.
During the low season (early October to mid-June), trains from Georgia to Armenia only run on odd days.
Then the train from Yerevan leaves Sasuntsi David Station at 9:30 PM, reaching Tbilisi at 7:35 AM. Ticket prices range from 12,000 to 25,000 drams (30.26 euros to 63.04 euros).
At the border, the train usually stops between 3:40 AM and 6:00 AM.
In the low season, trains depart from Armenia only on even days.
– Immigration
If you're taking the train from Tbilisi to Yerevan, the immigration process is a bit different compared to traveling by marshrutka because it occurs onboard the train.
In other words, immigration officers come onto the train and check passports, first at the departure country's border and then at the entry country's border.
Of course, the creativity of the questions from the Georgian immigration agents is also guaranteed if you travel by train. 😅
– Where to Buy Tickets?
Starting from January 2023, train tickets for travel between Tbilisi and Yerevan are no longer available for online purchase. You must buy them at the train stations.
In Tbilisi, you can purchase tickets at Square Station from 8 AM to 8 PM. Don't forget to bring your passport. Payment options include cash or card, and you can also purchase round-trip tickets there.
4.- Caucasus All-Inclusive Trips
Another option is to join a all-inclusive tour that covers activities, transportation, and accommodation, guiding you through the most captivating destinations in Georgia and Armenia. It's a hassle-free way to travel and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
I highly recommend this 12-day tour spanning the three Caucasus countries. It includes all sightseeing visits and hotel stays with breakfast included.
If you plan to visit only Georgia and Armenia, this all-inclusive trip is incredibly popular, offering visits to the most renowned attractions, meals included, and at a very reasonable price.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many ways to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or vice versa) on your own, giving you the chance to explore these two beautiful countries.
Before we part ways, I'll share with you the Armenia Guide and the Georgia Guide with the articles I wrote that will help you explore them.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘
More about Georgia and Armenia
- What to do in Tbilisi: 24 must-visit places.
- Tips for Traveling to Georgia, country of the Caucasus
- 31 Curiosities of Armenia
- What to do in Yerevan: 14 best plans
- Route through Armenia: 1 week itinerary
Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.
Hello Andrea!! Congratulations on your blog, it is very interesting. I wanted to ask you a question, our intention would be to take the night train from Tbilisi to Yerevan in June on a Friday… there is no problem because it is an odd day, right? That is, in summer they come out every day?
Another question would be if it is possible to buy the ticket at the station a day before to ensure that we find a ticket or even if you think it would be possible to buy it a few days before from the Kutaisi train station when we arrive.
Greetings and thanks in advance for your response.
Hello Raul
Thank you for your words!
In general, for trains in Georgia you can get seats without problems if you travel at any time other than summer.
On the other hand, in summer the places run out quite quickly, at least for the fast trains that connect Tbilisi with the Kutaisi airport and then with Batumi.
In the case of the train that goes from Tbilisi to Yerevan, I can't tell you if the seats run out in summer, I haven't used it much, because it seems like a very bad option to me, as I mention in the article.
What I can tell you is that From the beginning of 2023 there is no way to buy train tickets online for the Georgia-Armenia route. These tickets can only be purchased at train stations and It can't be in Kutaisi.
In Georgia, they only sell these train tickets at Square Station in Tbilisi between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., you will need to show your passport and there you can also buy the return ticket from Yerevan.
Regarding train running days, trains from Tbilisi to Yerevan leave on odd days, then you wouldn't have any problems.
In theory, the low season hours are from the beginning of October to mid-June. But, on the website of the Georgia trains They haven't made the change yet, here's the link if you want to see it.
Thank you for your question, I will now update the article with this information.
Have a nice trip!
Hello, thank you for your advice. I'm at the Baku airport about to leave for Georgia. One question, I have run out of cash and they sent me a shipment through Western Union. Where can I collect it in Typhilis? In Baku it has been impossible for me.
Hello Luis
I have never used Western Union when I lived in Georgia.
From what I have seen on Google maps they do not have their own offices, according to the Western Union website they operate through several bank branches.
At the airport they operate with Bank of Georgia and TBC, if you don't look at the list they have on their website, Here I leave the link.
Luck!
Hello, it is the best information website I have found, I congratulate you. One question, the night train Yerevan-Tbilisi and vice versa, are there cabins/cabins with beds for two people? thank you
Hello
Thank you very much for your words Sofia! 😊
Yes, there are cabins on the train, in the first one they are for two people and in the second one for 4 people.
In third I couldn't tell you anymore.
Have a lot of fun in the Caucasus!
Hello how are you? You receive a special greeting from Colombia and I would like to know how inconvenient it is to visit Georgia, Armenia and Azerbayan in the period from January 15 to 30?
Thank you for your opinion, which I value because we have an interesting opportunity to be able to pass through that region in those days of 2024.
Hi Lucia!
If you want to go skiing or do other winter sports, these dates are ideal, Georgia has very good ski slopes.
On the other hand, to see the essentials it is not the best time, in Georgia it is very cold and in Armenia, even colder. 🥶
I didn't get to go to Azerbaijan, but it is in the same area and will be similar.
The disadvantages of traveling to the Caucasus in winter is that with so much cold it doesn't make you want to visit too much, at least that's what happens to me, the temperatures are below 0 degrees and it also gets dark very soon.
To get around, there are few excursions, but they still exist. As for the marshrutkas (mini buses), they are much less frequent and sometimes you will have to wait hours for them to fill up and leave. So, it is best to rent a car, although there are some roads that become more dangerous to drive in winter.
Depending on how much snow there is, some roads may be closed, but these are specific cases; for example, last winter there were not many problems of this type.
There are also places that may close in winter, such as Okatse Canyon near Kutaisi which closes the platform or Tatev closes the Alas de Tatev cable car.
What's good about it is seeing the snowy landscapes that are very beautiful and in Georgia the thermal baths are fantastic in winter, very comforting.
If you are going to go, you have to bring thermal clothing and plenty of warmth.
It is also essential to have good waterproof footwear that has some grip to avoid slipping on the ice, I used my hiking boots and they were great for visits.
Have a good trip!