You don’t need a guidebook. You need time, a good pair of shoes, and the kind of curiosity that lets you peek into courtyards.

Start at the Main Square

Everything begins here. Vardanants Square is Gyumri’s wide-open welcome mat—civic buildings, historic churches, and the heartbeat of the city all in one glance. Stand in the center and let the noise soften. You’re not just in a city—you’re in its center of gravity.

Turn onto Abovyan Street

Gyumri’s oldest soul walked this street. Buildings that have weathered empires. The first pharmacy in Armenia, still standing, still proud. The facades are chipped, yes—but they hold stories you won’t find in history books. And right in the middle of it all: the Puppet Theatre, the very first in the country. A small building with a massive legacy. Even from outside, it feels like something sacred.

Swing Through Shiraz Street

Named after one of Armenia’s greatest poets, this street is a tribute to language and feeling. Step into the Hovhannes Shiraz Museum, housed in the very home he lived and wrote in. Across the way is the Avetik Isahakyan Museum, another master of verse, another story folded into these stone walls. Gyumri doesn’t just preserve culture—it keeps it breathing.

Down Rustaveli Street

Look up—you might catch a mural or two. Look left—you’ll find the Mher Mkrtchyan Museum, honoring one of Armenia’s most beloved actors. The street itself is a living gallery: street art, sculpted balconies, tucked-away studios.

Time for Lunch? Try These Nearby Favorites

This is the halfway point. Sit down and reset.

• Miro – Refined, artsy, with a view that always delivers.
• Basturma Shop & Grill Bar – A Gyumri classic. Order the omelet with basturma—you won’t regret it.
• Al Ahwaz – Hidden, authentic, unforgettable. Great spot if you want something quieter and cozy.

Turn onto Jivani Street

A quieter stretch, but with a surprise waiting. Here you’ll find the Alexandrapol Brewery, where Gyumri Beer—one of the best-loved beers in Armenia—is still brewed today. You can walk right up to the brewery entrance, and if you’re lucky, ask for a tasting or even a quick tour. Locals say it’s worth a try—they’re usually happy to welcome curious visitors.

Pause at the Gyumri Technology Center (GTC)

This building isn't just a tech hub — it's a cornerstone of Armenian education and resilience. In 1920, it housed the very first classes of what would become Yerevan State University, marking the dawn of higher education in the newly independent Armenia. Later, it served as the home of the Gyumri State Pedagogical University, nurturing generations of educators. After the devastating 1988 earthquake, the building was restored and repurposed, reopening in 2014 as the Gyumri Technology Center. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city's rebirth, hosting startups, tech companies, and educational programs that drive innovation in the region.

Step into Central Park

Just a short walk from the Gyumri Technology Center, you'll find Central Park—an expansive green space that offers a serene contrast to the city's bustling streets. Established in the 1920s on the site of the old city cemetery, the park has become a cherished gathering place for locals and visitors alike. With its towering trees, well-maintained pathways, and various sculptures reflecting Gyumri's rich cultural heritage, it's an ideal spot to relax and absorb the city's atmosphere.

Visit TUMO Gyumri

In the Central Park stands TUMO Gyumri, a center for creative technologies housed in a historic theater building dating back to the 1860s. This building, which once hosted the debut of Armen Tigranyan's opera "Anoush" in 1912, has been revitalized to serve as a modern educational hub. Today, TUMO offers free programs in animation, game development, and digital design to hundreds of young Armenians, fostering the next generation of innovators.

Conclude at the Balcony from Tango of Our Childhood

As you wrap up your tour, make your way to the iconic balcony featured in the beloved Armenian film Tango of Our Childhood. This spot isn't just a cinematic landmark; it's a symbol of Gyumri's enduring cultural legacy. Marked and preserved, the balcony stands as a testament to the city's artistic spirit and its role in Armenian cinema.