For a browse among Yerevan’s local makers, Vernissage is the city-centre open-air market-exhibition of handmade goods, souvenirs and works of art. Its stalls run along Hanrapetutyan Street near Republic Square, offering a lively way to discover Armenian crafts.
- Location: Hanrapetutyan Street, near Republic Square metro station.
- Typical hours: The Visit Yerevan listing gives daily hours of 10:00 to 18:00 and notes the market is mostly open on weekends.
- Time to allow: Allow 2 hours to browse.
- Entry: The market is free to visit and open year-round.
What to expect at Vernissage
Vernissage is a broad-ranging craft and art market where you can browse handmade goods, souvenirs and traditional items.
The stalls offer paintings, pottery, carvings, silk scarves, jewelry, handmade handbags and wooden chess and backgammon sets. You may also find folk clothing, traditional-costume dolls, antiques and carpets. Bargaining with sellers is customary.
The market began in the 1980s, when artists exhibited their work near the Yerevan Opera House. Woodcarvers, jewelers and sellers of antiques, carpets and ceramics later joined. After the 1988 earthquake, the market became an important source of income for local craftspeople.
Where is Vernissage, and how do you plan a visit?
Vernissage runs along Hanrapetutyan Street, starting near Republic Square metro station and ending before the monument to Vardan Mamikonyan.
The Yerevan tourism listing gives the address as 1 P. Buzand Street. From Bonjour Boutique Hotel Yerevan, walk about 15 minutes to Republic Square metro station, then continue to the market. The city’s guide to Republic Square and the National Gallery covers nearby central sights to pair with your visit.
The market is open on other days as well as weekends. Allow about 2 hours to browse. For getting around the city by metro and bus, consult the Yerevan public transport guide.
Before you go, check the official site of Visit Yerevan for current opening details.
How did Vernissage develop?
Vernissage grew from an informal place for artists to show work into a market that supports local craftspeople.
Its beginnings near the Yerevan Opera House date to the 1980s. As more makers and sellers joined, the range expanded beyond art to include woodcarving, jewelry, antiques, carpets and ceramics. Following the 1988 earthquake, selling at the market became an important source of income for local craftspeople.
FAQs
Is Vernissage open every day?
It is mostly open on weekends, though it also opens on other days. Check Visit Yerevan before you go.
How long should you allow for Vernissage?
Allow 2 hours for a visit.
Is there an entrance fee?
Vernissage is free to visit.
Is Painters’ Vernissage the same market?
No. Painters’ Vernissage is a separate market in Martiros Saryan Park.