A Complete Guide for Renting a Car in Armenia

If you're thinking about renting a car in Armenia, knowing the rules and options beforehand is essential. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore Armenia’s mountains, monasteries, villages, and ancient sites at your own pace, but depending on your budget and amount of time visiting will make a difference.

Renting a car in Armenia allows you to discover hidden gems that are impossible to reach by public transportation, visit remote cultural sites, and enjoy scenic drives through dramatic landscapes. With the right preparation, driving here can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about renting a car in Armenia, from choosing the right rental company to understanding road rules and navigating the country confidently.

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Renting a Car in Armenia: Basic Things to Know

Are you thinking of doing a road trip but not sure if it is worth it? Here are some helpful things to know before renting a car in Armenia.

 Is It a Good Idea to Rent a Car in Armenia?

Renting a car in Armenia is one of the best ways to explore the country. Many of Armenia’s best attractions are far from Yerevan, and public transportation does not reach a lot of the remote monasteries and natural sites.

Armenia’s landscapes are breathtaking, and having a car gives you the freedom to stop whenever you want. Some of our favorite views and spontaneous moments happened because we had our own car. For anyone visiting more than a few days, renting a car in Armenia is an excellent option.

If you are only staying in Yerevan for a couple of days, you can join organized day trips instead since they are affordable. But if you plan to explore outside the city or visit multiple regions, renting a car is absolutely worth it.

 Is It Safe to Self Drive in Armenia?

Yes. Armenia is a safe country for tourists, and the roads are very calm outside the capital. Locals are friendly, and there are no dangerous animals or hazards you need to worry about.

Most major highways are paved and in good condition. Smaller rural roads may have potholes, gravel, or uneven surfaces, especially in mountainous regions, so extra caution is helpful, and a 4x4 may be necessary in select destinations off the beaten path such as Smbataberd Fortress or Trchkan Waterfall.

If you stick to the main roads and main highlights though, you will have no issues driving in Armenia with a regular sedan.

 Is It Expensive to Rent a Car in Armenia?

Renting a car in Armenia is typically quite affordable compared to other European destinations. Prices are reasonable, and fuel costs are lower than in Western Europe.

The main thing to keep in mind is choosing a reputable rental company. Some travelers have experienced surprise fees or unclear terms, so it is important to read the fine print and check reviews. Booking early also helps get the best price.

Cars are cheaper in Yerevan than in smaller towns, and manual transmission vehicles are usually less expensive than automatics.

 Where to Rent a Car in Armenia

The easiest place to rent a car in Armenia is Yerevan. You can pick up your rental either in the city center or directly from Zvartnots International Airport.

Renting from the airport is convenient, especially if you plan to start your road trip right away, and eve more-so since Yerevan is centrally located in the country. If you are already staying in Yerevan, renting from a city office can sometimes be cheaper, although for us it was easier from the airport since we had an early flight.

Rental agencies can also be found in other major cities such as Gyumri, but availability is more limited.

How to Rent a Car in Armenia

Renting a car in Armenia is pretty straightforward. If you are arriving by plane, renting directly at the airport is usually the easiest option. Even though we took the train from Tbilisi to Yerevan, we ended up going straight to airport to get our rental since it was the easiest and cheapest option.

Just be aware that some companies claim to be “in the airport” but actually deliver the car from an offsite office. While this can be fine, it can also lead to confusion or delays, so it is usually best to stick with companies that have a physical desk inside the terminal.

 What You Will Need for Renting a Car in Armenia

To rent a car in Armenia you need:

• A valid driver’s license
• Your passport
• A credit card for the deposit

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

Travelers from many countries can drive in Armenia with their regular license. However, some rental agencies prefer an International Driving Permit, so it is smart to bring one if possible.

 Rental Company Scams to Watch Out For

While renting a car in Armenia is usually smooth, it is still important to be cautious. Always read your rental terms carefully and take photos of the car before driving away.

Our company gave us a car without air conditioning, and because we booked through a third party we had to pay for a "higher class" car. It was summer, and not having air conditioning was definitely a deal breaker for us.

Possible issues to watch for include:

• Replacing the reserved car with a different model without explanation

• Adding unexpected fees for cleaning or “admin costs”

• Claiming the card machine is not working and asking for cash

• Charging for minor scratches that were already on the car

To avoid problems, always book with a reputable company and keep screenshots or printed copies of your reservation.

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Renting a Car in Armenia: Things to Know About Driving in Armenia

Now that you know how to rent a car in Armenia, here is what to expect when driving in the country.

 Speed Limits in Armenia

Speed limits in Armenia are generally straightforward, and the typical limits are:

• 60 km per hour in cities
• 90 km per hour on highways
• 110 km per hour on express roads

Speed cameras are common throughout the country, especially on main highways. Fines are issued automatically and sent to your rental company, so it is important to follow the speed limits carefully!

Signs are usually clear, but speed changes can happen quickly near villages or curves, so keep an eye on posted limits.

 Parking in Armenia

Parking rules in Armenia are simple once you know what to expect. Yerevan is the only place where parking can be tricky since many areas in the center require paid parking. The paid parking zones are marked with signs and payment machines.

The rest of the country is much easier. Small towns, villages, and natural sites usually have free parking areas, and we didn't have any troubles anywhere outside of Yerevan. In many places parking is a bit informal, and people simply park wherever it makes sense, so use your best judgment and do not block roads or other cars.

In Yerevan we recommend parking in designated garages when possible. It avoids confusion and prevents any potential parking tickets.

 Gas in Armenia

Fuel in Armenia is affordable, and distances between major attractions are not long, which keeps costs low.

Both diesel and gasoline are available throughout the country. Gas stations are frequent on major roads, but in remote mountain regions they may be more spaced out, so it is smart to fill up before long drives.

Payment can usually be made by card or cash.

 Traffic in Armenia

Traffic in Armenia is generally light outside Yerevan. Most of your road trip will be calm and enjoyable, and we personally didn't have any traffic at all outside the capital. The only exception is driving in Yerevan during rush hour, where traffic can slow significantly.

Drivers in Armenia can sometimes be impatient, especially in the capital, but overall the roads feel manageable. If you prefer to avoid city driving, pick up your car at the airport instead of downtown.

Renting a Car in Armenia: FAQ

Now you know all about renting a car in Armenia. In case you have any other questions though, this section has frequently asked questions from across the web that we're answering.

Renting a Car in Armenia: Final Tips and What's Next

Now you know how to rent a car in Armenia and what to expect while driving. Here are a few final tips to help make your road trip smooth and enjoyable.

What's Next?

Now that you know all of about renting a car in Armenia, you'll probably want to learn more about what to see and do on your road trip!

Here are a few other guides we have about Armenia:

 How to get to Yerevan, Armenia

 Tbilisi to Yerevan train ride

 33 fun things to do in Yerevan

 31 best places to visit in Armenia

We're also going to be publishing new articles each Thursday, so stay tuned!

So are you ready to rent a car in Armenia and do an epic road trip? It really is an underrated country with a lot of hidden gems, which is why having a car really makes a big difference if you're staying for more than a few days.

Want to learn more about traveling around Armenia? We have new Armenia Travel Guides coming up each week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you're able to stay up to date with our newest content, and for special discounts on our shop.

Ready to start planning an unforgettable trip to Armenia? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa is dedicated to helping you save money and time, so that you can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy an amazing trip. Want more info? Take a look at some of our travel planning packages we offer, or email us today if you have any questions.

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