Currency in Armenia
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian dram, identified by the international code AMD and the symbol ֏. Local shops, restaurants and other businesses normally accept payments in drams rather than US dollars or euros.
Cards are widely used in Yerevan, but cash remains useful for markets, small businesses and journeys outside the capital. This guide explains which currency to bring, where to exchange money and how to avoid unnecessary card and ATM fees.
Exchange rates, card acceptance and bank fees can change. Check the conditions of your own bank before travelling.
The Armenian Dram: Banknotes and Coins
The Armenian dram has been the national currency since 1993. One dram is technically divided into 100 luma, although luma coins are not used in everyday payments.
Current-series banknotes are issued in the following denominations:
- 1,000 AMD;
- 2,000 AMD;
- 5,000 AMD;
- 10,000 AMD;
- 20,000 AMD;
- 50,000 AMD.
Coins commonly found in circulation are 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 AMD. Smaller coins are useful for bakeries, markets, cafés and other inexpensive purchases.
Which Currency Should You Bring to Armenia?
US dollars and euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange in Armenia. They are accepted by banks and exchange offices in Yerevan and other major towns.
Other currencies may be exchanged at selected banks, but rates and availability vary. For a journey outside Yerevan, it is more convenient to exchange enough money into drams before leaving the city.
Bring clean, undamaged banknotes. Exchange offices may refuse torn, marked or heavily worn foreign currency.
Where to Exchange Money
Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and licensed exchange offices. Exchange counters are common in central Yerevan, shopping centres and larger supermarkets.
Compare the displayed buying rate before exchanging money. A counter advertising “no commission” may still offer a less favourable exchange rate.
Airport exchange counters are convenient but often less competitive. Change only the amount you need for your first expenses and exchange the rest in the city. Count the money before leaving the counter and keep the receipt.
Paying by Card and Using ATMs
International Visa and Mastercard cards issued outside Russia are widely accepted in Yerevan’s hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and shopping centres. Contactless payment is also common, although carrying a physical card and knowing its PIN is still advisable.
Card acceptance is less predictable in villages, markets, small guesthouses and roadside cafés. Terminals can also fail because of a weak internet connection, so do not rely on one card alone.
ATMs normally dispense Armenian drams. Your own bank and the Armenian ATM operator may both charge fees. If an ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into your home currency, choose to be charged in AMD instead. The exchange rate provided by your own bank is usually easier to check and compare.
How Much Cash Should You Carry?
In Yerevan, most daily expenses can be paid by card. It is still sensible to carry a small amount of cash for markets, tips, small cafés and places where a terminal is unavailable.
When travelling to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Tatev or smaller towns and villages, carry enough drams for food, entrance fees and unexpected expenses. Keep your main cash reserve separate from your everyday wallet.
Cash and travellers’ cheques totalling more than the equivalent of USD 10,000 must be declared when crossing the Armenian border.
Cards Issued in Russia and UnionPay
Visa and Mastercard cards issued by Russian banks generally cannot be used in Armenia. Acceptance of Mir and UnionPay cards is limited and can change depending on the issuing bank, payment terminal and ATM operator.
Do not use a Russian-issued card or UnionPay as your only payment method. Bring cash and, if possible, an internationally accepted alternative card.
Essential Money Tips for Armenia
Keep these simple rules in mind:
- pay for everyday purchases in Armenian drams;
- bring US dollars or euros if you plan to exchange cash;
- compare rates before using an exchange office;
- choose AMD when an ATM offers currency conversion;
- carry some cash outside central Yerevan;
- keep a second payment method in a separate place;
- inform your bank about the trip if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
SLS Armenian Tour
Know Your Travel Price Before You Arrive
Book a private airport transfer or a comfortable car with a professional driver. We confirm the route, vehicle and price in advance, so you can start your trip without searching for transport or negotiating the fare.
- Fixed price confirmed in advance
- Airport meet and greet
- Payment details agreed before pickup
