Tbilisi to Yerevan Train

The Tbilisi–Yerevan passenger train operates every other day during the off-season, from October through May, and runs daily in summer, from June through September. It is considered one of the most convenient and safest ways to travel between Georgia and Armenia.

The journey offers more than simple transportation. Travelers can interact with locals and enjoy views that are often missed when traveling by bus or minibus. On the route toward Tbilisi, passengers pass through northern Armenia, including the industrial landscapes of Alaverdi, the scenic Debed Canyon, and the wide plains near Gyumri.

This route is ideal for travelers who are not in a hurry. The trip from Tbilisi to Yerevan takes a little over 10 hours, while the journey from Batumi lasts about 17 hours. Even the third-class sleeper cars are comfortable by regional standards. Many travelers especially remember the early morning arrival in Yerevan, when — in clear weather — the train offers beautiful views of Mount Ararat.

Tbilisi–Yerevan passenger train Schedule

The Tbilisi–Yerevan train operates on different schedules depending on the season.

Winter Schedule (October–May/June)

During the off-season, from October 2 through June 14, Train No. 371 runs from Tbilisi to Yerevan every other day on odd-numbered dates (3rd, 5th, 7th, etc.). The train departs at 8:20 p.m. and arrives in Yerevan at 6:55 a.m. the following morning.

Winter Schedule: Tbilisi to Yerevan

Frequency: every other day (odd-numbered dates)
Departure from Tbilisi: 8:20 p.m.
Border crossing: approximately 10:30 p.m.
Arrival in Yerevan: 6:55 a.m.
Travel time: 10 hours 35 minutes
Ticket price in 2026: 110–230 lari

In winter, Train No. 372 travels from Yerevan to Tbilisi every other day on even-numbered dates (20th, 22nd, 24th, etc.). It leaves Yerevan’s main railway station at 9:30 p.m. and arrives in Tbilisi at 7:35 a.m. the next day.

Winter Schedule: Yerevan to Tbilisi

Frequency: every other day (even-numbered dates)
Departure from Yerevan: 9:30 p.m.
Border crossing: approximately 3:30 a.m.
Arrival in Tbilisi: 7:35 a.m.
Travel time: 10 hours 5 minutes
Ticket price in 2026: 10,545–31,165 drams

Summer Schedule (June–September)

From June 14 through September 30, trains usually operate daily due to increased passenger demand.

During the summer season, trains on the Yerevan–Batumi railway route also stop in Tbilisi. The direct Yerevan–Tbilisi–Yerevan train does not operate during this period.

Seasonal Train No. 201 departs from Batumi at 3:40 p.m., stops in Tbilisi at 10:45 p.m., and arrives in Yerevan at 9:00 a.m. the following day. This train runs on even-numbered dates only.

Summer Schedule: Tbilisi to Yerevan

Frequency: every other day
Departure from Tbilisi: 10:45 p.m.
Departure from Batumi: 3:40 p.m.
Border crossing: approximately 12:40 a.m.
Arrival in Yerevan: 8:59 a.m.
Travel time: 10 hours 14 minutes
Ticket price in 2026: 110–230 lari

In summer, Train No. 202 departs from Yerevan at 2:05 p.m. It arrives in Tbilisi at 10:00 p.m. and continues to Batumi, where it arrives at 7:30 a.m. the next morning. This train runs on odd-numbered dates only.

Summer Schedule: Yerevan to Tbilisi

Frequency: every other day
Departure from Yerevan: 2:05 p.m.
Border crossing: approximately 9:20 p.m.
Arrival in Tbilisi: 10:00 p.m.
Arrival in Batumi: 7:30 a.m.
Travel time: 10 hours 6 minutes
Ticket price in 2026: 10,545–31,165 drams

Ticket Prices in 2026

The train has three types of cars:

First-class sleeper car (luxury, also known as SV), a private compartment that can accommodate two people.
Second-class car (compartment car), which can accommodate four people.
Third-class open-plan car, standard open-plan cars.

Please note that fares may vary slightly depending on exchange rates, ticket availability, season, and other factors.

First Class (sleeper car, 18 seats)

private compartment with two lower berths;
TV;
price (Tbilisi–Yerevan) from 230 lari, (Yerevan–Tbilisi) from 31,100 drams.

2nd class (compartment, 36–38 seats)

enclosed compartment with four sleeping berths. Lower berths are numbered odd (1, 3, 5, etc.), upper berths are numbered even (2, 4, 6, etc.);
fare (Tbilisi–Yerevan) from 150 lari, (Yerevan–Tbilisi) from 17,000 to 23,600 drams.

3rd class (open sleeper, 54 seats)

lower berths are numbered odd (1, 3, 5, etc.), upper berths are numbered even (2, 4, 6, etc.). Side seats are numbered 37 through 54;
air conditioning, bedding set, individual lighting, USB outlets;
price (Tbilisi-Yerevan) from 110 lari, (Yerevan-Tbilisi) from 10,500 to 13,500 drams.

The fourth category of cars, called “premium comfort compartments,” was introduced in 2022. This is a standard second-class sleeper berth with some additional amenities (toiletries, slippers, tea). The ticket price is slightly higher than for second class.

The ticket price includes bedding, insurance, and service fees.

Children under 5 years of age travel free of charge on the train (without a separate seat). For children aged 5–10, tickets are sold at a discount of approximately 35% off the adult fare.

How to Buy Train Tickets

Buying train tickets from Tbilisi to Yerevan can be challenging. Authorized agents do not operate here, and the railway website often works with interruptions.

Before 2023, travel agencies in Tbilisi could book tickets using a passport copy. Today, the railway ticket office requires the original passport.

You have two main options:

Buy tickets at the train station.
Buy tickets online through the South Caucasus Railway website.

You can purchase one-way or round-trip tickets at train stations in Georgia and Armenia along the route.

Buying Tickets at Tbilisi Train Station

International trains depart from Tbilisi Central Railway Station in the Didube district, next to the Railway Square metro station.

The ticket offices are on the third floor of the main building. They work daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. After 8 p.m., several counters usually remain open until the last evening train departs.

The station uses an electronic queue system. Take a ticket from the machine and wait for your number to appear above the counter. To avoid misunderstandings, save your travel date on your phone or write it down.

You must show your original passport when buying tickets.

The cashier will show available seats and prices. You can pay in cash or by bank card, although payment terminals do not always work. ATMs are available near the escalators.

You can also buy return tickets from Armenia at Tbilisi train station. If you already know your return dates, it is better to purchase round-trip tickets in advance.

How to Buy Tickets Online

Visit the South Caucasus Railway website.
Change the language to English if needed.
Click “Not registered yet?” and create an account.
Enter your first and last name, contact details, email address, passport number, and passport series.
Confirm your registration through email.
Log in and select “Buy Ticket.”
Enter your travel date.
Choose “Round Trip” if you need return tickets.
Select the departure and arrival stations.
Choose the number of passengers, carriage type, and class.
If you travel with companions, check the “In the same compartment” option.
Click “Search” and then “View Trains” to see available seats.
If you want another seat, click “Search Again.”
Confirm your booking by clicking the green checkmark.
Review your personal information and correct any mistakes if necessary.
Enter your Mastercard details and complete payment.

After payment, you will receive e-tickets by email. The ticket states that you need your booking number and passport to board the train.

To avoid confusion at the station, follow these recommendations:

Take screenshots of your booking confirmation
Save copies in English and Armenian
Print the confirmation page
Print the e-ticket from the email

Tbilisi Railway Station

How to Get to Tbilisi Central Railway Station

Tbilisi Central Railway Station, also known as “Tbilisi-Passenger,” is located in the northeastern part of the city, about 5 kilometers from Freedom Square. The station sits next to the “Railway Station Square” metro station, where two metro lines intersect.

From Freedom Square or Avlabari, take the red metro line (Line 1) to Vokzalnaya Ploshchad 1. The fare costs one lari. You can pay with a Metromoney card or a bank card.

After leaving the metro, follow the signs to the train station. If you arrive on the green Saburtalo line, for example from Didube Bus Station, cross through the red line platform before exiting. Otherwise, you may end up in the middle of the nearby market instead of near the station.

The station entrance is about 100 meters from the metro exit. You will see TBC Bank on the left. The railway station is located in the neighboring building with the white wave-shaped roof.

If you take a taxi, the driver will drop you off directly at the entrance. A ride from the city center or Didube Bus Station usually costs around 20–25 lari through Yandex Taxi or Bolt.

How Early to Arrive

In winter in Tbilisi and during the summer and winter schedules in Yerevan, the train usually arrives at the platform about one hour before departure. Passengers can normally board around 30 minutes before departure.

The summer train starts in Batumi and stops briefly in Tbilisi for about 35 minutes before continuing to Yerevan.

It is best to arrive at the station at least one hour before departure. If you already have an e-ticket, you do not need to visit the ticket office. To board the train, you only need your ticket and passport.

Station Layout and Facilities

Near the ticket counters, the station has a large waiting area with metal seats. Above the escalators on the second floor, you will find an electronic board showing train arrivals and departures.

The top floor houses the Central Food Station cafeteria. The buffet-style restaurant operates daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visitors can use charging outlets for phones and laptops. A restroom is also available for an additional fee.

Near the station, you will find a large parking area, several grocery stores, ATMs, and currency exchange offices. An Ori supermarket next to the metro station stays open until 11 p.m.

Luggage Storage at Tbilisi Station

The luggage storage office is located in a separate building on the left side of Platform 1.

It operates daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., although the schedule may vary slightly depending on staff working hours.

Storage costs 20 lari per hour or per day. The facility has enough space for large backpacks and suitcases.

Boarding the Train

When boarding begins, the station announces it in Georgian. Watch the time and check the electronic display boards in English for possible platform changes.

The train platforms are on the ground floor. You can reach them via the outdoor stairs next to the ticket offices. Trains to Yerevan usually depart from Platform 3.

Each carriage has a sign with its number, which is also printed on your ticket in the “number” field. A conductor stands at the entrance to every carriage and checks passengers’ tickets before boarding. Keep your passport ready as well, because the conductor will compare your passport details with your ticket information.

About the Tbilisi–Yerevan Train

The route now uses modern Russian-made railcars instead of the old Soviet trains that operated here for decades. While they do not match the comfort level of Swiss Stadler trains, the carriages are modern and comfortable for overnight travel.

About 30 minutes after departure, the conductor distributes sealed bedding sets. Each pack includes two sheets, a pillowcase, and a small towel.

Passengers can use hot water for tea or coffee. The train also has a microwave for heating food.

First- and second-class compartments include luggage racks above the compartment doors. The space easily fits several carry-on backpacks or smaller bags. These compartments also feature a small electronic safe above the lower berths.

Modern carriages provide individual power outlets or USB ports at every sleeping berth, located beneath the folding table. Wi-Fi is available on the train, although the connection speed may vary.

The train has central air conditioning, but it works only while the train is moving. During long border checks or delays, the temperature inside the carriage may become less comfortable.

Smoking is prohibited throughout the train.

What to Bring on Your Trip

The modern Tbilisi–Yerevan train does not have a dining car, so it’s best to bring enough food and water for the overnight journey.

The train provides a water cooler and hot water for tea or coffee. Passengers traveling in first- and second-class comfort compartments receive a complimentary bottle of water after boarding.

Here’s what you should pack for the trip:

snacks such as cookies or candy to share with fellow passengers. Locals often offer food and drinks during the journey, so it’s nice to return the gesture;
a bottle of still water;
wet wipes and hand sanitizer, since toilet paper and soap may run out quickly in the restroom;
reusable silicone earplugs and a sleep mask if you are sensitive to noise or light.

Scenery Along the Way

The railway journey between Tbilisi and Yerevan offers beautiful scenery throughout the trip, although the route does not pass any monasteries directly along the tracks.

Summer provides the best views, especially on trains traveling toward Tbilisi. Around sunset, the train passes through the scenic Debed Canyon, one of the most picturesque sections of the route.

Morning arrivals into Yerevan often reward passengers with views of Mount Ararat. However, the peak is frequently hidden behind clouds, so visibility depends on the weather.

Near Yerevan, the landscape features open meadows, farmland, and rolling hills. Between Vanadzor and Alaverdi, the scenery becomes much more dramatic. The railway follows the Debed River and passes through tunnels carved into rocky cliffs surrounded by dense green forest.

Crossing the Georgia–Armenia Border

The Tbilisi–Yerevan train crosses the Georgia–Armenia border near the Airum–Sadakhlo checkpoint. The border lies about 70 km south of Tbilisi, which equals roughly two hours by train. From Yerevan, the train reaches the border after about six hours of travel.

Border guards from both countries check passengers’ documents one after another. Passport control usually takes 1.5–2 hours.

Passengers normally stay in their seats during the inspection, although border officers occasionally ask tourists to step off the train. Conductors keep the lights on until the checks are complete.

Leaving Georgia

The night train usually reaches the Georgian border around 10:30 p.m. In summer, the Batumi–Yerevan train arrives closer to 12:40 a.m.

Georgian passport control usually takes place inside the train. Border guards collect passports and sometimes invite passengers to the conductor’s compartment for a few questions.

Officers check documents using laptops and then return passports with exit stamps. The process often takes about an hour, but delays of more than two hours are possible.

If the train loses time at the border, it usually makes up the delay later and still arrives in Yerevan on schedule.

Entering Armenia

Armenian passport control begins about 45–60 minutes after the Georgian checks finish.

Passengers who do not need an Armenian visa usually remain in their seats. Border guards collect passports, ask several standard questions, and return the documents with entry stamps.

Typical questions include:

the purpose of your trip;
the length of your stay;
whether you have visited Azerbaijan.

Armenian border checks usually move faster and often take only 15–30 minutes.

Questions About Azerbaijan

Armenia does not ban entry for travelers who previously visited Azerbaijan. However, relations between the two countries remain tense, so border guards sometimes ask additional questions.

The number of questions often depends on your nationality, travel history, and the officer on duty. Travelers who recently visited Azerbaijan may face a longer interview.

Bring documents that confirm your travel plans, including:

hotel reservations;
accommodation addresses;
travel dates;
transportation tickets.

Keep this information easy to access on your phone or in printed form.

Some travelers report that Armenian border guards asked them detailed questions about their route in Azerbaijan, the hotels where they stayed, and the purpose of their visit. In some cases, officers wrote down this information manually before allowing passengers to continue their trip.

Travelers who cannot quickly provide hotel details or answer questions in English may spend more time at immigration control.

Here’s what tourists have to say:

Since we had just arrived from Azerbaijan (via Tbilisi), we were questioned more thoroughly than other train passengers who had not been to Azerbaijan. A border guard asked a series of questions about our visit to Armenia (where we were going, for how long, etc.), as well as about the nature of our trip to Azerbaijan. Soon he pulled out a sheet of A4 paper and began taking notes by hand. He wanted us to confirm the dates of our trip, provide him with a list of all the places we had visited in Azerbaijan, as well as the name and address of our hotel in Baku (which, fortunately, I still had saved on my phone). After a few more tense minutes, he returned our passports, and we were able to board the train. Our compartment neighbor, a Japanese man who was traveling alone and, like us, had just arrived from Azerbaijan via Tbilisi, was questioned for longer. His poor English (combined with the fact that he didn’t have any hotel information with him and constantly had to go back to the train to rummage through his papers) meant he was held at the immigration office for over an hour.

Arrival in Yerevan

As the train approaches Yerevan, the conductor will announce the final stop. Before arrival, passengers should collect their bedding and leave it at the edge of the berth.

All passenger trains arrive at Yerevan Railway Station. Keep in mind that the station’s free Wi-Fi often doesn’t work early in the morning. A mobile phone store stands directly across from the station, where travelers can buy an Armenian SIM card. It usually opens at 9 a.m.

Inside the station building, there is a VTB ATM where you can withdraw Armenian drams.

How to Get from the Train Station to Your Hotel

To reach the metro station “Sasuntsi David,” use the underground passage. Before leaving the station building, take the stairs on the left and walk through the tunnel. The metro entrance will be on your left-hand side.

Yerevan has only one metro line. To get to the city center, take the train heading north toward “Barekamutyun” (“Friendship”) and ride two stops to Republic Square.

You can buy single-ride metro tokens at the ticket booth near the entrance. One ride costs 100 drams.

Travelers who prefer a taxi can use the taxi stand in front of the station. A trip to the city center usually costs around 300 drams. On weekday mornings, a busy produce market operates in front of the station, so traffic near the entrance can become crowded and chaotic.

Useful links

Book train tickets online on the official website of the South Caucasus Railway
Would you rather stop along the way to take some beautiful photos? Book a private transfer from Tbilisi to Yerevan with stops in northern Armenia, at Lake Sevan, and in the mountain town of Dilijan. Find a driver on the GetTransfer website
Missed out on train tickets? Advance minibus tickets are available online at 12Go
Check if you need a visa for Armenia: mfa.am/en/visa

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I buy train tickets?

Try to buy tickets as early as possible. Demand for train tickets increases significantly during the summer months, especially on weekends and holidays. Tickets sell out quickly during this time. If you’re traveling in July or August, I recommend buying tickets at least 10 days before your planned trip. In winter, you might be able to buy tickets the day before or on the day of your trip.

Ticket sales open 40 days in advance. People often return tickets on the day of travel, so if you weren’t able to buy a ticket, you might be able to get one at the last minute at the station. If you were unable to buy a train ticket, there are alternative ways to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan, and vice versa.

How do I get a refund or exchange my ticket?

If your plans have changed, you can get a refund for your ticket. To do this, you’ll need to present your ticket at the ticket office at the train station. A fee may apply for ticket refunds. You can also upgrade your seat class on the day of travel for an additional fee.

Do ticket prices increase as the travel date approaches?

Ticket prices remain unchanged until the day of travel, after which they change. Tickets for third-class (open-sleeper) cars decrease in price by approximately 1,000 drams on the day of travel. For all other classes, the price increases (but not by much). For example, at Yerevan Station, tickets for the Tbilisi-Batumi train cost about 1,000–2,000 drams more if you buy them on the same day.

How comfortable and safe is it to travel by train?

Your level of comfort depends on the type of sleeping berth you choose. The compartment door locks from the inside. The hallways are well-lit all night. As for the red strips on the doors, ventilation vents, and light fixtures, they are designed to prevent smuggling goods across the border.