Vanadzor is capital of Lori Marz, in North Central part of Armenia. Vanadzor is Armenia’s third largest city, with a population of about 75,000 people. There are a couple of pre-Soviet churches, but most of the city has been built during the time of the Soviet Union with a grand central square, a humongous old Soviet chemical factory which has been idle for decades, and a river running through the somewhat narrow valley, surrounded by hills.Vanadzor has a few modern and comfortable hotel options, though these are not cheap. Most of the attractions in Lori are along the Debed River canyon to the north, or around Stepanavan, and although Vanadzor can be used as a base to explore these, finding a place closer to them is preferable.Marshrutnis (minibuses) from Yerevan are inexpensive and will take you to Vanadzor in a couple of hours. They depart from Kino Rosia, above the Zoravor Andranik metro station, across from the national cathedral. Shared taxis leave from the same spot, and are a bit more comfortable, fast and a little more expensive. Virtually any taxi in Yerevan will take you there for 100drams/km (33cents US), which adds up to about 12,500 dram, unless you’re a good negotiator.Alexander Griboyedov High School No.11 If you want to have a local experience with the people in Vanadzor, visiting a local high school is highly recommended. You can walk to the school from the center of Vanadzor. The teachers and students at the school are very welcoming and some of them can speak English. You can go to the school a day before to request a visit.

Airport: Travel to Capital City Yerevan Cities in Armenia

Country: Armenia