When you're planning a trip to Armenia, the importance of staying connected cannot be understated. Whether you need to navigate the streets of Yerevan, find a local restaurant, or rent a car in Armenia, having access to mobile network and internet services is essential. In this article, we will explore the various mobile operators in the country, getting a local SIM card, internet access, and tips to stay connected on a budget.

Mobile operators in Armenia

  • Beeline: Known for its strong coverage and high-speed internet, Beeline is one of the most popular operators among locals. They offer a wide range of plans suitable for different needs.
  • VivaCell-MTS: Another major player in the Armenian mobile market, VivaCell-MTS has a robust network infrastructure and offers competitive rates.
  • Ucom: Although not as widespread as the other two, Ucom is known for its affordable plans and good customer service.

Beeline and VivaCell-MTS are the most popular among locals due to their extensive coverage and reliability.

Getting a local SIM card

  • Beeline: Offers tourist SIM cards starting from AMD 1,000 with various data, call, and SMS packages available.
  • VivaCell-MTS: Their "Tourist" package costs AMD 2,000 and includes 10GB of internet, 1,000 on-net minutes, and 100 SMS.
  • Ucom: Their "Tourist SIM" starts at AMD 1,500 and offers 5GB of internet, 500 on-net minutes, and 50 SMS.

SIM cards can be purchased at the respective operator's stores or authorized dealers, as well as at the airport upon arrival.

Internet access in Armenia

Armenia boasts extensive internet coverage, with most urban areas having access to high-speed internet. Free Wi-Fi is available at airports and in city centers of main cities like Yerevan and Gyumri. Mobile internet options are offered by all major operators, with 4G/LTE being widely available. Additionally, many cafes and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi for their customers.

Tips to stay connected

  • Use free Wi-Fi hotspots whenever possible to save on data usage.
  • Purchase a local SIM card with a suitable data package for your needs.
  • Use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Telegram to communicate with friends and family, as they consume less data than traditional phone calls.
  • Enable data compression on your browser to reduce data consumption.
  • Turn off automatic updates and background data usage for non-essential apps.