Simply, marshrutka is a shared taxi running on a fixed route.
This concept has started many years ago in Soviet Union Armenia was part of. It combines fixed routes with flexible stop locations and sometimes even flexible schedules.
While bus only stops at designated spots, marshrutka stops anywhere on passenger's request. This is the reason why length of a journey and departure time is approximated.
You can find marshrutka routes on our Journey planner.
Marshrutka vehicles made in 20th century are much less comfortable than bus, not a good option when you carry a heavy luggage, and, sadly, not suitable for pregnant women either people with disabilities.
In recent years carriers have been upgrading their vehicles, so you can see different marshrutkas on the road, from pretty obsolete ones to modern ones. Quality of new vehicles is similar to quality of large buses.
Travel tips
When you are waiting for a marshrutka, watch out. As they stop on request, you need to give a sign to driver of an approaching vehicle by rising your hand.
Be at a bus stop a few minutes before scheduled departure. Marshrutka doesn't run on exact times.
During the peak time in Yerevan and Gyumri marshrutkas are fully loaded and getting on board can be difficult. Waiting for the next vehicle is quite common. A good news is that headways are very short.
People are very friendly. They help you when you have troubles getting on or off.
It's good to tell name of your destination to a driver while boarding. Drivers usually remember it and give you a sign once you are there.
Give sign to driver before you get off the marshrutka. Say "kangharum kanghnek" (means: stop here).
Pay to the driver when leaving the vehicle.