Day Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin, Goshavank from Yerevan

Experience the best of Armenia in a single day with this well-rounded tour that visits Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin, and Goshavank. For just $36.50, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, led by a knowledgeable guide. Highlights include the panoramic views from Sevanavank monastery, the tranquil waters of Lake Sevan, and the medieval monasteries amid forested mountains that showcase Armenia’s deep spiritual roots.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the stunning scenery at each stop and the attentiveness of the guiding team. The panoramic vistas, especially from Sevanavank, are truly postcard-worthy, and the guides’ insights help bring each site’s history to life. Plus, the tour’s affordability makes it accessible and offers excellent value, considering the number of UNESCO-worthy sites visited.

A possible consideration? The drive between destinations can be a bit lengthy, so if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more leisurely exploration, this might be a factor. However, the mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural insight makes it a great fit for travelers who want to maximize their Armenia experience in one day. This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and authentic cultural stops without the hassle of planning everything independently.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed at just $36.50 per person for a full day’s exploration.
• Visiting iconic sites, including Lake Sevan, Sevanavank, Goshavank, and Haghartsin monasteries.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insights in English and Russian.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with small group sizes.
• Beautiful scenery and historical sites offer a balance of nature and culture.
• Limited flexibility with timing and optional activities, such as boat rides or local dining.

A Complete Guide to Your Armenia Day Tour

Starting from Yerevan: An Ideal Introduction

The tour kicks off promptly at 9:00 am from the Komitas Yerevan State Conservatory, a convenient meeting point near public transportation. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ready to venture out into Armenia’s diverse landscapes. Expect a small group—usually no more than 15 travelers—keeping the atmosphere intimate and engaging.

This initial setup matters because it ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the professional guide—who speaks both English and Russian—can tailor the experience, answering questions and sharing stories along the way. One traveler mentioned that their guide, Ana, was “extremely knowledgeable and spoke perfect English,” making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The First Stop: Monastery Sevanavank

Our first destination is the Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a small peninsula overlooking Lake Sevan. This 9th-century monastery is a powerful first impression—offering sweeping views of the lake’s shimmering waters and surrounding mountains. You’ll climb a series of stone steps to reach the monastery, which is both a spiritual site and a photographer’s paradise.

Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and impressive architecture. As one reviewer shared, “wandering through its ancient chapels and reflecting on their carvings, I felt a deep connection to Armenia’s spiritual past.” You can explore the historic relics and enjoy the panoramic views, making this a must-see spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Lake Sevan: The Highlight of the Day

After the monastery, you’ll spend about 30 minutes at Lake Sevan itself. This vast alpine lake is arguably Armenia’s most famous natural feature, and it’s easy to see why. The waters are calm, and the scenery—mountains reflected in the lake—is breathtaking.

Many travelers enjoy strolling along the shoreline, taking photos, or grabbing a quick snack at some lakeside cafes. If you’re interested, you can opt for a short boat ride, which adds a relaxing element to the visit. Several reviews emphasize the lake’s beauty: “Gazing upon Lake Sevan, I realized how peaceful and pristine Armenia’s natural landscapes are.” The lake’s size and clarity truly make it a highlight.

The Hidden Gems: Goshavank and Haghartsin Monasteries

The journey continues into Armenia’s Tavush region, renowned for its lush forests and mountain vistas. First, you’ll visit Goshavank Monastery, a 12th-century complex that exudes tranquility. Its quiet courtyards and intricate stonework depict Armenia’s medieval religious architecture. Visitors often mention how it feels like stepping back in time, with some commenting, “It’s a serene spot where you can really soak in the peaceful surroundings.”

Next, you’ll explore Haghartsin Monastery, located within a forested mountain area near Dilijan. Dating back to the 10th century, this site dazzles with its well-preserved structures and scenic backdrop. One reviewer noted that “the ornate khachkars (cross-stones) and the peaceful forest setting make Haghartsin a truly special place.” Expect to spend about an hour here, exploring the sacred chambers and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

The Old Dilijan Complex: A Cultural Touchstone

On the way back, the tour makes a stop at Old Dilijan, often called the “Little Vienna” of Armenia because of its charming 19th-century architecture. The narrow, winding streets are lined with traditional houses, cafes, and artisanal shops. It’s a lovely spot to stretch your legs, admire the local crafts, or even buy souvenirs. One traveler shared, “Walking through Dilijan’s old town, I felt like I was stepping into a living museum.”

What Do We Love?

First, the diversity of sites—historic monasteries, stunning lakes, and charming towns—provides a well-rounded experience of Armenia’s natural and cultural wealth. Second, the guides’ local knowledge and language skills help deepen the understanding and enjoyment of each site, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful exploration.

What Could Be Better?

The main drawback is the travel time between stops—some days, the bus ride can be quite lengthy, especially when crossing the mountainous regions. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing with more time at each spot, or if you dislike long drives, this could feel a bit rushed.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers who want a rundown of Armenia’s scenic and spiritual highlights in one day. It’s also perfect for those on a budget, as the price includes transportation, a guide, and entry to the sites. However, if you’re seeking a more leisurely pace or specialized activities like wine tasting or hiking, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For just $36.50, you get a professionally guided, well-organized look at some of Armenia’s most iconic sights. The value is clear—covering transportation, expert guiding, and access to historical sites—without any hidden fees. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights without the stress of planning.

The small group size and friendly guides make it easy to ask questions, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Plus, with the stunning scenery, ancient monasteries, and charming towns, this tour offers a genuine sense of Armenia’s diverse landscape and cultural depth.

While it does involve a fair amount of driving, the experience is rewarding, especially if you’re eager to learn about Armenia’s spiritual and natural treasures in a single day. This is especially true if you’re visiting Yerevan for a short time but want to see the best of what the country has to offer.

FAQs about the Tour

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll meet at the designated location in Yerevan in the morning.

How long is the total travel time?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with the majority of the time spent traveling between the sites and exploring each location.

Are the sites accessible for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s worth noting that some sites involve walking and climbing stairs, like at Sevanavank and the monasteries.

What is the price of lunch?
Lunch costs between 3500-4500 AMD (roughly $9-$12 USD), and is not included in the tour price.

Can I take a boat ride on Lake Sevan?
The brochure mentions the possibility to enjoy a tranquil sail, but it’s an optional activity and not included in the standard tour.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Russian, ensuring clarity and engagement for diverse groups.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or snow, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Armenia day tour offers fantastic value and a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights comfortably and affordably, especially if they’re short on time but eager to experience the country’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage. With friendly guides, stunning vistas, and historic sites, it promises a day rich with memorable moments—and a few great photos, too.