Day trip to: Lake Sevan-Dilijian (Old Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery)

A Day to Explore Armenia’s Natural and Cultural Gems: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and Monasteries

If you’re looking for a full-day escape that combines Armenia’s natural beauty with its storied past, this trip offers an appealing mix. For around $150 per group (up to three people), you’ll enjoy a private, guided experience that takes you from the shores of Lake Sevan to the ancient monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank through the charming town of Dilijan. The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, featuring comfortable air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup, making it a stress-free way to see some of the country’s most iconic sites.

What we love most about this trip is the personalized nature of the experience—it’s restricted to your group, so you can ask questions and go at your own pace. The second highlight is the stunning scenery at Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in Eurasia, along with the chance to explore historic monasteries that date back to the 9th century.

A small consideration is that the lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan ahead for a meal. Also, the stops at certain sites like the ruins near Sevanavank can be brief, which might feel rushed if you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore every corner.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture, especially those who enjoy private, guided outings that give a more intimate look at Armenia’s treasures. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value knowledgeable guides—like Egor, who was praised for his expertise—and want the convenience of private transportation.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour allowing for flexibility and tailored experiences.
• Stunning views of Lake Sevan, one of the largest alpine lakes in Eurasia.
• Historical monasteries—Sevanavank, Haghartsin, and Goshavank—each with their unique stories and architecture.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, including hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Cultural insights provided by multilingual guides who know Armenian history and culture.
• Good value for the price, considering the inclusions of private transport, water, and guided commentary.

Exploring Armenia’s Natural and Cultural Treasures

On this full-day trip, we found ourselves at the crossroads of Armenia’s natural splendor and centuries-old religious sites. From the moment we were picked up in a private vehicle, it was clear that the focus was on comfort and tailored experience—especially important when visiting sites that can be quite remote or require some walking.

Lake Sevan: Armenia’s Crown Jewel

Our first stop was Lake Sevan, which is often called the “jewel” of Armenia—and for good reason. Sitting at 1,900 meters above sea level, this enormous freshwater lake offers sweeping views with crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. Its size is impressive, making it one of the largest high-altitude lakes in Eurasia.

A reviewer from TripAdvisor described it as “the lifeline of Armenia” and praised the climb to Sevanavank as “worth the 200 stairs,” noting that once on top, the views are “mesmerizing.” We agree—there’s something about the expansive blue water against the rugged mountains that makes this a “must-see,” especially for photographers or anyone wanting a moment of serenity.

Sevanavank Monastery: History with a View

Next, we visited Sevanavank, founded in 874 by Princess Mariam. As we wandered among the two main churches, Surp Arakelots (the “Holy Apostles”) and Surp Astvatsatsin (the “Holy Mother of God”), it was easy to imagine the monastery’s role as a spiritual hub over a millennium ago. The cruciform architecture with octagonal tambours makes these structures quite distinctive.

Be aware that the adjacent ruins of the gavit—a kind of prayer hall—are remnants of a larger complex. Some parts of these ruins are visible but the interior exploration is limited, which might disappoint those hoping for a more extensive site tour. Still, the panoramic views from the monastery are a highlight, offering a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection.

The Charm of Dilijan and Its Monasteries

From Lake Sevan, we traveled to Dilijan, often called the “Switzerland of Armenia” because of its lush greenery and mountain scenery. Here, the tour includes visits to Haghartsin and Goshavank monasteries—both built between the 10th and 13th centuries under the patronage of Armenian royalty and aristocrats.

Haghartsin Monastery is particularly striking. Surrounded by forested hills, it feels like stepping into a peaceful medieval world. Although some parts are in ruins, the remaining structures are well-preserved, and the setting makes for a tranquil walk. As one reviewer said, “It was built between the 10th and 13th centuries, much of it under the patronage of the Bagratuni Dynasty,” giving you a sense of Armenia’s historical prominence.

Goshavank is similarly impressive, known for its well-preserved architecture and a library once filled with ancient manuscripts. These sites are quite accessible and offer an authentic glimpse into medieval Armenian religious architecture and community life.

Practical Aspects and Value

Throughout the day, the private air-conditioned vehicle and multilingual guides made the journey smooth and informative. Having hotel pickup and drop-off meant we could relax without worrying about navigating public transport or finding parking at these historic sites.

The cost of $150 includes transportation, water, parking fees, and a knowledgeable guide—making it a good deal compared to the hassle and expense of DIY traveling or larger group tours. Bear in mind, lunch isn’t included, so packing a snack or planning for a meal is wise—especially if you want to spend more time exploring the monasteries rather than rushing through them.

What Could Be Better?

One drawback noted in reviews is that some stops, like the ruins near Sevanavank, can be quite brief. If you’re a history buff or love to explore every nook and cranny, you might find the timed stops a little rushed. Also, the lunch experience was mentioned as disappointing by one reviewer, so managing expectations around meals might be necessary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day in Armenia, with a focus on natural scenery and historic sites. It’s perfect for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and prefer private transport rather than group bus tours. It suits visitors with a moderate interest in history and religion, or those who simply want to see iconic sites without the hassle of arranging logistics themselves.

Final Thoughts

This day trip offers a well-balanced mix of stunning landscapes and ancient architecture, delivered with a personal touch. The private nature of the tour and the comfort of air-conditioned transport make it a convenient choice for those eager to maximize their time and minimize stress.

While some stops may feel brief, the sights you do see are memorable—and the experience is enriched by guides who know their way around Armenian history and culture. The value for the price is fair, especially considering the inclusions and the private setting, making it a solid option for those wanting an authentic Armenian adventure.

In short, if you’re after a flexible, comfortably paced day with gorgeous views and meaningful history, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of Armenia’s natural beauty and cultural legacy in a single day.

FAQ about the Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making logistics easy and fuss-free.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 7 to 8 hours, allowing enough time to visit all the main sites without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or dine at your own convenience.

Is the price per person or per group?
The $150 fee covers the entire group (up to three people), making it a cost-effective way to explore Armenia’s highlights.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are multilingual, fluent in English, Russian, and Armenian, providing informative commentary throughout the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund available.

This tour balances history, natural beauty, and comfort beautifully. It’s a dependable choice for travelers seeking a private, meaningful Armenia experience—especially if they value expert guides and scenic vistas over lengthy, crowded excursions.