Ijevan, in Armenia’s Tavush Province, is a surprisingly diverse destination for travelers interested in authentic experiences. The town’s charm lies in its blend of medieval sites, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship. We especially appreciate the Cultural Day Tour for its mix of history, art, and regional delicacies—like tasting wines at Ijevan Winery or exploring the ancient Goshavank Monastery. It offers a balanced look at Ijevan’s heritage while providing interactive activities that keep the day lively. On the other hand, the Off-Road Expedition to Mt. Vitasar is a fantastic choice if you’re after outdoor adventure, scenic hikes, and rugged mountain landscapes. Each tour showcases a different facet of Ijevan, giving you options based on your interests, pace, and travel style.
For those with a curiosity for Armenia’s craftsmanship, the Shulal Carpet-Making Workshop offers a hands-on connection to local weaving traditions. And for a taste of Armenian viticulture, the Wine and Brandy Factory Tour combines history with flavorful tastings. Whether you’re seeking culture, outdoor thrills, or culinary delights, Ijevan’s tours have something to offer. Below is a quick overview to help you choose your perfect experience.
1. Cultural Day Tour: Heritage and Art in Dilijan and Ijevan
At number 1, this Cultural Day Tour promises an enriching journey into Armenia’s artistic and culinary traditions. For around $230 per group (up to 3 people), you’ll spend 8 hours exploring the Goshavank Monastery, a stunning medieval site adorned with intricate carvings that reflect Armenia’s rich religious art. This tour isn’t just about looking; you’ll also get to participate in a cooking class, learning to prepare traditional Armenian dishes, which adds a delicious hands-on element.
But the highlight for many is the visit to the Ijevan Winery, where you’ll taste wines that capture the region’s unique terroir. The guide shares stories about Armenia’s wine-making traditions, making each sip more meaningful. This tour stands out for its blend of history, art, food, and drink, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive cultural experience in one day. Plus, reviews note the tours are well-paced and personal, with one reviewer calling it “a perfect blend of history and taste.” It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy immersive experiences and want a deeper understanding of Armenia’s heritage.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, cultural deep dive with plenty of interactive moments and authentic tastings — excellent for history lovers and foodies alike.
$230 per group up to 3
2. From Ijevan: Off-Road Expedition to Mt. Vitasar
Number 2 on our list is the Off-Road Expedition to Mt. Vitasar. Priced at $85 per person and lasting around 7 hours, this adventure is perfect for those who prefer outdoor exploration with a bit of adrenaline. The trip kicks off with an off-road drive into the Tavush mountains, heading toward Mt. Vitasar, a summit offering spectacular views that are well worth the hike. Along the way, you’ll visit a mountain waterfall—a refreshing stop after the drive—and then hike up for panoramic vistas.
The tour includes a short hike to the summit, where sweeping scenery makes every step worthwhile. Afterward, enjoy a tasting of Tavush-style gata with coffee or tea—a local treat that combines sweet pastry with warm drinks. The itinerary also features photo stops, guided walks, and a tea ceremony, making it more than just a rugged adventure. Reviewers mention the guide’s expertise and the scenic beauty, calling it “a highlight of my trip.” The tour suits active travelers who enjoy nature and don’t mind getting a little muddy. The main consideration is the physical activity involved, so a basic level of fitness helps.
Bottom Line: For outdoor enthusiasts, this off-road expedition combines mountain scenery, light hiking, and local flavors—a memorable day in the Armenian wilderness.
$85 per person
3. Ijevan: Learn Shulal Carpet Making at Telik Handmade
If you’re interested in Armenia’s traditional crafts, the Shulal Carpet Making workshop is a hands-on experience for just $22 per person, lasting about 1.5 hours. This small-group workshop offers a unique chance to weave your own mini Armenian carpet, which you can take home as a souvenir. The workshop is led by local artisans who share stories about Ijevan’s weaving traditions, dating back centuries.
Participants learn basic techniques in a relaxed setting, enjoying local sweets along with coffee or tea. Visitors often leave with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to Armenian craftsmanship. What makes this tour special is not just the craft, but the cultural storytelling behind each knot and pattern. It’s perfect for those who enjoy tactile experiences or want a meaningful keepsake from their trip. While the workshop is short, reviews mention the engaging guides and the pride locals take in their weaving. It’s best suited for curious travelers or families looking for a cultural activity, especially if you want a break from more physically demanding tours.
Bottom Line: This is an accessible, affordable way to connect with Armenian textile traditions and create a personal gift or memento.
$22 per person
4. Ijevan: Wine and Brandy Factory Tour with Tasting
Number 4 features the Wine and Brandy Factory Tour, an easy, mostly relaxed experience at $15 per person. The tour takes a full day, offering insight into Armenia’s oldest winemaking traditions. The Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory, established in 1951, provides guided tours where you learn about traditional distillation methods, including the copper pot process. You’ll see the machinery in action and hear stories about Armenia’s reputation for quality spirits.
The highlight is the guided tasting, where you sample a variety of Armenian wines and brandies, savoring the complex flavors and aromas. This tour is perfect for lovers of wine or those curious about Armenian spirits, especially since it offers a chance to taste several different varieties. Travelers praise the friendly guides and the informative experience, with some mentioning that it’s a good value for the price. While it doesn’t include a meal, the tasting alone is often enough to make this a memorable part of your trip.
Ideal for anyone interested in Armenia’s alcohol heritage, this tour works well as a relaxing, cultural addition to your day. Just be aware that it’s more about tasting than sightseeing, so it’s best paired with other activities if you want a fuller experience.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, educational, and flavorful look at Armenia’s winemaking, this factory tour offers good value and a chance to savor local spirits.
$15 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you love history and food, the Cultural Day Tour combines art, cooking, and wine tastings seamlessly. For outdoor lovers craving mountain scenery and physical activity, the Vitasar expedition is hard to beat. Those interested in crafts should consider the Shulal carpet workshop for its hands-on approach, while wine enthusiasts will enjoy the factory tour for a relaxed, flavorful experience.
Consider your budget too: the carpet workshop is the most affordable, while the cultural tour offers a broader experience at a higher cost. Check the links for detailed descriptions and reviews to see which suits your trip style best. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Ijevan offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you want to explore ancient monasteries, hike mountain trails, craft traditional carpets, or sip Armenian wine. For culture and cuisine lovers, the Heritage and Art Tour stands out as a well-rounded choice. Those seeking outdoor adventure should not miss the Vitasar expedition, while craft enthusiasts will enjoy weaving their own piece at Telik Handmade. And for a taste of Armenia’s famed spirits, the Wine and Brandy Factory Tour offers a flavorful, relaxed experience.
We recommend planning your tours ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak months. Whatever your interests, Ijevan’s tours promise authentic experiences you’ll carry home long after your trip ends.