Dilijan is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and unique experiences. Known as the “Armenian Switzerland,” its lush forests and tranquil lakes make it an ideal setting for engaging tours. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush, eager to learn about Armenian wine, or interested in exploring ancient monasteries, Dilijan has something for every traveler. We especially love the Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan because it combines outdoor thrills like zip-lining and horseback riding with stunning scenery. For those curious about Armenian wine, the Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine offers a hands-on experience in a sustainable winemaking environment. And for a more cultural and scenic immersion, the Forest to Monasteries: A Magical Tour of Dilijan and Ijevan showcases ancient sites and breathtaking landscapes, making it a well-rounded choice.
If you’re planning a trip, consider these options carefully. Some tours focus on active pursuits, like horseback riding, while others emphasize cultural discovery or tasting local products. Whatever your interest, Dilijan’s diverse tours promise memorable, authentic Armenian experiences.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find a mix of adventure, cultural, and culinary tours. For adrenaline lovers, the Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan offers zip-lining, forest hikes, and horseback riding. If wine tasting and making your own sparkling wine appeal, the Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine makes for a fun, educational outing. For those who want a comprehensive day exploring ancient monasteries and scenic spots, the Forest to Monasteries: A Magical Tour of Dilijan and Ijevan combines natural beauty and cultural heritage. Budget travelers can opt for the Make Your Own Creative Armenian Sweet-gata to learn how to craft traditional Armenian sweets. Each tour delivers a distinct slice of Dilijan’s appeal, ensuring a great fit no matter your interests.
1. Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan
At number 1 on our list, the Adventure Tour: Adrenaline Rush in Sevan, Dilijan and Ijevan combines outdoor excitement with scenic beauty. For around $210 per group (up to 3 people), you get nine hours of action-packed activities in Armenia’s Tavush Province. This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking a mix of forest hikes, zip-lining, and horseback riding. You’ll start with a hike through lush forests in Dilijan National Park, where the canopy views are impressive. Then, the zip-line experience offers a true thrill, soaring over treetops and capturing some unforgettable photos. Finally, the tour wraps with horseback riding amid Ijevan’s landscapes, giving you a chance to connect with nature on a more personal level.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of adrenaline and scenery, with a manageable nine-hour schedule that balances activity and relaxation. It’s perfect if you want a full day of outdoor fun without sacrificing comfort. The guide is experienced, and reviews praise the professionalism and safety measures.
Bottom Line: For travelers who love adventure, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Armenia’s natural thrill spots. Just be prepared for a full day on your feet.
2. Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine
Number 2 is all about tasting and creating in the heart of Armenia’s winemaking scene. The Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine lasts about 1.5 hours and costs just $21 per person. Hosted by Hovaz Wines, this experience offers a chance to learn traditional sparkling wine techniques from Champagne, then label and cork your own bottle. It’s a fantastic activity for wine enthusiasts or anyone curious about Armenia’s burgeoning wine industry.
The highlight here is the opportunity to participate in the winemaking process, gaining insight into Armenia’s wine traditions and sustainable viticulture. You’ll also have the option to purchase your personalized bottle, which makes a memorable souvenir. The host shares interesting stories about Armenia’s wine development, making it both educational and fun.
Reviews are positive, emphasizing how engaging and hands-on the experience is. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, interactive activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for wine lovers who want to understand Armenia’s sparkling wine heritage while creating a keepsake.
$21 per person
3. Forest to Monasteries: A Magical Tour of Dilijan and Ijevan
Number 3 on our list takes a cultural and scenic approach. The Forest to Monasteries: A Magical Tour of Dilijan and Ijevan costs $215 per group and lasts nine hours. It’s perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. This tour showcases the mystical forests of Dilijan National Park, where dense trees create a peaceful backdrop for walking and exploring. You’ll visit the 13th-century Haghartsin Monastery, an impressive architectural site that offers tranquility and insight into Armenia’s religious past.
Later, you’ll learn about local winemaking at Ijevan Winery, where tasting and understanding Armenian wine-making techniques are part of the experience. The tour balances scenic walks, historical exploration, and cultural tastings, making it a well-rounded day.
Reviewers praise the friendly guide and the combination of nature and history. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a deeper appreciation of Armenia’s spiritual and natural heritage without intense physical activity.
Bottom Line: For an immersive experience that combines scenic walks, ancient architecture, and local wine, this tour is a top choice.
$215 per group up to 3
4. From Yerevan: Lake Sevan and Dilijan: Private Day Tour
Number 4 offers a private, personalized approach. The From Yerevan: Lake Sevan and Dilijan: Private Day Tour takes around 10 hours for $149 per group (up to 3 people). It’s ideal if you prefer a tailored experience with flexibility. The tour starts with the iconic Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a peninsula, offering stunning views of Lake Sevan. Then, you explore Goshavank, known for its exquisite khachkars (cross-stones). The journey continues to Dilijan, often called “Armenian Switzerland,” for its beautiful forests and traditional architecture. You’ll also visit Haghartsin Monastery, an ancient site with serene surroundings.
The itinerary is detailed, allowing for stops at key historical and natural sites, with plenty of free time for photos and wandering. This tour’s private setting is perfect for families or small groups who want to customize their day. The guide’s insights make the history and significance of each site come alive.
Reviews mention the smooth organization and the personalized experience. The main advantage here is flexibility, but it’s best if you want a more intimate, stress-free day.
Bottom Line: This private tour suits travelers who want a customized, relaxed exploration of Armenia’s highlights without rushing.
$149 per group up to 3
5. Horseback riding in Dilijan
Number 5 features one of the most memorable ways to enjoy Armenia’s landscape. The Horseback riding in Dilijan costs $213 for up to 3 people and lasts about five hours. It begins with a scenic drive, offering views of Lake Sevan, then proceeds to the riding session—perfect for riders of all levels. The highlight is mountain ascent, where you’ll experience the thrill of riding amid scenic vistas. The guide will tailor the experience based on your riding ability, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
This tour combines the connection with nature through animal companionship and sweeping mountain views. It’s a fantastic way to see the countryside from a different perspective. The itinerary includes stops for photos and short visits, with plenty of time to enjoy the fresh air.
Reviewers praise the friendly guide and the well-maintained horses, noting it’s a memorable, authentic Armenian experience. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with riding or eager to try something new.
Bottom Line: For a unique outdoor adventure that blends scenery and equestrian fun, this tour is hard to beat.
$213 per group up to 3
6. Armenia: Private Tour to Dilijan & Lake Sevan
Number 6 is a flexible, private option perfect for those who want a full-day, relaxed exploration. The tour lasts about 9 hours, with the starting time variable. It includes visits to Lake Sevan, Dilijan National Park, Lake Parz, and the Haghartsin Monastery. The itinerary segments each site for about an hour, giving ample time to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.
The private nature allows you to focus on your interests, with a knowledgeable guide helping you understand Armenia’s cultural heritage. Highlights like the Haghartsin Monastery and the tranquil Lake Sevan provide varied scenery and history. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day with a personal touch.
Reviewers point out the smooth organization and the ability to customize stops. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a stress-free experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, flexible itinerary with a focus on history and nature, this is an excellent choice.
7. Group Tour: Dilijan, Parz Lake, Makaravank, wine factory
Number 7 offers an 11-hour day exploring some of Dilijan’s most scenic spots. Costing varies by availability, it includes visits to Parz Lake, Makaravank Monastery, and a local wine factory. The tour begins in Hyur Service’s office, then moves to Dilijan town, famous for its traditional buildings. You’ll walk around Lake Parz, enjoying the calm waters, then head to Makaravank, a 10th- to 13th-century monastery with intricate architecture and scenic views.
The highlight is the visit to a local winery, where you’ll learn about Armenian wine-making traditions. The guide’s knowledgeable commentary enhances the experience, giving you a sense of history and craftsmanship. This tour suits those who want a mix of natural beauty, history, and local food and drink.
Guests praise its well-organized structure and the chance to see multiple sites in one day. The main drawback is the longer duration, so it’s best for active, curious travelers.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive, cultural experience with beautiful scenery and a chance to taste local wine.
8. Make Your Own Creative Armenian Sweet-gata
Number 8 is perfect for anyone interested in Armenian cuisine. The Make Your Own Creative Armenian Sweet-gata lasts 2.5 hours and costs $47 per person. Hosted at a guest house, this hands-on class teaches you how to make traditional Armenian gata, a sweet pastry. You can customize your flavor with non-traditional ingredients, making it a fun, creative process.
This experience isn’t just about the cooking; it’s also about connecting with your hosts and enjoying a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. After making your gata, you’ll get to taste your creation and learn about Armenian baking traditions. It’s ideal for foodies and those who want a cultural, participatory activity.
While it’s a shorter tour, it provides a delicious souvenir and a memorable story to take home. Reviewers note the cozy setting and the delicious results.
Bottom Line: For a flavorful, interactive experience that’s perfect for families or couples, this sweet-making class is a delightful choice.
$47 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Dilijan, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. If you’re seeking adventure and outdoor fun, the Adventure Tour offers a full day of thrills. For a more relaxed, culturally rich experience, the Forest to Monasteries combines scenic walks and ancient sites. Wine lovers will appreciate the hands-on Bottle Your Own Sparkling Wine, while those interested in local food should consider making Armenian gata.
Travelers on a tight schedule or seeking a private experience may prefer the Private Tour to Dilijan & Lake Sevan. Budget-conscious visitors might enjoy the Sweet Gata class, which combines fun and flavor.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred dates and ensure a smooth planning process.
Final Thoughts
Dilijan offers a range of tours that cater to adventure seekers, history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and food lovers alike. For outdoor action, the Adrenaline Rush is unmatched, while the Forest to Monasteries provides a balanced mix of scenery and history. If you’re eager to learn about Armenian wine, the Sparkling Wine is a memorable, hands-on experience.
Consider your priorities—whether it’s active exploration, cultural discovery, or culinary delights—and choose the tour that best fits your style. With these options, your time in Dilijan will be full of meaningful, authentic experiences that highlight Armenia’s natural and cultural beauty.
Start planning early to make the most of your trip, and don’t hesitate to book ahead for popular activities—Dilijan’s scenic charm attracts many travelers!