Day Trip to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Ijevan Wine Brandy Factory

If you’re considering a day trip from Yerevan to explore the northern regions of Armenia, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of what makes this part of the country special. We’ve gathered plenty of feedback and details to help you decide if this experience matches your travel style.

What’s immediately appealing? First, the expert guides and comfortable transportation really stand out, making a full day of sightseeing relaxed and engaging. Second, the stunning views of Lake Sevan and the chance to explore a historic monastery and a charming town are definite highlights.

A small but worth noting consideration is that the tour is quite packed—there’s a lot to see in just a few hours, so expect a busy schedule. If you love slow, in-depth explorations, this might feel a little hurried. But for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Armenia’s northern treasures, it works well.

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate a guided experience that covers key sights, enjoy scenic drives, and like sampling local wines and foods. It’s ideal for those who want a well-organized day without the hassle of planning every detail, especially if limited on time but eager to see a variety of sights.

Key Points

• Efficient full-day itinerary covers major highlights without feeling overly rushed.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on each stop, adding context to your sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi keeps the journey smooth and connected.
• Diverse experiences include historic monasteries, local artisan streets, and a renowned winery.
• Stunning vistas from Lake Sevan’s panoramic lookout and the charming town of Dilijan are unforgettable.
• Value for money at around $36 per person, especially with included wine tastings and entrance fees.

The Itinerary in Depth

Starting at Sharambeyan Street – Armenia’s Artistic Heart

The day begins with a visit to Sharambeyan Street, just a short 30-minute stop. This street feels like stepping back in time, with traditional houses, artisan workshops, and a vibrant arts scene. Known locally as “Little Switzerland,” the area’s forested hills and quaint stone and wood houses evoke a peaceful, picture-perfect setting.

Travelers have commented on how this area remains home to Armenian visual artists, musicians, and filmmakers, giving it a creative, bohemian vibe. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and soak in the local craftsmanship before moving on. The stop is free, but it’s enough time to browse and take photos rather than a deep dive into the artisan shops.

Visiting Haghartsin Monastery – A Medieval Treasure

Next, we head into the lush forests of Armenia to explore Haghartsin Monastery. Built in the 13th century, it’s a true gem of medieval architecture. Visitors often remark on the intricate stone carvings and the peaceful atmosphere—perfect for taking a moment of quiet reflection.

With about 50 minutes at the site, you’ll have a chance to wander among the ruins, admire the khachkars (cross-stones), and appreciate the craftsmanship. The reviews highlight this stop’s beauty and serenity, with one traveler calling it “a stunning medieval architectural masterpiece.” It’s an essential visit that combines history, architecture, and nature.

Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory – Tasting Armenia’s Spirit

A highlight for many is the visit to the Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory. Founded in 1951, this family-run enterprise produces a wide range of high-quality drinks, including brandies, wines, sparkling wines, and vodkas.

The 2-hour tour includes tasting sessions, which many reviews describe as impressive, with a professional approach to the collection and production process. The factory’s location in the mountains with surrounding deciduous forests and alpine meadows adds to the quality of their products. This stop combines a taste of Armenian craftsmanship with a chance to learn about the local beverage culture.

Lake Sevan & Sevanavank Monastery – Armenia’s Jewel

The final major stop is Lake Sevan, one of Armenia’s most iconic sights. At 1900 meters above sea level, the lake’s vastness and beauty draw countless visitors. The climb to the Sevan peninsula offers panoramic views that are well worth the effort—many travelers mention how breathtaking the scenery is.

On top, you’ll visit Sevanavank Monastery, built by Princess Mariam in the 9th century. It’s also home to the Amenaprkich Khachkar, one of Armenia’s most beautiful cross-stones. The views over the lake from this vantage point create a perfect photo moment—and a memorable experience.

A little over an hour is spent here, with some reviews noting that the time is just right to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s a classic highlight that encapsulates the natural and historical beauty of Armenia.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For around $36, this tour offers solid value. The package includes professional guides, entrance fees, local sweets, bottled water, and wine and brandy tastings—a real treat for those interested in Armenian beverages. The air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi helps keep the trip comfortable and connected throughout the day.

Dining is not included, which is typical for these tours—costs range from $6 to $14 for lunch, and you’ll find options conveniently near the stops or back in Yerevan. This flexibility allows you to choose a meal that suits your taste and budget.

The tour begins at 9:00 am from central Yerevan, with pickup and drop-off options available if you request. The group size is capped at 50, ensuring a manageable and friendly atmosphere.

The Travel Experience — What the Reviews Say

Our research shows that guides like Elina, Marina, and Hasmik are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often making the experience more engaging. Many reviews emphasize how much they appreciated the guides’ ability to explain Armenian history and culture in both English and Russian, making the tour accessible to diverse travelers.

Travelers have also highlighted the quality of the transportation, noting the comfort of the Wi-Fi-equipped vehicles. This makes the long drives between stops easier and more enjoyable.

The stops are well-timed—enough for sightseeing and photos, without feeling overly rushed. However, some reviewers mention that the pace can be quite full, so if you’re someone who prefers lingering over each site, you might find this a little quick.

Authentic Feedback

One traveler commented, “Great tour with great tour guide and a very professional driver. Elina was a charming guide and very knowledgeable. Lake Sevan was so beautiful and also Dilijan. I highly recommend this tour.” Such positive reviews reinforce the overall good reputation of the experience.

Another appreciated aspect is the inclusion of local snacks and the tasting sessions, which add a layer of enjoyment to the day. Many feel that these details enhance the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day that hits Armenia’s highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy hearing stories and background from guides, as well as those interested in wine and local crafts.

It suits those who want a rounded experience—nature, history, and local flavors—without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect if you prefer group tours with a friendly atmosphere but still want to see multiple sights in one day.

Travelers who don’t mind a busier schedule will find this a rewarding way to get a sense of Armenia’s northern scenery and culture quickly.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, front-door pickup and drop-off from any hotel in the city center can be arranged, making the day even more convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the original meeting point in Yerevan.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a professional guide, entrance fees, bottled water, local sweets, and tastings of wine and brandy.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included, but options are available nearby, costing roughly $6-$14, giving you the freedom to choose what you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the busy schedule and walking involved, especially at sites like Sevan and Haghartsin Monastery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes for walking and layers for varying temperatures are recommended, especially for the outdoor parts like Sevan viewpoint and monastery visits.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to modifications or cancellations for safety reasons, so check the forecast and communicate with your provider if needed.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Yerevan to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and Ijevan Winery offers an excellent way to see Armenia’s northern charm without the stress of planning. The combination of scenic views, historical sites, and local drinks makes for a well-rounded experience.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day not just informative but also engaging. The transportation is comfortable, and the included tastings add a delightful local flavor to your journey.

While the schedule is quite full and some may find it a bit hurried, the opportunity to sample Armenia’s natural beauty and cultural richness in one day is hard to beat at this price. It’s a great pick for those who want a practical, enjoyable introduction to this part of the country.

If you love learning about new places through a relaxed, guided format and enjoy tasting local specialties, this tour could be a highlight of your Armenia trip.