The 2 Best BBQ Experiences in Yerevan
Yerevan isn’t just about history and culture—it also offers some fantastic opportunities to enjoy authentic Armenian BBQ in stunning settings. While the city itself boasts a vibrant food scene, venturing out on a day trip reveals unique ways to combine sightseeing with mouthwatering grilled trout and local specialties. We particularly love the Lake Sevan Trout BBQ experience for its perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and a delicious outdoor lunch. Imagine enjoying fresh fish grilled right by Armenia’s most famous lake—truly an unforgettable meal.
Yerevan’s landscape lends itself well to tours that combine natural beauty with culinary delights. Whether you’re into historic monasteries, mountain views, or lakeside picnics, there are options suited for different tastes and budgets. The tours we highlight below give you a taste of Armenia’s rich scenery and flavor, all while you relax in comfort and enjoy locally-sourced BBQ treats.
Here’s a quick overview of the best BBQ experiences in Yerevan, focusing on tours that blend sightseeing with outdoor dining and cultural exploration. For a comprehensive day out, each offers something special.
1. Group Tour: Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway), Lake Sevan, Trout barbecue treat
This tour is a standout for its combination of scenic mountain views, historic sites, and a delicious Trout BBQ by Lake Sevan. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. Starting from Yerevan, you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi, making the journey as pleasant as the destinations.
What makes this tour special is the balance of activities: a 30-minute ride on the Tsaghkadzor Ropeway offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, and a visit to the 13th-century Kecharis Monastery reveals Armenia’s religious architecture. The highlight is the lunch by Lake Sevan, where you get to enjoy fresh trout grilled outdoors, along with local salads and bread. The tour offers admission tickets covering the ropeway, plus bottled water and pastries, ensuring you stay refreshed.
Guests give this a perfect 5-star rating for its beautiful scenery and well-paced itinerary. Many mention the generous free time at Lake Sevan to explore or relax, which makes the experience stand out. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a mix of nature, history, and great food, all at a reasonable price of $37 per person.
Bottom Line: This tour delivers a scenic, cultural, and culinary experience in one package, making it ideal for a full-day adventure around Armenia’s top sights.
2. Group Tour: Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis,Ropeway), Lake Sevan, Trout BBQ
At number two on our list, this slightly more affordable BBQ-focused tour emphasizes a classic Armenian day out with highlights like Kecharis Monastery, the Tsaghkadzor Ropeway, and Lake Sevan, capped off with a local trout BBQ. Priced at just $30 per person, it offers excellent value for those looking to maximize sightseeing on a budget.
This tour is ideal for smaller groups—no more than 15 travelers—giving it a personal touch, especially with a local guide. The itinerary includes a 30-minute ride on the ropeway, offering spectacular views of the mountains, and a visit to the 11th-century Kecharis Monastery, renowned for its architecture and peaceful setting. Afterward, you’ll head to Lake Sevan for about an hour, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photos.
The main attraction is the trout BBQ, served outdoors with views of the lake, creating an authentic Armenian dining experience. Reviews note the delicious food and friendly guides. This tour suits travelers who want an active day with a focus on Armenian culture and local cuisine, all in a small-group setting for a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, scenic day trip with excellent opportunities for outdoor dining and cultural exploration, perfect for those who prefer small groups.
How to Choose the Best BBQ Tour for You
When picking between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a more comprehensive experience with longer free time at Lake Sevan and a focus on comfort, the first tour (see details) is a great choice. For travelers who prefer a more budget-conscious, intimate group outing that still covers all the main sights, the second tour (see details) fits the bill.
Both tours include scenic rides on the ropeway and visits to historic monasteries, but the first offers a longer experience with more exploration time and a slightly richer set of included amenities. Think about your fitness level when considering the outdoor meal—both tours involve some walking and outdoor dining.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, and also to secure your preferred departure time. If you’re a history buff who loves scenic mountain views and fresh fish, either tour will serve you well.
Final Thoughts
Yerevan’s day trips offer a delightful mix of culture, scenery, and culinary delights—with BBQ being a perfect way to enjoy Armenia’s fresh, local flavors in stunning settings. The Lake Sevan Trout BBQ experience stands out as a top choice for its relaxed pace and beautiful outdoor lunch, while the smaller, budget-friendly tour offers a more intimate exploration of the region.
No matter which you pick, these tours provide a wonderful way to escape the city and enjoy Armenia’s natural beauty with a side of authentic grilled fish. Remember to book early, pack your camera, and prepare for a day full of scenic views and delicious bites.