Dilijan Travel Guide - Cascade Travel

Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Dilijan

Welcome to our Dilijan travel guide, where we explore the charm and beauty of Armenia’s Little Switzerland. Dilijan is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. This charming town is surrounded by lush forests, serene lakes, and picturesque mountains and offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history. Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring ancient monasteries, or simply unwinding in a tranquil setting, Dilijan has something for everyone.

Best Places to Visit in Dilijan

Dilijan is home to stunning natural landscapes and cultural gems. Here are the top places you shouldn’t miss:

Parz Lake: A stunning emerald-green lake surrounded by dense forests. Ideal for boat rides, zip-lining, and enjoying the serene views.
Haghartsin Monastery: As part of this Dilijan travel guide, I highlight the historic Haghartsin monastery nestled in the lush forests surrounding the town. A medieval monastery complex hidden in the forests of Dilijan, known for its mystical and peaceful atmosphere.
Goshavank Monastery: Dating back to the 12th century, this monastery is home to one of Armenia’s finest khachkars (stone crosses).
Sharambeyan Street: The old town of Dilijan, where you can admire traditional Armenian architecture, visit art galleries, and shop for local crafts.

Top Museums in Dilijan

Discover Dilijan’s rich cultural and artistic heritage at these fascinating museums:

Dilijan Local Lore Museum and Art Gallery: Showcasing the region’s history, archaeological finds, and an impressive collection of Armenian artwork. Entrance fee: 1,000 AMD ($2.56).
The House Museum of Hovhannes Sharambeyan: showcases the work of the famous Armenian artist, specializing in folk art and wood carving. Housed in a 19th-century building, it highlights his art and traditional crafts. Entrance fee: 500 AMD ($1.28).

Things to Do in Dilijan

Go Hiking: Explore trails in Dilijan National Park, including routes to Parz Lake and Goshavank.
Try a Traditional Craft Workshop: The Dilijan travel guide recommends visiting the Old Dilijan Complex to experience the town’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Dilijan Art House to try pottery, woodworking, or painting with local artisans.
Visit the Old Dilijan Complex: A restored historic street showcasing traditional Armenian houses, workshops, and cafés.
Visit Artisan shops: Visiting artisan shops offering wood art and clay classes provides an immersive experience where travelers can learn traditional crafts. Participants can create their pieces, guided by skilled artisans who share their expertise.

Relax in a Wellness Retreat: Enjoy a rejuvenating experience at one of Dilijan’s wellness resorts, such as Best Western Paradise Dilijan or Dili Town Hotel.
Visit the Local Market
Don’t miss the Dilijan Farmers’ Market, where you can buy fresh fruits, honey, herbs, and local handicrafts. It’s a great place to experience local culture and pick up souvenirs.

Outdoor Adventures Near Dilijan

Lastiver Caves and Waterfall: A hidden gem perfect for hiking and exploring ancient caves with stunning views. The hike is a 7 km round trip with an easy difficulty level, making it accessible for most hikers while offering a rewarding nature experience.
Hike Jukhtak Monastery & Matosavank: Less-visited medieval monasteries surrounded by lush forests. The route is a 3-3.5 km round trip and will take 1-2 hours, making it an easy yet atmospheric hike through history.
Hike or Jeep Ride Dimac Mountain: Dimac Mountain offers both hiking and jeep ride options. The hiking route is a 20 km round trip with an altitude gain of 1000 m and a moderate difficulty level. Hiking provides a scenic, immersive experience, while a jeep ride offers a comfortable way to reach higher points and enjoy stunning views without the physical effort.

Check our hiking tours

How to Get to Dilijan

Dilijan is located about 100 km (62 miles) from Yerevan and is easily accessible by different means of transport:

By Car: The drive from Yerevan takes around 1.5 hours via the M4 highway. Renting a car is a great option for flexibility. Rental prices range from $30-$50 per day, with options from Hertz Armenia, Europcar, and Sixt.
By Bus or Minibus (Marshrutka): Regular minibusses run from the Northern Bus Station in Yerevan, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. The ticket price is approximately 1,500 AMD ($3.8).
By Taxi: Private taxis can be arranged from Yerevan for around 12,000-15,000 AMD ($30-$40). For a more budget-friendly option, consider using the GG shuttle (shared car) 1600 AMD (4$)

Where to Eat

Dilijan is known for its delicious local cuisine and authentic restaurants such as:

Kchuch: A farm-to-table dish made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Armenian flavors. Prices range from $10-15 (3,500 – 6,000 AMD).
Haykanoush: Homemade Armenian specialties served in a cozy setting, where you can savor traditional dishes made with love and care. Prices range from $5-10 (2,000 – 4,000 AMD).
Papanino House: Offering authentic Armenian hospitality, with locally inspired dishes that provide a true taste of Dilijan’s culinary heritage. Prices range from $15-20 (6,000 – 8,000 AMD).

Where to Stay

Popular options include Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex, Dilijan Resort, and Dili Town Hotel. For Budget travellers I suggest the Armenia B & B Hotel or Aurelia Hotel.

What Makes Dilijan Unique?The
Dilijan travel guide would be complete without mentioning the stunning trails of Dilijan National Park. Dilijan is surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and the Dilijan National Park, making it a haven for nature lovers and hikers. Its mild climate and fresh mountain air offer a relaxing retreat, attracting visitors seeking wellness and tranquility. The town’s charm is further enhanced by its preserved 19th-century architecture, with traditional wooden balconies that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Beyond its natural beauty, Dilijan thrives as a cultural and artistic hub, as well as institutions like UWC Dilijan College, which brings an international influence to the town.

Tourist Information Center: The Dilijan Tourist Information Center is situated in the park area. Here, visitors can find all the essential information about the city and nearby recreational spots and also rent bicycles, tents, and other tourist gear.