Sevanavank — Attraction in Sevan

I would like to warn the travelers to this beautiful place about the restaurant that is located directly on the parking before one starts going up to this monastery. We were scammed there by the owner and the waitress there. We ordered three orange juices in plastic glasses , and they did not tell us beforehand about the price (and did not bring a menu). Then they charged 4000 dram (about 10 euro) for each juice, and 1000 for service, so in total it was about 30 euro for only 3 juices!! One pays these money for a good restaurant in Armenia. When I asked to show it in the menu,they first could not find it in one menu, and then showed it in some other menu. I just later realized that that this is a scheme they use: they have a menu with normal prices for locals and a menu with astronomical prices for foreigners. They do not suggest to look through a menu when the foreigners sit down for a drink, and then they charge at least twice as much. Both the owner and the waiter to who I talked about the astronomical prices did not want to look me in the eyes and were telling it was fault that I did not ask for a menu from the start. What a shame! Thid restaurant is not on Google maps, but located write at the entrance to the big parking, among the shops from wood, that's why I write this...

We visited Sevanavank Monastery on Sunday, and it was truly a highlight of our trip. Situated on a picturesque peninsula overlooking the vast, shimmering waters of Lake Sevan, the monastery offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Armenia.

The monastery dates back to the 9th century and features two beautiful stone churches perched atop a hill, surrounded by lush greenery and the sparkling blue of the lake. Climbing the steps to reach the site was invigorating and well worth the effort, as every turn revealed stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Sevanavank’s peaceful and spiritual atmosphere made it a wonderful place to reflect and soak in Armenia’s rich history and natural beauty. The architecture is simple yet elegant, with ancient khachkars (cross-stones) and intricate carvings adding to the site’s charm.

We enjoyed wandering around the grounds, capturing photos of the magnificent scenery, and appreciating the fresh, crisp air. The site is well maintained, and there are small cafes nearby where visitors can relax and enjoy local refreshments while admiring the view.

For anyone visiting Armenia, Sevanavank is a must-see — a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature that leaves a...

Views are lovely. The monastery is very iconic and photogenic. I had beautiful weather. Lost a star due to staff in all areas (two chapel buildings, toilet block plus security at the far end of the mound) who were extremely unwelcoming, bordering on rude. I respect that it’s a holy location, however everyone I encountered appeared very hostile towards tourists.

The toilet block is clearly marked and initially was unstaffed / locked. The staff member was outside on their phone, then walked back into the block. They saw me approaching, said and gestured nothing as an attempt to communicate and then closed and locked the door in my face. I imagine many elderly visit this important site - I hope access to toilets is not always like this.

Was quite busy with tourists, but fairly easy to avoid them.

I took a GG taxi from Sevan city which cost 1200Dr and took approx. 10 mins. Visited on a day trip from Yerevan (the marshrutka to Sevan city appears to run hourly from outside Yeritasardakan metro station which took around 1 hour and...