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15 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, in the Caucuses region, is a country that straddles both Eastern Europe and Western Asia, so expect a clash of east meets west and you will find a lot to enjoy here.

Located on the Caspian Sea, there are quaint subtropical seaside resorts, or you can embrace Azerbaijan’s name as the Land of Fire with a trip to a flaming mountain or a mud volcano.

There are hillside towns that hide ancient mosques and minarets, as well as some of the most impressive modern architecture in the world in the form of the Flame Towers in Baku, so whatever your agenda is, Azerbaijan has much to offer visitors at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, lies along the Caspian Sea, and is a somewhat curious mix of the old walled city of Icheri Seher, and a modern building craze that has led a boom in skyscrapers, many of which are studded with LCD screens.

Of all of these, make sure that you don’t miss the Flame Towers, three towers built to resemble fire that cast a bronzed glow over the city at night. The city also embraces the modern at the Museum of the Contemporary Art that has over 900 artworks that feature up and coming artists from the region, and is well worth a visit for those interested in modern culture.

You can also try the local produce with a visit to Teze Bazaar, a market famous for its cheeses and spices, or grab a kebab, a local delicacy at one of the numerous open restaurants found all over the city.

2. Icheri Sheher

Known as “Old City” and “Fortress”, Icheri Sheher is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the centre of Baku, and you will find amazing architectural feats all over this protected quarter of the city.

These include Maiden Tower that dates from the 12th century and was part of the ancient walled city of Baku, as well as Shirvanshah Palace that was constructed in the 13th century. Come here not just for the architecture but also for the handicrafts, such as ceramics, as well as textiles like carpets and traditional Azerbaijan national clothes.

There are a wealth of shops located in Icheri Sheher that are perfect if you want a leisurely stroll around the historic centre of the city and the chance to pick up some souvenirs.

3. Absheron National Park

Sitting in the Azizbeyov region of the city of Baku, Absheron National Park spans 783 hectares of protected land and is the perfect place to come to witness the stunning flora and fauna of Azerbaijan. The national park has a whole host of local wildlife such as gazelles, birds, jackals, badgers, and Caspian seals.

The land here is mostly dry steppe, which lends itself to romantic rolling sand dunes and reed like grass that sways in the wind. The waters here are also known to be crystal clear and teaming with wildlife including the occasional sea snake.

If you want to catch sight of the famed Caspian seals, you need to aim to visit from September onwards.

4. Garasu Volcano

Many visitors to Azerbaijan may not know that the country has the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world, 350 to be exact!

One of the best known is Garasu Volcano, that has been known to spew mud over 1,000 metres into the air. The volcanoes are caused when gases under the earth build up and push the mud high into the air as a release.

The first mud volcanoes are said to have erupted in Azerbaijan 25 million years ago, and visitors to Garasu often say that it looks like the surface of the moon!

5. Naftalan Oil Resort

Naftalan resort is famous due to the Naftalan crude oil found here that is said to have healing properties, and has sparked a boom in medical tourism to the region.

The resort is located in the Naftalan oil fields in the town of Naftalan, and visitors come here to bathe in the oil or to undergo a range of oil based treatments that are said to help with pain relief and anti-inflammatory healing.

Whether or not visitors travel here for health reasons, or just to indulge is this unusual practice, you can still enjoy bathing in the oil in the resort and experience a range of relaxing or stimulating oil treatments at the onsite spa.

6. Gobustan

Gobustan is often referred to as the Azerbaijan version of Stonehenge in the United Kingdom, as it features a prehistoric cromlech (a circle of stones that have been positioned vertically).

It doesn’t end there however, as Gobustan is an archaeological reserve that lies to the south of Baku and offers a fascinating insight into ancient civilizations due to over 6,000 rock drawings that span over 537 hectares.

The findings in Gobustan point to evidence of habitation dating back from the Stone Age, and aside from the cave and rock drawings, there is also evidence of human settlements, and even ancient tombstones.

7. The Caspian Sea

Something of a misnomer, the Caspian Sea is actually the largest lake in the world, and measures a whopping 371,000 square kilometres.

The Caspian Sea sits on what looks like an ocean bed, and the water here is indeed salty, although the saline content is lower than that of other seas and oceans, meaning that it is the perfect place for swimming as it is less likely to cause irritation.

Popular activities on the Caspian Sea include boat cruises, diving opportunities, and fishing.

8. Shirvan National Park

Shirvan National Park, formally established as a protected area in 2003, used to be located under the Caspian Sea, and now spans over 54,000 hectares to the south of Baku. This protected area is made up largely of semi-desert landscape meaning that you will find ambling sand dunes that are the perfect hideaway for the gazelles found here, and nature lovers may also spot a diverse array of species including turtles, hedgehogs, jungle cats, and jackals.

For those more interested in bird life, you will find swans and even flamingos in the park, which tend to congregate around the aptly named Flamingo Lake. Mud volcanoes are also commonly found in the park, the most famous being Bandovan Mountain, which is well worth a visit to take in this amazing natural phenomenon.

For those who want to spend time taking in all the natural attractions here, there is accommodation available in the form of quaint bungalows, or, for more adventurous visitors, camping on the northern beach of the park is permitted with a permit

Nabran is a village that has turned into something of a resort zone in Azerbaijan and is found approximately 3 hours outside of Baku, to the northeast. Nabran lies on the banks of the Caspian Sea, and one of the great attractions here is the climate which provides plenty of sunshine in the summer months.

As such, Nabran has a plethora of water based activities that make the most of the ambient weather, including an aqua park and a variety of swimming pools all over the area.

In the evening, there are bars, restaurants, and nightclubs for those who want to experience some of the nightlife in Azerbaijan.

Found to the west of Baku, this is famed as one of the oldest human settlements in all of the Caucasus and is said to date back 2500 years. Sheki City was a stop off on the Silk Road and was famous for exquisite silks and other textiles. This tradition is still very much alive in Sheki City today, and visitors here will find ornate embroidery and other local handicrafts on offer.

In addition to the arts and crafts found in this city, there are also castles, mosques, and even ancient bathhouses, as well as the Palace of Seki Khans that has stood since the 18th Century. This is even more impressive as an architectural wonder when you consider that the palace was built in its entirety without the use of nails.

Make sure to check out the beautiful wall paintings and carved windows when you visit.

11. Yanardag

Come to Yanardag to see what are known as burning flame outlets. Yarnadag can be translated as “burning mountain” and the hills here appear to be permanently ablaze due to the gas deposits under the surface of the sandstone found here.

Visitors flock to this impressive natural phenomenon at dusk when the flames are most clearly visible, and the area is also studded with quaint teashops where you can sit in comfort and watch the spectacle as you sip a local beverage.

Yanardag is different from the mud volcanoes also found in Azerbaijan as there are no deposits of lava or mud that erupt from the hills, and the region is also one of great religious significance. The fires are said to have inspired fire worship in the Zoroastrianism.

12. Baku Seaside Park

Baku Seaside Park and Boulevard is the place to come for those visiting the country’s capital, and you will find a wealth of activities here, including old fashioned tea shops and cafes that are perfect for whiling away the hours or indulging in a classic seaside treat like locally produced ice cream.

The boulevard stretches over 5 kilometres along the coastline from National Flag Square to the International Baku Port, and is a great place to take in the seaside attractions on offer in Azerbaijan. There are amusement arcades that provide fun for all the family, and there are museums such as the Carpet Museum of Azerbaijan for those who want to learn more about the rich history of the textile industry in Azerbaijan.

Visitors will also find Baku Crystal Hall, that is famous for hosting the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest, and there are regular concerts, musical programs, and art exhibitions hosted in the venue.

13. Ateshgah

Azerbaijan has long been known as the Land of Fire, due the burning of natural oil and gases under the earth,said to have inspired the fire worshippers who later founded the Zoroastrian faith. In the days of old these burning gas outlets were thought to contain evidence of a divine being, and ancient temples were built upon the sites.

One of these temples is Ateshgah, located in the suburb of Surakhany in just outside of Baku.  Ateshgah is said to date from the 17th century, and the temple complex is built in the shape of a hexagon.

There is a fire alter in the centre, although the natural gases that led to the original construction of the temple have now been exhausted and the fire is produced via a gas pipeline from Baku.

14. Yanar Bulag

If you want see burning water then you can’t miss a trip to Yanar Bulag, a curious natural phenomenon that is located on the road between the towns of Astara and Lankaran.

The water is pumped out of a pipe and can be set alight due to the levels of natural methane contained within, making the oxymoron of flaming water a reality.

Locals in Azerbaijan believe that the water here has healing properties and much of it collected as drinking water to cure a whole host of ills.

The city of Astara, in the Astara Rayon district of Azerbaijan, is found just across from the border with Astara in neighbouring Iran. Famed for being one of the most beautiful areas of the country, surrounded by forest and mountains, the city of Astara itself has picturesque cafes and local restaurants, as well as a museum.

The museum is dedicated to archaeological finds in the region. These include coins and stone work such as statues of human figures and animals that are said to be over 2,000 years old.

If you venture just outside of Astara, you will find charming mountain villages that feature ancient mosques, towers, bathhouses and mausoleums.

15 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan:

• Icheri Sheher
• Absheron National Park
• Garasu Volcano
• Naftalan Oil Resort
• The Caspian Sea
• Shirvan National Park
• Baku Seaside Park
• Yanar Bulag

7 Days in Azerbaijan Itinerary: Best Places, Maps, & Tips

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Are you planning a trip to Azerbaijan? Here’s everything you need to craft the perfect 1 week Azerbaijan itinerary – including what to do, what not to do, what and where to eat, how to get around, where to stay, day trip suggestions, experience-based practical tips, and handy map.

One Week in Azerbaijan Itinerary: An Introduction

I spent days scrolling through the information about Azerbaijan making notes of the tiniest of details, and interacting with locals in Azerbaijan travel groups on Facebook to plan this Azerbaijan travel itinerary & feel that it’s one of the best on the internet.

When I say the best, it doesn’t mean that this itinerary covers all the best places in Azerbaijan because, of course, 7 days aren’t enough to explore everything that this beautiful country in the Caucasus has to offer, however, it includes the best places one must see to get acquainted with Azerbaijan as a first timer visitor. To become the best of friends, you need to come back!

Azerbaijan: First Impressions

Azerbaijan, the Land of Fire, turned out to be a sweet surprise for me, maybe, because I wasn’t expecting much from the country – as it’s less written and talked about. Every place felt so untouched, raw, and intriguing – like a breath of fresh air! By the end of 7 days in Azerbaijan, I found it hard to bid adieu. I wanted to stay. I wanted to know a little more. I wanted to feel its soul. Sigh! I knew I was coming back soon.

Azerbaijan definitely is one of the most charming, vivacious, and rewarding countries I’ve ever visited. From modern architectural wonders, soviet era structures, and historical gems to welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, natural treasures, and cultural encounters – a little country packs a punch.

Azerbaijan 1 Week Itinerary Map

7 Days in Azerbaijan Itinerary in a Nutshell

Azerbaijan itinerary 7 days: explore the best of azerbaijan in one week.

This Azerbaijan 7 days itinerary starts and ends in Baku and lets you explore the key highlights of Azerbaijan beside the vibrant capital of Baku – Yanar Dag, Ateshgah, Gobustan, Lahic, Sheki, and Shamakhi while combining day tours and a road trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Baku | Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku

Your Azerbaijan exploration starts in Baku , a vibrant capital city that very well knows how to hold on to its heritage while embracing futuristic trends and continuously reinventing itself.

A maze of cobbled streets peppered with historic architecture sits next to the spacious Parisian-style avenues and boulevards lined with stunning modern architectural wonders – a leisurely walk through the city is all you need to appreciate the intriguing contrasts.

Board a Baku Aero Express, hop on an airport taxi, or book a comfortable private transfer from Heydar Aliyev International Airport to your hotel in the city center.

You must book accommodation that’s right in the heart of the city. We stayed at Salam Baku Hotel that’s located on Nizami Street, the main downtown street. The hotel is basic, however, we could catch all the action from our room overlooking the street. Plus, it was easy to get around with the minimal use of public transportation.

You can check in to your hotel, freshen up, have a refreshing cup of coffee, and head out to explore Icherisheher aka Old City aka Inner City, Baku’s historic core – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Strolling the winding streets of the old walled city of Baku feels like walking back in time. You can take a free walking tour or guided walking tour or choose to design your route map and explore on your own.

As you lose yourself in the streets of İçəri Şəhər, you’ll notice the well-preserved old-world structures – beautiful palaces and mosques, caravansaries, traditional souks, and hammams alongside charming coffee shops, famous restaurants, luxiuorous hotels, famed tea houses, swanky boutiques, antique shops, museums, and art galleries punctuated by small shops and street vendors selling Azerbaijani carpets, silverware, and other traditional items – the overwhelming beauty and history swoons you.

If you make an effort to venture a little deeper, you can witness the local life. As per Wikipedia, more than 3,000 people live in attractive stone houses and apartments inside the Old City walls.

The notable attractions to check out in the Old City of Baku include Double Gates (Gosha Gala Gapisi), Maidan Tower , Fortress Walls , Juma Mosque , Muhammad Mosque , Palace of Shirvanshhahs , Bazar Square , Haci Banu Hammam , Vagif Mustafazadeh House-Museum , and the Museum of Miniature Books .

And don’t forget to capture the stunning views of the iconic Flame Towers  rising behind the old city fortress walls.

I’d highly recommend a guided or self-guided panoramic night tour of Baku to get a unique nighttime perspective on the capital city. The Flame Towers illuminate in the colors of the national flag and look like burning flames from a distance. And the night view of the city from Upland Park is breathtaking!

End your day with a traditional dinner at Shah Restaurant & Gallery . You must try their shah pilaf.

Where to Stay in Baku Overall Best: Royal Antique Boutique Hotel (⭐ 9.5) Budget: Renaissance Boutique  (⭐ 8.4) Mid-Range: Art Club  (⭐ 9.3) Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Baku (⭐ 9.4)

Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku

Feast on Azeri breakfast at Sehrli Təndir , an old caravanserai-turned restaurant.

Now that you’ve seen the historic side of Baku, it’s time to discover the city’s contemporary side. Witness Flame Towers , the iconic flame-shaped trio of skyscrapers up close. Climb the stone steps or take a funicular to the lush Upland Park to enjoy the bird’s eye view of the city and its bay. Take some time to walk the Martyrs’ Lane or Alley of Honor inside the park.

Head to the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum , a cultural center displaying the largest collection of rugs and carpets in the world. A quick stroll through the museum presents insights into the colorful weaving history of Azerbaijan.

Other beautiful attractions close to the museum are Mini-Venice , Denizkenari Milli Park , and Azerbaijan State Puppet Theatre .

Enjoy a leisurely walk on the main pedestrian and shopping street, Nizami Street . Action-packed – the street is always full of people – locals and tourists. From small shops, hip boutiques, and charming cafes, to famous food chain outlets, supermarkets, famous restaurants, and bakeries, to the range of hotels – you can find anything and everything here. The famous public square in Baku, Fountain Square is also a part of Nizami Street.

Related Read: Best Hotels in Baku Near Nizami Street

While you are here, relish a traditional lunch at Dolma or Firuze.

After a hearty meal, take a taxi, bus, or metro to the Heydar Aliyev Center . I’d say it’s the high point of Baku. It’s visually, aesthetically, and intellectually compelling – inside out. Designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, you can’t help but fall in love with the unique piece of post-modern architecture as soon as you enter the complex. Walking around the museum, you’ll find out a lot about the history, culture, and art of Azerbaijan.

Spend your evening walking a 4 km (2.5 miles) long Bulvar or Baku Boulevard , a gorgeous promenade along the Caspian Sea. As you walk, the refreshing touch of the cool sea breeze caressing your face takes away the day’s tiredness. There are many benches or cafes along the way to sit and relax and indulge in people-watching. It’s also a great place to capture the best view of the Flame Towers.

There’s no better way to end your Baku exploration than a delicious dinner with a view at Sky Grill.

Day 3: Day Trip to Absheron (Ateshgah & Yanardag) and Gobustan (Mud Volcanoes and Petroglyphs) | Overnight in Baku

After spending 2 days in Baku, it’s time to discover the natural wonders around Baku.

The Absheron Peninsula is a promontory in eastern Azerbaijan extending into the Caspian Sea northeast of Baku. From mud volcanoes and lakes to beaches and ancient villages – It’s peppered with unique natural, historical, and cultural wonders.

Some of the most visited attractions on the peninsula include the famous burning mountain, Yanar Dag, and Ateshgah Fire Temple.

Gobustan or Qobustan is home to the Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve which beautifully preserves the rock petroglyphs (prehistoric rock carvings) and mud volcanoes. Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape within the reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Petroglyph Museum inside the reserve is also worth a visit.

The mud volcanoes are about a 30-minute drive from the museum. You have to leave your car (if you’ve one) at the museum parking and visit the mud volcanoes with a tour guide in their vehicle.

We took this all-inclusive Gobustan & Absheron Tour that makes it easy to explore all these amazing attractions with ease. The tour includes a traditional lunch and the all entrance fees.

If you want to explore independently, I’d suggest you dedicate two days – one day for Ateshgah and Yanar Dag and another for Gobustan as it involves a lot of driving.

Day 4: Day Trip to Quba | Overnight in Baku

Close to the Russian border, the little sleepy city of Quba (Guba) is full of nature, art, history, and culture. Famous for its apple orchards and carpets, Quba is peaceful and charming. The city is a great base for those who want to explore the ancient mountain villages of Khinaliq (Xinaliq) and Laza.

I mainly visited to get a sneak peek into the ancient art of weaving at a traditional carpet-weaving factory – Qadim Quba. Juma Mosque, Ardabil Mosque, Guba Genocide Memorial Complex, traditional Turkish hammam, and Qirmizi Qasaba (aka Red Village or Caucasian Jerusalem) are some of the attractions worth checking in Quba .

About 168 km (104 miles) away, Quba is easily accessible from Baku by bus, taxi, or rental car.

I’d strongly recommend you join this amazing guided tour that lets you explore Quba along with the beautiful mountain village of Khinalug and the incredible colorful landscape of Khizi or this one that includes a visit to the unique Red Town and many other natural wonders along with Quba and Khinalug.

Where to Stay in Quba Overall Best: Quba Palace Hotel & Golf Resort (⭐ 9.6) Budget: Gold Hotel Quba  (⭐ 8.5) Mid-Range: House in Quba  (⭐ 9.2) Luxury: Quba Palace Hotel & Golf Resort (⭐ 9.6)

Day 5: Drive to Sheki | Explore Lahic on the Way | Overnight in Sheki

About 300 km (187 miles) from Baku, it’s a long way to Sheki. Public transport options like a coach, mini-van, or overnight train are available. Hiring a taxi, a chauffeur-driven car, or renting a car are great options for those who seek ease and comfort.

We hired a driver with a car for the next 3 days in Azerbaijan to explore Lahic, Sheki, and Shamakhi.

Lahic and Shamakhi are on the way to Sheki from Baku. We discovered Lahic while driving from Baku to Sheki and explored Shamakhi when we were coming back from Sheki to Baku.

Lahic or Lahich or Lahij is a remote lost-in-time mountain village in one of the most beautiful regions of Azerbaijan, Ismailli.

Worlds apart from Baku, Lahic is one of the best places in Azerbaijan to witness rural life and Azeri culture and traditions. Historically, it was an important part of the Great Silk Road.

Well-known for its coppersmiths’ workshops, Lahic is a UNESCO Creative City . The cobblestone streets lined with cute little wooden artisanal shops selling handcrafted copperware attract a wealth of tourists here. Besides, the cool weather and abundant natural beauty are other draws for tourists. It’s one of the best day trip destinations from Baku.

A drive from Ismailli to Lahic is utterly beautiful yet a hair-raising experience with sheer drops and bends.

For those who want to do more in less time with ease, this full-day tour to Shamakhi and Lahij from Baku is also a great option.

Where to Stay in Lahij Overall Best: Abbasov’s Guest House (⭐ 9.7) Budget: Ancient Lahij Guest House  (⭐ 8.9) Mid-Range: Abbasov’s Guest House  (⭐ 9.7) Luxury: Brick House (⭐ 8.7)

Day 6: Explore Sheki | Overnight in Sheki

The ancient Silk Road city of Sheki (Shaki or Şeki) never fails to charm its visitors. Located at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is a must-visit when in Azerbaijan.

You can feel the historical and cultural vibe here. There’s a reason, the historic center of Sheki along with the beautiful Sheki Khan’s Palace has been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Sheki is also a part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network because of its rich art and crafts heritage. Shebeke (wooden framed stained glass), pottery, and silk weaving are some of the most recognized traditional art forms in Sheki.

Getting lost in the narrow lanes, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the historic architecture the city unveils at every step. And how could I not talk about delicious food and lovely locals?

The best things to do in Sheki include visiting the Old Town, Summer Place, Winter Palace, Silk Road Caravanserai, Three Saint’s Church, and Albanian Church of Kish, and relishing the local dishes of Piti and Sheki Halwa.

If you are short on time and can’t dedicate an entire two days to exploring Sheki and its surroundings, this full-day tour from Baku to Sheki including a visit to Shamaki and Gabala on the way is perfect for you.

Where to Stay in Sheki Overall Best: Marxal Resort & Spa (⭐ 9.7) Budget: Old Town Sheki (⭐ 8.7) Mid-Range: Sheki Palace Hotel  (⭐ 8.2) Luxury: Marxal Resort & Spa (⭐ 9.7)

Day 7: Drive Back from Sheki to Baku | Explore Shamakhi on the Way | Fly Back Home

Today’s your last day in Azerbaijan. Make the most of it. Start your drive back to Baku from Sheki after a fulfilling breakfast. You can time your journey as per the timing of your flight back home from Baku.

We left Sheki at around 8 am so we could explore Shamakhi on the way to Baku Airport. The ancient capital of Shamakhi is one of the oldest cities in Azerbaijan. It’s packed with history and culture and the breathtaking countryside surroundings make it all the more attractive.

The historic Silk Road city is also known as the city of poets because the legendary Azerbaijani poets – Sabir and Nesimi called it home. It also earned a name for its traditional Shamakhi dancers.

The city withstood invaders and earthquakes and strives to preserve its cultural heritage. Juma Mosque, one of the first mosques in the Caucasus, looks stunning. Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum is another landmark here that’s home to the tombs of Shirvanshahs – the last independent rulers of Shamakhi.

If you’ve time, you can add a visit to the Alpaca Farm and Shamakhi Safari Park, especially if you are traveling with kids.

Azerbaijan Trip: How to Plan

Best time to visit azerbaijan.

The best months to visit Azerbaijan are May, June, September, and October. July and August are the hottest months so it’s best to avoid planning during that time.

October is a perfect time to witness the autumn colors. Music lovers can plan for mid-October when the Baku International Jazz Festival takes place.

March is also a good time to visit, especially for culture enthusiasts, as it’s when (the first day of the spring, usually March 20th) the country celebrates one of its biggest traditional festivals – Nowruz, a Persian New Year. Plus, the weather is pleasant.

Winter is again a beautiful time to experience Azerbaijan. The beauty of the Caucasian Mountains covered in a sheet of shimmering white snow is unbeatable. adventure enthusiasts can head to Shahdag Mountain Resort and the Tufandag Mountain Resort to enjoy skiing. Also, it’s a great time for festive vibes – a colorful and flavorful event – Cold Hands, Warm Hearts Christmas, and New Year Fair takes place from December through January.

How to Get to Azerbaijan

Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku is the major airport. Azerbaijan Airlines operates regular flights to Azerbaijan from most of the famous cities around the world.

If you are coming from Georgia, there’s a daily overnight train from Tbilisi to Baku.

Visa for Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan offers single-entry eVisa to over 95 countries, including the US, European Nations, the UK, Canada, and India. Check this list to see if your country is visa-exempt or eligible for applying eVisa.

The application process is quite simple. Visit https://evisa.gov.az/ , click on the application tab, fill in the details, and pay the amount ($26). You’ll receive your eVisa in your email in about 3 days. We received ours in less than 48 hours.

The eVisa is valid for up to 90 days and permits a stay of a maximum of 30 days.

You can take the help of iVisa by paying a minimal service fee if you find it difficult to apply on your own.

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

The public transportation in Azerbaijan isn’t as efficient as other European countries. You can rent a car and self-drive to venture out of Baku, however, the roads are crazy and poorly lit (not to mention the difficult mountain terrain around remote villages) outside the cities.

So, I’d recommend hiring a car with a driver who knows the country well. If he doubles up as a guide, bingo. It’s safe, comfortable, and cheap for families.

We hired a private car and driver and absolutely enjoyed our Azerbaijan road trip.

Alternatively, you can book guided day tours to explore the places on your Azerbaijan itinerary with ease and comfort. The day tours take away the guesswork out of the trip and let you enjoy the places without any stress and anxiety. I completely rely on Get Your Guide and Viator for day tours.

How to Stay Connected in Azerbaijan

The airports, hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Azerbaijan have WiFi connectivity, however, to stay connected while traveling around the country, a local SIM card is vital.

Azercell and Bakcell are two of the famous mobile operators in Azerbaijan. Azercell is recommended by locals for its better connectivity. There are different types of tourist plans available depending on the data usage. We were in Azerbaijan for 7 days and purchased a 2 GB tourist plan for 10 manats ($5.88) from an Azercell store on Nizami Street.

If your phone supports eSim, you can buy one from Airalo .

Based on my personal experience, here are a few things you should take care of while traveling in Azerbaijan.

• Azeris are helpful and friendly, however, language is a huge challenge because English isn’t widely understood. Make sure you download a Google Translate App or Widget on your phone. Also, learning some common phrases in the Azeri language comes in handy.
• Taxi scam is common, especially at the airport. It’s safer to use Uber or Bolt. If at all, you hire a taxi, discuss the distance, time taken, and the approximate charge to the destination beforehand. Check if the taximeter is working properly. Getting from the airport to the center takes around 30 minutes and costs around 40-50 AZN ($24-30). For a hassle-free trip, you can pre-book a private transfer from the airport.
• Always keep exact cash while paying a taxi driver or a street vendor or someone at a shop because there are chances that they hand over a fake currency note to you. It didn’t happen to us in Baku, Azerbaijan but in Istanbul, Turkey.
• Keep sufficient cash in the local currency (AZN). Don’t pay in USD or Euro even if someone asks you, most likely it’s a scam. You tend to overpay without even noticing it.
• Always check the bill before paying in a restaurant or cafe. They sometimes add a food item you never ordered or quote a price for an item higher than mentioned in the menu. Don’t know intentional or accidental, but it happened to us twice. Also, it’s a common practice to serve a water bottle or a platter of mixed food items on your table while you order. You might feel these are complementary but they come with a heavy price. Ask the price of a water bottle (it’s way costlier than in the supermarket) or other specials to save the embarrassment and regret later.
• Beware of over-friendly locals. If someone comes to you and offers help without you asking, it’s a red flag.

Suggested Azerbaijan Itineraries

If you’ve fewer or more days than 7 days, here are suggestions to help you craft an itinerary accordingly:

Azerbaijan Itinerary 4 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Baku | Explore Baku Day 2: Explore Baku Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan | Fly Back Home

Azerbaijan Itinerary 5 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Baku | Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag | Overnight in Baku Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan | Overnight in Baku Day 5: Day Trip to Shamakhi | Fly Back Home

Azerbaijan Itinerary 6 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Baku | Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag | Overnight in Baku Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan | Overnight in Baku Day 5: Day Trip to Shamakhi | Overnight in Baku Day 6: Day Trip to Quba and Xinaliq | Overnight in Baku

Azerbaijan Itinerary 10 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Baku | Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag from Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan from Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 5: Drive to Quba | Explore Quba | Overnight in Quba Day 6: Day Trip to Xinaliq from Quba | Overnight in Quba Day 7: Day Trip to Laza from Quba | Drive back to Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 8: Drive to Sheki | Explore Shamakhi and Lahic on the Way | Overnight in Sheki Day 9: Explore Sheki | Overnight in Sheki Day 10: Drive Back to Sheki | Explore Gabala on the Way | Fly Back Home

Azerbaijan Itinerary 14 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Baku | Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag from Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan from Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 5: Drive to Quba | Explore Quba | Overnight in Quba Day 6: Day Trip to Xinaliq from Quba | Overnight in Quba Day 7: Day Trip to Laza from Quba | Drive back to Baku | Overnight in Baku Day 8: Drive to Lahic | Explore Shamakhi on the Way | Overnight in Lahic Day 9: Explore Lahic | Drive to Sheki | Overnight in Sheki Day 10: Explore Sheki | Overnight in Sheki Day 11: Day Trip to Ganja and Lake Goygol | Overnight in Sheki Day 12: Drive to Gebele from Sheki | Explore Gebele | Overinght in Gebele Day 13: Drive to Baku from Gebele | Overnight in Baku Day 14: At Leisure | Go Shopping in Baku | Fly Back Home

Azerbaijan Travel FAQ

Is azerbaijan located in europe or asia.

Located on the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan is a transcontinental country and is considered a part of both Europe and Asia or better yet, Eurasia.

What is Azerbaijan Most Famous For?

Azerbaijan is best known for its abundant oil and natural gas resources. It’s nicknamed the Land of Fire, the reasons being – it’s the birthplace of crude oil and the eternal flames (natural phenomenon) dot the country’s landscape. The name of the country literally translates to protector of fire. The capital city of Baku is also known for F1 Race.

How Many Days in Azerbaijan?

7 days in Azerbaijan are enough to explore most of the country’s highlights. If you want to travel a bit deeper, I’d recommend setting aside at least 10 days for a trip to Azerbaijan.

Which Month is the Best for Travel in Azerbaijan?

We visited Azerbaijan in June. It was scorchingly hot, with pleasantly warm evenings. After talking to the locals and fellow travelers who visited the country during different seasons, I can assuredly confirm that overall October is the best month to explore Azerbaijan.

Is it Expensive to Visit Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan isn’t a cheap country for sure, howbeit, it’s quite a competitive and affordable country to travel to, especially for Western travelers. The amount of money you spend depends on your travel style – still, you can expect to spend about $60 to $80 per person per day for an easy and comfortable stay.

Is Azerbaijan an Islamic nation?

Yes, Azerbaijan is an Islamic country, with Shia Muslims forming the majority. Yet, the country is relatively open-minded and follows secularism.

Is Azerbaijan Safe?

Yes, it is! Petty crimes like pickpocketing and tourist scams (mostly related to unofficial taxis) can happen, however, it’s safe, generally. As in any other foreign country, avoid staying out after dark and exercise caution and common sense all the time. Also, you must know that entry to the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region is prohibited.

Is Azerbaijan Tourist-Friendly?

Yes, most certainly. Azerbaijan welcomes tourists with an open heart and mind. The infrastructure is super. Locals are warm and welcoming and are keen to help out if and when needed. Unlike other Muslim countries, they have a modern outlook when it comes to the freedom of women, and at the same time, they are respectful towards women. The food options are abundant. There are endless things to see and do for each kind of traveler – art, culture, history aficionado or architectural enthusiast, nature lover, or shopaholic.

Is Azerbaijan Family-Friendly?

Azerbaijan is a great place to visit with family. It’s safe and secure and offers an intriguing mix of experiences ranging from cultural, and historical to gastronomical for families traveling with kids and teenagers. We enjoyed our time as a family in Azerbaijan.

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Anjali Chawla

4 thoughts on “7 Days in Azerbaijan Itinerary: Best Places, Maps, & Tips”

I recently visited Azerbajan and your blogs were the guiding lights. It helped a lot.

Thanks for writing and keep it up!1

Oh, I’m thrilled to hear that the blog was your go-to guide for your Azerbaijan adventure! That’s exactly why we pour our hearts into each post—to make your travels just a bit more magical. If you have any stories or tips from your trip that you’d like to share, I’m all ears! Keep exploring, and thanks so much for your kind words.

Amazingly detailed research! Will help me to plan well. No other blog required to be referred. Everything covered at one place. Thanks 😊

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear that you found the information helpful. If you have any more questions or need further assistance as you plan your trip, feel free to ask. Enjoy your travels!

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An Ultimate Guide to Azerbaijan

If you’re searching for an exciting, lesser-known destination for your next trip, Azerbaijan is an excellent choice. It’s not overrun by tourists, which means you’ll get to explore its unique charms without the crowds. This hidden gem offers a blend of East and West, with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a warm, welcoming spirit.

Azerbaijan: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for the First-Timers

Planning a trip to Azerbaijan? You’re in for a great time! This journey might just be one of the best you’ll ever have. To make it even better, I’ve put together a travel guide to Azerbaijan based on my own experiences. This guide will make it easy for you to discover all the wonderful places and experiences this country has to offer.

Azerbaijan: First Impressions

Azerbaijan is often called the Land of Fire , a name that comes from its unusual natural fires. In this country, you’ll find an amazing mix of the old and the new.

The capital city, Baku, epitomizes this mix. The city is very modern with tall, impressive buildings that make it feel like you’re stepping into the future.

But Baku also has a historic side, called Icherisheher . This old part of the city stands in beautiful contrast to the new buildings, showing off Baku’s rich history and its modern ambitions side by side.

Additionally, the country’s oil wealth is evident, adding a layer of prosperity and development to its urban landscape, which further enhances its unique character.

Outside of Baku, Azerbaijan has many small, quiet old villages that seem like they haven’t changed for centuries. These villages, my friend, are a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage and traditional ways of life.

What’s really special about Azerbaijan is how it mixes European and Asian cultures. You can see this in the food, the buildings, and the way people live. It’s like a bridge between two continents.

Plus, the country is home to the stunning Caucasus mountains, adding to its natural beauty.

This unique combination of city life, ancient villages, and beautiful landscapes makes Azerbaijan a fascinating place to visit.

Where is Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, situated in Southwestern Asia, is a country without a coastline except for its border along the Caspian Sea.

It’s nestled among several countries: Russia and Georgia to the north, Armenia to the west, Iran to the south, and it also shares a small border with Turkey.

How Many Days in Azerbaijan

Your perfect length of stay in Azerbaijan really depends on what you like – history, nature, or culture. Usually, people visit for about 5 to 10 days.

If you’ve got 5 to 7 days , that’s great for a quick trip. You can spend a few days in Baku to see the old and new parts of the city. Plus, you can take short trips to places like Gobustan National Park and the Ateshgah Fire Temple. Also, you can visit a beautiful area like Sheki, Quba, or Gabala for a day or two.

If you have 10 days or even more, you can explore more of the country. After seeing Baku, you can travel to different towns and villages, enjoy the Caspian Sea beaches, check out the mud volcanoes, and maybe travel to far-off places like Nakhchivan. With more time, you can really get to know each place better and take your time exploring.

How to Get to Azerbaijan

The most common and easiest way to travel to Azerbaijan is by flying. Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku is the primary airport for international flights. Various major airlines have flights to Baku from cities worldwide, and if there’s no direct flight from your location, you might transit through key hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or Moscow.

For those already in nearby countries such as Georgia, Russia, or Iran, overland options like train or bus services, including the overnight train and minibus (marshrutka) from Tbilisi, Georgia, to Baku, are usually available.

If you prefer the freedom of driving, traveling by car (whether rented or your own) from Georgia offers a picturesque journey.

An alternative way to reach Azerbaijan is by taking a ferry across the Caspian Sea, with services available from Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

Important Note: At the moment of writing this, Azerbaijan’s land and sea borders are closed to tourists , meaning entry is only possible by air. The closure of these borders is expected to continue at least until January 2, 2024. As a result, for now, flying is the only option for entering Azerbaijan.

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

In Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, getting around is easy with its modern metro system. It’s cheap and connects major areas.

Buses are everywhere in the cities and good for longer trips too. Baku’s buses go all over the city and comfortable buses link big towns and places tourists like to visit.

Marshrutkas, or minibusses, are a quick, cheap way to get between cities. They’re smaller and faster than buses but might not be as comfy. Indeed, even for travelers accustomed to using budget public transport, these minibusses can be quite uncomfortable.

Taxis are easy to find in Baku and other cities. Just make sure to use official taxis and agree on the price first. 

There’s also a train network, not as efficient, in Azerbaijan. It links Baku with cities like Ganja and Sheki.

I wouldn’t recommend self-driving in Azerbaijan because the road conditions, combined with local drivers not following the rules and often driving rashly, can make it quite challenging and potentially unsafe, especially for those not familiar with such driving environments. Instead, opt to rent a car with a driver from a well-known tour company.

We hired a car with a driver, instructing him to follow the traffic rules, which was a real time-saver and made things easier. However, we did face some communication challenges, as the driver didn’t understand much English. Thankfully, Google Translate was a big help in overcoming this communication hurdle!

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Azerbaijan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, and fewer tourists provide a more relaxed experience.

For culture enthusiasts, March is an excellent time to visit Azerbaijan, coinciding with the vibrant Novruz Bayrami celebrations. This traditional holiday marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, and it’s filled with rich cultural events, traditional music, dance, and a variety of local delicacies. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Azerbaijani customs and festivities.

Unmissable Experiences in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan offers quite a few captivating experiences that showcase its unique culture, history, and natural beauty. Let me share with you some of the top experiences you shouldn’t miss:

• Explore the Ancient & Modern Wonders of Baku

Exploring Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is an amazing adventure. This city has a mix of old and new things. When you walk around the Old City, called Icherisheher , a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s like going back in time. The narrow streets and old buildings there are just magical.

Then, as you leave the old part of the city, you’ll see a completely different side of Baku. The city is famous for its ultra-modern architecture. The Flame Towers , three tall skyscrapers, really stand out. At night, they light up with LED lights that look like flickering flames – it’s an amazing sight.

Don’t miss the Heydar Aliyev Center , designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid . Its smooth, futuristic look is a total contrast to the historic buildings in the Old City and shows just how diverse Baku is.

Baku isn’t just about its buildings, though. The city’s culture is a lively mix of the traditional and the modern. You can enjoy classic Azerbaijani music and dance, and then relax in a stylish cafe or fancy restaurant. This blend of the old and the new is what makes Baku’s charm really special.

• Experience the Silk Road Legacy in Azerbaijan

Discovering Azerbaijan’s Silk Road legacy is a truly enriching experience for any traveler. This journey takes you deep into the country’s history as a key crossroads on the ancient Silk Road .

Azerbaijan sits where East meets West, playing a vital role in this historic trade and cultural route. This rich past is best seen in its caravanserais – ancient inns where Silk Road travelers and merchants would rest.

In Baku, the Multani Caravanserai , dating back to the 15th century, is one of the most striking examples. Walking through its arched doorways and exploring its stone corridors, you can almost hear the whispers of ancient traders and the clatter of caravans.

Another notable caravanserai is the 14th-century Bukhara Caravanserai , also located in Baku.

Beyond Baku, places like Sheki and Ganja also hold significant remnants of the Silk Road . The Sheki Caravanserai , with its magnificent façade and intricate design, highlights Sheki’s role in historic trade and craftsmanship.

Azerbaijan’s bazaars also reflect the Silk Road’s influence. Bustling markets filled with spices and colorful goods give you a taste of what ancient trade was like.

In Nakhchivan , an autonomous part of Azerbaijan, you can further explore the Silk Road’s impact. It was a crucial stop on this ancient trading route, connecting Europe and Asia. Here, you can see old places, special buildings, and customs that remind us of the Silk Road days. 

Embarking on this journey through Azerbaijan’s Silk Road history connects you with the stories and people of a land that was a central hub in this famous trade network.

• Discover the Historical Castles and Fortresses of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is filled with historic castles and fortresses, each telling a unique story of the country’s past.

In Baku, you shouldn’t miss the Maiden Tower , a mysterious and ancient tower with amazing views of the city and sea. Also in Baku is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs , a beautiful 15th-century palace that shows how important the Shirvan Empire was.

Out in the countryside, you’ll find old fortresses on hills and valleys, reminding us of times when they protected the land. The Sheki Fortress in the scenic town of Sheki is a great example, showing the area’s medieval history and its ties to the Silk Road.

For something unique, visit Alinja Castle , sometimes called Azerbaijan’s “ Machu Picchu .” It’s high up on a mountain and was once a very strong fortress. The views from the top are incredible.

There’s also the Gulistan Fortress , an old but important stronghold that has seen many historical events. It gives a great look at the region’s past military strategies.

These fortresses, along with others scattered across Azerbaijan, are not merely relics of the past. They are enduring symbols of Azerbaijani resilience and architectural ingenuity.

• Tour the Ancient Villages of Azerbaijan

The quaint, peaceful, tiny villages of Azerbaijan are like time capsules, preserving centuries-old traditions, architecture, and ways of life.

Exploring these villages is like walking in a living museum, where every alleyway, every craft, and every local custom speaks volumes about the country’s fascinating past and enduring spirit.

To get into the skin of the country’s culture, you must explore its villages.

Khinalug , high in the Caucasus Mountains, is incredibly old and remote. Life here hasn’t changed much in over a thousand years. The people still speak their language and live in traditional houses on the mountainside.

In Lahij , known for its stone streets and copper work, you’ll feel like you’re in the Middle Ages. This mountain village is famous for keeping old crafts alive. The sound of copper smiths mixes with the village’s old-world feel, showing off Azerbaijan’s craft heritage.

Quba , another old village, has a charm of its own. Famous for apples and carpets, Quba is a mix of colors and traditions. It’s not just pretty, with its old-style buildings, but also full of life, from busy markets to green scenery.

• Uncover the Breathtaking Natural Wonders of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a land of many contrasts, with unique mud volcanoes, eternal flames, peaceful lakes, beautiful waterfalls, the grand Caucasus mountains, and the calm Caspian Sea coast.

The country is known for its over 300 mud volcanoes, some of the most active worldwide. These natural wonders are spread across Azerbaijan, with the most famous one in Gobustan , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gobustan is not only known for its mud volcanoes but also for ancient rock carvings.

Yanar Dag , or Burning Mountain, is where natural gas fires burn continuously, creating a magical scene, especially at night. This is why Azerbaijan is nicknamed the “Land of Fire.”

Near Baku is the Ateshgah Fire Temple , a historic site for fire-worshippers, built over a natural gas vent. The eternal flame here is a unique feature of Azerbaijan.

For nature lovers, Azerbaijan has lovely lakes like Lake Nohur , Rose Lake (known for its pink waters), and Lake Goygol .

The Caucasus Mountains, stretching across northern Azerbaijan, are perfect for adventures. They offer stunning views, hiking paths, and a chance to see diverse wildlife. Mountain villages show centuries-old traditional lifestyles.

The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest inland body of water, boasts beautiful beaches in Azerbaijan, with the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Some of the best beaches in Azerbaijan that I would recommend are Bilgah Beach, Dalga Beach, and Amburan Beach.

The Caspian Sea is also a hotspot for unique wildlife and is popular with birdwatchers, especially during bird migration seasons.

Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, Baku has many luxury and boutique hotels, plus big international brands. Staying on Nizami Street in Baku is great for a top-notch experience. It’s lively, full of shops and restaurants, and close to many attractions.

Outside Baku, in places like Sheki, Lahij, and Quba, you can stay in traditional guesthouses. These are cozy and show off the local style. They’re usually run by families, so you get a warm, homely feel. You can also try delicious home-cooked Azerbaijani food there.

If you’re in rural or remote areas, consider a homestay. You’ll live with a local family, which is a great way to understand Azerbaijani life and culture.

For nature lovers, regions like Gabala and Guba offer mountain retreats and lodges. These are in beautiful spots with great views of mountains and forests. They come in different styles and prices, from simple to luxurious.

Things to Consider While Traveling to Azerbaijan

• Before your trip to Azerbaijan, it’s important to verify whether you require a visa. Many travelers can obtain an e-visa through the ASAN Visa system , which is a straightforward online application process.
• For stays exceeding 15 days, you must register with the State Migration Service within 15 days after arriving in Azerbaijan.
• Azerbaijan’s geography means it has multiple climate zones. Pack accordingly, especially if you’re planning to visit both the mountains and the coast
• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and at religious places. In cities like Baku, you can dress more casually like in European cities. Remember to bring a scarf for visiting religious sites.
• Whether exploring Baku’s cityscape or venturing into rural areas, comfortable shoes are a must.
• Not many locals speak English, so knowing some Azerbaijani phrases is useful. Also, keep the Google Translate app handy – it’s a big help! There are other important travel apps you should consider downloading before your trip.
• The currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). While credit cards are commonly used, it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for visits to rural areas.
• Don’t miss out on local dishes like plov, kebabs, and dolma.
• While Baku is a must-visit, Azerbaijan’s true charm lies in its diverse regions, from the Caucasus Mountains to the Caspian Sea. So, explore beyond Baku!
• If you’re traveling to Azerbaijan in winter, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Shahdag Mountain Resort and Tufandag Mountain Resort , both offering excellent skiing experiences.
• Exchange money at trustworthy banks or exchange offices and steer clear of street dealers to avoid bad rates or fake currency.

That’s it for my Azerbaijan guide! I hope it helps you plan an amazing trip. Azerbaijan really left a big impact on me, and I think it’ll do the same for you. My unexpected trip there turned into an adventure I’ll never forget.

I’m already thinking about going back. Next time, I want to see more places I didn’t get to before. There’s so much to see in Azerbaijan, and one trip isn’t enough to see it all. I’m looking forward to returning and exploring even more of its culture and beautiful scenery.

Happy travels, and may your journey be as colorful and inspiring as a sunset over the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan awaits you!

Anjali from Travel Melodies , who has recently explored Azerbaijan, generously shared her top tips to help you fully enjoy your time there. She’s put together this Azerbaijan guide just for you.

Keep reading: Silk Road: A trip from China to Turkey

17 Fascinating Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Discover the weird and wonderful places in Azerbaijan you need to visit. From Baku and beyond.

You’ve probably never thought of traveling in Azerbaijan. Admittedly, I hadn’t. Many people haven’t even heard of Azerbaijan before.

I’ll admit it’s a fairly obscure tourist destination, especially for North American travelers. However, I’m in the business of exposing you guys to new, fascinating, and sometimes strange places.

Azerbaijan is one of them.

There are few countries in the world where you can dip your toes in the cool waters of the Caspian Sea, watch natural, unprovoked fires burn from the earth, and take a relaxing bath (Or highly stressful? You decide…) in pure crude oil.

Yep, all of these are things you can do while traveling in Azerbaijan.

An oil-rich country located off the ancient Silk Road, Azerbaijan has a history and culture that spans many centuries.

However, it was occupied for several years (and many of its historic buildings destroyed) by the Soviet Union until its downfall in 1991.

Since then, Azerbaijan and its people have been on a quest to restore their independent identity, and attract visitors to come learn about it in the process.

Today, Azerbaijan is most famous for being rich in energy resources such as natural gas and crude oil.

If you do find yourself in the Caucasus region and want a taste of what Azerbaijan has to offer, read on!

Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

No list of places to visit in Azerbaijan would be complete without the metropolis of Baku.

Azerbaijan’s capital city is known for being the headquarters of the country’s oil and gas operations. Energy executives and rig workers come here to extract these precious resources from the ground near the Caspian Sea.

As a result of the rampant oil production in the area, Baku is, in one word, flourishing.

From a distance, the city feels shiny, cosmopolitan, and buttoned-up. The flame towers peek over the skyline and dazzle through the night with a spectacular light show.

Seaside boardwalks meet busy streets lined with the world’s most coveted brand-name stores. Men and women dressed in the most stylish clothing and designer sunglasses walk hurriedly down the street.

It’s basically the New York City of Azerbaijan (minus the pizza).

Upon a closer look, you can still find small pieces of Baku’s history that give it character.

Tandir bakeries with the smell of warm bread wafting through the window. A refurbished old city with a few too many souvenir shops. Fruit stands set up on the sidewalk and underground traditional restaurants.

The zenith of city attractions in Baku is the strange, spaceship-looking Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. It’s the weirdest building I’ve ever seen in my life, taking the shape of something between a melted marshmallow, a cloud, and a mushroom.

Yeah, try and picture that. Inside, there’s a museum boasting local contemporary art and other rotating exhibits.

While exploring, you can see some of the city’s museums, like the Carpet Museum. I also recommend taking a free walking tour to orient yourself to some of the legends and history of the city.

At night, you can head to the Upland Park viewpoint (you can go via the Funicular car if you so choose) to watch the 8:30 PM light show on the Flame Towers and treat yourself to a stunning sunset view of the city and the Caspian Sea below.

Towards the west of Azerbaijan lies Ganja, one of the country’s largest cities after Baku.

It is a very historic city, having changed hands throughout the centuries of its existence. And thus, it boasts several interesting and ancient attractions that visitors can explore.

While in Ganja, you can start off your days strolling around the Heydar Aliyev Park, which is one of the largest in the Caucasus region. There’s an iconic archway near the entrance to admire.

You can also explore the Jume Mosque and Shah Abbasi Caravanserai, both important historic institutions for the city folk of Ganja.

Also, you can’t miss the Ganja Bottle House, an extremely strange (but unique!) structure built out of various glass bottles.

If you’re interested in religious sites or Islam, you can head to Imamzadeh outside of the city to see a pilgrimage site, which consists of a beautiful mausoleum for the Prophet Ali’s descendants.

One of my favorite experiences in Azberijan was seeing Xinaliq, a tiny mountain village near the border of Russia.

As the highest-altitude village in Azerbaijan (and, arguably, all of Europe), a visit to Xinaliq is a glimpse into the ‘real’ Azerbaijan. Here, friendly shepherds, wooly sheep, and friendly villagers come to greet you.

The views in Xinaliq are spectacular and, despite the 1 or 2 tours that come through here daily, it truly feels like an untouched destination.

To get there, I took a Xinaliq day tour from Baku with Azerbaijan Traveller. The tour brought us from the paved sidewalks and shiny buildings of Baku to the dirt roads, small village homes, and the provincial area of Xinaliq, and back over the course of about 12 hours.

While in Xinaliq, we ate a local lunch in the home of a Xinaliq native, Zaur, who had deep smile lines and loved showing off his postcard collection from around the world. He seemed to be a popular guy!

Afterward, we walked around the foggy, rocky streets of the city, played with local children, and admired the views of the eerie, treeless mountains in the distance.

If you get the chance to stay here longer than one day, there are countless trails and paths around the mountains, where the only other souls you’ll see will be sheep, cows, and their corresponding caretakers.

Located at just 2 hours outside of Baku, Quba is an easy day trip from the city.

The most popular destination in Quba is the Jewish Quarter. Although Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country, Quba is home to a fairly large population of Jewish people.

Many of them don’t live here year-round – they simply own homes here and come when they want to get away from the bigger cities. Here, you can walk around the streets full of giant, sometimes colorful houses, or pop into one of the historic synagogues to have a look.

I’ll be honest – I didn’t  love Quba. After visiting for a short time, I didn’t find there was a ton to do there besides exploring the Jewish Quarter and eating some of the local sweets and pastries.

However, I still think it belongs on this list as it is a culturally significant and unique area of Azerbaijan. I’d recommend stopping by if you’re in the area, particularly if you are headed to nearby Xinaliq, as it is on the way.

Located northwest of Baku en route to Sheki (below) is Lahic, a small metalwork artisan town resting high up in the mountains.

It’s a bit more developed for tourists than places like Xinaliq, so it’s perfect for a weekend getaway from Baku or a pit stop on the way to another destination. It’s a bit of a trek to get here from the city, but it’s worth it for the local immersion a trip to Lahic provides.

While in Lahic, you can wander the town’s cobblestoned streets, stop into local metal design shops, and even stumble upon livestock that runs amok in the streets.

You can also experience the provincial Azerbaijani life by staying in a homestay and sampling some unique local dishes.

Gabala is another ancient city which rests in the rural area of Azerbaijan. It is home to the famed Chakur Gabala ruins, a centuries-old walled city that now stands crumbling.

There are also a handful of museums, like the Historical Ethnography Museum of Gabala. And if you get lucky, you might catch a music festival in the city as well.

Many Azerbaijani people come to Gabala as a resort destination because it’s located in such a naturally beautiful area. Therefore, tourism here is pretty developed.

In addition to Gabala’s historic sites, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, ski resorts, shopping malls, and more.

Sheki is a small town near the border of Georgia that served as a prime trading post on the Silk Road. Here, the local townspeople manufactured their own silk products (aptly-named “Sheki silk”) and ran large caravanseray to trade goods from around the world.

Today, Sheki still stands as a quaint area where visitors can explore historic buildings and trading posts, purchase local artisan handicrafts, and enjoy the laid-back pace of life in the more provincial part of Azerbaijan.

While in Sheki, one of the most significant sights in the area is the Palace of the Sheki Khans, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Built in 1797, the palace is full of intricate tile work, beautiful interior murals and art, and a small garden.

On the grounds surrounding the palace, there are a few areas to shop or drink tea. Just outside of the palace area lies Sheki’s historic district, complete with an old Caravanseray converted into a hotel, lots of antique shops, and some beautiful historic homes to admire.

Perhaps the nicest thing about Sheki is that it’s surrounded by hills and forests, making it a nice getaway from the busier cities.

Qax is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, and has the ruins to show for it. It has changed hands over the years, from Albania to Turkey to Georgia and others.

As you can imagine, this area has a lot of fascinating history, and there’s a lot to see here.

Within Qax, you can see the Albanian Church ruins and the Georgian church, two strange sights in a predominantly Muslim country. You can also simply amble around the streets, admiring the historic homes and the slow pace of life.

Some of the most fascinating places to visit in the Qax area include Ilisu Village (which used to be the epicenter of a sultanate), Qum Village, and the Iceri Bazaar.

Located in the Absheron Peninsula, Yanar Dag is a mound of dirt that would look like an ordinary hill, except there’s a perpetual fire coming out of the ground on one side of it.

Yes, you heard me right, the ground here is  literally burning. This is caused by the abundance of natural gas in the area, and the fire burned completely unprovoked.

There’s a reason why Azerbaijan = the land of fire (literal translation).

To visit Yanar Dag, you can base yourself in Baku and take a day trip from there.

Yanar Bulag

Have you ever turned on your bathroom faucet only to realize that fire was coming out along with the water? Yeah, me neither. But in Yanar Bulag, there’s a natural spring that flows with water and fire…AT THE SAME TIME.

Yeah, it’s possible, and this quirky attraction near the border of Iran is here to prove it.

This phenomenon happens because of the methane concentration located deep in the ground, mixed in with the water source. When you turn on the water, it flows out like normal, but the catch is you can light it on fire with a match or a lighter. Crazy, right?

Well, people come to Azerbaijan just to collect and use water from the Yanar Bulag spring, which is said to have special healing properties.

To visit Yanar Bulag, base yourself in the city of Astara and take a day trip to the spring.

Mud Volcanoes

Next up is one of the weird natural attractions in Azerbaijan – the bubbling, brown mud volcanoes.

A mud volcano is exactly as you might imagine – a cone-shaped mound of dirt with a crater filled with spewing mud. These are caused by pockets of underground gas bubbling to the surface of the Earth and bringing with it some cool, liquid clay.

Unlike in other countries (e.g., Iceland) that have this natural phenomenon, the mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan are typically cool to the touch.

There are mud volcanoes all over Azerbaijan, but the easiest to access are located a short taxi ride or drive from Baku.

Naftalan Oil Baths

Here’s where it gets really weird. In Azerbaijan, they love their oil so much they’ll literally bathe in it. And as a tourist, you can too.

In an area called Naftalan, near Gabala in the west, there are many resorts and spas dedicated to the service of crude oil baths. Yeah, that’s a real thing.

This type of crude oil, called “green oil,” is believed by many people to have health benefits for those who bathe in it.

One of the most beautiful and least-explored areas of Azerbaijan, the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is an incredibly tranquil and picturesque place to visit, especially for photographers and landscape lovers.

Flights to the region from Baku are pretty inexpensive, and visitors could spend days gallivanting through its empty roads and beautiful mountain areas.

Shirvan and Agh-Gol National Parks

Wildlife lovers, rejoice! Azerbaijan has some incredible areas for bird watching, wildlife viewing, and hiking.

Two of the best places to do these things are Shirvan and Agh-Gol National Parks. As protected wildlife reserves, these parks boast amazing flora and fauna for the National Geographic-type traveler in you.

Gobustan National Park

From afar, Gobustan National Park looks like a heap of boulders and large rocks piled onto the side of a mountain.

However, the special thing about this park is not the rocks themselves, but the ancient petroglyph carvings on them that give us a hint of what life was like in the earliest Azeri civilizations.

For the history and archaeology lovers out there, Gobustan National Park is a must-see. Many of the petrogylphs in the park date back thousands of years, and are still easy to spot on the rocks today.

There are several pathways around the park that lead to some of the most distinct carvings. Better yet, you can explore Gobustan as a day trip from Baku.

Lake Goygol

Located near Ganja, Lake Goygol is arguably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Azerbaijan.

It’s a beautiful lake region located in a natural park area and surrounded by mountains and forests.

For outdoor lovers, this is a fantastic getaway from Ganja, as it’s incredibly serene and full of outdoor activities like hiking.

The Caspian Sea

Last but not least, one of the most special places to visit in Azerbaijan is its coastline bordering the Caspian Sea. But it’s not really a sea.

The Caspian Sea is technically the largest lake in the world, and is composed of saltwater like an *actual* sea.

While much of the sea is being used for oil drilling, there are a few resort areas in Azerbaijan where you can explore the water and relax by the shore.

Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

When visiting Azerbaijan, it’s likely you’ll be visiting Baku. Here are some brilliant places to stay.

Viva Boutique Hotel

If you’re looking for a great value in a central location,  Viva Boutique Hotel  is a fantastic hotel option.

Located in the heart of Baku and just a short walk from main attractions like the Boardwalk and the Old City, Viva is an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Check Rates and Availability

Art Club Baku

One of the coolest hotels in the city, Art Club Baku is my top choice for accommodation. Rooms are decked out with exposed brick, wooden furniture, and light linens.

Take my advice and book a suite with a balcony – the city views are worth the extra splurge.

Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan: Practical Tips

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Read More Azerbaijan Guides

• A Perfect Weekend in Baku: A Sample Itinerary
• A Day Trip to Xinaliq, Azerbaijan’s Highest Altitude Mountain Village

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I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

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‘I didn’t love Quba’ – I had to laugh when I read that! I had the absolute worst travel day of my life when I went to Quba. It was raining, grey and miserable, none of the ATMs in town were working, the owner of our guesthouse ran off with our passports, and we couldn’t find anything decent to eat except kebabs. I was so depressed!

But then… We visited an amazing carpet weaving workshop, which was one of the highlights of our whole trip!

Funny how travel can be like that.

Sheki was my absolute favourite, and I’d go back to Baku in a heartbeat!

These pictures are amazing! I would love to visit Azerbaijan. Thanks for sharing such cool pictures and showing a different side of Azerbaijan

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The Most Beautiful Places in Azerbaijan

Combine mountains and semi-arid plains stretching endlessly towards the horizon with historic towns. Now add in wildlife, fire and hundreds of kilometres of coastline to get an idea of the real beauty of Azerbaijan . Here’s our roundup of the most beautiful spots in the Land of Fire.

Architectural Landmark

Baku is one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan on account of its modern city centre and historical old town. The Flame Towers form the focal point of the capital and light up after sundown. Icheri Sheher, the medieval core, exhibits Islamic styles of architecture, while lavish European facades line the Old City. The most beautiful attractions are along Baku Boulevard, a long promenade near the Caspian Sea, and there are superb views from the hill near Martyrs’ Lane.

2. Absheron National Park

According to locals, historical Astara tops the list of beautiful places in Azerbaijan. Mountains surround the town, which sits on the border with Iran, while lush green virgin rainforest and a variety of plant and animal life – including the Caucasus leopard – live in the nearby Hirkan National Park.

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5. Shirvan National Park

Natural Feature

This semi-desert national park, just over 100km (62mi) southwest of Baku, combines wildlife, dunes and a short stretch of coastline. Visitors can enjoy landscapes and a diversity of fauna with large populations of gazelles, jungle cats and turtles. More than 200 species of birds also live inside Shirvan National Park, including flamingos and 32 rare species. Bungalows and camping sites are available for overnight stays.

6. Agh Gol National Park

Lake Aggol, the second-largest lake in Azerbaijan, sits inside the Agh Gol National Park in the Kur-Araz lowlands. The arid landscape creates a nesting spot for migratory birds, while the lake is full of fish. And the views are spectacular. Imagine a blue-green lake surrounded by a band of trees with mountains in the distance. Despite the beauty, travelling can be challenging because of language barriers. Learn a few phrases of Azerbaijani first.

Nestled at the foot of the southern Greater Caucasus Mountains is a place called Sheki . The town of 60,000 people dates back 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest Caucasus settlements. Sheki’s claim to fame for millennia was silk, textiles and embroidery, which made it a significant point on the Silk Road. Today, the historical region with ancient mosques, castles and the 18th-century Palace of Sheki Khans forms the foreground against the majestic green mountains.

The former capital of the Caucasus Albanians in northern Azerbaijan blends historical and natural beauty. Nearby archaeological sites dating back almost 2,500 years sit near the craggy Caucasus Mountains to the north. Valleys, canyons and waterfalls, as well as ski resorts, make Qabala one of the top places in Azerbaijan.

10. Goyazan Mountain

A short distance to the northwest of Qazakh District in northern Azerbaijan stands the 857m (2,812ft) Goyazan Mountain. Goyazan stands alone against a flat background of rolling fields and plains, giving it a prominent appearance in the landscape. The strange beauty of the mountain ensures its inclusion on the list of places to visit in Azerbaijan. Check out the nearby reservoir for views of the villages and border with Armenia too.

11. Lake Goygol

Lake Goygol is one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan. The name means the Blue Lake, and it sits in the Murovdag foothills. Formed after an earthquake almost 1,000 years ago, Goygol has become a favourite tourist destination near Ganja. A total of 19 lakes lie in the Greater Goygol region, with eight at an altitude of more than 1,500m (4,921ft). The hour-long journey from Ganja passes through the mountains, providing plenty of spots for photographs.

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Billing itself as the 'Land of Fire', Azerbaijan (Azərbaycan) is a tangle of contradictions and contrasts. Neither Europe nor Asia, it's a nexus of ancient historical empires, but also a ‘new’ nation which has undergone an extraordinary transformation from the war-ravaged post-Soviet 1990s to an oil-enriched host of Formula 1 and Europa League football.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Heydar Aliyev Center

Vast and jaw-droppingly original, this Zaha Hadid building is a majestic statement of fluid 21st-century architecture forming abstract waves and peaks…

Maiden’s Tower

This tapering 29m stone tower is Baku’s foremost historical icon, with rooftop views surveying Baku Bay and the Old City. Possibly millennia old, its…

Alinja Castle

For those prepared to climb over 1500 steps up a mountain crag, one of Naxçivan's great highlights is the magnificent view from the sparse medieval ruins…

This ornate 1762 palace building features vivid murals and dazzling coloured light streaming through şəbəkə (stained-glass windows), making it Şəki’s…

Möminə Xatun

Perfectly proportioned, if gently leaning, Naxçivan’s architectural icon is a 26m brick tower dating from 1186. It’s decorated with geometric patterns and…

Yarat Contemporary Art Centre

Yarat means 'create', a spirit that's in ample evidence in this centre's many thought-provoking installations that don't shy away from sociopolitical…

One of Azerbaijan's most impressive Islamic structures, the İmamzadə is a masterpiece of brickwork and Central Asian–style blue majolica tiles on the…

Flame Towers

Completed in 2012, this trio of sinuous blue-glass skyscrapers forms contemporary Baku's architectural signature. The three towers range from 28 to 33…

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The best things to do in the beautiful baku.

Fountains Square

Ever-popular with strollers, this leafy piazza forms Central Baku’s natural focus. The fountains for which it is named include one topped by shiny…

Şəhidlər Xiyabanı

The most notable feature of the 'Highland Park' that stretches south from the Flame Towers is this sombre row of grave memorials – Bakuvian victims of the…

This luxurious 11-room boutique hotel hits a fine balance between opulent elegance and cosy comfort, with superhigh ceilings, gilt-edged doors and highly…

Park Bulvar Mall

Opened in 2010, Park Bulvar was Baku's first international-style shopping mall. It remains one of the most popular, though some residents complain that it…

Carpet Museum

From historic flatweaves to modernist picture-rugs, this tailor-made museum displays and explains a superb collection of Azerbaijani carpets. It's housed…

Historical Museum

Well-presented exhibits on Azerbaijan’s history and culture might miss the odd century here and there, but there’s more than enough to fill several hours…

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

This splendid confection of sandstone walls and domes was the seat of northeastern Azerbaijan’s ruling dynasty during the Middle Ages. Mostly 15th century…

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The Transcontinental Treasures Of Azerbaijan: Most Beautiful Places In The Country

Admire baku’s flame towers, pitch a picnic along lake goygol, or go museum hopping: we round up the most beautiful places in azerbaijan..

By: Yashita Vashishth Published: Feb 22, 2024 01:00 PM UTC

Outlined by the Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan is simmering with hyper-cultural experiences, architectural prowess, wilderness, and unique traditions. From indulging in a crude oil bath to purchasing traditional carpets and exploring mountain villages, the Land of Fire promises to satisfy every adventurous traveller. Join us as we explore the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan, from ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites to breathtaking natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Citizens of select nations , including Australia , Belgium, Brazil, China, France, and India, can apply for an e-visa before visiting the country.

Bookmark this: The most beautiful places in Azerbaijan

Nestled along the foothills of the Great Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is a 60,000-year-old town famed for its textiles, silk, and embroidery, making it a crucial stop on the Silk Route. Admire Azerbaijani architecture at Sheki Khan’s Palace, dig into the region’s history at Sheki History Museum, check out hotel and souvenir shops at Sheki Caravanserai, or soak up panoramic views from Sheki Fortress.

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Baku Old City (Icherisheher)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the most iconic destinations on Azerbaijan’s roster. Whether it be the 12th-century Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası), the majestic Palace of the Shirvanshahs, or the Baku Fortress Walls, an inspiring sojourn is guaranteed. Visit the Carpet Museum to learn about indigenous art and indulge in local flavours and hospitality at various culinary pitstops.

Book your stay at FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAKU via Booking.com

Book your stay at FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAKU via Agoda.com

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Absheron national park.

Perched on the Absheron Peninsula, the Absheron National Park extends into the Caspian Sea, offering lush biodiversity and verdant landscapes. In addition to wildlife sightings like foxes, jackals, and a sea of bird species, the national park also boasts mud volcanoes, medieval castles, and archaeological sites.

Book your stay at JW MARRIOTT ABSHERON BAKU via Booking.com

Book your stay at JW MARRIOTT ABSHERON BAKU via Agoda.com

Mount Bazarduzu

If you have a penchant for thrill and adventure, consider hiking and climbing Mount Bazarduzu, Azerbaijan’s highest peak at 4,466 m. Assisted by professional guides, this exhilarating feat includes pitching a tent, sauntering along mountains bathed in perennial snow, and relishing otherworldly views.

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Book your stay at Shahdag Mountain Resort via Agoda.com

Lake Goygol

Ideal for hiking, camping, fishing, or a picnic, Lake Goygol boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and picturesque views. Located at the foothills of the Murovdag Mountain range, it is part of the Göygöl National Park.

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Book your stay at Premium Hotel Ganja via Agoda.com

Tucked in Northeastern Azerbaijan, Quba is undoubtedly among the most beautiful and tourist-friendly places in the country. Key tourist attractions in the city include the cascading Afurja Waterfalls, picnicking and hiking through the Qechresh Forest, admiring the Tegealti Canyon, and learning about the region’s culture and architecture at the beautiful Khinalug Village.

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Gobustan National Park

Roughly 64 km from the capital city of Baku, Gobustan National Park is famous for its ancient rock art petroglyphs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to mud volcanoes, archaeological sites , and an informative museum amidst rocky outcrops, lush nature, and rugged mountains.

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Book your stay at Hyatt Regency Baku via Agoda.com

Yanar Dağ

Located about 25 km from Baku, Yanar Dağ, also called the Burning Mountain or Fire Mountain, is a natural gas fire that burns ceaselessly on a hillside near the Caspian Sea. This phenomenon has persisted for centuries, drawing tourists from across the world to witness the natural spectacle of burning flames and take pictures with it.

Book your stay at Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers via Booking.com

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The Caspian Sea

As the largest lake in the world by surface area and volume, the Caspian Sea forms the Eastern border of Azerbaijan, stretching along the entire coastline. Tourists can check into the array of beachfront hotels in Azerbaijan and make the most of water sports, fishing, sunbathing, and swimming along the glistening coast.

Book your stay at Radisson Hotel Baku via Booking.com

Book your stay at Radisson Hotel Baku via Agoda.com

Gabala, also called Qabala, is a bustling city offering cultural attractions, culinary haunts, adventure, rolling hills, and postcard-perfect sights. To sample local cuisine and purchase souvenirs, head to Gabala City Centre. For a tryst with adventure, consider Tufandag Mountain Resort, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and sightseeing in warmer months. Other noteworthy attractions include the Gabala Shooting Club, Gabala Amusement Park, and Nohur Lake.

Book your stay at Tufandag Mountain Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Tufandag Mountain Resort via Agoda.com

Best time to visit Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan offers varying hues and moods throughout the year. For hiking, nature trails, and cultural immersion, visit Azerbaijan from April to June or September to October when wildflowers paint the mountains in a riot of colours. March witnesses one of the biggest traditional festivals of Azerbaijan, Novruz Bayrami (March 20-24, 2024). If you are interested in snowboarding and skiing, December to February is ideal to explore this transatlantic destination.

(Feature Image Credit: liseykina/Shutterstock)

Related: Bookmark This: Your Treasure Map To The Most Beautiful Places In India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are some of the most stunning natural attractions in Azerbaijan? The most beautiful places in Azerbaijan include the Gobustan National Park, Quba, Lake Goygol, Mount Bazarduzu, Baku Old City (Icherisheher), and Sheki, among others.

– Are there any scenic villages or rural areas worth exploring in Azerbaijan? Yes, there are various scenic villages and rural areas in Azerbaijan. Some of our recommendations include Laza, Lagich, Khinalug, Demirchi, and Basgal, among others.

– What are some picturesque coastal areas or beaches in Azerbaijan? Some of the best beach destinations in Azerbaijan include Bilgah Beach, Amburan Beach Club, Dalga Beach, Lankaran, and Crescent Beach, among others.

– Where can I experience the beauty of Azerbaijani nature and wildlife? Some of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan are the lush natural parks. To witness the untamed beauty of nature, consider the Gobustan National Park, Absheron National Park, Agh Gol National Park, and State Goygol National Park, among others.

– Which regions are known for their vineyards and wine culture in Azerbaijan? One can find vineyards at the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains and the Kur-Araz lowlands situated near the Kura River.

Yashita Vashishth

Writer by day, reader by night, Yashita has a flair for all things travel, wellness and food. She has previously worked at Condé Nast India and Times Internet. When not working, you can catch her binge-reading the latest thriller on the block, re-watching Friends, trying a new recipe or hosting her friends.

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Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Azerbaijan

Here is the list of best places to visit in azerbaijan:.

Ganja is the third largest city in western Azerbaijan after Baku and Sumqayit. It has been the centre of history and culture of Azerbaijan. The city is dotted with age old heritage sites that are fashioned with top class intricate works and blue tiles. Heading over to one of the best tourist places in Azerbaijan, you will be able to enjoy zillions of archaeological sites that are not only large but also ornamental.  Ganja is home to some of the best tourist attractions including theatres, museums, adventurous treks, stunning nature and historic monuments. Heading out to the most sought after Tourist places in Azerbaijan, you can visit Ganja City Hall which stands as a testimony to the masterpiece of the Stalinist Empire architecture and The Juma Mosque (Shah Abbas Mosque) which boasts a red brick exterior with majestic white dooms.  You can visit the Gates of Ganja and the State Art Gallery established in the year 1984. There are many museums in the city namely Ganja State History-Ethnography Museum, the oldest museum in the city, and the famous Nizami Ganjavi Museum built in the year 2014. This museum has a library, a conference room, a research section, and a corner for the guests to relax. You can also explore Shah Abbas Square, Javed Khan Street, and take a picnic or just relax near Lake Goygol and Lake Maralgol.  During your trip to Ganja, you think of visiting the Mausoleum and a Turkish Bath at Shah Abbas Square, admire the European-Style Architecture of Ganja State Philharmonic Hall, Walk by the Javad Khan Pedestrian Street, visit Heydar Aliyev Square and the City Hall at Sunset, and admire the Beauty of Imamzadeh Complex.  Ganja has got a warm climate with very little rainfall all over the year. The summer season is pleasant because of its leeward situation and great influence of Kapaz Mountain Ranges. The winters in Ganja are however cold but subzero temperatures and snowfall is not common.

Sheki happens to be a city that is located in northwestern Azerbaijan which is surrounded by the district Shaki. The city nestles on the southern part of the Greater Caucasus mountain ranges which is about 240 km from Baku. With a total population of about 68400, this place can be considered as one of the top famous places in Azerbaijan to visit during your holiday vacation.   Sheki is one of the most beautiful places to see in Azerbaijan as it is dotted with beautiful houses with brightly painted gates, lively cafes, plane trees, stone buildings, and cobbled streets.  While in Sheki, you can visit the incredible Summer Palace of Sheki Khan and also take photographs of his Winter Palace. The Winter Palace has been under reconstruction since 2010. The stone caravanserai is the original sleeping chambers of the Silk Road traders and is a historic and architectural gem of the Sheki city. You can spend a night in one of the rooms of the caravanserai. The Three Saints Church is located in the complex of the Summer Palace. On a trip to Sheki, tourists can stopover at the The Sheki Khan Winter Palace to capture the beautiful mosaic works, Sheki Caravanserai which is loaded with antiquity dating back to the silk trade, and Summer Palace / Sheki Xan Sarayi which is popular for its paintings and decorations.  While heading out on a trip to Sheki, tourists have a wide range of activities to indulge in. One can visit the incredible Sheki Khans’ Summer Palace, capture the lesser-known Winter Palace in his lenses, sleep in a Silk Road caravanserai, visit the Three Saints Church, and explore the Sheki Museum of Folk and Applied Arts.  Shaki is considered to be one of the coldest regions in Azerbaijan with an average high temperature of 19 degree celsius. The best time to visit this city would be from the month of June to the month of September. The climatic condition remains moderate making it pleasurable for tourists.

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is also the largest city of the country. Nestled on the Caucasus region and the Caspian Sea, the city lies about 28 meters below the sea level as a result of which, it is also the lowest lying National Capital in the world.

Situated on the southern shore of the Absheron Peninsula alongside the Bay of Baku, nearly one forth of the inhabitants of the country reside in the metropolitan region of the city. 

The city is cultural, scientific and industrial center of Azerbaijan. A number of sizeable Azerbaijan institutions also have their headquarters located there. Given all this, the trade and commerce position and the economic role of Baku is very evident. However, this does not mean that Baku is any less from the other cities of Azerbaijan when it comes to tourism. There are a number of tourist attractions which are fascinating and attractive. Monuments, museums, tombs and galleries, just about everything can be found in the city. Moreover, the transport network of the city is very well connected making the attractions and the places to see easily accessible. Besides, the attractions, there are also a number of things to do to keep you engaged all through your stay in the city.  

Shamakhi is the capital city of Shamakhi District of Azerbaijan. This place is very much popular for its traditional dancers and Soumak Rugs. The city has been destroyed a number of times by eleven major earthquakes but it has strengthened itself. At the present time it is the economic as well as the administrative capital of Shirvan, which is one of the key townships on the silk road.  The Juma Mosque of Shamakhi was built in the 8th century and it has survived eight out of eleven earthquakes. A 15th-century mausoleum and graveyard, known as Shirvan Domes, is located at the Gulistan Fortresses’ foot. You can also explore the Yedid Gumbaz Mausoleum which has a cemetery, a group of mausoleums, and the burial vaults of the Shivran Khan's ruling during the 18th and 19th centuries. You can only see three of the four mausoleums as the fourth one lies in need of restoration.  During your visit to Shamakhi, you can think of taking a fascinating excursion tour to capture the magnificence of ancient mosque and medieval baths, visiting workshops of highly skilled craftsmen, walking on the famous iron suspension bridge over Girdmanchay River and witnessing some of the brilliant views of the southern foothills of the Great Caucasus Ridge.  The summer season in Shamakhi happens to be warm, dry, and clear whereas the winter seasons are long, cold, snowy, and cloudy as well. The average range of temperature varies from 23 - 88 degree Fahrenheit. The best time to head out to the most sought after tourist places in Azerbaijan would be from the month of July to the month of August.

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Situated 450 kilometers west of Baku is the capital of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic - Nakhchivan City. It embodies the settlement of Aliabad and the villages of Tumbul, Qara?al?q, Ba?ba??, Bulkan, Haciniyy?t, Qaraçuq, Qaraxanb?yli, and Da?duz. The most convenient way to reach Nakhchivan is by flying from Baku to Nakhchivan Airport. One of the most distinct features of Nakhchivan is cleanliness. Tourists visiting Nakhchivan are almost stunned by how clean the city is. Affixed to the spotless surroundings are historically significant buildings, fetching mountains, iconic castles and mausoleums. The uncluttered aura helps the already exquisite architectural wonders look even more remarkable. To truly get a taste of the city of Nakhchivan, one must not forget to devour the beauty of marvels like the Yezidabad Castle, Momine Khatun Mausoleum and especially Noah's Mausoleum from where the city is believed to have received its name. Exploring Nakhchivan's architecture might be the most popular activity known to visitors but it definitely isn't the only option. Tourists can visit one of the local bazaars and engage in conversations with the locals who are always curious about foreigners. One can climb to the top of Alinja Mountain and visit the Alinja Castle, popularly referred to as the Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan.  In Nakhchivan, the summers are inconveniently hot and the winters are freezing. The weather is dry throughout the year. The temperature ordinarily changes from 21°F to 96°F and is seldom beneath 10°F or above 102°F.

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Other Attractions

Absheron national park.

Maiden Tower

Heydar Aliyev Centre

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

The Caspian Sea

Shirvan National Park

Agh Gol National Park

Goyazan Mountain

Lake Goygol

Icheri Sheher

Garasu Volcano

Baku Seaside Park

Ismailiyya Palace

Mud Volcano

Azerbaijan has got the highest number of mud volcanoes in the whole world. There are a total of 350 mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan from a total of 700 in the world. The Mud Volcanoes are called Yanardag or Bozdag or Gaynacha or Pilpila by the locals.

In order to reach the mud volcano you would need to take a short drive from the Gobustan Reserve. 

Location: Dashgil, Azerbaijan

Highlights: Highest number of Mud Volcanoes in the world

Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum

Imamzadeh İbrahim

Shaki Museum Of History And Local Lore

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25 Amazing Places to Visit in Azerbaijan and some things you should know before visiting

This small country located in the southern part of the Caucasus doesn’t get a lot of visitors but the ones that do visit are left in awe from what all the country has to offer. You can find literally anything in Azerbaijan, from majestic mountains and lush nature through hundreds of kilometers of coastline and wildlife to semi-arid plains and historic towns. To add to this, Azerbaijan’s unique location brings the best from both, the East and the West and even the country’s name sounds very exotic. Even though it’s a difficult task, in this article, we’ll share some of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

A few things to know before visiting Azerbaijan

The whole country of Azerbaijan is a chaotic mix of Sovietism and the Middle East. Azerbaijani people are closest to Turkish and Iranian (we might even say they’re a mix of the two). They speak a language that’s very similar to Turkish, drink tea and have very similar customs to Iranian with one exception. They drink their tea with vodka and the country is ruled in a Putin-like manner by the Aliyev family since 1993.  

Azerbaijan covers a territory of 86,600 square kilometers. The population is almost 10 million people, out of which one quarter (2.3 million) leave in the capital Baku. More than 95% of the people living in Azerbaijan are Muslim with most of them following Shia Islam. However, don’t let this fool you; Azerbaijan is a secular country. In fact, it’s the first Muslim country to publicly declare itself as a secular country (1918).

If you’re wondering about the 5% of Azerbaijan’s non-Muslim population, most of them live in the Nagorno-Karabakh . Even though part of Azerbaijan, this is an autonomous region populated by Catholic Armenians and if you want to visit Nagorno-Karabakh, you might have issues going to different parts of the country.

Two-thirds of Azerbaijan’s territory is rich in oil and natural gas which are the main drivers for the fast-growing economy. The currency used in Azerbaijan is Manat (1 Euro= 2 Manat). The country has six international airports but more often than not, the most feasible option is to fly to the capital, Baku which is where we start our list!

1.  Baku, the Bustling Capital

Starting off this list of places to visit in Azerbaijan, we have Baku; probably one of the most beautiful cities in the Caucasus and one of the most important historic centers in the region. It’s a city of contrasts dotted with beautiful Islamic architecture and beautiful European facades in the Old Town. It’s a city with respect for its people’s traditions but also a city that has adopted the modern lifestyle as well. The city’s most bustling area is Baku Boulevard, the longest promenade in Azerbaijan with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the Caspian Sea.

To make things even more interesting, the capital is located on the Absheron Peninsula which is the aridest part of Azerbaijan but since it’s a peninsula, you will find an amazing nature and beautiful beaches on a short ride away from Baku.

That’s why we’ll start this list of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan with places located on the Peninsula in relative proximity to the capital. We’ll continue with…

2.  Icheri Seher, Baku’s Old City

Technically, Icheri Seher or ‘Old City’ is a part of Baku but we have to mention it separately because Old City’s appearance is very different from the modern city of Baku. Icheri Seher is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find some of the most breath-taking architectural marbles in Azerbaijan.

Here, you can see important historical sites such as the legendary Maiden Tower that was a part of the ancient walled city of Baku and Shirvanshah’s Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces that were ever built in this part of the world but also a lot of ancient pagan temples, tombs, some of the oldest mosques in Baku, and a lot of charming artisan shops that will make you feel like you went back to the Middle Ages.

Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Azerbaijan.

3.  Mud Volcanoes

You can find a lot of mud volcanoes in and around Baku and it’s one of the most bizarre natural phenomena in this part of the world. These mineral-concentrated volcanoes are located in the desert area of the capital and are known for their healing properties. In fact, Azerbaijan is the country with most mud volcanoes in the whole world; around 400 of the world’s 1,100 mud volcanoes can be found in Azerbaijan. Most of them are located in the desert area of Baku and along the Caspian Sea coastline.

Fun Fact: According to NASA’s geologists, mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan have a surprisingly similar texture to the uplands of Mars!

And speaking of unusual sights and places to visit in Azerbaijan, did you ever hear about…

4.  Yanar Dag, the Burning ‘Fire Wall’

Yanar Dag is the main reason why Azerbaijan has the nickname ‘The Land of Fire’. I guarantee, you’ve never seen anything like it except maybe the Darvaza gas crater in Turkmenistan . Yanar Dag is basically a 10-meters long wall of fire that has continuously been burning for years. Most probably, the fire was caused by the vast gas reserves of the peninsula.

It’s because of fires like this that Azerbaijan was called ‘the Land of Fire’ and this probably played a major role in the creation of Zoroastrianism, a religion that’s said to have influenced the creation of Judaism, and subsequently all other major religions.

If this makes you curious to learn more about one of the world’s oldest religions, you should definitely visit.

5.  Ateshgah, the Temple of Fire

Back in the old days, the burning gas outlets like Yanar Dag were believed to contain evidence of a divine being. As a result, a lot of ancient temples were built near these sites. One of these temples is Ateshgah also known as the ‘Temple of Fire’.

The temple has a hexagonal shape with a fire altar in the center. Originally, there were natural gases that kept the fire going but since most of the gas in the area has been exhausted, the fire is produced via gas pipeline from the capital.

If you’re looking for a great tour that covers the Fire Wall and Ateshgah, check out this affordable day-trip tour from Baku .

6.  Mardakan

Speaking of places to visit in the Absheron Peninsula of Azerbaijan, we just have to mention Mardakan. This small town dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Azerbaijan. The town is also home to a beautiful Medieval castle that might be a bit difficult to find but it’s certainly worth the detour.

Some other places to visit include the Mir Movsun Agha Shrine and the Hassan Pir Shrine where you can see priests smashing bottles on pilgrims’ heads to ‘cure the nervousness of their spirit’. Visiting Mardakan is a great day-trip from Baku and a nice opportunity to learn about the unique local culture.

7.  Absheron National Park

Finally, no list of places to visit in Azerbaijan can be complete without Absheron National Park. The park that’s located just 60 kilometers south of Baku features more than 2,000 acres of arid plains and rolling sand dunes against the blue waters of the Caspian Sea.

Here, you can find more than 50 different species that call this unique terrain their home, including gazelles, jackals, badgers, comb jellyfish, and Caspian Seal.

Now that we covered the most beautiful places on the Absheron Peninsula, we’ll give you a few ideas for some nice day trips northwest of Baku.

8.  Khachmaz

With the majestic Caucasus Mountains to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east, Khachmaz is one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan. It’s off the beaten track, a lot of tourists don’t know about it (yet), and hence, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature. However, nature isn’t everything Khachmaz has to offer.

The city is also home to several important and interesting museums, the Bronze Age archaeological site of Sarkartapa, the ancient fortress of Khudat, and Bostanly; one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the Caucasus.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of things to do in Sochi .

9.  Quba

Quba is an important historical city that was once home to the Quba Khanate. The city is located on the bank of the Kudyal river close to the Russian border and today, it’s one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan because it’s a great starting point for exploring the territory of the former Quba Khanate that includes several other important towns and villages.

Today, Quba is the center of Azerbaijan’s carpet weaving industry, so if you’re looking for a unique traditional souvenir from Azerbaijan, you should definitely visit some of the local carpet shops. If you visit, I also suggest you check out Juma Mosque (a beautiful sample of Quba-style mosque), the old Jewish neighborhood, and the old Chuhur hamam.

10. Khinaliq

If you want to experience the best of Azerbaijan’s countryside, a trip to the remote village of Khinaliq is a must. Sitting at 2,350 meters above sea level, this is Azerbaijan’s highest settlement where you can get a glimpse of ‘the real Azerbaijan’. There aren’t any hotels or tourist facilities around and only 1-2 tours per day come to this mountainesque town, giving Khinaliq a feeling of an untouched pristine destination.

Due to the high altitude, the village is relatively isolated and the 2,000-or-so people who live here speak Khinalug, a language that’s quite different from Azerbaijani that’s on UNESCO’s list of endangered languages. The local architecture is also quite unique as well with cobblestone houses that, from far away, look like they’re glued on top of each other.

As you might expect, the roads that lead to the village aren’t very good and I wouldn’t recommend taking a day trip from Baku because you’ll lose most of the day on the road. Instead visit Khachmaz, Quba or both before coming to Khinaliq and try to spend at least one night in this isolated yet charming mountain town.

If you’re planning to visit the northeast part of Azerbaijan, note that there aren’t a lot of places you can go from here. The region is mountainesque and if you want to visit Khachmaz, Quba or Khinaliq, you would have to go back to Baku if you want to travel to the central or southern part of Azerbaijan.

Lahic is a tiny village on the southern slopes of Greater Caucasus famous for its authentic handicraft traditions, particularly related to copper. During Medieval times, Lahic was one of the most important centers of craftmanship in Euro-Asia. Locals used to produce almost everything, from jewelry and carpets to paintings, iron and steel products, and even shoes.

Today, this village has barely 800 people but you can still see a lot of interesting handcrafts in some of the local museums. If you’re into handcrafts and want to bring some cool souvenirs from your trip, this is one of the places in Azerbaijan you just have to visit.

Qabala or Gebele is the former capital of the Albanian Kingdom (in the Caucasus, not to be confused with the country Albania on the Balkan Peninsula ). The area surrounding the city has numerous archaeological sites, some of which date back to 2,500 years ago. You can also explore the ancient capital’s ruins, go skiing during winters, chase waterfalls, and explore the beautiful canyons surrounding the city.

If you’re looking for some nice budget accommodation options in Qabala, use our Booking discount voucher or check out some local hostels .

Sheki was another important city of the ancient Albanian Kingdom and a city with a rich history. For over a thousand of years, the city’s silk production made Sheki an important part of the old Silk Road but there are evidence of life on today’s territory of Sheki that dates back to 2,700 years ago.

Today, this is one of the biggest cities in Azerbaijan with numerous important Medieval mosques , castles, and one of the most beautiful medieval palaces in Azerbaijan; the Palace of Sheki Khans.

For some great accommodation deals in Sheki, get up to 15% off on all Booking properties or check out some local hostels .

If you like history and are looking for places to visit in Azerbaijan, you should definitely plan a trip to Qax. Qax is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. The territory on which the city is located has been inhabited since the Eneolithic era and according to several historical sources, it was also a part of the ancient Scythian Kingdom.

And even though the city has only 12,000 residents today, it’s arguably the most important historical city in Azerbaijan. While you’re around, also check out Ikisu Village (the former center of the sultanate), Iceri Bazaar, and Qum Village.

15. Naftalan

If you’re looking for some unusual things to do in Azerbaijan, you’ll probably like the idea of a trip to Naftalan. Interestingly, the city got its name from the type of grade oil (Naftalan) that’s extracted in the area in and surrounding the city. In fact, Naftalan is the center of Azerbaijan’s naftalan industry. In addition to this, the city is also famous for the grade oil medical treatment industry; a lot of people believe that crude oil extracted in this region has certain healing properties. You can even find a lot of spas in Naftalan that offer oil-based remedies that can help you ease or heal certain medical conditions.

I know it might sound a bit funny but Ganja is actually the country’s second-largest city and one of the most popular places to visit in Azerbaijan. Moreover, Ganja also has a rich cultural and historical heritage and is filled with a lot of interesting things to do.

Furthermore, you can also check out the local vineyards for some of the finest wine in Azerbaijan, the picturesque forests surrounding the city, the numerous mineral springs and resorts, and some of the most visited monuments in Azerbaijan. Ganja is home to the Nizami Mausoleum, Ganja’s Ancient Gates, Javad Khan’s tomb, the popular Chokak Hamam, and the colorful Imamzadeh- one of the most beautiful mosques in EuroAsia.

For some great accommodation deals in Ganja, get up to 15% off on all Booking properties or check out some local hostels .

17. Lake Goygol

As we mentioned above, the area surrounding the city of Ganja is filled with stunning nature and beautiful lakes. In this area, you can find a total of 19 lakes with eight of them sitting at an altitude of more than 1,500 meters. The most beautiful one of them all is without a doubt Lake Goygol.

The lake’s name translates to ‘blue lake’ and it’s one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen (and I’ve seen many). A lot of people who visit Azerbaijan still don’t know about it and if I were you, I would visit before it becomes a major tourist attraction. It’s a perfect choice for a day trip from Ganja.

18. Goyazan Mountain

Around 170 kilometers northwest of Lake Goygol, you’ll find a haven for mountain lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Goyazan might not be the highest mountain but it will show you landscapes that will surely take your breath away. The mountain stands against a flat background of ridiculously-beautiful rolling meadows and plains that make Goyazan one of the most unique and beautiful sights in Azerbaijan.

19. Nakhchivan

If you’re like me and like to get off the beaten track, I suggest you visit the autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan. This part of Azerbaijan is basically a landlocked exclave within Armenia’s borders that borders Turkey and Iran and as such, this region is geographically distinct from the rest of Azerbaijan. The only way to get from Baku to Nakhchivan is by flight because the land borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan are closed (the two countries have a lot of disagreements).

However, don’t worry, visiting Nakhchivan is totally worth it. The region is home to some of the most famous Islamic funerary mausoleums in Azerbaijan with Momina Khan being the most famous one. And if you’re already here, you should spend at least a few days here because you can’t go back to Azerbaijan by road (unless you go through Iran).

Furthermore, you can trek Mount Duzdag and see the gorgeous Lake Batabat near the Armenian border. However, if you plan to get around, you would have to either rent a car or hire a driver but both options aren’t very expensive; Azerbaijan has an abundance of oil and therefore, the price of gas is ridiculously cheap.

20. The Caspian Sea

The Caspian Sea or Lake is the largest inland body of water in the world. This means that it’s surrounded by land from all sides by Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan. It’s often referred to as a lake because of this reason, but a lot of scientists call it ‘sea’ because of its saline water.

Whatever the case, the Caspian Coast of Azerbaijan is filled with beautiful beaches and resort towns. The two most famous coastal towns of Azerbaijan are Astara and Lankaran which are included in this list of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. However, if you’re a beach lover and have enough time, we encourage you to visit more coastal towns.

21. Astara

This is the southernmost city in Azerbaijan where you can experience a completely different side of Azerbaijan. Astara is a beach resort town with a subtropical climate that sits on the border with Iran. Literally sits on the border; the city of Astara in Azerbaijan is only a short walk away from the city of Astara in Iran. The beautiful beaches are surrounded by lush forests and green rainforests with an abundance of wildlife including the very rare Caucasus leopard. If you visit Hirkan National Park within the city’s borders, you might even get the chance to see one.

22. Lankaran

Lankaran is Azerbaijan’s subtropical paradise and a real treat for the eye. This beautiful beach resort town is surrounded by towering mountains and beautiful landscapes. This means that even the scorching hot summers aren’t that hot because of the abundant greenery that surrounds the city. However, nature isn’t everything Lankaran has to offer. It’s one of the 10 largest cities in Azerbaijan and home to some important historical sites such as Lankaran Fortress and the Kichik-Bazar Mosque.

Additionally, Lankaran is a great spot for exploring Azerbaijan’s natural park. Gobustan is only 100 kilometers away, Shirivan is 150 kilometers away, and Agh Gol is around 200 kilometers away.

If you’re looking for some nice budget accommodation options in Lankaran, use our Booking discount voucher or check out some local hostels .

23. Gobustan National Park

Located halfway between Baku and Lankaran, Gobustan is one of the most popular national parks in Azerbaijan. And there’s certainly a good reason for that. This national park is an otherworldly mix of mud volcanoes, scenic boulders, and even ancient cave carvings and ancient tombs, some of which date back to 40,000 years ago. This is the main reason why the park is a part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

If you’re looking for a tour, check out this affordable one-day trip from Baku to Gobustan National Park .

24. Shirivan National Park

Shirvan National Park is a large, semi-desert park that consists of dunes, forests, wildlife, and a short stretch of coastline. The park has a large population of jungle cats, gazelles, and turtles but you can also find more than 200 species of bird inside the park, including 32 very rare ones. Additionally, the park has some tourist facilities, including bungalows in the forest and a lot of camping properties. So, if you like camping or staying in the woods , this is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

25. Ag-Gel National Park

This park is home to Lake Aggol, the second largest lake in Azerbaijan. Ag-Gel is dominated by arid landscapes but there are a lot of places, especially near the lake where you can find hundreds of migratory birds. This makes Ag-Gel arguably the best bird-watching spot in the whole country. If you’re a fan of nature and you love nature, bird-watching, remote places, and scenic views, you should definitely visit this national park.

Azerbaijan itinerary

In the end, after covering the best places to visit in Azerbaijan, we’ll help you plan your itinerary. If you want to visit all 25 places on this list, you would need at least 3 weeks if not more. However, we know that not everyone has this much time when traveling. That’s why we will divide this Azerbaijan itinerary into regions to help you plan your trip more efficiently.

Best Places to visit in Azerbaijan’s Absheron Peninsula

In our opinion, 4-5 days should be enough to explore the Azerbaijani Capital and its surroundings. There’s a lot to see in this part of Azerbaijan.

Reaching Baku and exploring the modern city of Baku.

Exploring Baku Old City and its UNESCO Heritage Sites.

Take a day trip from Baku to Mardakan and also check out the Mud Volcanoes and Yanar Dag along the way.

Visit the iconic Ateshgah Temple at the outskirts of Baku and explore the natural beauty of Absheron National Park.

Best Places to visit in Northwestern Azerbaijan

If you’re a mountain lover, you just have to visit this part of Azerbaijan. In my opinion, this is the most underrated part of the country. However, if you want to skip it, you can start exploring the north and central part of Azerbaijan and head to Lahic or Ganja.

Drive from Baku to Khachmaz and spend at least a day here.

Drive from Khachmaz to Quba and explore this historical city.

Visit Khinaliq, the most isolated village in Azerbaijan, mingle with locals and feast your eyes on the mesmerizing mountain landscapes.

Drive back to Baku. This will take time but you should still have enough time to reach Lahic from Baku on the same day. In Azerbaijan, all roads really do lead to Baku…

Best Places to visit in Northern Azerbaijan

Explore the historical sites of Lahic and shop for some beautiful authentic souvenirs. Stay for the night and drive to Qabala in the morning.

Visit the numerous historical sites of the former ancient capital and enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the city. It’s a good idea to stay for the night and take a short drive to Sheki in the morning.

Go sightseeing in Sheki, one of the most important cities of the ancient Albanian Kingdom. Spend the night in Sheki and take a day trip to Qax in the morning.

Spend a few hours in the town of Qax. Explore the archaeological sites and see some of the city’s landmarks. Try to leave around the afternoon so that you can reach Naftalan before nightfall.

Best Places to visit in Central Azerbaijan

Visit Naftalan, the center of Azerbaijan’s Naftalan industry and see how it’s like to have a grade oil medical treatment. Stay for a night and relax in some of the city’s many resorts and drive to Ganja in the morning.

Explore Azerbaijan’s second-largest city. If you have the time, I suggest spending at least three days here because the nature surrounding the city is just amazing. Visit the city’s main landmarks, stay for the night and take a day trip to Lake Goygol.

You have two options for this. Either take a day trip from Ganja to Lake Goygol and drive back to Ganja or visit Lake Goygol and try to find accommodation in some of the villages surrounding the city and head to Goyazan mountain in the morning.

Explore the gorgeous Goyazan Mountain and drive back to Ganja. You can stay for one more night or get an overnight bus to Lankaran.

Best places to visit in Southern Azerbaijan

Unwind in Lankaran, Azerbaijan’s most famous coastal resort. You’ll probably have to spend a few days here because it’s a great starting point for exploring the Caspian Coast of Azerbaijan but also there are three national parks that are just a short ride away. In addition to this, the city has a lot of important historical landmarks.

Take a day trip to the coastal town of Astana and relax at the beach. The distance between the two cities is only 38 kilometers so going and coming back shouldn’t be difficult.

Finally, if you love nature, you can devote the next three days to taking day trips to some of Azerbaijan’s most beautiful national parks- Gobustan, Shirivan, and Ag-Gel.

Driving from Lankaran back to the capital which is probably where your flight back will be.

Visiting Nakhchivan

The shortest road leading to Nakhchivan passes through Armenia, but as I said, the borders between the two countries are closed. This limits the options for visiting Nakhchivan to taking a flight from Baku or Ganja or driving to Iran through the Goyazan Mountain. The journey lasts for 10 hours but you would have to cross the Iranian border. So, the more feasible option is to drive back to Ganja (2 hours from Goyazan to Ganja) and take a flight to Azerbaijan’s remote exclave.

What about the visa?

Whether you are planning a trip to this country for business or vacation, you need a valid visa for visiting and staying in Azerbaijan. Thanks to online visa services, the process of application and approval is quick and easy in comparison to manual procedures.

What are the Documents Needed for Visa Application?

According to the visa process in Azerbaijan, citizens from 95 countries can apply for a visa with their passport only. However, if you do not belong to any of these 95 nations, you need to provide some other travel document numbers as well. When making an online application, put these documents together, and scan them for easy upload. The documents include:

• A scanned digital copy of your passport, no matter if you are eligible for a visa upon entry. The passport must be officially valid for a minimum time of three more months after the expiry of your visa
• Your  debit card, credit card, or a PayPal account to pay visa fees
• Your email address where you will receive your Azerbaijan e-visa after approval
• Passport size photo against a white background taken recently
• Confirmed flight tickets and hotel reservation details

If your stay in the country exceeds ten days, you have to seek registration at the state migration service in Azerbaijan. Since the process is online, it doesn’t take much time for your visa to arrive at your home.

The Tourist e-Visa System in Azerbaijan

The Republic of Azerbaijan initiated the process of the e-visa system in 2013 to allow online authorization for foreign nationals visiting and traveling in the country. This e-visa is allowed for 90 days, while the maximum stay permit is for 30 days per entry.

The conditions under this visa also include the following:

• It is a single entry visa to visit and exit Azerbaijan once only
• It takes 1-3 business days to process the visa application
• The applicants can apply for a visa only when they are outside Azerbaijan
• You need to print one copy of e-visa for arrival in the country and present the visa at border control checkpoint as well
• Keep the visa with you throughout your stay

The Process to Apply for Azerbaijan Visa Online

There is a simple method to apply for the Azerbaijan visa through online portals. Firstly, you need to check if you require a visa to visit the country or if you can obtain a visa on arrival.

The next step is to provide complete and accurate information in the online application form. It includes generic details like name, passport information, address, etc. At this level, you can also choose the processing time before proceeding with the payment process.

After making the payment, submit your application and wait for your e-visa to arrive at your email inbox. Make sure that the details provided on the online application form exactly match the information on your passport and you’re good to go.

Helpful resources for visiting Azerbaijan

For the cheapest flights to Baku, check out  Qatar Airways’ special deals .

To save on accommodation in Azerbaijan, use our  Booking.com discount voucher or check out Hostel World’s deals .

If you want to rent a car in Azerbaijan,  use this link  to compare prices from all local car rental companies and choose the best offer.

For some interesting tours in Azerbaijan, get the best deals from local guides on  GetYourGuide .

And last but not least, don’t forget about travel insurance. Personally, I always choose  SafetyWing . They might be more expensive than most other insurance companies but they cover literally anything that can happen to you on the road!

Finally, it’s your turn; did you ever visit this amazing country? Did you like this list of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan? Which one was your favorite? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments! Like it? Pin it.

John Confidus

Tuesday 21st of April 2020

It's great that you share your experience. I am a novice traveler, and for me, your blog is an aid in planning my trip. Thanks!

Passport Symphony

Thursday 23rd of April 2020

Thanks, John, I'm glad you could get some useful information here.

12 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

• Sep 21, 2023

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Azerbaijan is a beautiful country in the Caucasus region sitting on the shore of the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. Growing up in neighbouring Iran , I was steeped in the rich tapestry of Azerbaijani culture and history, a fascination that ignited my desire to explore this country. And so, with great anticipation, I finally made the trip to Azerbaijan and explored the country. 

Azerbaijan, with a population of over 10 million, might not be known to many international tourists. Still, it is indeed a great destination for nature lovers, history and culture enthusiasts and foodies. People here are friendly and hospitable. Azerbaijan is truly a hidden gem that deserves its spot on every traveller's list. Plus, getting to Azerbaijan is a breeze for most nationalities, thanks to the new e-visa system .

If you are planning a trip to Azerbaijan and looking for some inspiration,  you've come to the right place. In this article, I share the 12 best places to visit in Azerbaijan and the top things to do in the country. 

This post contains affiliate links and if you click one I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Top places to visit in Azerbaijan

You've touched down in Azerbaijan, and guess what? Your adventure starts right here in Baku, the capital city. Baku is indeed a unique and lively city and it is worth spending a few days here.

As you stroll in Baku, you'll witness the striking contrast between the contemporary skyline and the echoes of its ancient past. The iconic Flame Towers, a testament to Azerbaijan's oil-rich history, stand tall against the backdrop of the UNESCO-listed Old City, a living testament to Baku's historical roots.

Baku Boulevard, also known as the "National Park", is a popular place for both locals and tourists to hang out. This promenade, stretching for several kilometres, has beautiful gardens and fountains, offering stunning views of the Caspian Sea.

For the best panoramic views of the city, you can up to Highland Park, right next to the famous Flame Towers.

Baku is also home to some of the most remarkable modern architectural buildings, including the Heydar Aliyev Center and the Crystal Hall, the venue of the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest. These buildings showcase the city's ambition to be a global centre for culture and architecture.

Baku can be your base for taking day trips to other parts of Azerbaijan. 

Where to stay in Baku

Radisson Hotel Baku , located in the centre of the business and entertainment hub of the city, is one of the best places to stay in Baku. This 4-star hotel is just a stone's throw away from the Caspian Sea. 

Molokan Inn Hotel located less than 1 km from Maiden Tower is another great place to stay in Baku. This stylish 4-star hotel offers airport transfers. 

The Merchant Baku is a beautiful hotel in the centre of Baku. This elegant 4-star accommodation offers allergy-free rooms and a fitness centre. 

2. Icheri Sheher

Icheri Sheher, known as Baku's Old City, is a must-visit when in Azerbaijan. Dating back to the 12th century, it offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Baku. Here you can see the evidence of Arab, Persian, Ottoman, and Russian influence.

One of the main attractions here is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs which is known as "the pearl" of Azerbaijan’s architecture. It is a complex from the 15th century that served as the residence of the Shirvan governors, the rulers of Shirvan. 

The other attraction here is Maiden Tower, the oldest and most enigmatic structure in Baku’s old town. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century, although its exact date of construction and purpose is unknown. 

There are so many traditional restaurants in the Old Town, which means you can try some traditional food here.  

3. Qobustan

Qobustan is a unique and fascinating region in central Azerbaijan which has outstanding universal value. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times and it is known for its collection of rock art engravings, some of which date back an astonishing 40,000 years. 

These intricate engravings provide a window into the lives and beliefs of the people who once lived in the region and offer a unique glimpse into the history of Azerbaijan and the wider world. 

These rocky and tony hills reflect the whole history of this region from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages.

Gobustan is just an hour’s drive from Baku which makes it a great day trip. 

4. Mud Volcanoes 

Many visitors to Azerbaijan may not know that the country has the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world. There are around  400 mud volcanoes spreading broadly across the country.

A mud volcano is a type of volcano that erupts a mixture of water, mud, and gas instead of molten rock. The mud in these volcanoes is composed of a mixture of clay, silt, and other minerals, which give the surface a unique appearance. 

The mud from these volcanoes is considered to have therapeutic properties, and many people visit the area to experience the mud baths. 

The most popular mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan are close to Gobustan, not far from Baku. This means you can visit both places in a single day trip from Baku. You can hire a taxi or join the Mud Volcanoes & Gobustan Group Tour .

5. Yanardag

Yanardag which translates to “burning mountain” is one of the best natural sites in Azerbaijan. This site is nothing short of extraordinary, this hill is always on fire due to the gas deposits under the sandstone surface. 

This amazing phenomenon does not depend on human participation and occurs continuously day and night in any weather condition. Locals call it the eternal flame and many believed that this was a holy mountain and it became a place of pilgrimage.

While the exact history of Yanardag remains cloaked in mystery, a local legend has it that a shepherd once accidentally lit a fire there and the hill has been burning ever since.

6. Ateshgah

One of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan is Ateshgah, often called the "Fire Temple of Baku". This temple is a special place on the Absheron Peninsula, where fire and faith have mixed for centuries. 

Fire rituals started here a long time ago, around the 10th century, at the peninsula's natural gas vents. The temple we see now was built between the 17th and 18th centuries. The structure is similar to the caravanserais, similar to the old inns that travellers could stay at.

People still wonder if this temple was built for Zoroastrian or Hindu worship. It's like a mix of both in its design. Some experts think it was first for Zoroastrians, but later it became more like a Hindu place of worship.

In 1969, using up a lot of the natural gas in the area made the flame go out. But today, the flames are still here, thanks to Baku's main gas supply.

In 1975, the temple became a museum. Then, in 1998, the temple got special recognition from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

You can visit Yarandag and Ateshgah can be visited on a day trip. One of the most convenient ways to visit both is to take the Burning Mountain & Zorastrian Temple Private Tour from Baku. 

7. Diri Baba, a mausoleum of a Sufi saint

The Diri Baba Mausoleum is a hidden gem located in the city of Maraza in Azerbaijan. It was built in the 15th century. Inside, it's where Sheikh Mohammad, also known as Diri Baba, is buried.

According to some legends, Sheikh Mohammad possessed miraculous powers and was known for his ability to heal the sick. Some believe that his body has been preserved, without any shape of decomposition. And some believe that he was an angel and never died. 

Gabala in the north of Azerbaijan, the ancient capital of Caucasian Albania, is surrounded by the country's highest peaks. It is a great place to visit both in summer and winter. 

One of the best ways to explore the area is to take the cable car which takes you to an altitude of 1920 meters. During the summer you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the area. But in the winter, this place turns into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and having fun in the snow. 

Where to stay in Gabala

Qafqaz Riverside Hotel is a 5-star family-friendly resort in Gabala, offering two restaurants and a spa. 

Trigon Villa Family is one of the best places to stay in Gabala, offering a private swimming pool. This 4-bedroom villa is perfect for families or a group of friends. 

9. Nohur Lake

Just 3 km from Gabala city, there is Nohur Lake, one of the most popular destinations in Azerbaijan. The lake is surrounded by lush mountains. It is one the highest lakes in Azerbaijan, located 700 meters above sea level in the middle of three mountains. 

Despite its high altitude, it can be easily reached by car. Some believe that Nohur was created after WWII to supply surrounding villages with water. But some other stories say that the lake appeared after an earthquake in the country. 

There are hotels and restaurants around the lake, which make it a perfect place for relaxing and unwinding. You can’t swim in the lake but you can rent a boat or go fishing.

Where to stay in Nohur Lake 

Chenot Palace Gabala is a luxury and unique hotel right next to the lake, offering celebrity treatment. The hotel offers unique programs tailored to the specific needs of the body's well-being.

Nohur Hotel Gabala is also a 5-star hotel next to the lake, offering free bikes, a garden and a bar. Guests can enjoy water activities, fishing and cycling around the lake. 

10. Seven Beauties Waterfall

The Seven Beauties Waterfall in Azerbaijan is a true natural wonder that cascades down a series of seven terraces, each with its own unique beauty. The waterfalls flow from the highest peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. To see all seven terraces, you need to hike for around two hours. During winter, climbing the waterfall becomes tricky because it's all frozen and covered in ice. But when spring and summer roll around, things change. You'll find teahouses along the mountain roads. They're cosy spots where you can enjoy some tea and the special Gabala jam, which is a local treat.

There you have it, the 10 top places to visit in Azerbaijan, if you need more details, make sure to check out our Azerbaijan travel series. 

11. Xinaliq

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Greater Caucasus in the north, Xinaliq, also known as Khinalug, stands as one the most extraordinary destinations in Azerbaijan. This remote village is home to approximately 2,000 people. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of Xinaliq is its distinction as one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth. Xinaliq sits at an altitude of 2,350 meters above sea level, and it ranks among the highest inhabited villages in the Caucasus. 

This ancient village boasts a rich tapestry of traditions and even has its own unique language. Stepping into Xinaliq feels like a journey back in time, a stark contrast to the bustling modernity of Azerbaijan's capital, Baku. 

Xinaliq is just 50 kilometres away from the city of Quba. One of the best ways to visit the village is to take the Quba and Khinaliq Village Tour from Baku. 

Nestled in northwestern Azerbaijan, Sheki is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. Once famous for its silk, it's now known as Azerbaijan's cultural hub. Sheki, home to around 68,000 people, is the ninth-largest city in Azerbaijan.

It's a place with a rich history, boasting the remarkable Sheki Khan's Palace, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Sheki's story goes back to the 8th century BC when it was one of the key Caucasian Albanian states. Later, during the Sheki Khanate's rule, the city's architecture flourished, leaving behind stunning landmarks like the Khan's Palace.

In its past, Sheki was a vital stop on the Silk Route, which you can still feel as you explore silk factories, mulberry groves, and impressive old stone inns called caravanserais.

One of the best things about Sheki is its natural surroundings, with hills and forests that make it a perfect escape from busier cities. It's a place where history, culture, and nature come together for a truly memorable experience.

Sheki is located about 300 kilometres from the capital, Baku, and it is close to Georgia. One of the best ways to explore Sheki is taking the 2-Day Private Tour to Sheki with an Overnight Stay from Baku. 

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Insider Secrets | 02 April 2019

6 secrets of azerbaijan: the best places to visit beyond baku.

Azerbaijan expert and guidebook author Mark Elliott goes under the radar with his recommendations for the best things to see in Azerbaijan...

Nicknamed the ‘Land of Fire’, Azerbaijan is known for its ‘burning mountain’, mud volcanoes, and dazzling 21st century architecture - including a trio of 30-storey skyscrapers shaped like flames. But there is so much more, and a few less obvious personal discoveries for Az-bound travellers.

Here are the top 6 'secret' places to see in Azerbaijan, beyond the capital...

1. sheki's  other palace.

The Khan palace in the town of Sheki, Azerbaijan (Dreamstime)

It’s hard to imagine a more delightful Caucasian town than Sheki (Şəki). Nestled into richly wooded foothills with sheep-grazed mountain meadows high above, it is not only on a branch of the fabled Silk Road but even produces silks of its own.

Here you can peep into a genuine ancient caravanserai once used by silk-traders, or even stay in one of the atmospheric if no-frills rooms. The ‘Labyrinth’ at nearby Fazıl is a spookily brilliant tumulus excavation.

And on fields southeast of town lies a key venue for   chovgan   – Azerbaijan’s traditional horse-sport, a kind of rough-and-tumble polo-with-attitude.

Within the hefty stone walls of what was once an 18th century fortress-citadel, is the mural-covered palace of local sovereign Chelabi Khan (ruled 1743-1755). That’s the top tourist attraction of Sheki’s quaint old-town. But few visitors know that very close by there’s a second, slightly older palace – the Xan-Evi.

It’s far less busy, has murals of its own and, for me at least, the greatest delight of the place is simply finding it, tucked away in a warren of archetypal cobbled alleys lined with picturesque old houses.

2. Noah’s Grave

Noah's Tomb in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan (Shutterstock)

Supposing we take the Biblical flood as historical, where would you say that Noah settled his family after the ark had crash landed? According to Azerbaijanis it was in Nakhchivan. And to prove the point you can visit “Noah’s tomb”.

Viewed from the east on a very clear day you can see the structure backed by the snow-whitened cone of Mount Ararat (Ağrıdağ) floating like Mount Fuji on the far horizon. The small tomb’s brickwork is inlaid with touches of blue glaze and topped with a gilded spire.

But is it ancient? The plaque by the doorway sums up the answer with dead-pan comic brilliance: “XI Millennium BC. Restored 2013”.

“How do you know it’s really so old?” I asked the caretaker. “We have a photo from the 1890s!” He retorted. So, almost 8000 years, then.

3. Nakhchivan's Autonomous Republic

The entrance to the Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan (Shutterstock)

There’s plenty more quirky stuff to see in Azerbaijan’s disconnected enclave of   Nakhchivan .

Start with the far more visually impressive Momine Khatun, a glorious tomb tower dating from 1186 and set amid genuinely old carved-stone monuments. There’s a Soviet era salt mine in which you can sleep as an asthma cure.

4. Alijna Castle,  Azerbaijan’s Machu Picchu

Azerbaijan's Machu Picchu (Shutterstock)

In the lovable oasis village of Ordubad, locals grow some of the world’s prized (and most expensive) bitter-sweet lemons. Best of all, on a crag-top in the middle of nowhere is Alinja Castle, extensive ruins accessed by a seemingly endless stairway.

Nicknamed Azerbaijan’s Machu Picchu, the site offers extraordinary views encompassing the impressive tooth of Ilan Dag (Snake Mountain) and more distant mountain ranges across the Araz River in Iran.

5. Gabala, for the Azerbaijani wine

The stunning natural beauty of Gabala on display (Shutterstock)

Once Noah had parked the ark he rushed to plant a vineyard. And then got storming drunk. OK, that might be myth. Nonetheless, today’s archaeologists assert that the Caucasus is indeed the world’s oldest known centre of wine-making.

Most of Azerbaijan’s wineries were destroyed in the late 1980s when Mikail Gorbachev’s anti-alcohol campaign saw the vines rooted out.

In recent years, however, wholescale replanting and hi-tech viniculture techniques have seen a rebirth of quality Azerbaijani vintages notably from the sunny mountain foothills around Gabala (Qəbələ) – a spa and ski resort full of glitzy yet good value getaway hotels.

Meanwhile in Baku, new wine bars are adding to the city’s already impressive selection of drinking holes that range from quirky hipster dives and expat pubs to snazzy cocktail lounges.

6. The Caspian Coast and Talysh Mountains 

A view of the Talysh countryside in autumn (Shutterstock)

In the southeastern corner of Azerbaijan, the Caspian coastal region is lush and green, attractively patch-worked with tea plantations and citrus groves. Behind the coastal strip, thick woodlands rise into the magical Talysh Mountains, dripping with beautiful waterfalls and dotted with isolated ancient villages.

High above is the habitat of ‘Europe’s last leopards’. They’re so rare that it took months for a National Geographic team to get camera-trap footage… so don’t expect to see one. However, the next best thing is hiking through moss-festooned enchanted forests of the Hirkan National Park accompanied by the ‘Leopard Man’.

Real name Babakhan, he’s the local guide and all-round athletic superhero who showed NatGeo where to place their camera traps. He gets his nickname not just for his skill at tracking (and once wrestling) big cats, but also for his leopard-like ability to simply run up a tree, then lie reclining on one of its overhanging branches. Unforgettable.

Azerbaijan – The Mark Elliott Guide is the most in-depth guidebook to Azerbaijan in print. The expanded fifth edition (2018) is available from publisher Tale Heydarov’s   TEAS Press . 

• The best things to do in Baku, Azerbaijan's capital
• 10 things you never knew about Azerbaijan
• Dispatches: Meeting locals in Georgia's Caucasus Mountains

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• 8 Magnificent Places To Visit In Azerbaijan One Must Definitely Visit While In Russia

23 Mar 2023

Straddled across the borders of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan is a beautiful country resting at the Caucuses region. Locally also called the “Land of Fire”, this place is home to the Caspian sea, mud volcanoes, and flaming mountains. Alongside this, the country is also known for its quaint resorts resting by the seaside. Not just this, there are ancient mosques and magnificent modern architectures which complements the past structures. While the country has vast options of traveling for the travelers, but these are some of the handpicked places to visit in Azerbaijan which will make your trip worth it.

8 Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan

Here are some of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan which one cannot miss. From old architectures to the rich culture, these places have everything which the travelers must experience.

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Resting along the Caspian Sea, Baku is a beautiful city which is also the capital of Azerbaijan. This place is a mixture of the old walled city of Icheri Seher and modern skyscrapers. The city is home to the famous Flame Towers which is built to resemble the fire and apart from that there is Museum of Contemporary art which embraces over 900 artworks. Alongside this, there are many local markets which will let you take a stroll amidst the city and explore, making it one of the best places to see in Azerbaijan .

8 Restaurants In Azerbaijan That Will Give Foodies An Amazing Experience!

The city of Astara is located at the Astara Rayon district which is also sharing borders with Iran. This place is termed as the most beautiful city in Azerbaijan, enclosed by lush-green forests and gigantic mountains. There are picturesque cafes and local restaurants situated around the city which offers the travelers a place to get the taste of local cuisine. Alongside this, there is a museum which is solely dedicated to the findings in the region. There are statues, coins and other preserved items which are dated back to 2,000 years. Apart from that, there are bathhouses, mausoleums, mosques and ancient towers which adds beauty to the city.

Located at the foothills of the Southern Greater Caucasus Mountain, Sheki is a 60,000-year-old town. Known as the oldest Caucasus settlements, this little town is known for silk, textiles and embroidery which made it a significant landmark on the silk route. There are ancient mosques, castles and 18th-century palace made by Sheki Khans, which adorns the beauty of this town with the mighty mountains located in the backdrop and also makes it one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

Museums In Azerbaijan: 8 Historical Places Depicting The Stories Of Art And Antiquity!

Settled in the northeast side of the country, Quba is one of the important destinations to explore the Azerbaijan culture. The ancient mountain town lies across the Qudailchay river which is situated in the vicinity of ancient villages. A little Jew-ish settlement lies at the opposite side of the river with the beautiful mountains in the backdrop. This place is one of the beautiful places to visit in Azerbaijan and makes a great location to escape the hustle-bustle.

5. Goyazan Mountain

Situated at the Northwestern side of the Qazak district, this mountain is located in the vicinity of the outskirts villages of Abbasbayli and Alpout. Resting at a height of 857.9 meters above sea level, the Goyazan mountain is surrounded by beautiful rolling fields and plains which adds a picturesque view. Trekking around here is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan . 

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6. Mud Volcano

The mud volcano is one of its own kind in nature and considered as a bizarre natural phenomenon of Azerbaijan. Located in the desert area of Baku, these mineral concentrated volcanoes rests at the coastline of the Caspian Sea. Known for its healing qualities, these mud volcanoes are not that easy to reach but ensures that one can have a great time exploring them. If you’re looking for some of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan, Baku then this natural retreat should be a must visit.

7. Lake Goygol

Resting at the lower Caucasus mountains, Lake Goygol is indeed an ethereal landscape which is also considered as one of the beautiful places in Azerbaijan. Surrounded by the dense forests, this place was recently opened for the public. Created due to an earthquake around the 12th century, this mountain lake attracts many visitors every year who come to explore its beauty.

6 Places To Visit In Asia In November: An Escape From The Snow Into The Tropics

8. Absheron National Park

Experience the diverse wildlife of Azerbaijan by visiting this picturesque national park. Located at the Southeastern tip of the Absheron peninsula, the national park is home to around 50 types of flora and fauna. Despite being a protected zone, this nature’s retreat invites many visitors throughout the year, especially the wildlife lovers.

So are you excited to explore these finest places to visit in Azerbaijan? These handpicked attractions will give you a glimpse of adventure and nature’s retreat which will make your travel worth everything. Thus, if a holiday in Russia is on your mind then don’t hold back and plan your memorable vacation and also tick off these splendid places around the country.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click  here . 

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Azerbaijan

What are some of the must-visit places in Azerbaijan for travelers?

When in Azerbaijan, you must not miss on places like: – Icheri Seher – Absheron National Park – Garasu Volcano – Naftalan Oil Resort – Gobustan

What are the best places for shopping in Azerbaijan?

Some of the best places that travelers can shop from in Azerbaijan are: – House Of Craftsmen – Tsum Shopping Centre – Taza Bazaar – Nizami Street – Port Baku Mall

What can you buy in Azerbaijan?

Popular things to buy from Azerbaijan include: – Carpet – Jewelry and souvenir dagger – Armudu Glass – Ceramics – Kelaghayi

What is the best time for travelers to visit Azerbaijan?

The best time for travelers to visit Azerbaijan is between April to June and September to October when the weather is not so hot and humid. You can easily visit the many attractions in the city and explore the place to the best.

What is the best food of Azerbaijan?

The best food of Azerbaijan includes a spread of different dishes like plov, kebabs, shashlik, a wide variety of seafood dishes, fresh fruits, vegetables, and sumptuous soup. The food is cooked using fresh aromatic herbs and spices

Is Azerbaijan an expensive place to visit?

No, Azerbaijan is not that expensive city to visit. The average cost of a two weeks holiday in Azerbaijan will cost somewhere around $600 and $1500 including the price of the flights and visa.

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what to do in Azerbaijan

Explore Baku's Old City

A city within a city, the Old City is Baku's historic core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has so much to explore, from the Maiden's Tower and Shirvanshahs' Palace to art galleries, theatres and cafés.  More

take a walking tour of Baku’s oil-boom architecture

Discover the stunning old architecture built in Baku during the late 19th century, early 20th century oil boom. Be inspired by its mix of styles, marvellous details and amazing stories. More

Discover Gobustan's ancient rock art

Uncover an astonishing collection of over 6,000 ancient petroglyphs charting ways of life dating back tens of thousands of years. More

Take a masterclass of Guba cuisine

Learn how to cook the most delicious and traditional Guba sweets like pakhlava or bukma, from local chefs! Take a quick look and see how! More

Play golf in the beautiful countryside of Guba

If you are a golf and nature fan, you should visit Guba’s National Golf Club course in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, a splendid place to play! More

Stroll through time in central Gusar

Discover a peaceful old city highlighted by a few colourful old cottages reminiscent of a time when Gusar was part of the Russian Empire. More

Hit the target at Gabala Shooting Club

Gabala has many shooting experiences set for you to enjoy. Visit the Gabala Shooting Club to improve your aim and enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings. More

Call into Sheki's craft shops

Step into Sheki's boutiques and admire their authentic craftsmanship. Meet artisans and buy some pots, papags, instruments and more. More

get inspired by Azerbaijan

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Historical pilgrimage site Imamzadeh Complex

The term ‘Imamzadeh’ signifies ‘descendant of an Imam’ or ‘child of an... More

Embrace of nature Kükü village

The village of Kükü is among the larger settlements of Shahbuz District.... More

Kamil Aliyev carpets shine with weaving mastery

“Art will never disappear as long as every artist, every professional, no matter their field of art, approaches their work with seriousness and respect,” believed Kamil Aliyev, which is reflected in his works that are on display at Sunny Carpets Gallery in Baku. More

Recreation centres in Nakhchivan

If you're still wondering how best to spend your summer or winter holiday in Nakhchivan, you’ve come to the right... More

Huseyn Javid House Museum and Memorial Complex

Huseyn Javid was an outstanding Azerbaijani poet and playwright who was active... More

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Salam azerbaijan practical information.

Here in Azerbaijan you can count on the help of our generous people in every step of your journey. Still, here is some useful information we’d like you to know before you jump on a plane.

Find out if you need a visa to enter Azerbaijan and learn how to apply to get your e-visa. It is easy and fast. learn more

Practical information

Planning a trip can get really complicated, so to make it easier for you here’s a list of all the things you need to consider when planning a visit to Azerbaijan. learn more

There’s plenty to see and do in Azerbaijan all year round, but every season has its own special vibe.  learn more

Useful vocabulary

English and Russian are widely understood and spoken in the capital, Baku, but as you travel across the country knowing a few words of Azerbaijani will definitely enrich your experiences. learn more

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Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan is a transcontinental country of over 10 million inhabitants located by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus mountains. It’s between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, surrounded by Russia, Georgia , Armenia , Turkey, and Iran. Its official language is Azerbaijani, its main religion Islam, its local cuisine delicious, and its people really welcoming. Thus, there’s plenty of best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

The main Azerbaijan tourist places will take you through the country’s past as a muslim hub, soviet city, modern European capital, and major oil land. In Azerbaijan you’ll find ancient rock carvings, old mosques, walled medieval cities, remains of soviet brutalism, and impossible sky-scrappers. Along with stunning mountain landscapes, fancy resorts by the Caspian beaches, and lots of fire.

Best places to visit in Azerbaijan near Baku

1. baku, azerbaijan’s capital city.

Every trip to Azerbaijan tends to begin in Baku, the country’s stunning capital and largest city. Over two million people call Baku their home. It’s the biggest city in the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus region, meaning places to visit in Baku are endless. 

Baku offers a delightful contrast among the ancient, the present and the future. The old town will make you feel in an African medina, while the modern city has undeniable European vibes. Additionally, the promenade resembles a dream beach destination and its modern buildings could perfectly stand in Dubai. 

Baku’s old city is as a UNESCO world heritage site with medieval walls, ancient mosques, and palaces. All surrounded by modern avenues and a wonderful promenade, with the famous Flame Towers at the end.

Check out this post on the best things to do in Baku to see how you can visit them for free. And consider joining one of these guided Baku city tours and day trips from Baku to enhance your experience in the city.

2. Gobustan rock carvings and mud volcanoes

Gobustan is a Historical and Cultural Reserve home of incredible rock paintings and mud volcanoes. As it’s located 65 km southwest of Baku it’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or with a guided day trip from Baku.

Gobustan’s rock cravings and cave paintings date back from the Stone Age. There’s over 6,000 of them, which makes the area one of the most interesting places to visit in Azerbaijan. These petroglyphs depict hunting scenes, animals, and worshiping.

You can visit them on your own from 9am to 5pm for less than $6. However, I strongly recommend going with a tour or hiring a guide at the entrance. That’s because there’s no English signs so you won’t understand what the carvings mean.

Near the prehistoric paintings of Gobustan lay one third of the world’s mud volcanoes, which you should also include in your visit to Azerbaijan. These mud volcanoes were naturally formed in the middle of the desert due to high concentrations of natural gas.

Unlike one would expect, the mud is cold and covered in bubbles that explode regularly. You can dip your hand in the volcanos and spread the mud over your face for a free spa-like treatment. Or watch me doing it on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.

There’s no opening hours nor fees to visit the 400 mud volcanoes in Gobustan. Just google their coordinates or let your tour guide lead the way through this moon-looking field. Just don’t miss Garasu Volcano, famous for having spewed mud over 1,000 into the air. 

3. The Fire Temple of Ateshgah

Ateshgah, known as the Fire Temple, is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan to learn about the unique past of this Land of Fire. The country’s abundant oil and gas reserves that provoke mud volcanoes and spontaneous eternal flames were once a huge mystery to locals.

Without other explanations to hand, Azerbaijanis considered these god-made works and venerated fire above anything else. Thus, fire worshiping and Zoroastrian faith have played an essential role in local culture. And many temples were built upon naturally-burning sites. 

One of these ancient temples is Ateshgah, located 15km North of Baku and popularly known as the Fire Temple. It dates back from the 17th century and was a Zoroastrian temple, religion that reached Azerbaijan from India through Iran. Later, it served as a sacred spot for Hindus and Sikhs.

The temple, built in the shape of an hexagon, features a castle-like fortification with an eternal flame. Nevertheless, the flame is now artificial as an explosion in 1969 ended it. 

Nowadays the Fire Temple is a popular Azerbaijan sightseeing spot containing a museum on fire worshiping and local history. It’s open from 10am to 7pm every day and there’s an entrance fee of $2.20. Most visit Ateshgah in combination with the fire mountain and or Gobustan by private car or taxi, or with a guided day trip .

4. Yanar Dang, the burning mountain

Yanar Dang translates as burning mountain and is the living picture of Azerbaijan’s nickname Land of Fire. This is literally a random country hill that has been burning non-stop for centuries and no one is able to extinguish. All due to the immense amounts of leaking underground natural gas. 

Rumor has it Marco Polo himself couldn’t resist taking a glance of the Fire Mountain during his travels. Despite the height of the flames is decreasing and some consider its current size to be disappointing, it’s not everyday one can visit a fire mountain and I strongly recommend taking the trip.

Yanar Dang is located only 20km away from Baku and another 20km from the Fire Temple, so most tourists visit these together when renting a car, booking a taxi, or joining a day trip . There’s an entrance fee of $5 and opening hours range from 9am to 6pm every day.

5. Oil pumps

Azerbaijan produces over 850,000 oil barrels per day. And since they barely consume 100,000, Azerbaijan has a surplus of 750,000 oil barrels per day. This means tonnes of oil money and wealth for the country and the State-owned Oil company of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Azerbaijan is packed with oil pumps continuously extracting this black gold from the ground. And if, like me, you don’t come from an oil country, seeing them is quite impressive and makes one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan. 

Getting close to oil pumps is safe, permitted, and free. A great place to do so is on the motorway from Baku to Gobustan. This road is packed with oil fields and all you’ll need to do to explore them is park your car on the hard shoulder, or ask your taxi driver to do so. Although seeing the actual oil is hard, you’ll definitely smell and hear it while observing the pumps. 

Another great spot to see operative oil pumps without depending on a car is behind the Flamer Towers in Baku . If you walk towards the TV tower, right by the last house you’ll find some yellow oil pumps at work.

Feel free to walk around them and take some photos, no one will bother you and it will make one of your most unique memories from your trip to Azerbaijan. I shared my experience on my Instagram and Tiktok pages, if you’d like to check it out.

6. The Caspian Sea

Azerbaijan has a coastline of over 500km. Therefore, spending some time at the beach is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan. However, local beaches are usually polluted and the nice clean ones are private and belong to resorts and beach clubs.

If you are looking for the real local experience, head to Bilgah Beach. It’s a decent free public beach fifteen minutes from Baku . However, there’s an old oil extractor in the water and no facilities whatsoever bar a single squatty potty toilet.

When I posted on Tiktok I had visited this beach I received a ton of comments saying swimming here is forbidden. Yet there’s no mention of that online and I swam along hundreds of locals without major consequences.

For those looking for the best holiday resorts near Baku , head to Crescent Beach Club or Amburan Beach Club. Crescent Beach Club was the first beach resort to open, it’s only 20km from the city centre and offers several wellness and dining options by the beach.

Similarly, Amburan Beach Club is a modern recreational centre 40km away from Baku offering a clean beach surrounded by swimming pools and several restaurants. You can book a day pass here .

If you are willing to travel further to get the best beach holiday, check out Nabran. It’s close to the Russian border, 3 hours from Baku , and offers the country’s cleanest waters. Alternatively, Lankaran near the Iranian border and 4 hours from Baku features the warmest waters and endless sandy beaches. There’s lots of boat cruises, diving schools and fishing trips in Lankaran.

Best places to visit in Azerbaijan away from Baku

7. absheron national park.

Absheron National Park is a natural reserve established to protect local endangered fauna and flora. Especially water birds, gazelles, and Caspian seals, which are one of the world’s smallest types of seals.

Although the best time to spot Caspian seals is September, you can expect to see plenty of gazelles,  jackals, snakes, badgers, comb jellyfish, and several bird species all year round. 

The park is located by the sea, about an hour from Baku , and occupies over 783 hectares. It was established during the soviet times and rebranded in 2005. The entrance fee is $1.20 and the best way to get here is by private car, taxi, or with a day trip. 

8. Qabala / Gabala

Qabala, also known as Gabala, is Azerbaijan’s oldest city. Located over 200 km away from Baku , in the midlands and surrounded by stunning mountains, Gabala is one of the Azerbaijan tourist spots most popular among locals. Thus, there’s many guided day trips to Gabala .

Gabala was the capital of the ancient Caucasian Albania State and a major spot along the Silk Road. Therefore, here you’ll find ancient burial areas, round brick towers, and a medieval water supply. In the modern part of the city there’s now a great amusement park and popular skiing resorts, for those visiting in winter time. 

Breathtaking canyons and deep valleys surround Gabala. Including Nohur Lake, Damiraparan river, and the stunning Seven Beauties Waterfall. Stopping at Tufandang to enjoy the suspension bridge is also much recommended. No wonder Qabala offers the perfect blend of ancient history and natural beauty.

9. Shirvan National Park

Shirvan National Park is one of the biggest national parks in the country. It expands over 54,000 hectares in an area that used to be located at the button of the Caspian Sea and is now dry, although still lying at 25 meters below sea level. Just like Baku city, which lies 28 meters below sea level and is the world’s lowest capital. 

The national park focuses on the protection and reproduction of Goitered gazelles. Also known as black-tail gazelles, these are also common in Georgia , Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan , Kazakhstan , Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Mongolia and China.

Along the gazelles, several species of jackals, jungle cats, hedgehogs, turtles and birds, including flamingos, live in Shirvan National Park. 

10. Astara and Yanar Bulag

Astara is considered the most beautiful city in Azerbaijan. It’s three hours south of Baku, towards Iran and by the beach. The city hosts old bathhouses, mosques, mausoleums, and a museum showcasing the region’s archeological finds.

When in Astara, save some time to visit Yanar Bulag, also known as the burning fountain. This is a fountain of burning water that is set on fire just as its being pumped out of a pipe due to its unusually high levels of methane.

This curious natural phenomena is meant to have healing properties so many go to Yanar Bulag to collect its water for drinking and to treat diseases.

11. Quba and Besh Barmag

The beautiful mountain town of Quba is the ultimate getaway to the Caucasus mountains. It’s 2.5 hours north from Baku, direction Russia, and makes a great place to soak in the Zeri culture, as it’s home to many ancient highlights.

These include a stone arch bridge from the 19th century, brick-laid Juma Mosque, a hammam, and Hadji Jafar Mosque. Quba also hosts a very special Jewish settlement with three synagogues and elaborate merchant houses. 

If you are heading to Quba from Baku, stop at Besh Barmag. It’s a mystical and sacred piece of rock in the shape of five fingers meant to have fertility powers.

The top of Besh Barmag offers wonderful views over the nearby hills and the Caspian sea. The place is also very popular among bird watchers and makes a great picnic spot.

12. Xinaliq

Xinaliq is an ancient mountain village an hour away from Quba and accessible through a winding mountain road. Standing at 2,350m above sea level and at the top of a rocky formation, Xinaliq is the highest village in the country and also one of the most remote.

Locals here keep a traditional lifestyle consisting in breeding sheep, making honey, collecting herbs and weaving. So they basically live out of their herds and gardens. Most of them practice Sunni Islam, as opposed to the majority of Azeries who are Shiite, and speak their own language. This is a great place to learn about the local lifestyle, buy handmade produce and enjoy stunning views of the Caucasus mountains. Including Bazardüzü which with its 4,466 meters is Azerbaijan’s highest peak.

Sheki, 4 hours away from Baku direction Georgia , is one of the oldest human settlements in the Caucasus region, dating back from over 2,500 years ago. The city of Sheki was once famous for its silks and textiles, a tradition that remains alive in the area and that tourists still get to enjoy.

Sheki is a UNESCO world heritage site and its must-see spots include castles, mosques, caravanserais, souks, and bathhouses. Among them, Skei Khan’s Palace, built in the 18th century without a single nail, is the number one place to see. Don’t miss its beautiful wall paintings and carved windows.

Stopping in the nearby village of Kish is also much recommended, as here you’ll find a Chirstian church from the 5th century resembling those so common in Georgia and Armenia .

14. Ganja, Lake Goygol, and Mount Goyazan

Ganja is the second largest city in Azerbaijan and one of the oldest in the Caucasus region. It’s 4 hours away from Baku , in the direction of Armenia , near lake Goygol and barely an hour and a half from the Goyazan mountains. 

Unique landmark to explore in Ganja include the Heydar Aliyev, Atatürk, and Cavadxan streets, Juma Mosque, medieval Hamam, local theater, City Hall, and Bottle House. Along with the Soviet-style hotel dedicated to the poet Nizami, and the Imamzadeh Mausoleum and its mosque. 

An hour south from Ganja stands lake Goygol, a wonderful mountain lake created by an earthquake in the 12th century. Its super blue waters make this part of the Caucasus mountains one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

Nearby Goygol village is also an interesting stop. This is a former German village featuring a Lutheran church and typical German houses.

On the opposite direction, if heading North from Ganja for nearly two hours, stands Mount Goyazan. This lone mountain of 857 meters stands against a flat background of beautiful plain rolling fields offering spectacular views of the nearby villages and the Armenian border. Photography, geography, and mountain lovers should certainly include it among their best places to visit in Azerbaijan.

Located in the midlands 3 hours away from Baku , Lahic mountain village is famous since medieval times. Its popularity comes from its coppersmith workshops, most of which sell their products in local shops and teahouses. These include carpets, rugs, jewellery, paintings, tannery, and shoes.

The all time best pieces made by all of them are exhibited in the local museum. Thus, Lahic is exactly the mountain village you are picturing: winding narrow streets, old stone houses, tiny artisan shops, apple trees, horses, and lots of sheep. There’s a few accommodation options and plenty of hiking opportunities in the area.

Recap on the best places to visit in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a wonderful country to visit and offers plenty to do to every kind of traveler. From vibrant cities such as Baku to remote mountain villages, wonderful beach resorts, and endless historical sites.

For those with enough time to venture away form the capital, heard to the Iranian border for wonderful beach towns. Especially Lankaran and Astara. If you prefer heading North, your best beach town is Nabran.

In the Northern part of the country you’ll also find the beautiful mountain towns of Quba and Xinaliq. Finally, if visiting the Azeri midlands don’t miss Gabala, Sheki, nor Ganja and their surroundings. Plenty of mosques, palaces, caravanserais and stunning mountain valleys await in the area. 

Either way, ensure your list of best places to visit in Azerbaijan includes culture, nature, fire, and water. And, above all, enjoy your trip. Head to my Instagram and/or Tiktok pages for insights of my trip around the country, and feel free to contact me with any questions.

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Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan:

Exploring the enchanting diversity of azerbaijan:.

Welcome, wanderers, to a land of captivating contrasts and hidden treasures – Azerbaijan! Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this diverse country beckons with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a unique blend of modernity and tradition. In this travel blog post, we’ll embark on a journey through some of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Azerbaijan, each with its own distinct charm waiting to be discovered.

Map of Azerbaijan and Bordering Countries:

Map Showing Azerbaijan Location in Asia:

Countries Azerbaijan Borders:

Azerbaijan: Located in Eurasia , in the region of the southern Caucasus Mountains, at the juncture of Eastern Europe and West Asia , Azerbaijan borders the  Caspian Sea  to the east, Georgia and Russia to the north, Iran to the south, and Armenia to the southwest and west, and via the exclave of  Nakhichevan , which is separated from the Azerbaijani heartland by an Armenian land corridor, to Turkey . The population of Azerbaijan in 2023 is estimated at just over  10.4 million people.

• Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic
• Caspian Sea
• Eastern Europe

1. Baku – Where Old Meets New:

Let’s kick off our adventure in Baku, the capital city that seamlessly blends historic architecture with futuristic skyscrapers. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old City (Icherisheher), where centuries-old walls stand in contrast to modern art installations. Don’t miss the iconic Flame Towers, the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Center, and the panoramic views from the Baku Funicular.

Best Place for Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast at a local cafe, savoring aromatic tea and freshly baked pastries.

2. Sheki – A Timeless Gem:

Travel back in time to Sheki, a charming town surrounded by lush landscapes. Explore the Sheki Khan’s Palace, adorned with intricate stained glass windows, and immerse yourself in the history of the ancient Caravanserai. The serene Sheki Bazaar offers a taste of local life and flavors.

Hidden Gem: Discover the Sheki Fortress, nestled atop a hill, and soak in breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains.

3. Gabala – Nature’s Wonderland:

Nature lovers, Gabala is your haven. This picturesque region offers lush valleys, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. Adventure seekers can enjoy zip-lining, paragliding, and horseback riding. Explore the Tufandag Mountain Resort for thrilling skiing or simply soak in the serene surroundings.

Best Coffee Break: Pause at a local cafe, sipping Azerbaijani coffee while gazing at the stunning landscapes.

4. Gobustan (Qobustan ) – A Window to the Past:

Unveil the secrets of ancient civilizations at the Gobustan National Park (Also known as Qobustan ). Marvel at the rock engravings dating back thousands of years and gain insights into the lives of prehistoric communities. The Gaval Dash, a remarkable ancient musical stone, adds an intriguing touch.

Unique Experience: Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the petroglyphs and the stories they tell.

5. Quba Region – An Oasis of Greenery:

Quba’s lush landscapes offer a refreshing contrast to Azerbaijan’s arid regions (Also known as Guba) . Escape to Qechresh Forest for a serene hike and embrace the stunning vistas. The Qechresh Waterfall, hidden amidst the forest, is a magical spot for a moment of tranquility.

Sunset Spot: Capture the sunset from Qechresh Hill, where the golden hues paint the landscape in an ethereal glow.

Little Gem: Khinaliq Village high up in the mountains with very friendly locals. (More on Khinaliq Village below)

Did we mention the food? EAT!

Azerbaijani cuisine is a true masterpiece, captivating travelers with its rich flavors and unique culinary traditions. From aromatic herbs to succulent meats, the cuisine reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences.

Don’t miss out on savoring “Plov,” a fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron and tender lamb, often considered Azerbaijan’s national dish. Indulge in “Dolma,” grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mix of rice and minced meat, and relish the savory delight of “Dushbara,” tiny dumplings swimming in a flavorful broth. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try “Pakhlava,” a delightful layered pastry drenched in honey and nuts.

With spices dancing through every dish and hospitality embedded in every meal, Azerbaijan’s culinary journey is an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Azerbaijan:

Before you embark on your journey to Azerbaijan, it’s essential to be well-prepared for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential things to know before traveling to Azerbaijan:

• Visa Requirements: Check whether you need a visa to enter Azerbaijan based on your nationality. Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, while others may need to apply in advance.
• Currency: The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). It’s recommended to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases, as not all places may accept credit cards.
• Language: Azerbaijani (Azeri) is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas and hotels, learning a few basic phrases in Azerbaijani can enhance your experience.
• Local Customs and Etiquette: Azeri culture places importance on hospitality and respect. When visiting homes or religious sites, remove your shoes and dress modestly. It’s also polite to accept offered tea or refreshments.
• Health Precautions: Check if any vaccinations are recommended before traveling to Azerbaijan. It’s advisable to carry any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events during your trip.
• Climate and Packing: Azerbaijan experiences a range of climates, from hot summers to cold winters. Pack accordingly, including lightweight clothing for summer and warm layers for winter, especially if you’re visiting mountainous areas.
• Power Outlets: The standard voltage is 220V, and the outlets usually fit the European two-pin plugs. Make sure to bring the appropriate adapters if needed.
• Safety: Azerbaijan is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying signs of affluence.
• Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations. Possession of drugs, public displays of affection, and taking photographs near military or government buildings may be prohibited.
• Transportation: Public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services are available in major cities. Negotiate taxi fares in advance or ensure the meter is used. Check public transportation schedules in advance, as they may vary.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours.
• Local Apps and Maps: Utilize local transportation apps and offline maps to navigate cities and find points of interest.

By keeping these essential factors in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to have a rewarding and memorable experience as you explore Azerbaijan’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and historical sites.

How to Get to Azerbaijan:

Getting to Azerbaijan involves various transportation options, depending on your location and preferences. Here’s how you can reach this captivating destination:

• By Air: The most common way to reach Azerbaijan is by air. The Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku is the primary gateway. It’s well-connected to major international cities, offering both direct flights and convenient connections. Check with airlines for available routes and schedules.
• By Land: If you’re traveling from neighboring countries, you can enter Azerbaijan by land. Borders are shared with Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran. Ensure you have the necessary visas and check border crossing regulations in advance.
• By Sea: Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, is situated on the Caspian Sea coast. While there are cargo ports, passenger ferries connecting other countries to Azerbaijan are limited. Check for availability and schedules if considering this option.
• Transit Flights: If direct flights to Azerbaijan are not available from your location, you can opt for transit flights through major international hubs. This may require layovers but could offer more flexibility in terms of airlines and pricing.
• Local Transportation: Once you’ve arrived in Azerbaijan, you can use a combination of public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services to get around within cities and explore the country’s various regions.
• Travel Agencies and Online Resources: Travel agencies and online booking platforms can help you find suitable flights and transportation options to Azerbaijan. Research and compare options to secure the best deals.

Remember that flight availability, schedules, and entry requirements can change, so it’s advisable to stay updated with the latest information and consider consulting with travel agencies or official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.

How to Get Around Azerbaijan:

Getting around Azerbaijan is relatively easy, with a variety of transportation options available to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. Here’s how you can navigate Azerbaijan:

• By Domestic Flights: If you’re covering long distances, domestic flights are available between major cities like Baku, Ganja, Nakhchivan, and Lankaran. This option saves time and allows you to travel comfortably between different regions.
• By Train: Azerbaijan has a network of trains connecting major cities and towns. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway also offers an international route to Georgia and Turkey. Trains are relatively comfortable and provide scenic views of the countryside.
• By Bus and Minibuses: Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are widely used for intercity and regional travel. They are economical and connect even smaller towns and villages. However, schedules might not always be strictly adhered to.
• By Metro: Baku has a modern and efficient metro system that is an excellent way to get around the city. It connects major neighborhoods and attractions, making it convenient for tourists.
• By Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in urban areas. Make sure to agree on the fare or use a meter before starting the ride. Ride-sharing apps provide transparent pricing.
• By Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained, and signage is in both Azerbaijani and Latin script. However, driving rules and etiquette may differ from what you’re used to.
• By Shared Taxis: Shared taxis operate on specific routes, and passengers share the fare with others. This is a cost-effective way to travel between cities, especially when regular buses are less frequent.
• By Bicycle: Some cities and towns in Azerbaijan offer bike-sharing services or rental options. Biking can be a pleasant way to explore certain areas and enjoy the scenery.
• Walking: Exploring city centers and historical sites on foot allows you to soak in the local atmosphere, discover hidden corners, and engage with locals.

Always consider the nature of your trip, the distances you need to cover, and the convenience of each mode of transportation. Local maps, apps, and asking for advice from locals can further enhance your travel experience in Azerbaijan.

FAQ – Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan and Traveling to Azerbaijan in General

Traveling to azerbaijan: frequently asked questions (faq).

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Azerbaijan? Visa requirements vary based on your nationality. Some countries have visa-free access, while others require a visa. Check Azerbaijan’s official government website or your local Azerbaijani embassy/consulate for the latest visa information.

2. What’s the currency used in Azerbaijan? The official currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). It’s advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.

3. What languages are spoken in Azerbaijan? Azerbaijani (Azeri) is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas and hotels, learning a few basic phrases in Azerbaijani can enhance your experience.

4. What’s the best time to visit Azerbaijan? Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are popular times to visit due to pleasant weather. Summer (June to August) is great for exploring mountain regions, and winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing.

5. Is Azerbaijan safe for travelers? Azerbaijan is generally safe for travelers. However, like any destination, it’s advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas. Stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories.

6. What’s the local etiquette and dress code? Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Public displays of affection should be kept discreet. Accept offered tea or refreshments as a sign of hospitality.

7. Is tap water safe to drink in Azerbaijan? While tap water is generally safe in urban areas, it’s recommended to drink bottled water for your comfort and peace of mind.

8. How can I access the internet in Azerbaijan? Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and public places in cities. You can also get a local SIM card with a data plan for internet connectivity.

9. What’s the tipping culture in Azerbaijan? Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants, and small tips can be given to taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.

10. Can I use my credit card in Azerbaijan? Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

11. How can I get around within Azerbaijan? Transportation options include domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, ride-sharing services, car rentals, and walking. Choose the mode that suits your itinerary and preferences.

12. Are there any cultural events or festivals in Azerbaijan? Yes, Azerbaijan hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Novruz holiday (March 20-21) and the Baku Jazz Festival are notable examples.

13. How can I stay updated on travel advisories and restrictions? Check your government’s travel advisories and the official Azerbaijani government websites for up-to-date information on entry requirements, health protocols, and travel restrictions.

14. What’s the emergency number in Azerbaijan? The emergency number for police, medical assistance, and fire services in Azerbaijan is 102.

Before you travel to Azerbaijan, research the latest information, check for entry requirements, and respect local customs and regulations. This will help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching travel experience in this fascinating country.

Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the must-visit places in Azerbaijan? Azerbaijan offers a diverse range of attractions. Must-visit places include Baku’s Old City (Icherisheher), Gobustan National Park, Sheki’s Khan’s Palace, the scenic Gabala region, and the ancient city of Ganja.

2. Are there any historical sites to explore? Absolutely. Explore the ancient Gobustan Rock Engravings, the UNESCO-listed Maiden Tower in Baku, the 12th-century Shaki Khan’s Palace, and the medieval Nizami Mausoleum in Ganja.

3. What natural wonders can I discover in Azerbaijan? Azerbaijan boasts stunning natural landscapes. Explore the scenic Guba region, experience the mud volcanoes of Gobustan, visit the picturesque Lahij village, and enjoy the tranquility of Sheki’s forests.

4. Are there any unique cultural experiences to enjoy? Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Baku’s Taza Bazaar, witness traditional carpet weaving in Quba, and attend the Novruz holiday celebrations in March for a taste of Azerbaijani culture.

5. Can I explore the Caucasus Mountains in Azerbaijan? Yes, Azerbaijan is home to the stunning Caucasus Mountains. Discover Shahdag National Park for hiking and skiing, and explore the picturesque Lahij village nestled in the mountains.

6. Are there any architectural marvels to see? Baku’s Flame Towers and the modern Heydar Aliyev Center are architectural marvels. Additionally, the 15th-century Shirvanshahs’ Palace showcases medieval Azerbaijani architecture.

7. Can I experience the Caspian Sea coast? Absolutely. Baku’s Seaside Boulevard offers scenic views of the Caspian Sea. The city’s waterfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can enjoy a boat ride or yacht tour.

8. Is there a unique city with an old-world charm? Sheki is a gem with its cobbled streets and historic architecture. Explore the Sheki Khan’s Palace, Sheki Caravanserai, and the charming local bazaar.

9. What’s the attraction of the Guba region? The Guba region is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, serene lakes, and the charming Qechresh Forest. It’s a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

10. Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Azerbaijan? Yes, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, the historic center of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace, and the Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshahs’ Palace are UNESCO-listed sites.

11. How can I explore the Caspian Sea islands? Take a boat tour to the Caspian Sea islands such as Qiz Qalasi (Maiden Tower) and the Atashgah Fire Temple to learn about their history and significance.

12. Can I experience traditional Azerbaijani cuisine? Absolutely. Savor Azerbaijani delights like Plov, Dolma, and Kebabs. Don’t miss enjoying a cup of fragrant Azerbaijani tea along with pastries.

13. Are there any festivals to attend in Azerbaijan? Yes, you can attend the Novruz holiday celebrations in March, Baku Jazz Festival, and International Mugham Festival for a taste of Azerbaijani music and culture.

14. How can I navigate within Azerbaijan to visit these places? Options include domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rentals. Choose based on your itinerary and preferences.

Before you embark on your journey to explore the captivating destinations in Azerbaijan, research the latest information, check opening hours, and consider seeking advice from locals or travel experts for an enriching travel experience.

You want more on Places to Visit in Azerbaijan? ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️

BONUS GEM: Khinaliq Village

Nestled high in the rugged Caucasus Mountains of Azerbaijan, Khinaliq Village is a remote and enchanting destination that feels like a step back in time. Perched at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, this ancient village boasts a rich history and a unique charm that is truly captivating.

The traditional stone houses, built to withstand the harsh mountain climate, appear to cling to the steep slopes, creating a picturesque mosaic of terracotta rooftops against a backdrop of dramatic peaks. As you wander the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll be greeted by warm smiles from the local inhabitants who have preserved their age-old traditions, including their distinct language and customs.

Khinaliq offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Azerbaijani mountain culture while enjoying breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan – Final Thoughts:

Azerbaijan, with its fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty, invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey. From the bustling streets of Baku to the serene landscapes of Sheki, Gabala, Gobustan, and Quba, every corner reveals a new facet of this enchanting country.

So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and let Azerbaijan’s hidden gems guide you on an exploration like no other.

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Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Azerbaijan – By David John

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Azerbaijan Hotels and Places to Stay

Azerbaijan pushes for increased Israeli tourism

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Florida Jewish Journal Palm Beach Jewish News

(JNS) Azerbaijan is working to boost Israeli tourism, with the flight schedule between Tel Aviv and Baku returning to pre-war levels this month, the head of Azerbaijani tourism bureau said in Tel Aviv.

The wartime tourism push by the predominantly Shi’ite Muslim country is the latest sign of the burgeoning ties between the two countries, at a time of growing antisemitism around the world and isolation of Israel amid its six-month old war with Hamas.

“Azerbaijan continues to be open and safe for Israeli tourists,” Florian Sangeschmidt, CEO of the Azerbaijain Tourism Board, told JNS during an official visit for the annual Israeli Tourism expo. “It is an important message that we are here.”

Only 12 countries, including Azerbaijain, sent representatives to Tel Aviv Tourism Exhibition on April 3-4, which focused on promoting tourism to Israel after the war, while some two dozen other nations other participated in the event last year were notably absent. The additional countries participating in the event were France, Czech Republic, Cyprus, El Salvador, Taiwan, India, Greece, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Romania and Ethiopia.

Defying external pressures, the state-run Azerbaijan Airlines resumed direct flights from Baku to Tel Aviv last month, and is now operating nine weekly flights between the two cities. Together with the three flights that Israir is also relaunching at the end of the month, the number of flights between the two countries is now returning to pre-war levels, Azerbaijaini tourism officials said.

“There is this perception of Azerbaijain as Muslim nation, but it is really a colorful tapestry and destination showcasing a multi-ethnic society,” he added. He noted that many Israelis had thanked him for coming to the tourism expo during wartime.

Thirty thousand Israelis visited Azerbaijan last year, which remained a safe haven for Israelis as antisemitism surged in European capitals and around the globe following the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre.

Last year, Azerbaijan made history by becoming the first Shi’ite country to open an embassy in Israel.

For Israel, ties with Azerbaijan—which shares a 428-mile border with Iran and supplies and estimated 30% of the Jewish state’s oil—are of strategic importance. At the same time, Azerbaijan is a leading purchaser of Israeli military hardware, which helped lift Baku to victory in its 2020 war with archrival Armenia.

About 25,000-30,000 Jews live in Azerbaijan today, while tens of thousands of Jews from Azerbaijan immigrated to Israel and maintain strong ties with the Caucasus nation.

To read more content visit www.jns.org

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