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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

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

Must-see attractions in Azerbaijan

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…

Lənkəran’s sprawling bazaar area is centred on an architecturally drab concrete hangar, but it’s loaded with colourful produce and equally colourful local…

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…

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…

Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve

The Unesco-listed Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve protects thousands of stick-figure stone engravings dating back up to 12,000 years. Themes include livestock…

Ateşgah Fire Temple

The unique Ateşgah is an 18th-century fire temple whose centrepiece is a flaming hearth. Arching above is a four-pillared stone dome with side flues which…

Mud Volcanoes

On top of utterly unpromising little Daşgil Hill is a weird collection of baby mud volcanoes, a whole family of ‘geologically flatulent’ little conical…

Kiş Albanian Church

The brilliantly renovated round-towered 'temple' in pretty Kiş village has been lovingly converted into a very well-presented trilingual museum. It’s the…

This joyous tailor-made gallery uses struts and tubing to create a wide variety of intimate viewing spaces, in many of which you can recline on bean-bag…

Laza is a diffuse scattering of houses encircled by soaring mountains with grass-clad slopes and ribbon waterfalls cascading over perilous cliff edges. A…

For a surreal slice of transplanted Teutonic history, drive around half an hour south of Gəncə to this agreeable small town founded as Helenendorf by…

Beşbarmaq Dağ

Atop a supersteep grassy ridge, Beşbarmaq Dağ is a distinctive split crag whose mystical crown of phallic rocks attracts (mostly female) pilgrims. They…

In a raised gully near Digah village, a 10m-long strip of 'eternal' fire licks gently at at the foot of Fire Mountain. The name is misleading for what is…

Chabiant Winery

Chabiant Winery offers the most appealing visitor experience of Azerbaijan's new breed of vineyards, with a hotel, tastings and swifts swooping between…

İlisu Village

Two beautiful high-altitude valleys meet at charming little İlisu. Amazingly this diminutive village of photogenic old homes was once the capital of a…

Quba 1918 Genocide Memorial Complex

A startling pair of concrete spike-pyramids rise dramatically above a subterranean museum that very powerfully commemorates the massacres of April and May…

Naxçivan's most attractive settlement appears like an oasis amid craggy desert landscapes. Its central square features a classic old-men's teahouse…

Cahan Kudi Xatun

Second only to the Möminə Xatun as Azerbaijan's most impressive medieval tomb-tower, the main 1320 mausoleum is a ribbed cylinder inlaid with ample 'Allah…

Qala Ethnographic Museum Complex

This impressive open-air park-museum features several furnished, traditional-style Abşeron buildings – such as a house, blacksmith's forge, potters'…

Old Gabala Site

Today's Qəbələ was renamed for an ancient city mentioned in Pliny the Elder’s Natural History (AD 77), and forgotten after it was destroyed by the 18th…

One of Northern Azerbaijan's most culturally intriguing villages, Qrız sits on the crag-top plateau that looks out across the cliffs above Çaygoşan. The…

Xan Yaylağı

High above the city, a plateau of summer pastures known as Xan Yaylağı offers truly superb viewpoints back over the valley and northwards towards high…

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…

In decades past, being sent to a Soviet salt mine was a synonym for horror. At Duzdağ, however, a former mine site has been converted into a curative…

Full of rare trees, cafes, fountains and fairground rides, the central sweep of Baku's seafront park is eternally popular with families, amateur musicians…

Qırmızı Qəsəbə

Across the river from central Quba, Qırmızı Qəsəbə is a much-celebrated Jewish village with two active synagogues, including the Grand Synagogue. Its…

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…

Noah's Tomb

An octagonal tomb-tower with gilded roof-point stands just outside the small side gate at Naxçivanqala's south tip. It was built in 2008 but the brickwork…

Shahdag National Park

The vast Shahdag National Park covers over 1.3 million sq km, encompassing many of the nation's most spectacular peaks and high-mountain trails. Lower…

Hand-woven carpets using wool coloured with vegetable dyes are created before your eyes in this amazingly grand, suburban gallery-workshop that includes a…

Lake Göy Göl

South of Göygöl are numerous woodland restaurants, then after Hacikənd the road emerges onto a ridge with magnificent views of the Lesser Caucasus range,…

Hüseynov Küç

Lahıc’s pedestrianised main street is unevenly paved with smooth pale river-stones and lined with older houses built traditionally with interleaving stone…

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…

More destinations you need to see

• 3.1 Notable national parks and reserves
• 3.2 Notable towns and villages
• 3.3 Resorts
• 4.1.1 Ancient
• 4.1.2 Medieval
• 4.1.3 Early Modern
• 4.1.4 Soviet
• 4.1.5 Post-Soviet
• 4.2 Culture
• 4.3 Celebrate
• 4.4 Climate
• 4.5 Terrain
• 4.6 Economy
• 4.7 Electricity
• 4.8 Visitor information
• 5.1 Visa requirements
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By train
• 5.6 By boat
• 6.1 By bus or marshrutka
• 6.2 By train
• 6.3 By taxi
• 6.5 By rental car
• 6.6 By thumb
• 6.7 On foot and navigation
• 9.2 Itineraries
• 16.1 Corruption
• 16.2 Photography
• 16.3 Dangerous areas
• 16.4 LGBT travellers
• 16.5 Safety tips
• 16.6 Emergency contact numbers
• 17 Stay healthy
• 19.1.1 Politics
• 19.1.2 Religion
• 19.1.3 Social custom and etiquette breaches
• 19.2 Other things to watch for
• 19.3 Gay and lesbian travellers
• 20.1 Area codes

Azerbaijan ( Azerbaijani : Azərbaycan ) is a former Soviet republic in the Caucasus and is variously considered part of Europe or Asia .

Often known as the "Land of Fire", Azerbaijan was ceded to the Russian Empire by the Persian Empire in the late 19th century.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

There are 71 urban settlements in Azerbaijan with the official status of a city. However, only 3 of them have population more than 300,000 people — Baku , Sumqayit and Ganja — and Sumgayit is de facto a suburb of Baku today. Here are the most important destinations to explore in the country:

• 40.366656 49.835183 1 Baku (Bakı) — The capital and largest city of the Caucasus .
• 40.682778 46.360556 2 Ganja (Gəncə) — Azerbaijan's second largest city has a long history, some important sites and an interesting and manifold architecture.
• 38.753611 48.851111 3 Lankaran (Lənkəran) — Southern city near the Iranian border.
• 39.208889 45.412222 4 Nakhchivan (Naxçıvan) — The administrative capital of Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan exclave.
• 40.981389 47.845833 5 Qabala — A new resort town deep in Caucasian Mountains, which has taken its name given from the archaeological site about 20 km southwest.
• 41.191944 47.170556 6 Sheki — A beautiful city in the forested Caucasus Mountains with lots to see and do. It has one of the largest densities of cultural resources and monuments that span 2,700 years of Azerbaijani history.
• 40.633889 48.639167 7 Shemakha — The capital city of Shirvanshahs before Baku.
• 40.591667 49.639722 8 Sumqayit — Due to its industrial plants, the Blacksmith Institute, a US environmental pollution agency, ranked the city as the first in the most polluted cities of the planet, both in 2006 and 2007.

Other destinations [ edit ]

Notable national parks and reserves [ edit ].

• 40.084167 49.415833 1 Qobustan National Historical-Artistic Reserve — best known for its rock petroglyphs (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and mud volcanoes. Mud volcano wise, a better option might be the free site a little further south, see Baku Region .
• 40.405833 46.3225 2 Göygöl National Park — about 25 km further afield from Ganja, near Toğanalı. A hiking and leisure destination, whose lake was formed during a strong earthquake in 1139.
• Ismailli State Reserve — a national park, also offering some fancy hotels.

Notable towns and villages [ edit ]

• 41.177778 48.126944 3 Khinalug (Xinaliq) — A scenic, remote and ancient mountain village, and the mountain of the same name nearby. Once a centre of Zoroastrianism; today the few inhabitants are an ethnic isolate believed to be descendants of the Caucasus Albanians (unrelated to modern-day Albanians of Albania).
• 41.762222 48.697778 4 Nabran (Nebran) — Nabran is rich in many recreational facilities offering a wide range of services: luxury accommodations, sports activities, children's camps and music entertainment venues.
• 41.365278 48.526389 5 Quba — Its urban suburb is home to the largest Azerbaijani Jewish community in the mountains and is considered one of the largest Jewish communities in the former Soviet Union.
• 40.849211 48.383734 6 Lahich — A cozy and remote highland village, and potential "base camp" for tracks to Quba through the Caucasus Mountains.
• 41.419444 46.918056 7 Qax — A gateway into the Caucasian Mountains besides Sheki, and "base camp" for treks towards Sarıbaş and into the Alazan Valley .
• Nij (Nic) — Enormous village of endangering Christian ethnic group, the Udins.
• Göygöl — A must visit German town in the suburbs of Ganja, formerly named Khanlar (Xanlar) and Helenendorf, founded by German farmers from Bavarian Swabia. Today, the town remains an old German neighbourhood in excellent conditions and partly renovated, including a Lutheran church. A local museum shows the finds (e.g. bronze weapons, jewels, pottery, etc.) extracted from a large cemetery excavated in 1990.
• Shamkir — Another by Germans populated town. There are cognac and wine plantations.

Resorts [ edit ]

• Shahdag Ski Resort — in Northeastern Azerbaijan .
• Ski Complex "Tufan" [dead link] — near Gabala in the Sheki Region .
• 40.505833 46.819167 8 Naftalan — A well-known petroleum spa resort, the centre of medical tourism in Azerbaijan.
• Beaches of Absheron Peninsula and Northeastern Azerbaijan . This region is home to the top-rated beaches and luxury resorts of the Caspian coast.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Ever at the crossroads between east and west, Azerbaijan has seen the comings and goings of several great empires.

Ancient [ edit ]

Some of the country's best attractions are the Gobustan petroglyphs. These are the markings of people who lived in the area 40,000 - 5,000 years ago. Scythians and Iranian Medes occupied the area in around 900–700 BCE. The Achaemenids made things interesting by introducing Zoroastrianism in around 550 BCE. Later, the area was on the fringes of Alexander the Great's empire and the Roman Empire.

Medieval [ edit ]

Christianity came in the fourth century but disappeared when the area became part of the second Islamic (Umayyad) Caliphate in the 7th century. Various local kingdoms emerged after the Umayyad Caliphate fell in 750 CE, before the Mongols conquered Azerbaijan in the 11th century.

Early Modern [ edit ]

After the various Mongol empires withdrew, the area fell to the Persians. Persian control was not tight and highly independent khanates controlled the region until the Russian Empire expanded southward in the early 19th century. The traditional Azeri lands ended up being split between Persia and the Russian Empire; today's Republic of Azerbaijan comprised the part of the Azeri lands that were ceded to the Russian Empire, while the parts that Persia retained control of remain part of Iran as Iranian Azerbaijan . Oil was first drilled here in the late 19th century.

Soviet [ edit ]

The fall of the Russian Empire saw the brief emergence of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918. However, Lenin realized that the region's oil was vital to the Soviet army and, along with Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan was rolled into the USSR by the 1920s. Azerbaijan's oil was vital again to the Soviets in the Second World War, in which 250,000 of the country's 3.4 million people were killed at the front.

Post-Soviet [ edit ]

As Soviet control weakened in 1991, the mostly ethnic Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh region, backed by Armenia , fought for independence from Azerbaijan, and ethnically cleansed its Azeri population. Azerbaijan lost 14% of its territory and gained some 800,000 refugees and internally displaced, and also ethnically cleansed its Armenian population. Despite a 1994 cease-fire, the status of Nagorno-Karabakh was not resolved until 2023, when a new Azerbaijani offensive resulted in the surrender of the rebels. Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population has mostly fled to Armenia, and the area is expected to be repopulated with ethnic Azeris. Since independence, Turkey has been Azerbaijan's closest ally, though unlike U.S.-aligned Georgia , relations between Azerbaijan and Russia remain cordial.

Culture [ edit ]

The majority of the population (over 92%) is composed of Azeris, who share a culture very similar to Turkey. Ethnic Azeris are also Iran's largest ethnic minority, with Iran having a larger Azeri population than independent Azerbaijan, although over time the influence of Russian and Persian culture produced some differences between the Azeris of Azerbaijan and the Azeris of Iran. In particular, almost two centuries of Russian and Soviet rule have brought a very liberal attitude towards Islam among the Azeris of Azerbaijan, who nevertheless remain mostly Shi'ite Muslims.

Following independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has allowed Western European companies to develop its extensive energy resources and its oil production has skyrocketed especially since the mid-2000s. Despite this and related investments, most of the new-found wealth remains in the hands of a few people. While downtown Baku is thriving with new buildings and a growing middle class, much of the country's countryside remains poor and relatively undeveloped. The government remains strongly authoritarian.

Celebrate [ edit ]

These are the nationally recognized holidays for people living in Azerbaijan.

• New Year (1–2 January)
• Women's Day (8 March)
• Victory Day (9 May)
• Republic Day (28 May)
• Day of National Salvation of Azerbaijan People (15 June)
• Day of Military Forces of Azerbaijan Republic (26 June)
• State Sovereignty Day (18 October)
• Constitution Day (12 November)
• National Rebirth Day (17 November)
• Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis (31 December)
• Novruz Bayram – 5 days
• Gurban Bayram (Day of Sacrifice) - 2 days
• Eid el Fitr (post-Ramadan celebration) 2–3 days

Climate [ edit ]

Azerbaijan is known for having nine of the 11 existing ecological zones. Much of the country is temperate year-round. Nation-wide the average temperature for the year is 14-15°C (57-59°F). The Caucasus Mountains protect the country from the Arctic air masses that affect Russia in winter while the Caspian Sea shields it from the hot, dry air of Central Asia in the summer. Temperatures in the winter are cool (0-10°C/32-59°F) at lower altitudes and along the coast and drops moderately as you head inland and drastically as you head into the mountains (-20°C/-4°F) is possible in the Caucasus Mountains). Summers range from warm to hot (20-40°C/68-104°F) and humid throughout most of the country, although breezes off the Caspian provide some relief along the coast. Nakhchivan is quite different, high and arid, summers here can easily surpass 40°C (104°F) while winter nights often drop below -20°C (-4°F)...in fact the country's extreme minimum and maximum (-33°C/-27°F & 46°C/115°F) were both recorded in southern Nakhchivan!

Snow is rare in Baku and along the coast in general while common inland and copious in the mountains, where many villages may be cut off during the winter. The southern forests are the wettest part of the country, with plenty of rain in late autumn and early spring. The western central coast is fairly dry. Lankaran receives the most annual precipitation (1600–1800 mm/63–71 in) while the region around Baku averages 200 mm (8 in). Baku is very breezy, much like Chicago or Wellington , most of the year.

Terrain [ edit ]

Much of the large, flat Kura-Araks lowlands ( Kur-Araz Ovaligi ) are below sea level with the Great Caucasus Mountains towering on the northern horizons. The Karabakh uplands ( Qarabag Yaylasi ) lie to the west, while Baku is situated on the Apsheron peninsula ( Abseron Yasaqligi that juts into the Caspian Sea.

The lowest point is the Caspian Sea at −27 m (−89 ft) with the highest point being Bazarduzu Dagi at 4,466m (14,652 ft)

Absheron Yasaqligi (including Baku and Sumgayit) and the Caspian Sea are ecological concerns because of pollution from oil spills that date back more than a century ago. Heavy car traffic in the capital contributes to heavy pollution as well.

Economy [ edit ]

Azerbaijan's number one export is oil. Azerbaijan's oil production declined through 1997 but has registered an increase every year since. Negotiation of production-sharing arrangements (PSAs) with foreign firms, which have thus far committed $60 billion to oilfield development, should generate the funds needed to spur future industrial development.

Azerbaijan shares all the formidable problems of the former Soviet republics in making the transition from a command to a market economy, but its considerable energy resources brighten its long-term prospects.

The government has begun making progress on economic reform, and old economic ties and structures are slowly being replaced. An obstacle to economic progress, including stepped up foreign investment in the non-energy sector, is the continuing conflict with Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Trade with Russia and the other former Soviet republics is declining in importance while trade is building with Turkey and the nations of Europe. Long-term prospects will depend on world oil prices, the location of new pipelines in the region and Azerbaijan's ability to manage its oil wealth.

Electricity [ edit ]

Electricity is supplied at 220 V 50 Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko" or the compatible, but non-grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Generally speaking, U.S. and Canadian travelers should pack an adapter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Azerbaijan.

Additionally, some older buildings may be still equipped with Soviet-era outlets. The Soviet GOST-7396 standard was very similar to the current European CEE-7/7 "Schuko plug", but the pins were of a 4.0 mm diameter, while the Schuko features 4.8 mm pins. As such, the pins of a Schuko may be too large to fit into a Soviet-era outlet, although the smaller Europlug will still fit. Although the Soviet-era outlets have largely been phased out, travellers who are particularly concerned with having the ability to plug in at all times may consider packing an adapter for the Soviet-era outlets too, just in case.

Also, make sure to bring your own automated voltage adapter because the electricity in Azerbaijan short circuits and "jumps" a lot and many items may get damaged if you don't bring the adapter.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Official tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

Visa requirements [ edit ].

In 2016 Azerbaijan introduced a new single-entry eVisa for citizens of the following countries:

• All European Union member states, as well as Andorra, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, Serbia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and Vatican City
• Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Nepal, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, and Vietnam

The eVisa costs US$20, plus $4 for administration fee, is valid for 30 days within the next three months after application, and can be purchased at evisa.gov.az – photocopy of your passport, and address of your stay needs to be provided. Caution : there is a fake official website: evisa .com. az – also providing visas but requiring you to purchase an overpriced tour or expensive hotel.

A visa is not required for stays of 90 days or less for citizens of Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

A 30-day  visa on arrival  may be obtained  only when arriving by air  by citizens of Bahrain, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Turkey (60 days) and United Arab Emirates.

Citizens of the United States may also obtain a visa on arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, but only if arriving via a direct flight of Azerbaijan Airlines from  New York City .

Citizens of Iran may obtain a 15-day visa on arrival for  Nakhchivan  only.

For citizens of all other countries visas can be obtained by mail or in person from any Azerbaijani embassy offering consular services. A letter of invitation (LOI) from a contact in Azerbaijan is required.

Foreigners staying in Azerbaijan for longer than 15 days  should register with the State Migration Service  within 15 working days of arrival. Failure to register within this time frame will incur a fine of 300 manat (2019). The registration is free and can be done  online  by submitting copy of the passport and filled in application form or in person at specially designed offices of State Migration Service (one of such offices will be opened eventually at the Train Station, however it was closed as of 2015). Hotels may provide this service for their guests, but travellers are strongly advised to ensure the registration has been completed indeed as hotels are more than often skip doing it.

By plane [ edit ]

The primary international gateway is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku ( GYD  IATA ), with additional international airports (whose international routes are basically just Moscow and Istanbul) found in Nakhchivan City ( NAJ  IATA ), Ganja ( KVD  IATA ), and Lankaran ( LLK  IATA ).

National air company AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) is the main carrier which flies to Ganja, Nakhchivan, Tbilisi, Aktau, Tehran, Tel-Aviv, Ankara, Istanbul IST, Istanbul Sahiha Gokchen, Antalya (seasonal), Bodrum (seasonal), Dubai, Moscow, Saint Petersburg , Kyiv, Rostov-on-Don, Ürümqi, Mineralniye Vodi, Milan, London (daily) and Paris, Prague, Rome. Lufthansa also has a couple flights a week to Baku (which continue onwards to Ashgabat ). Turkish Airlines is another carrier connecting Baku with and via Istanbul. Also, there are several Russian, Ukrainian, Uzbek, Iranian, and Austrian airlines connecting Baku with several cities of the world.

Qatar Airways flies 2 flights a day, one to Tbilisi and one to Doha connecting to their global network.

• Baku Taxi Services , [email protected] . Airport pick up and drop off . 33 manat for Baku - Airport or Airport - Baku. Up to 3 passengers. Reliable and local rates to other locations. English is spoken .  

By train [ edit ]

Direct trains connect Azerbaijan with Russia (Moscow and Rostov). Timetables are here . Click on the earth for international timetables. The Russian border used to be closed to non-CIS passport holders but it is now open to everyone with respective visas.

There is a domestic train line running from Astara on the Iranian border to Baku and a 300 km connector line is being buiit from Astara to Qazvin , Iran to connect the Azerbaijani and Iranian rail networks.

For those planning to visit the exclave of Nakhchivan, there is a rail service to Mashad in Iran.

By car [ edit ]

There are roads to all cities of Azerbaijan. They are not really wide and most of them have only two lanes. Local travel agents can arrange private cars to the borders. Some Georgian travel agents such as Exotour can arrange pickup in Baku to delivery in Tbilisi. Although more expensive than bus or train, it will be faster and can be combined with sightseeing along the way. Azerbaijani customs used to request payment of a deposit of several thousand US dollars for foreign cars, however, as of 2020, restrictive customs rules on importing older cars and requiring large deposits are a thing of the past.

By bus [ edit ]

There are buses that run daily from Georgia , Turkey , Iran and Russia to Azerbaijan.

A minibus also runs from the Georgian border at Krazny Most (Red Bridge) and should cost about 10 or 12 manat (or 25 lari). It can be picked up at either side of the border (don't worry if they ask you to pay on the Georgian side - they turn up to pick you up. Insist on bringing your own bags across, however). Journey time to Baku should take about 8 hours. Driving in Azerbaijan is a genuinely scary experience. Virtually all drivers have scant regard for the rules of the road and the standard of roads themselves is shockingly poor. It is emphatically not for the faint-hearted, so whilst the long train might challenge your stamina they won't your nerves. Check AZAL flights from Tbilisi-Baku well in advance for some reasonable deals.

Return to Tbilisi can be caught at the indescribably chaotic bus station, which doubles up as an eerily quiet shopping-centre (take bus 65 from outside Double Gate in the old town for the 20-min trip, which leaves you with a 400 m long dodgy stretch of road/highway with pestering taxi-drivers on which to walk: cost 0.20 manat) or simply taxi it from the centre for approx. 15 manat (worth it!), which saves on hassle. Both buses and minibuses are available from this station directly to Tbilisi, about 12 manat for both. Bus counter 26 at very back of ground floor. The bus is a few hours slower and not guaranteed to pick you up once you cross the Georgian border, so minibus is preferable.

By boat [ edit ]

There is no ferry or cruise service with any other country on the Caspian Sea. Be forewarned that the much talked about "ferries" on the Caspian are simply cargo ships with some extra space to take on passengers. Getting a ride on one of these "ferries" is no easy task. First you must find the notoriously difficult to find ticket office, which basically keeps track of ship which are departing. If you manage to find the ticket office and manage to get a booking, you still have little idea of when the ship will depart. Give them a phone number to reach you and be prepared, they may call you an hour or two prior to departure... two days after the first departure the office gave you and the day before the second departure date they gave you! This is only the first of you troubles. After paying for your place on the boat (about US$50–100), the captain and perhaps other crew members will expect an additional amount to get a bed and a shower. You are expected to bring your own food. The crossing will only take 1 day (Turkmenistan) or 2–3 days (Kazakhstan). Most ships go to Turkmenistan, where ships must wait for an open berth... so you can wait 2–5 days on the boat just waiting for a place to dock! Unless you are on a very small budget or have a bike and especially if you are on a short timeschedule, you should pay twice as much (~US$200–250) for a one way airfare to Kazakhstan, Russia, or Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Get around [ edit ]

By bus or marshrutka [ edit ].

Buses and marshrutkas (aka minibus aka converted delivery van) connect most cities. There is often a hub such as a bus station near the bazaar in these cities.

Marshrutkas are quite crowded on the intra-city routes in Azerbaijan. It is common for 15 people to crowd into a 10-person marshrutka, and do not feel shy in doing this. It is normal, if you are standing, for someone to take your bag and hold onto it until either you or they disembark. Men usually ride in the rear of buses and marshrutkas, while women sit in the front, and it is customary for men to give their seat to a lady entering the bus. Lastly, Azerbaijan is not a queue-forming society, and this especially applies to bus and marshrutkas.

A common rule of thumb for bus rates in Azerbaijan seems to be about 1 manat per hour ride or for every 40-50 km—everything else is touristic overcharge, stand your ground and get the help of other passengers.

With a few exceptions, trains in Azerbaijan are night trains that connect Baku with distant regions of the country. There is also a daily fast train to Ganja, daily slow train to Shirvan and a frequent suburban train to Sumqavit. Timetables here: https://ady.az/az/tables/index/52/44 The international Nakhichivan - Mashad train can used for trip within the Nakhichivan exclave: https://ady.az/az/news/read/312/43

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxies require some negotiating skills. But using a calculator (smartphone!) to agree on a price works.

Most taxi drivers simply double the price for tourists. So, halving it while negotiating and doing the walk-away trick, should reveal the genuine price. (Doubling a price is seemingly much easier than tripling it.) Otherwise, just use Bolt (a taxi app for your mobile and widely used in cities around Azerbaijan) as indicator or/and negotiator, or just book through it.

General prices are ⅓–½ manat/km. It gets cheaper (per km) the longer the ride.

With Bolt (or others), you can even book a taxi for trips far away from the big cities in which it is offered, as long as you start from where it is offered, e.g. Ganja to Tbilisi for 70 manat, or Baku to Shamakhi for 40 manat, i.e. even crossing border. But make sure the taxi driver actually understand what he is willing to do there. However, the trips out of larger cities can be time efficiently, since you do not have to head to several bus stations, etc. first before you finally get the long distance ride. This way, you take a taxi to the road frequented by the long distance options and simply take you continuing ride there.

Ride-hailing is available in Azerbaijan. The most anticipated provider is Bolt , which works in Baku, Ganja and Sumgayit.

Azerbaijan is a country with a high number of road accidents—traffic rules are often not respected. The poor state of the roads and the lack of lighting make it advisable to avoid driving after dark. The drink-drive limit is zero.

Highway kilometers overview:

• total: 36,700 km
• paved: 31,800 km (includes some all-weather gravel-surfaced roads)
• unpaved: 1,900 km (These roads are made of unstabilized earth and are difficult to negotiate in wet weather.)

Note that Baku and Azerbaijan in general have many automated speed cameras , and it is not uncommon to get a ticket—which will be sent via SMS directly to the car owner. So, don't be surprised when you have to pay a little extra when giving back the car. Locals say, 60 manat for a weekend trip is not uncommon.

By rental car [ edit ]

Due to remote location of many sights and scarcity of attractions in this otherwise huge country, it can be meaningful to rent a car. The most common rental company is the Azeri AZNUR, which competes well on prices with the big international companies. A budget car for 4 days starts from US$100 with a deposit of US$150. Be cautious when using the common price comparison sites for rental cars. They often try to sell you overpriced full coverage insurances or charge other unnecessary fees right before confirming the booking, especially via mobile and when not being attentive in reading the conditions.

By thumb [ edit ]

As a man hitchhiking is generally possible and easy. However, sometimes to often people expect a little money for taking you along the way, pretty much like in Iran . A woman on its own on the other hand will cause confusion and potentially unexpected behaviour, and should therefore be not undertaken.

On foot and navigation [ edit ]

Azerbaijan is an excellent place for hiking and trekking, providing many interesting trails. The Caucasus , Göygöl National Park , Quba or Khinalug , just to name some destinations. However, due to the often remote nature of these trails, it is important that you are well prepared and have a proper and reliable map with you. In addition, using GPS adds an extra layer of safety, both in cities as well as the countryside. For reliable (offline) maps and comprehensive trails and map information, consult OpenStreetMap , which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd (complex with many add-ons) and MAPS.ME (easy but limited).

Talk [ edit ]

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azeri or Azerbaijani , spoken by 90-95% of the population. Azeri is a Turkic language that shares a high degree of mutual intelligibility with Turkish ; therefore, Turkish speakers should have no problems with getting around in the country.

Russian is spoken by the vast majority of people and it is widely considered the lingua franca of the country.

English is not that widely spoken, but it is gradually becoming a more popular foreign language. You're more likely to find an English speaker in Baku .

See [ edit ]

• There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country; The walled city of Baku with the Shirvanshah's Palace and Maiden Tower as well as the Rock Art Cultural Landscape of Gokustan.
• Neft Daşları – City above the sea , the first operating offshore oil platform in the world, located 55 km from the nearest shore in the Caspian Sea.
• Mud volcanoes which spout up in over 300 locations nationwide, constitute more than half the total throughout the world, each site with its own character
• Caspian Hyrcanian forests found near the Iranian border
• Tears of Kyapaz a string of seven idyllic mountain lakes near Mount Kyapaz and Nagorno-Karabakh
• Seaside resorts located along the Caspian coastline

Do [ edit ]

• Hang around in a smoky tea house, have a pivo or tea, and play dominoes.
• Try to attend an Azerbaijani wedding
• Contrary to reports, Azeri wine is more than drinkable, and whilst not as tasty as their Georgian or Armenian counterparts, is still a pleasant treat! Find a local drinking-hole and while away the hours!
• Buy local souvenirs and carpets. Don't be put off by the pestering stall-keepers. Persevere, be prepared to haggle , and you can get some really wonderful bargains!

Baku [ edit ]

• Visit Maiden Tower for wonderful views of the city
• Take in the breathtaking views of Flag Square, Baku Crystal Hall and the Caspian Sea from Martyr's Alley
• Wander around the Old Town aimlessly - really try to get lost and soak up the atmosphere in this wonderful old town
• Visit the beautiful Palace of the Shirvanshahs
• Walk along the promenade, just as the locals do

Itineraries [ edit ]

• Baku and Absheron
• Southern Route: Baku – Salyan – Bilasuvar – Jalilabad – Masalli – Lenkaran – Lerik – Astara
• Nakhchivan Route
• Western Route: Baku – Hajiqabul – Kurdemir – Yevlah – Tar-Tar – Naftalan – Ganja – City of Goy-Gol – Dashkesen – Shamkir – Gadabey – Tovuz – Agstafa – Gazakh

Buy [ edit ]

Azerbaijan is well-known for carpets .

Money [ edit ]

The "old" manat was replaced by the "New Azerbaijani manat" on 1 January 2007, so do not accept old manat. New banknotes of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 manat and metal coins of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 manat and 50 gapik (0.5 manat) circulate. The banknotes are of a uniform design somewhat reminiscent of euro banknotes since the same designer worked on both sets.

Manat and Georgian lari can be changed in towns near the border, and in Georgia.

Eat [ edit ]

Azeri cuisine ( azərbaycan mətbəxi ) might not seem diverse to Western Europeans, but it is worth trying. Most of the dishes contain a lot of meat (including fat) and vegetables. Bread is a staple, and is quite revered by the people of Azerbaijan.

Piti is a national dish. It is made with mutton and vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, chickpeas), infused with saffron water to add flavour and colour, all covered by a lump of fat, and cooked in a sealed crock. Worth trying Şəki version of this dish (boiled chestnuts are used instead of potato), if you are there.

Cabbage, grape leaves, and eggplant wrapped meat ( kelem, yarpaq, badimjan - dolmasi ), kabab ( kebab ), rice with different variety of toppings ( plov - It is said that plov is the king of Azerbaijani cuisine), gutab s and meatballs ( kufta ) are some of the several specialties of Azerbaijan. Yarpaq dolmasi is often considered to be the national dish.

Georgian food, in particular khachapuri (a cheese-filled bread), along with some Russian staples (borsh, crepes/bliny) have become common throughout Azerbaijan. Other cuisines such as Turkish, Italian, Asian, and American fast food, can be found in the biggest cities.

There are several soups that you might want to try: bozbash , buglama , ashgara (lamb with chestnut). Try Çoban qovurma (lamb stew with vegetables).

Drink [ edit ]

Some local drinks include ayran (a yoghurt drink based on sour milk) and sherbet (made from rose petals or saffron). There are also different sorts of quite decent wines produced from local grapes and a wide array of mineral waters from natural springs.

In some areas of Azerbaijan the markets offer lemonades (limonat/dushes) made from pears or tarragon.

Note : In general, it is forbidden for females to enter tea houses and drinking establishments. Drinking in general is also taboo for women in rural Azerbaijan. It's not a problem in Baku.

Sleep [ edit ]

There is a good selection of hotels in Baku , including many Western European chains, but options elsewhere in the country are limited but nevertheless growing. Prices for the hotels start from US$60. Rental apartments might be a good choice as they are cheaper than hotels and sometimes are even more comfortable.

Since many hostel-like places and guest-houses are popping up rapidly and randomly everywhere in the country (like in Sheki and Ganja ), they are often poorly signposted, and from the outside a great hostel might look like an ordinary apartment. Hence, make sure beforehand to get a detailed description (including GPS) of where to find the place and which apartment to ring at. Otherwise, you might be lost forever and even locals won't know where this newly popped up place is.

Learn [ edit ]

You can get the information you need about Azerbaijan from the hotels where you will stay. They have different guides for Azerbaijan. Also at some new bus stations in Baku there are maps of the capital.

Work [ edit ]

The developing economy of Azerbaijan is in dire need of highly qualified personnel. But nevertheless, the immigration laws here are extremely strict, and it will not work just like that if you are not a highly qualified specialist or businessman invited by a local company or organization. There are practically no ordinary labor migrants and immigrants from other countries in Azerbaijan, with the exception of rare people from southern Russia (for example, from Dagestan ), Eastern Turkey and ethnic Azerbaijanis from neighboring Iran . There are qualified experts and businessmen from developed countries in Azerbaijan, but they are not enough for such an economy.

There is unemployment and low wages in Azerbaijan itself, and many citizens of this country go to work in Russia (over 1.5 million people) and Turkey (over 500 thousand people), as well as to other countries. The average salary in the regions of the country is $ 300.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Robbing and pickpocketing in the capital Baku, especially in poor and sparsely populated areas is possible but rare and is higher across the capital at night. Common sense is useful as in all other countries. Also watch your stuff in public transport.

Criminals posing as police officers have sometimes stopped foreigners and stolen documents and money. If you are stopped on the street by a person in a police uniform, be cooperative but ask to see a badge or ID card.

Corruption [ edit ]

Azerbaijan is one of the most corrupt countries in the world .

Corruption is widespread. But as a foreigner you have a fairly strong position in refusing to pay "hörmet" (bribe). Never give any bribe. Often Azeris are so ashamed of their corrupt economy, that they might hide it from you anyway.

Photography [ edit ]

Although the country has a myriad of fantastic photo opportunities, it is illegal to take photographs of anything of strategic importance, i.e., military sites and equipment. If you are in doubt, simply ask.

Dangerous areas [ edit ]

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan has fought wars with Armenia . Fighting took place again in September 2022. Many governments advise against travelling to Nagorno-Karabakh , its surrounding areas, and areas near the border with Armenia. Some areas may contain high amounts of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and landmines . Generally speaking, you have little reason to go to areas near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border as those areas have nothing that interests tourists.

LGBT travellers [ edit ]

Although homosexuality was decrminalised in 2000, homophobia is widespread in Azerbaijan. The cultural and societal abhorrence against the LGBT community is far-reaching .

There are no laws in place to protect the rights of LGBT people and same-sex marriages are formally banned in the country.

If you are LGBT, it is strongly recommended that you do not exhibit your sexuality in public; openly displaying your orientation may invite harsh words or at worst, violence.

Safety tips [ edit ]

• When outside of the city, try to travel during the day time, unless you take a night train. The roads can be treacherous at night due to unseen potholes and dimly lit cars.

Emergency contact numbers [ edit ]

• Ambulance: 103
• Gas Emergency: 104
• Speaking Clock: 106
• Police: 102

You must speak in Azeri, Turkish or Russian to communicate your needs. It would be a good idea to memorize key phrases before coming to Azerbaijan - see the Talk section for phrasebooks.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Make sure your diphtheria, tetanus, and Hepatitis A & B immunizations are up to date. Malaria is a risk in lowland Azerbaijan, particularly around the border with Iran . Anti-malarials are not a must for Baku , but the risk is present in rural areas not far from the city.

Water should not be consumed unless from a sealed bottle. Bottled soft drinks or boiled drinks, such as tea or coffee, also reduce risks.

Cope [ edit ]

Toilets at bus stations charge 0.20-0.40 manat.

Respect [ edit ]

Azerbaijanis are a very reserved but very polite and well-mannered people.

• When you are invited into an Azerbaijani home, make sure to bring them a gift . Anything is fine from flowers (be sure to get an odd number of flowers, as an even number is associated with funerals), to chocolate (but not wine and other alcoholic beverages), and indeed something representative from your country. In Azerbaijani culture it is the thought behind the gift, rather than the price, that matters.
• When you arrive at the house take off your shoes just outside or immediately inside the door, unless the owner explicitly allows you to keep them on. Even then, it might be more polite to remove your shoes. You may be offered slippers to wear.
• Azerbaijanis respect elderly people , so in a bus, tram, subway and in other forms of public transportation, young(er) people will always offer you a place to sit if you are an old(er) person as well as a handicapped person or a pregnant woman or have children with you. It is considered polite to let women be the first to board and leave the bus, tram, subway and in other forms of public transportation or to enter and leave a room.
• It is respectful to bend slightly (not a complete bow) when greeting someone older or in a position of authority. Younger people always initiate greetings with older people or those in a position of authority.
• If you do not know the person well, use their first name followed by an appropriate honorific. For women, use Xanım – pronounced "hanm" ("Mrs."). For men, use Cənab – pronounced "jenab" ("Mr"). If they do speak English use their last name preceded by the appropriate English honorific "Mr." or "Mrs.". The English honorific "Ms." does not exist in the Azerbaijani language.
• Women are traditionally treated with respect and chivalry. Female travellers should not be surprised or alarmed if their male Azeri friends take the initiative to pay the bills at a restaurant, open every door in front of them, or help them carry items or objects. Male travellers should understand that these nuances will be expected by Azeri women, even if you're not in a romantic relationship with one.

Things to avoid [ edit ]

Politics [ edit ].

• Do not insult or speak badly of the Aliyev family . This is punishable by imprisonment.
• Do not mention or have a discussion about the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Almost every Azerbaijani family has at least one member among the thousands that have been killed in or internally displaced by the conflict. Discussing it can very easily arouse strong emotions so approach the subject with respect and caution.
• Do not mention or have a discussion about Armenia . Feelings of hatred against Armenians are widespread in Azerbaijan.
• Avoid photographing railways, subway stations, and other objects which the authorities may think to be of "strategic" importance. Foreign railway buffs have been reportedly detained by the authorities on suspicion of espionage.
• Be careful about having a discussion about Iran . Many Azerbaijanis regard Iranian Azerbaijan as occupied Azerbaijani territory awaiting liberation.

Religion [ edit ]

Even though 95% of the population is nominally Shiite Muslim , Azerbaijan is a strictly secular state and by and large an agnostic and non-religious nation . This is true both in large cities as well as in villages and rural areas. Despite seeing themselves as Muslims, Azeri men often drink alcoholic beverages, and this is widely accepted, probably due to the Russian and Soviet legacy. Still, drinking is rare among women and almost never occurs between men and women in rural areas or socially conservative families. Unrest in Iran, Iraq and Syria in the 21st century has made the government very strict about religious clothing and symbols and prompted greater secularization and stricter control of the southern borders. Any religious signs, flags, slogans in public and proselytizing (missionary activity) for any religion are prohibited by law. Any violation will result in fines, imprisonment, and in case of foreigners, deportation from the country. Don't assume that anyone you do not know believes in God or has a passion for Islam or other faiths. Investigations into people's faith is largely unwelcome, and outside places of worship, displays of your faith should be kept private. Saying grace for example, is likely to be met with bewilderment and silence. Religious attire such as Muslim headscarves, Kippahs or even T-shirts with religious slogans, will – while tolerated – also make many Azerbaijanis feel uncomfortable. However, it is acceptable to wear small necklaces with religious symbols. Those with long beards may arouse the suspicion of the authorities.

Social custom and etiquette breaches [ edit ]

• Don't blow your nose during meals, even discreetly.
• Don't pick your teeth during meals, even discreetly.
• Don't put your feet up while sitting and try not to show the bottom of your feet to someone.
• Don't point with your finger at someone.
• Don't chew gum while having a conversation and during public occasions.
• It is better not to touch someone without permission.
• Don't bear hug or back slap someone, especially in formal situations and occasions and with someone you just met and/or you do not know well enough.
• Don't raise your voice or shout in public, especially on public transportation.
• Don't use swear words during conversation or while talking to oneself in public and also among friends.

Other things to watch for [ edit ]

• Don't smile at a stranger in the street: they will not only think you are odd, but may feel insulted. Smiling is traditionally reserved for family and friends; smiling at a stranger without addressing them, will be interpreted as your making fun of them or that there is something wrong with their clothes or hair. However, a sincere polite smile when addressing a person is appropriate and will be appreciated (an automatic "Western smile", grinning, is widely regarded as insincere). Smiling is still very rare in customer service, as sales assistants, public servants and the like are expected to look serious and businesslike. Even show hosts very rarely smile. Hence the very common misconception about Azerbaijanis is that they are a cold people and never smile – they do, once they get to know you, and become very welcoming and kind.
• Public displays of affection in larger cities and tourist resorts are tolerated but might invite unnecessary stares from the public. In more rural areas they are frowned upon and are to be avoided. Gay and lesbian travellers should avoid any outward signs of affection.
• You will notice how Azerbaijanis tend to keep their voices down in public places. Do not raise your voice in a conversation. A decent silent conversation is the Azerbaijani way of doing business and will be much appreciated. Talking on a mobile phone on public transportation and in restaurants is considered normal, unless the conversation is loud and too "private".
• Littering is considered to be very bad manners and you may be fined. There are many waste containers and trash cans on the sidewalks and near most stores.

Gay and lesbian travellers [ edit ]

Homosexuality is no longer criminalized in Azerbaijan, but the negative stigma is still strong throughout the country. Same-sex relationships are not recognized by the government or accepted by society, and showing your sexual orientation openly is very likely to draw stares and whispers. The few establishments geared towards homosexuals are almost exclusively in Baku and are mostly underground. Azerbaijan is not the happiest place in the world for LGBT travellers; be quite cautious if travelling as an LGBT traveller.

Connect [ edit ]

For numbers given in the form (0cc)xxx xx xx, the "0" is the trunk prefix and cc the area code. To call from abroad, dial +994ccxxxxxxx. For calling in the country, dial 0ccxxxxxxx, or from local landlines xxxxxxx.

There are three mobile operators: Azercell, Bakcell, Nar Mobile, Azerfon-Vodafone.

• Azercell is the largest one. To dial an Azercell number you need to dial (050) or (051) and then the number. Only with Azercell can you talk in the metro (subway) in Baku.
• Nar Mobile is pretty cheap but doesn't work in some regions. For dialing Nar Mobile numbers you need to dial (070) and then the number.
• Azerfon-Vodafone is new operator have 3G. For dialing Azerfon-Vodafone numbers you need to dial (077) and then the number.
• Bakcell is ok. It works almost everywhere and is cheaper that Azercell. To dial a Bakcell number you need to dial (055) and then the number.

The numbers have a "0" + 2 digit code (different for each operator) + 7 digits number. For example (050)xxx xx xx, (051)xxx xx xx, or (055)xxx xx xx, or (070)xxx xx xx, or (077)xxx xx xx. Remove the zero when using the +994 prefix.

You can buy cards for use with different operators almost in every store.

Area codes [ edit ]

The area codes were changed to two figures in 2011. Baku, Sumqayit and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic kept their area codes (12, 18 and 36, respectively), other areas have area codes in the range 20–26.

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Plan your trip to azerbaijan: best of azerbaijan tourism.

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Plan your trip to azerbaijan: best of azerbaijan tourism.

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Here you can find a great collection of articles and blog posts to help you get inspired to plan your Azerbaijan trip. 

Best summer activities in Baku

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and be active. You can explore Baku's beaches, play some golf or stroll around tree-filled parks like the Baku Boulevard. It gets pretty hot so be sure to take a hat, sun cream and plenty of water! Read more

Where to relax on the Caspian Sea coastline

When summer hots up in Azerbaijan, people naturally migrate towards the coastline. One of the best spots is the Absheron Peninsula, which thrusts into the Caspian north of Baku and attracts the crowds with its summer houses, hotels, spas and sanatoriums. Here are six of the best places to visit:  Read more

Best historical and cultural sights in Baku

From World Heritage sites to amazing architecture, there is so much history and culture to explore in Baku. Save some time to explore the city's museums and be sure to take a walking tour of the city centre. Read more

A journey into a city of contrasts

In December 2019, we adventured to the land of Azerbaijan, flying in all the way from the westernmost part of Europe – Portugal. The temperature drop was not the only thing that was noticeably different as soon as we landed. With its ultra-modern skyline, Baku firmly sits on the list of some of the most impressive cities in the world, and we could immediately see how time caught up with this region.  Read more

Off-the-beaten-path Azerbaijan

I’m sure you know of Baku, and probably only with what you’ve heard you’re ready to start planning your trip to Azerbaijan. Well, I’m here to tell you to pass through the capital and spend most of your time in the countryside. I know it’s off the beaten path, and I know transportation might be a bit of a challenge, but it’s worth it. Few people have heard of Ismayilli, or Durja, or Kish. But there is where you’ll find the real treasures of Azerbaijan.  Read more

Azerbaijan: adventure of a lifetime

Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts where past and future cross at each step. I had the great privilege to visit Baku, Gobustan, the Ismayilli and Gabala regions.  Read more

A kilted adventure in the Land of Fire

Azerbaijan is one of those countries that’ll truly knock your socks off. It’s a place where tea is drunk with jam, carpets are woven into the cultural fabric and where you can literally have a bath in crude oil. Throw in some stunning mountains and you’ve got a great place for an adventure.  Read more

TOP 10 things to do in Azerbaijan

From ancient landmarks to timeless villages, Azerbaijan offers a unique selection of things to see and do. Read more

Best things to see & do in Lankaran

Lankaran is a green region located in the south of the Republic of Azerbaijan with its centre being the city of Lankaran. Read more

Trekking the Caucasus

While traversing the Greater Caucasus, we were granted incredible opportunities to learn about the local cultures. Read more

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10 Reasons why you should visit Azerbaijan

By Joan Torres 53 Comments Last updated on August 30, 2023

Hello, Azerbaijan…

Have you ever heard of it?

Do you know where is it exactly? 

Azerbaijan is a country located in the southern part of the Caucasus, at the crossroads of Southwest Asia and Southeastern Europe. It shares a border with Russia, Georgia , Armenia, Iran and its exclave with Turkey.

Due to its particular geographic location, Azerbaijan is a real blend of East and West, with a deep and intriguing history. For this reason, in my opinion, this is a particularly interesting Caucasian country.

Yet, despite this huge potential, Azerbaijan is not found on tourist maps.

In this article, I will tell you the several reasons why you should visit Azerbaijan . 

For all the places to visit in the country, don’t forget to read my Azerbaijan 3-week itinerary

10 Reasons to visit Azerbaijan

Remember to get travel insurance for Azerbaijan I strongly recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Sovietism and the Middle East are mixed up in the most chaotic way possible

Azerbaijan is an ex-Soviet Muslim country.

Physically, Azerbaijanis are a mixture between Iranians and Turks, but they wear a Russian cap. They speak both Azerbaijani (a Turkish dialect) and Russian.

They drink tea in the same way as Iranians, using the same cups, pots and add the same extravagant amount of sugar.

They enjoy drinking it in Arab cafés, but do you know what the difference is? They drink it alongside vodka!

When you enter a café, they greet you with ” Salam ”. But when you have a vodka shot with them, they will exclaim ” Nasdrovia! ”.

They possess Middle Eastern cordiality but, at first, they may seem to have the seriousness of a Russian.

It’s hard to tell where you actually are. Soviet buildings and Arabic food are what defines Azerbaijan . 

The blend is too chaotic and, for me, this is the top reason why you should visit Azerbaijan.

Read: a guide for visiting Tbilisi (includes offbeat stuff)

The most secular Caucasian country

Azerbaijan was the first Islamic country ever to declare itself a democratic and secular Republic ( in 1918) .

It was also the first Muslim country to open a theater. Perhaps, you think that this last statement is sort of stupid but, believe it or not, in conservative Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia , theaters and cinemas have been allowed since very recently. 

Today, Azerbaijan still calls itself a secular Republic.

Around 95% of the population are Muslims (85% Shia and the rest Sunni). Nevertheless, I invite you to take the smallest district in Cairo, Dubai or Amman and you’ll find a larger number of mosques there than in the entire city of Baku.

Atheism is common among young people, women barely cover their heads and alcohol is widely available everywhere.

From a religious point of view, Azerbaijanis are way more secular than their Christian neighbors from Armenia and Georgia .

Read: Top travel tips for traveling to Azerbaijan

Baku is an almost futuristic city that combines both tradition and modernity

Why should the capital be among the reasons why visiting Azerbaijan?

Because Baku is a city that shocks and surprises anyone.

From a very ancient and perfectly restored Old City to some of the most extravagant buildings built thanks to petrol, Baku is a luxurious capital that managed to keep all their ancient sites.

For more information, don’t forget to check my Baku city guide

One of the cheapest countries in the world

If you find a cheaper country than Azerbaijan, please let me know.

Seriously, this country is too cheap for what you get.

It’s definitely cheaper than Armenia, Georgia , and perhaps Iran (well, maybe not because the Iranian Rial has dropped drastically).

Outside of the fancy places in Baku, at local eateries, you’ll pay a maximum of 4AZN (2USD) for a filling meal. Since the country is rich in gas and petrol, the price of transportation is just ridiculous.

A single ride by metro costs 0.30AZN (18¢) and you can easily find a pint of beer for as little as 1AZN (50¢). Azerbaijan is the backpacker’s dream. 

Read: 80 Useful tips for traveling to Iran

Visiting the remotest and most epic sites and fortresses

Seriously, check this castle out. 

It is called Alinja castle and it is, by far, the most off the beaten track – and stunning at the same time – castle I have ever been to. 

During the few hours I spent wandering around its walls and climbing its surrounding hills, I didn’t see a single soul and, probably, nobody had come here during the whole day.

Outside of the main touristic trail that follows the road from Baku to Sheki, Azerbaijan is filled with many off the beaten track places which are yet to be discovered.

Read: Georgia travel tips – Everything you need to know

Huge landscape contrasts

Our beloved Azerbaijan is a tiny country, but it turns out that  9 out of the 11 climate zones can be found there : From high altitude Caucasian mountains to vast hot deserts, green meadows and coastal areas.

Besides, did you know that 50% of the mud volcanoes in the world are found in Azerbaijan? They are located around Qobustan, 50 kilometers from Baku .

Weird exclaves for those interested in geopolitics

From the Republic of Abkhazia to Nagorno-Karabakh, in the Caucasus you find several unrecognized states, disputed territories and autonomous republics, more than any other region you have been to. 

In Azerbaijan, there is a province named the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, an autonomous region of Azerbaijan which is geographically separated from the country, nestled between Armenia, Turkey, and Iran. 

What makes Nakhchivan a particularly interesting exclave versus other exclaves around the world is that you can’t enter overland from Azerbaijan because this would mean going through Armenia first,  Azerbaijan’s worst enemy, so local always fly in. 

Soviet relics are still found

From abandoned factories to collective farms, like in any good former Soviet Republic, in Azerbaijan you still find a large Communist heritage. 

My favorites were Dashkashan, a Soviet mining town full of abandoned mines, and Ivanovka, the only place in the world where Soviet collective farms are stll functional. 

For more information about these places, don’t forget to check my 3-week Azerbaijan itinerary . 

The food is also a real blend of east and west

Sitting at the crossroads of Southwest Asia and Southeastern Europe doesn’t only influence the cultural behavior and the way they look but, over the centuries, it has also shaped the extremely varied Azerbaijani food.  

Basically, the local food in Azerbaijan is loads of different food coming from Turkey, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine , Russia, Central Asia , etc., all cooked and served with a local twist. 

Whereas in other countries from the region, the food may be a bit monotonous, in Azerbaijan is extremely varied. 

My favorite dish is dushbara , a dumpling soup typical of the northern part of the country.  

And people are really nice, perhaps the nicest in the Caucasus

Well, let’s not say this very loud because some people might get slightly offended (especially the Armenians ; ). 

Jokes aside.

It is not right to say that Azerbaijanis are the nicest people in the Caucasus because you find awesome people in both Georgia and Armenia but Azerbaijanis are, definitely, very hospitable and, maybe because they are Muslims, I always felt an extra bit of hospitality versus other countries. 

More information for visiting Azerbaijan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Don’t forget to check our travel guide to Azerbaijan .

As well as all our Azerbaijan articles:

• Baku Travel Guide
• Best Hostels in Baku
• Qobustan Petroglyphs and Sovietism
• Azerbaijan Itinerary

53 comments

Great reasons!! I definitely agree with you!! Azerbaijan is such a nice place! Awesome photos, thanks for sharing with us 🙂

Thank you Hra 🙂

I’m so intrigued by ‘the ‘Stans’ (as I like to refer to them!) – they seem so full of wonder, intrigue and the unknown. A real travelers dream and the definition of an off the beaten path destinations. The contrasts between old and new and the changing landscapes would be incredible to see.

The Stasns as you call them (which means Land by the way) are full of history and have key for the trade in Asia since centuries ago. I still haven’t visited this part of the world (only Azerbaijan) but, will do it this May!

Vicki, “Stan” countries are located between the Caspian Sea and China in Central Asia. Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia are located between Asia and Europe (West Asia and Eastern Europe) on the mountain range Caucasus , so there are officially called Caucasian Countries. And yes those are beautiful countries with there ancient history, very uniek caucasian traditions (dans, food, architecture etc) and very kind and proud people. Especially Azerbaijan and Georgia. When I got there first time I was really amazed, so second time I took all my friends with me to the capitol of Azerbaijan, Baku. We stayed there couple of days and we went to other cities like cultural capital Ganja, ancient mountain cities Sheki, Qakh, Lagich and Qabala. Each city has its own uniek architecture and food traditions…..that makes it very interesting. So I would really advice everybody to go there before it will become too touristic. Cause it is ging to happen.

I’ll be honest, I really haven’t ever heard much about Azerbaijan prior to reading this. You’ve caught my attention with those beautiful mountains as I’m an avid hiker. I’d also be interested in seeing all of the luxury vehicles driving the streets. That part reminded me of Dubai! The dumpling soup also looked tasty so I’ll be sure to add it to my list if I get the chance to visit. Thanks for enlightening me on Azerbaijan!

Hi Kallsy, i also love hiking but, unfortunately, the mountains in the picture can’t be hiked 🙁 They are too close from Chechnya (Russia) so this is what is called a sensitive area. To be able to hike, you need a permit that can take up to one month and you can only apply for it in the country so, it’s pretty unlikely to get it, as regular tourist visa is only one month. An expat living there told me this. He’s so frustrated because I can’t find proper hikes and there’s no info about it But anyhow… Yes, the city is similar to Dubai. Both cities have been built thanks to the oil business but, unlike Dubai, Baku has a long and intriguing history! Cheers!

Love all the interesting details and culture and it really is an interesting contrast. I also love how off the beaten path this can be especially for an American like myself.

For an American and for a Spanish like myself as well 😉

While I actually have heard of Azerbaijan, I didn’t know much about it. The mix of cultures looks to be absolutely fascinating!

Not many people know about it and it’s a pity! Yes, the mix of cultures is the most fascinating thing!

I love finding out about places that are off the beaten track. Azerbaijan certainly fits the bill. The blend of Russian and Middle Eastern culture would be fascinating. I’m surprised to learn that Baku is a rich city. Who owns the luxury cars?

I have quite a long list of off the beaten track places which I can share with you 😉 But Azerbaijan is probably the most remote country I’ve been to. I met more travelers in Sudan than in Azerbaijan! Baku is a rich city because of the oil. In fact, in 1905, Baku was producing 50% of the world’s total oil. Who owns the luxury cars? All the rich business man people. There are a lot.

Really interesting read. I know nothing of this country so this was great, especially the cultural piece around Soviet/Middle East and the way in which they culturally shift depending on the situation. I’m not a backpacker but am always happy to find cheap beer. You’ve done that here with those prices.

Hey Kerri, thanks for your comment. You don’t need to be a backpacker to enjoy a 1€ beer. Plus, Baku is one of the most luxurious places you can ever go! It’s pretty similar to Dubai, so I think that any kind of traveler can enjoy that city!

How very interesting to have a mix of culture mixed into one! Especially with language and sayings that are unique to each country. Azerbaijanis sounds like a lovely place to visit, I love how the places that you have immersed yourself in are so of the beaten path and so interesting. Your photos tell a story of the kindness you spoke about and how beautiful it is.

Hi Jimmy & Tina 🙂 Thanks for your comment. Yes, the mix of cultures is indeed the most interesting and unique thing about this country. i always try to get off the path because the experience you can get is unique!

I plan on visiting some of the surrounding countries soon and now your post has got me thinking I should add Azerbaijan to my itinerary. I find their mixture of culture and heritage really fascinating. It’s great that the government is making visiting easier as of 2017 but I would really like to visit before waves of travelers make it there. Will definitely look into visas for Canadians. Thanks for sharing this information!

Hi Lydia, I believe you are traveling to Armenia and Georgia? Yes, if you have time, you should add Azerbaijan as well before the tourists come! I’m sure you won’t regret it!

Thanx a lot for the explanation but my question is can people raise children i n baku

This is a great list of reasons – i’ve always been fascinated by the culture there. Must get to Azerbaijan soon!

Hi, a fantastic post. We’ve been wanting to visit Azerbaijan for a while now. I was quite surprised to read that it is so cheap. Thanks for the information.

Hi Simon, thanks for your comment. Glad that you also want to go to Azerbaijan. Many people believe that Azerbaijan is an expensive destination but that’s why some parts of the capital are quite expensive, as it is a city full of luxury similar to Dubai but, the truth is that, outside of the capital (and in some parts of the capital also) it’s a total different story.

Hi Simon, thanks for your comment. Glad that you also want to go to Azerbaijan. Many people believe that Azerbaijan is an expensive destination but that’s why some parts of the capital are quite expensive, as it is a city full of luxury similar to Dubai but, the truth is that, outside of the capital (and in some parts of the capital also) it’s a total different story.

Hola Joan! Com estàs? Estic pensant en viatjar a Azerbaijan i tinc algunes preguntes… Pel que he entès, estaves viatjant de manera continuada quan vas anar-hi, vas demanar el visat via online? Se’t va fer complicat comunicar-te i fer-te entendre? Degut a que no tinc molt de temps (ara mateix estic treballant, tot i que espero que no per molt de temps), tu quan temps li dedicaries? Creus que val la pena aprofitar bé un parell de setmanes al país o que també és interessant i possible veure Georgia dividint el temps? Com a viatjera, m’agrada l’slow travel i no tenir moltes restriccions degut al temps però tinc molta curiositat per conèixer la regió!

Moltes gràcies i felicitats pels teus posts, m’encanten!

Hola Núria! Jo molt bé , i tu? Jo quan vaig anar a Azerbaijan, vaig demanar el visat a través del consulat de Dubai, ja que era la meitat de preu que fer-lo online. Crec que em va costar uns 30€ i online valia uns 60€. Va ser molt fàcil, simplement havia de presentar tota la documentació i en 5 o 6 dies ja el vaig aconseguir. No obstant, tinc entès que des del gener de 2017, han lliberalitzat el procés d’obtenció del visat i ara és molt més fàcil. Llegeix-te aquest post: http://caravanistan.com/visa/azerbaijan/ En quant al temps, si només tens un parell de setmanes, jo sense cap dubte em quedaria únicament a Azerbaijan. Jo m’hi vaig quedar quasi 3 setmanes i em van faltar dies

Per cert, vaig escriure la guia d’Azerbaijan, però l’he publicat a una altra pàgina web: http://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/diy-travel-guide-to-azerbaijan/

Great post. I would just like to correct one thing; although Iran is a somewhat conservative country, it is filled with cinemas and theaters.

Hi Forouq thanks for the correction! I will correct it straight away 🙂

Guys, my name is Eldar and I am from Azerbaijan. Although I spent sometime living, studying and working outside of my country I currenly live in Baku – a capital of Azerbaijan and run a small consulting company. If you are curious about business environment in Azerbaijan or simply want to visit as a tourist please add me on FB or LinkedIn and I believe I can give some valuable recommendations. Azerbaijan is a great place to visit and definitely safe destination.

hi, we are from pakistan and interested in business in Azerbaijan. Please send us your email so we can contact further.

this is a travel blog, not a networking website

We are a small group of Six from India who wish to visit Azerbaijan in the month of Sept 2019. We baisically want to do a little backpacking in this beautiful country . Plz give us sone useful information regarding places of interest historical, n culutural . Are there any facilities of homestay etc n Hostels ? Duration will be 4 dys as we hope to start our visit by entering Georgia , Armenia n Azerbaijan. Any help from your end will be highly apreciated . Thanks in advance.

Hi Merlin, you can read my itinerary, where you’ll find all info you need: https://againstthecompass.com/en/backpacking-azerbaijan-travel-itinerary/

I’m headed to Azerbaijan via the Georgian land border tomorrow, and glad I found this post. I haven’t found Georgians to be friendly at all and was skeptical about Azerbaijan, but now I’m quite excited to hop over there!

I can’t tell much about Georgians because I was just in Tbilisi but I went all across Azerbaijan and they were very nice!

First time, i heard about Azerbaijan and i like your amazing photos and information and i agree with your reason. you just includes some Rules of that country for traveler, Some tips, Popular places.

I loved my time in Azerbaijan in 2014 it really is an interesting place! I”d go again.

Perhaps you meant to say some of the food has a Persian influence rather than Arabic influence?

You think? Perhaps I should say both? I think it’s actually a blend of the 2! 🙂

Thanks to Mr. Google that paved the way to your blog (YAY!) My cousins and I are planning for a short stopover in Azerbaijan this March and would like to squeeze in Gobustan and Xinalig. Is it possible and accessible for a 3-day trip? What would you suggest?

Hi Suzy. Yes, for a 3-day trip it’s perfectly possible. The first day go to Qobustan. Second day go to Xinaliq and third day go back to Baku 🙂

Hi! Thanks for your post. You shared nice info about Azerbaijan. It seems like its a beautiful country!!! I will visit Baku this month. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as I can 🙂

Thanks and I hope you enjoy it 🙂 !

Wow I fell totally in love with the country, I’ve been looking for some quiet country to relocate to and this seems like the perfect place. Am Nigerian and it looks like a great place I’ll love to find out more info tho on the requirements relocating here and visa processing..

sure, a great choice mate 😉 !!

Great post!! Thanks for sharing the detailed information about Azerbaijan. It’s also known as the “Land of Fire” concluded as a puzzle of diversity and discrepancy. Azerbaijan has produced some of the greatest poets, scientists, musicians and is home to several UNESCO world heritage sites. With its rich culture and heritage, Azerbaijan attracts tourist from all over the world. Baku is the capital and largest cosmopolitan city of Azerbaijan, politically, economically and culturally involved city, and one of the must visit sites of Azerbaijan. There are many more other reasons to visit this amazing country. Explore it for once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Thank you for your positive comment! Yes, I agree that Azerbaijan has so much to offer and loads of fun!

Fascinating blog. My friend and I, two mature intrepid English ladies, have already visited Ukraine, Georgia & Armenia – wow! Now keen to visit Azerbaijan which we viewed precariously from up high while visiting a Georgian monastery, yes, before the floodgates open! Any chance of entering Iran from here…? Dee

Yes, as long as you have your visa, you can enter from Iran, no problem. It is a friendly border 😉

Hi! Really interesting post and blog generally. My boyfriend and I started to explore the Caucasian countries 2 years ago and the goal is to see all the Central Asia. So your blog is really usefull…and I envy you for all the places you have seen 😉 We’ll go to Azerbaijan this summer and check their hospitality and kindness, but you should definitely try the one of the Armenians. We were almost shocked about how nice Armenians are…despite the fack that we don’t speak russian and we could only communicate with them through Google Translate 🙂 I look forward to reading more about your trips!

Thank you Chiara, I am sure you will have an amazing time in Azerbaijan. I was in Armenia too, just at the end of last year, and yes, I agree that they were great as well. In fact, both cultures are quite similar but they hate each other, which is kind of controversial. Cheers!

I am travelling from Georgia to Armenia and I am wondering if it is allowed to take with me some bottles of Georgian wine?

yes, it should be!

Does anyone know what the covid situation is like there? We were thinking of visiting last year, but that got postponed. Love your blog btw. It has so many places I’ve wanted to visit…so many places, not enough time 🙁

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Azerbaijan Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Dubbed “the land of fire,” Azerbaijan is a former Soviet republic famous for its high-tech capital city of Baku, the Great Caucasus mountains, and strange fire phenomenon of Fire Mountain (hence the country’s nickname).

I knew two things about Azerbaijan before I visited: it won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011 and it has a lot of oil money.

Though a very rural and quiet country, when I backpacked around Azerbaijan, I found it to be one of those “undiscovered gems” that too many people skip — especially if you want to get out and hike without crowds!

Azerbaijan is an amazing, wonderful, beautiful, and friendly place. The country became the world’s first secular democratic Muslim-majority state when it first declared independence in 1918. Today, Baku, the capital, is a modern city steeped in oil money with a recently built subway, fast Wi-Fi, and tons of Parisian-style buildings (in the 1900s, newly rich oil barons modeled the city after Paris) as well as towering and futuristic steel and glass buildings.

The rest of the country is incredibly rural with small towns surrounded by gorgeous mountains and farmland. In tiny villages, old men with canes sat in town squares gazing at passersby’s like out of some movie. Locals, who don’t see many visitors, are very welcoming.

From things to do, costs, ways to stay safe, save money, how to get around, and more, this travel guide to Azerbaijan will help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most of your time in the off-the-beaten-path destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Azerbaijan

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Azerbaijan

1. Explore Baku

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, lies along the Caspian Sea and is a somewhat curious mix of old walled city and modern skyscrapers. It’s a cool small city that only needs a day or two. There’s good food, interesting museums, and amazing wine bars. The Old Town, called Icherisheher, is a maze of cobblestone streets where you’ll find museums, art galleries, mosques, and two landmarks—Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace. Restaurants and rooftop bars have great views over the waterfront, where you can stroll on Baku Boulevard and take a ride on the Baku Eye Ferris wheel. Architecture buffs won’t want to miss the Zara Hadid-designed Heydar Aliyev Centre, a museum focused on Azerbaijani art and culture; and the Carpet Museum, in a clever building shaped like a rolled-up carpet. The most prominent examples of modern architecture are the three iconic Flame towers—LED-covered skyscrapers that curve at the top.

2. Visit Sheki

The city of Sheki was a famous stop on the Silk Road, and the large old caravanserai (inn with a courtyard) dating to the early 18th century still stands today. Built like a castle to protect merchants (high walls, one gate), you can stay there today for around 50 AZN per night. Silk is still produced in the well-preserved historic town center where you can also see craftsmen at work. The city is known for its colored glass mosaics called shebeke, which are set in wooden lattice framework without glue or nails. With a facade covered in shebeke, Sheki Khan’s Palace is worth a visit to see the intricately patterned frescoes, ceramics, and other ornate decorations in this former summer palace.

3. Go to Lahij

Lahij is beautiful, with cobblestone streets and stellar views of the valley. A tiny, remote town, Lahij’s mountainous location makes it a popular summer destination for people looking to escape the heat of lower elevations. Known for coppersmithing, Lahij artisans have perfected the art of handcrafting and engraving plates, cookware, water vessels, and other items. Other handmade items from tin and leather are sold in shops where you can often see two or three generations at work. There a lot of hiking trails and activities around that you can do too. You’ll find some castle ruins on the trail leading up from the nearby river and waterfall but be warned: it’s a steep 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) up and the ruins (really just a wall) are easily missed.

4. See the Gobustan Petroglyph Reserve

The UNESCO-listed Gobustan Petroglyph Reserve is home to 6,000 rock paintings that are up to 40,000 years old. The well-preserved sketches display ancient populations traveling on reed boats, men hunting antelope and wild bulls, and women dancing. Unique to Gobustan is that the petroglyphs date from the Mesolithic Era to the Middle Ages and document life over the centuries. The area, including tombs and caves, has provided archaeological findings like jewelry and weapons that you can see in the Gobustan Museum.

5. Visit Ateshgah

Ateshgah is a temple just outside Baku that has been used as a Hindu, Sikh, and now a Zoroastrian place of worship. Each room has panels detailing the temple’s history and the Zoroastrian religion. In the complex center is a naturally occurring, unquenchable flame representing God that has inspired pilgrims for millennia. Enclosed by stone walls in the shape of a pentagon, the fire altar is in the middle of the courtyard. About 19 miles from Baku, which has long been called the City of Fire, it’s open daily. Admission is 4 AZN.

Other Things to See and Do in Azerbaijan

1. check out the mud volcanoes.

Azerbaijan is home to nearly a third of the world’s mud volcanoes, which form when pockets of underground gas force their way to the surface. They’re like geysers, but with mud, and since they’re not made from magma, the mud is pretty cold (just above freezing temperature). Of the country’s 700 mud volcanoes, 350 are active and range from little bubbling pools to entire islands like Dashli that were formed by mud eruptions and also have mud volcanoes. The ones at Gobustan National Park are the most popular to visit from Baku on a day tour (it’s possible to take a bus to the park’s entrance but finding the volcanoes isn’t easy). Half-day tours start from about 60 AZN.

2. Tour the Sheki Khan’s Palace

The Sheki Khan’s Palace was built in 1797 and was once the summer residence for the Khans. It is one of the most ornate and iconic buildings in the South Caucasus. Its shebeke windows (incredibly delicate stained glass with geometric patterns made specifically by Azerbaijan masters) cast brilliant rays of colored light across the entire interior. The palace opens daily from 10am-6pm and costs 2 AZN or 5 AZN with a guide.

3. See the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Within Baku’s walled Inner City is the 54-acre limestone Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Surrounded by walls and topped by domes, the sprawling palace complex was built in the 15th century and includes a mosque with a 16-meter (52 foot) minaret, bathhouse, mausoleum, ancient bathhouse ruins, and an octagon-shaped tomb known as the “Dervish’s Tomb.” The complex features grand gates adorned with intricately carved arabesques, doorways covered in Arabic scripture, magnificent domes, and courtyards with octagonal reflecting pools. Inside, there are displays of traditional artifacts such as clothing, jewelry, ancient texts, weaponry, and more. The famous 12th-century Maiden Tower, an iconic Azerbaijani monument with Arabic, Persian and Ottoman influences, is here too. Standing at over 29.5 meters (97 feet), it offers panoramic views of the city from the top. (Fun fact: They still have no idea what this tower was built for, though over 20 legends attempt to explain its purpose.) The Palace is open daily from 10am until 6pm and admission is 2 AZN or 6 AZN for a guided tour.

4. Relax on the beaches of the Absheron

During the summer, the residents of Baku migrate to their country houses (known as dachas ) on the Absheron Peninsula to escape the city heat. In recent years, thanks to the resorts popping up along the coast, tourists are following suit. The public beaches at Mardakan or Buzovna are two popular choices for sunbathing and swimming in the warm waters of the Caspian Sea.Restaurants specialize in fish, and you can rent an umbrella or tent and purchase refreshments like tea and watermelon from beach vendors.

5. Go hiking in the Guba region

The Guba or Quba region, located 2 hours north of Baku, is a remote region famous for its traditional villages, rolling apple orchards, and mountainous landscapes perfect for lots of hiking. Tenghi Canyon is popular to visit, as is Khinalig, a major Zoroastrian center. Krasnaya Sloboda, the only all-Jewish town outside of Israel, is populated by the Juhuro, or Mountain Jews. Although you can travel here and hike independently, many companies offer organized day tours of the region, for around 53-115 AZN.

6. Hit the slopes

Azerbaijan may not be known internationally for its skiing, but it does have two winter resorts that offer an “off-the-beaten-path” winter experience: Shahdag Mountain Resort and Tufandag Mountain Resort. The ski season is very short, lasting just two months from mid-December to late February. A ski day pass costs about 25-35 AZN. Ski lessons cost around 40 AZN per lesson. Shahdag offers an Alpine Coaster thrill ride and snowshoeing while Tufandog’s observation deck that juts out over a cliff and its 22- and 65-foot swings attract Instagrammers with no fear of heights year round.

7. Go to Quba

Head north by bus to the mountain town of Quba for a cooler climate, old mosques, and traditional carpet weaving in beautiful alpine surroundings. Home to less than 40,000 people, there are dramatic panoramic views everywhere you turn, with pastel-colored houses and red-tiled roofs standing out against the lush verdant mountains. Nestled on the slopes of Shahdag mountain on a flowing river, Quba remains similar to 19th-century Azerbaijan. While you’re here, make sure to visit the Quba Genocide Memorial Complex, which is dedicated to the memory of the 12,000 Azerbaijanis who were killed by the Bolsheviks and Armenians during the March Days genocide that took place in 1918.

8. See Qabala

Once strategically located along the middle of the Silk Road, this dusty, old, not-so-small town is named after the nearby Gabala village. The walled town, dating back to the 4th-century, used to be the ancient capital of Caucasian Albania. As such, there are many ancient monuments and archaeological sites here, including a thousand-year-old defense tower, a 4th-century temple, a 13th-century mosque, and a mausoleum. The area is also home to wonderful hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, dense woodlands, lakes, and one of the best ski resorts in the country. Take an early bus from Sheki and spend the night here. All the attractions are close together so you can easily see the town in a day.

9. Hang out in Ganja

Azerbaijan’s third-biggest city dates to the 6th century and features many attractions, historical sites, and parks. Main attractions include the 18th-century Shah Abbas Caravanserai (similar to the one in Sheki), traditional mosques and churches from the 14th-19th centuries, the domed, red-bricked 17th-century Chokak Hamam, the 19th-century Khan Gardens, and the Tomb of Nizami Ganjavi, the country’s most famous 12th-century poet (he’s kind of a national hero). The most important museum here is the Ganja State History-Ethnography Museum where you can learn the history of the region from ancient to modern times through its displays of over 30,000 artifacts and objects. For a quirkier thing to see, visit the Bottle House, a private residence built in the 1960s and covered in over 48,000 glass bottles.

10. Visit Lankaran

This sleepy resort town on the Caspian Sea is home to the Old Prison and Lighthouse (Stalin was a prisoner here for a while), an ancient bazaar, an 18th-century fortress, and a 19th-century mosque. You can spend a good day sightseeing here and then another on the beaches further south in Kenaramesha. If you have more time, take a day trip to the Ghizil-Agaj State Reserve, which is home to some 250 bird species.

11. Skip Yanar Dag (aka the “Fire Mountain”)

Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain or Burning Mountain) is a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside just outside Baku. Marco Polo once described the land in this area as being on fire because of phenomena like this, but this is one of the only fires left in the region. It’s small, so I wouldn’t make the journey specifically to see this, but it’s included in most tours of the region anyway.

Azerbaijan Travel Costs

Accommodation – There are only a handful of hostel options in Azerbaijan. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around 26-32 AZN per night in Baku and 10-20 AZN anywhere else. Prices in Baku are generally higher than elsewhere around the country.

A private room in a hostel is around 40-80 AZN per night. Most hostels have self-catering facilities, Wi-Fi, and free breakfast.

Budget hotels and guesthouses are much more common in the country. These cost around 60-85 AZN per night for a double room that includes breakfast.

Airbnb is available in Azerbaijan, with private rooms starting around 25 AZN per night while entire homes and apartments cost at least 80 AZN per night.

Wild camping is legal in Azerbaijan so feel free to pitch your tent anywhere, apart from a few national parks where it is forbidden (including Shirvan, Ag Gol or Absheron National Park). If you prefer to stay at a campsite with amenities, there are some campgrounds scattered around. You won’t find any online booking though, so keep your eyes peeled for signs when you get to a new place.

Food – Azerbaijani cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors and is usually heavily spiced, aromatic, and vegetable-rich. Many traditional cooking methods (such as using copper or clay cookware) are still in use today. For meat, mutton, lamb, and sturgeon are the most comm, while vegetables widely used include eggplant, cucumber, red pepper, and tomato.

Dining out is very affordable in Azerbaijan. Street food like döner kebabs cost 2-3.50 AZN. Fast food like McDonald’s costs about 9 AZN for a combo meal while a whole pizza is 7.50-11 AZN.

A meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine is around 7-11 AZN. Look for traditional meals like plov, or pilaf, which uses saffron-flavored rice, fried meat, and vegetables. This is usually shared and costs around 10-12 AZN for a large plate. Cold starters, such as hummus or salads, cost 3-7 AZN. Traditional soups, of which there are many varieties, are around 3-5 AZN.

“Western” food is more expensive, with main dishes (such as a burger) costing around 16-18 AZN. Fish or steak dishes are generally around 25-40 AZN. A three-course meal at a higher-end restaurant costs about 50 AZN.

For drinks, you can expect to pay 2-4 AZN for a beer or soda, 6-8 for a glass of wine, and 8-10 AZN for a cocktail. A cappuccino is around 4-5 AZN.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of basic groceries costs 50-70 AZN but since most places don’t have kitchens, you’re better off just buying snacks and grab-and-go meals if you don’t want to eat at a restaurant.

Backpacking Azerbaijan Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Azerbaijan, my suggested budget is 85 AZN per day. This covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, cooking some meals, visiting a few attractions like museums and palaces, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 175 AZN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out a lot more, take some guided tours, enjoy a few drinks out, take some taxis, and visit more paid attractions.

On a “luxury’ budget of 375 AZN or more per day, you can stay in hotels, get a rental car, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, and do all the activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

Use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might pay less every day). We want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AZN.

Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Baku can be kind of expensive but, once you leave the capital, prices drop considerably and it’s easy to see a lot and spend a little. Here are some additional ways to save money when you visit Azerbaijan:

• Take a free walking tour – While in Baku, take a free walking tour to familiarize yourself with the city. I recommend using Baku Free Tour .
• Wild camp – It’s free to wild camp in Azerbaijan, so bring a tent and camp just about anywhere you like!
• Cook your own meals – Some hostels here don’t include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, make sure you book accommodation that does. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it will save you money!
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find nice Couchsurfing hosts throughout the country if you look in advance. This way, you not only have a place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and information!
• Walk everywhere – All of the major towns and cities in Azerbaijan are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation (and the taxis) if you want to save a few extra dollars.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally not safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan had a boom in 4-5-star hotels during the first influx of tourism, but today there are more budget-friendly accommodations available for backpackers. New hostels are popping up all the time, but most of them are still in Baku. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Azerbaijan:

• Sahil Hostel (Baku)
• Travel Inn Hostel (Baku)
• Hostel Ilgar (Sheki)

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

Public Transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city, but expect to pay around 0.20 AZN for a standard ticket for the bus.

Baku has a subway system that costs 0.30 AZN per ride. You need a prepaid smart card, called BakiKart, to access the metro. The card itself costs 2 AZN and you can refill it as much as you like.

If you need to take a taxi, prices start around 1.89 AZN and costs around 0.60 AZN for every kilometer.

Bus – Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are the most common options for intercity travel. Marshrutkas are the local favorite for getting around, so you can always find one that goes wherever you need to go. They run on general timetables, but usually just leave whenever they are full. Expect to pay about 2 AZN for an 80-kilometer (50-mile) trip. Going from Baku to Quba is around 160 kilometers (100 miles), takes around 2-3 hours, and costs 5 AZN. You usually pay the bus driver directly, but be sure to check at the stations, especially larger ones.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Trains – Trains in Azerbaijan are a lot slower and less frequent than buses; however, if you’re not in a rush, night trains can be an excellent option to save on a night’s accommodation.

Baku connects directly with Tbilisi , Moscow, Rostov, Kiev, Kharkiv ( Ukraine ), Brest ( Belarus ) as well as towns and cities within Azerbaijan. It is possible to travel across Azerbaijan overnight in a reserved sleeping berth for as little as 9 AZN. Booking in advance is advisable during the peak season to ensure you can reserve a bunk.

For detailed information on the trains in Azerbaijan and to book, use TuTu .

Budget Airlines – The main airline that services all major cities in Azerbaijan is Azerbaijan Airlines. However, unless you are pressed for time, I wouldn’t fly. It’s a hassle, expensive, and flights are infrequent.

Car Rental – Car rentals can be as low as 60 AZN per day for a multi-day rental when booked in advance. If you’re driving, make sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for any car rental.

When to Go to Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Azerbaijan really depends on the activities you want to do. Spring and early summer are the nicest months for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities, with temperatures usually between 10-20°C (50-68°F).

From April to June is when the flowers are in full bloom in the lowlands, and July is a popular month for trekking. It’s still warm during this time, but there aren’t as many crowds. This time of year is especially good for outdoor activities. August can be particularly hot, with temperatures as high as 40°C (104°F).

Temperatures drop below freezing in the winter months, but if you’re here to ski, this is the time to do it. Although Azerbaijan has a large Muslim population, the locals celebrate Christmas with markets and festivals throughout December.

How to Stay Safe in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is very safe. I mean like super safe. The country is ruled by one of those “president for life” guys (the current president has been in power since 2003 and is the son of the former president) and in order to increase tourism, has created severe punishments for crimes against tourists. Therefore, you are unlikely to get in trouble because everyone knows the harsh penalties if they get caught. There’s a lot of tourist police around too.

As in any destination, never leave your drink unattended when out at the bar and never walk home alone intoxicated. Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s best to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe.

When you get out of Baku, the cities and towns are pretty small and everyone knows everyone. People aren’t going to try to scam you. That said, here is a list of common travel scams to keep an eye out for just to be safe.

If you need police assistance, dial 102 for help.

Also, do not try and talk politics here. Because “the president for life” type doesn’t like dissent, a quick way to get in trouble is to talk about politics and criticize the government. Avoid politics to avoid trouble.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Azerbaijan, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Azerbaijan Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Azerbaijan and continue planning your trip:

Is Azerbaijan Safe to Visit?

Azerbaijan Itinerary: 1 & 2-Week Routes for First-Time Visitors

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How To Plan A Trip To Azerbaijan: Itinerary For A Week

Why did we enjoy our week-long trip to Azerbaijan SO much?

In the day and age of the mighty internet, it is hard to find surprises while travelling. Every little attraction has been documented or photographed by someone or the other. Perhaps that is why we enjoyed our trip to Azerbaijan so much – it was after a long time that we visited a country where there were surprises at every corner . We went expecting high-rises in Baku and historical treasures in the countryside. But we met amazing people, saw natural wonders, visited the northernmost villages of Europe, and had some of the best meals we’ve had in a while travelling. The best part? A week-long trip to Azerbaijan is affordable and offers a variety of experiences in one short trip!

As a former member of the USSR, Azerbaijan has a fraught history. The capital Baku has undergone a huge resurgence over the past 10 years. Shopping malls, high-rises, luxury hotels, and a picture-perfect promenade – you’ll find it all here. But driving out of Baku is like stepping back into time. You will find historical treasures without another tourist in sight, natural wonders untouched by tourism, and charming little mountain villages that seem to have walked out of a postcard. Here’s a detailed guide to Azerbaijan and a day-by-day itinerary for a planning your week long trip to Azerbaijan. THIS is Azerbaijan through our eyes!

Jump Straight To

Visas and arriving in Azerbaijan

Citizens of most countries need to apply for an Evisa prior to visiting Azerbaijan. This is a seamless and straightforward process but it helps to have hotel bookings and a rough itinerary before applying for a visa.

You will fly into Baku international airport. Most international flights land at the brand new terminal, which makes for an amazing first impression. We flew on AZAL, the national carrier, and the flight as well the service was excellent. The airline operates direct flights to Baku from New Delhi and London. The airport is about 30 kilometres from the centre of the capital and it’s best to take a taxi to your hotel. There are many other airlines that now have good connectivity to Baku. We suggest comparing prices and booking here .

Getting around in Azerbaijan

If you’re planning to stay in Baku and do a couple of day trips around Baku, we would not suggest renting a car. That’s because traffic in Baku can be nightmarish. Moreover public transport is decent and taxis are readily available. You can also use Uber to get from one place to the other.

For day trips and even 2-3 day trips, we would suggest opting for a tour guide. This is because English is not widely understood, especially in the countryside and exploring independently can be a bit challenging. Tour guides will rent a car with a driver for you and pick you up and drop you back at your hotel. This makes it really seamless to explore places. One day trip from Baku that we would highly recommend is to Shamaki (details below)We lucked out and found an amazing tour guide in Baku. Roman is knowledgeable, flexible, and extremely punctual. He also has amazing knowledge of local food joints and historical treasures. We would highly recommend him if you want to plan a short or long trip around Azerbaijan. He doesn’t have a website but you can drop him a WhatsApp message on +994 70 367 51 39 and he is extremely prompt to respond.

If you’re there in Azerbaijan for more than 5 days and enjoy independent and travel, then we would recommend renting a self-drive car after you’re done exploring Baku. We did this on our last 3 days. Read our experience below:

Suggested itineraries for Azerbaijan

Explore Baku Day trip to Shamakhi half-day trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag

Explore Baku Day trip to Shamakhi half-day trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag 3 day trip to Quba and Xinaliq

Explore Baku & everything it has to offer Day trip to historical treasures of Shamakhi half-day trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag 3 day trip to mountainous villages Northern Azerbaijan – Quba, Xinaliq, Laza Explore Sheki Visit Ganja and Lake Goygol

Budgeting for a trip to Azerbaijan

The amount of money you spend in a country depends heavily on the kind of hotels you stay in, the type of restaurants you visit, and the amount of shopping you do. However Azerbaijan is an extremely affordable country in general.

You can find nice luxury hotels for less than $100 per night. Hostels can be hit or miss, so

Food is incredible everywhere you go. You can get delicious street food for $2-$5. Sit down meals at nice restaurants cost approximately $15 per head.

Renting a car with a driver costs approximately $100 for 1 day. You can negotiate cost of excursions with tour agents or guides. Rates are competitive and affordable. For a self-drive rental, expect to pay around $30-$40 per day for an economy car.

Food – what to eat in Azerbaijan

I feel like I was to pen poetry for Azeri food. To say it’s good would be the understatement of the year. Make sure you try local drinks such as Ayran (yogurt-based drink), Feijoa juice (pronounced fek-ua, the local fruit is used in drinks all over Azerbaijan), and aerated pear juice. Don’t forget to stop at one of the many supermarkets along the way to sample local fruits and vegetables. Most of the fresh produce in Azerbaijan is organic and tastes incredible.

If you eat meat, you’re in for a treat in Azerbaijan. Try the Lyulya/Lule kebabs (mince-meat skewers), dolmas (steamed grape leaves stuffed with minced meat), and chicken kebabs. Stick to local specialities and avoid ordering fish as it is expensive and not the best.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are lots of options for you too. Try vegetarian dolmas, qutab (flatbreads stuffed with spinach), fresh curd, vegetarian piti (soup), local cheeses, and pilaf (rice, seasoned with local flavours).

Best time to visit Azerbaijan

The best time to visit the country is between March and June and then from September to November. This is because it gets very hot during peak summer months (July and August) and a lot of the mountainous roads are blocked or snowed under during winter months (December- February). However if you want to visit just Baku and Shamakhi, then December is also a good time to visit as the roads in this area are good and you can witness snow-laden panoramas.

View this post on Instagram Hello from Azerbaijan ??? We’ve wanted to explore the country for ages and promised we would do it in 2019! The windy capital, Baku, is full of glittering high-rises, and shopping malls. But we spent our first day walking around the old centre of Baku where cobbled alleys and carpet shops set the tone, with the aroma of freshly-baked sweets & flatbreads wafting from hole-in-wall eateries. That might have tempted us into having baklava for breakfast – don’t judge ?? ✨ ✨ #bruisedpassports #love #travel #ExperienceAzerbaijan #azerbaijan A post shared by Travel & love : Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Oct 14, 2019 at 5:31am PDT

Packing for Azerbaijan

This is tricky. We visited Azerbaijan in October and got everything from bitterly cold and windy days to scorching heat. I would suggest packing at least one light jumper and one jacket, irrespective of when you visit. Pack more if you’re going during winter months. It can get really windy in Baku as well as the countryside so carrying a light windcheater definitely helps.

Azerbaijan is a fairly progressive country, so you will see locals wearing short skirts and sleeveless tops, especially in Baku. However conservative clothing is preferred in the countryside. We would recommend packing at least a few dresses and trousers that cover your knees and arms, especially for trips to the countryside and visits to mosques.

Some tips and warnings for exploring Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a super safe country to explore. Azeris are friendly and while English isn’t widely understood, they are always willing to help

However do keep a couple of things in mind. Restaurants often tend to overcharge tourists by bringing “specials” to the table or including caviar in a mixed platter of kebabs etc. For this reason, we would recommend ordering only off the menu and taking a screenshot of the menu for reference in case there is a discrepancy in the bill

Similarly, always set a fixed rate with taxi drivers before you get into a local taxi or they might overcharge you for the shortest of distances. You can also avoid this altogether by using Uber or moving around with a tour guide.

Day by day breakdown of a trip to Azerbaijan

I’ve never really seen a city like Baku. One minute you’re surrounded by glittering high-rises and luxury hotels, the next you have tiny eateries and colourful carpet shops in a local market. You could think of it as a mix of Abu Dhabi & Marrakech. We suggest spending at least 3 days in the city.

Accommodation in Baku

We stayed at Intourist Hotel in Baku . The luxury hotel has spacious rooms and a great location, right opposite the Baku Eye. Service and breakfast buffet is mediocre. So you might want to choose another hotel such as Fairmont Baku (located in one of the flame towers) or Four Seasons Baku if you enjoy your luxuries.

There is no dearth of nightclubs, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities in Baku. But here are some things you should definitely do in Baku

• Walk along the waterfront promenade to acquaint yourself with Baku. From here you can see a glimpse of the iconic Flame Towers, Baku Eye, the Caspian Sea, and many other prominent landmarks of the city
• Spend a morning at Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre and admire the gorgeous architecture
• Go on a walking tour to the carpet museum, and Little Venice. Drop by Nizami Street for a spot of shopping and lunch. You will find high street shops, designer boutiques, cafes, and restaurants in the area.
• You should also spend a few hours walking around the Old City – admire the colourful carpet shops, pick up a souvenir or two, sample Baklava from a hole-in-the-wall eatery, visit the Maiden Tower, and the Shirvanshah Palace
• Pack a shawarma and take the funicular to Highland Park at sunset or once it’s dark. It offers an amazing view of the the city’s skyline and the Flame Towers.
• There are dozens of amazing restaurants in Baku but 2 mid-range restaurants we really recommend for scrumptious Azeri Meals are Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant and Qaynana restaurant. A meal at either of these will cost you around $15 per person and it’s well worth it. Both restaurants are beautifull, so expect walls adorned with carpets and rooms dotted with traditional artefacts. You will definitely want to take your camera along for these meals.
• Visit Hyder Mosque (a bit of an offbeat gem at the moment), especially at night when it’s all lit
• Take a half-day tour to Ateshgah and Yanardag. At Yanardag, trapped gas deposits ensure a . Ateshgah is a temple of great significance to the Zoroastrians.
• You could also take a day trip to the dramatic cliffs and mud-volcanoes of Gobustan. While this isn’t a particularly scenic part of Azerbaijan, it’s a great place to observe natural phenomena such as spitting mud volcanoes and Palaeolithic carvings. We will forgive you for thinking you are on Mars.

If there is one day trip we recommend from Baku, it is to Shamakhi. You don’t need to start too early from Baku and can easily leave after breakfast. Stop at the shrine of Diri Baba , a Sufi dervish, who spent his life in a cave, carved into a rock. The fascinating site dates back to the fifteenth century.

Next, stop at the magnificent Juma Mosque. Make sure you are wearing something that covers your elbows and knees. Women also need to carry a scarf to cover their head. The intricate and gorgeous Mosque is a photographer’s delight and the best part is, there are rarely more than a handful of people around.

You could also head to the neighbouring Yeddi Gumbaj, a cemetery overlooking the city of Shamaki. But this is easily skippable as it isn’t anything special.

At this point, you can start your drive back to Baku. But if you have an extra night, we’d really recommend spending a night in Tufandag or Shamakhi, surrounded by mountains on all sides. Shamakhi Palace Hotel is an opulent luxury hotel, as the name suggests. But it is quite affordable coming at under $90. Rooms are spacious and boast of gorgeous views overlooking mountains. Don’t leave without sampling their incredible breakfast spread – you will find everything from fresh fruits and pastries to Azeri style eggs and potato cakes on the menu.

Drive back to Baku

Spend a night in Baku as your trip to Northern Azerbaijan starts next. We’d suggest just relaxing but if you’re up for it you can always walk down to the waterfront promenade or even the highland park.

Quba and Xinaliq

You can book a 3 day trip to Guba and Xinaliq with any travel agency or tour guide.

However after exploring the surroundings of Baku with a guide on our first 4 days in Azerbaijan, we decided to rent a car for this part of our trip. Roads in Northern Azerbaijan (especially between Guba & Xinaliq) can be quite hit and miss with lots of dirt tracks and mountain bends, so we would suggest doing this only if you are an experienced driver. We rented with Avis and the process was seamless. Car rentals start at around $40 per day and fuel is really cheap In Azerbaijan (around $0.5 per litre – perks of being an oil stronghold!).

Quba is a 3 hour drive from Baku. However set aside at least 5 hours for the drive because you definitely need to stop at Candy Cane Mountains on the way. The scenic spot is just an hour away from Baku and comprises of these gorgeous mountains, ideal for a hike and some photographs. The stripey mountains are a unique site but you might have them all to yourself, especially if you go on a weekday. Please beware that there are only 8-10 striped mountains at this spot, so keep a lookout for them while driving

You can stay in an apartment or hotel in Quba. We suggest Shahdag Hotel Guba . You could think of it as a clean 3-4 star hotel, which is the best you’ll get in the city centre. It is affordable, rooms are spacious, and WiFi is good. Breakfast is passable and it even has a terrace restaurant for lunch and dinner. In case you want to venture out for a meal, there are a handful of restaurants in Guba. Of all the restaurants we tried in Guba, a doner shop opposite our hotel and restaurant Sarin (10 minute walk from the hotel) were the best.

Xinaliq is the highest village in Europe and a must stop on your visit to Northern Azerbaijan. It takes an hour and a half to drive to Xinaliq from Quba. But keep lots of time for stopping along the way because the scenery and mountain roads are absolutely spectacular

If you enjoy truly local experiences, then we suggest spending 1 night at a home stay in Xinaliq. They’re extremely humble rooms in locals’ houses, so this is ideal for solo travels and couples. We don’t suggest doing this if you’re travelling with family or have too much luggage. But if you do, you’ll be greeted warmly. Do not expect elaborate meals but there’s no shortage of Azeri tea and flatbreads stuffed with spinach.

If you’re not staying in Xinaliq, just drive back to your accommodation in Quba for the night. The couple of days we spent driving in the Northern part of Azerbaijan made for a special road trip through the Azeri countryside.

Sheki and Ganja

If you have some more time we would highly recommend continuing onto Sheki and exploring the surrounding of Ganca city, especially Lake Goygol National Park. We couldn’t cover this part on this trip owing to paucity of time but can’t wait to return to explore these beautiful parts of Azerbaijan.

I hope this answers all your questions about planning an incredible trip to Azerbaijan. If you have any other questions, leave them down below and we’ll definitely answer them soon 🙂

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90 thoughts on “ how to plan a trip to azerbaijan: itinerary for a week ”.

Hey … how about Lankaran and qabala in Azerbaijan.. also how is lagich.. is it worth visiting ?

Qabala is very nice and you can easily see it if you stay overnight in Shamakhi. However the hotel we’ve suggest in Shamakhi has similar views to the ones you’ll find it Qabala. Also, Lankaran and Lagich are decent put stops but would suggest prioritising places like Shamakhi, Xinaliq and Goygol if you have limited time as they are prettier and have more to offer 🙂

Thanks for the detailed itinerary shared. Can u guys tell me if the chargers from India works with Azerbaijan sockets ?

Most sockets in Azerbaijan are type c and f – basically the 2 round pin ones. we always carry a travel adapter just in case. the indian chargers for small devices might work, but for laptops and all are usually 3 pin ones (type d), so you should carry an adapter just to be safe

Hi you both 🙂

My husband and I are planning to visit Azerbaijan with our son who’ll be 15 months when we want to go. Is it OK to travel with a toddler that age? Will the place interest and keep him occupied too?

Hi Gayathri,

Yes we don’t see a reason why your toddler won’t enjoy it 🙂 Most of the hotels have kids’ clubs

Hi Guys, We are traveling next week and I am wondering what is the best way to take a simple card. Heard it’s really expensive at the airport. Thank you

Hey do you mean a SIM card? If so, the easiest way is to buy it on arrival itself. However if you’re there for a short time, then you might not need it as most hotels and restaurants have good wifi 🙂

Guys your detailed itinerary suggestion was very helpful for my 8 day trip. Based on my experience would suggest a few things. 1. You can do a full day trip from Baku which covers 7 attractions including Qobutsan Rock Museum, Mud Volcanoes, Yanardagh & Ateshgah. 2. Sheki is very highly recommended. For me it is a MUST VISIT in Azerbaijan. 3. Qabala was great and a stay at the Tufandag Mountain Resort is very much recommended along with the ski lift rides up the mountain. 4. The road to Lahij goes through a canyon and is absolutely breath taking. Can easily be done on the way from Qabala to Sheki as a stop. For me the journey to Lahij was more interesting than Lahij itself.

I immensely gained from Bruisedpassports post and thought could add a few things that might help others …

Glad to hear you had an amazing trip to Azerbaijan and that our itinerary was helpful 🙂

Thank you so much for your suggestions – they’ll definitely add to the information for someone planning a trip to Azerbaijan in the future.

We were planning a 4 day trip to Baku. Our agent suggested a place called Gabala instead of Shamaki. Which one should we go for? Please suggest. TIA

Hey Rachna,

Yes you could drive further up to Gabala instead of Shamakhi. You won’t go wrong with either option 🙂

Hi Savi, Your itinerary is such a great help! I’m not worrying anymore about my upcoming trip to Azerbaijan. As I’m doing it myself I probably will do some guided day tours in Baku. Is it easy to book while in Baku? And are they cheaper than online ones? Thanks Josh

Hey Josh – It is easy to book tours upon getting to Baku. However you will find the most competitive rates only 🙂

I recently embarked on a remarkable journey to Azerbaijan, and I must say that it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I landed at the airport until my departure, Roman, our knowledgeable guide, was an invaluable companion, ensuring that every aspect of our trip went smoothly. With his expertise, we explored the fascinating landmarks, savored the local culture, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

On the first day of our itinerary, Roman greeted us at the airport with a warm smile, making us feel instantly welcomed and at ease. Our adventure began with a visit to Highland Park, where we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Baku’s stunning skyline. Roman’s insightful commentary added depth to our experience, allowing us to truly appreciate the significance of the landmarks that stretched out before us.

Next on the list was the iconic Flame Tower, an architectural marvel that symbolizes the modernity and progress of Azerbaijan. Roman’s explanations about the design and significance of the building brought a new level of appreciation to its grandeur. We continued to the Heydar Aliyev Center, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, where Roman’s passion for the country’s rich history and culture shone through his explanations of the exhibits and the center’s purpose.

One of the highlights of our trip was exploring Little Venice, a charming and picturesque area in Baku. Our visit to the Carpet Museum was equally captivating, as Roman’s deep understanding of Azerbaijan’s artistic heritage brought the intricate designs and craftsmanship to life.

The second day took us to Gabala, a scenic region outside Baku. Roman ensured that our journey was comfortable and enjoyable, and we were enthralled by the beauty of Nohur Lake. The picturesque surroundings, coupled with Roman’s fascinating stories about the region’s history, made it a truly enchanting experience. The visit to the Waterfall and the Cable Car ride were exhilarating additions to the day, offering breathtaking views that left us in awe of Azerbaijan’s natural wonders.

On the third day, Roman guided us through Gobustan, an archaeological treasure trove that left us awe-inspired. The Art Rock Museum showcased ancient rock carvings that vividly depicted the life and customs of early civilizations, and Roman’s deep knowledge and passion for the subject enriched our understanding of this historical site. The exploration continued with a visit to Mud Volcano, a unique phenomenon that fascinated us, and the Fire Temple and Burning Mountain, which held spiritual and mythical significance.

Throughout the journey, Roman’s attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine care for our experience were evident. He ensured that we were comfortable, answered all our questions with patience, and went above and beyond to make our trip unforgettable. His expertise and passion for Azerbaijan’s history, culture, and natural beauty were infectious, igniting a deep appreciation within us.

As our trip came to an end, Roman organized our airport transfer seamlessly, relieving us of any logistical concerns. We departed Azerbaijan with a newfound love for the country, thanks in large part to Roman’s impeccable guidance and assistance.

I wholeheartedly recommend Roman and his services to anyone planning to explore Azerbaijan. With his expertise and unwavering dedication to providing an exceptional travel experience, you can trust that your journey will be filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. He can be reached at +994 70 367 51 39

I have been trying to reach Roman since the last one week but his number is not in service. I am planning to go for 3days to azerbaijan. I know it is extremely short but this is the maximum leave I could manage. I have few doubts. 1. What is the possibility of taking car on rent and the prices for 3 days. 2. How to book the cable car at Tufandag? 3. Which places would you suggest to try local food?

Hi, I am Roman. You can reach me in mentioned phone number. +994703675139

Hello.. How much did Roman charge for each day?

Heyy guys Just back from beautiful Azerbaijan. Planned a sudden week long trip to Azerbaijan without doing any research and then stumbled upon your article. I was hesitant travelling alone with kids sans husband, but I Can’t thank you enough for the guide recommendation. Roman was a gem. He was there right from the time we landed at the airport till we departed. He was punctual and very very helpful. Not only did he take us around, he became a great companion for my kids. I would recommend him to anyone I know who is travelling to Azerbaijan. Thanks Roman for making the trip so memorable for us.

So happy to hear that 🙂 Glad you had an amazing time with Roman in Azerbaijan.

Hi, You your whole itinerary seems very exciting for me to visit Azerbaijan for atleast 10days.But will this itinerary be suitable even for solo female travellers?

Thanks Shiba! Very useful !

The last photograph on the beautiful road atop the car is which place?

That’s on the way to Khinaliq/Xinaliq 🙂

Hey, Thank you for sharing!!!

I’ve Canceled my trip to Azerbaijan last year because of the pandemic and I plan to visit it this year, and this guide will help me a lot. Thanks again

Hey, I was just looking up the airlines you mentioned to fly directly from new delhi to Baku. But there isn’t seems to be any. Did you fly from Delhi to Baku or from London?

Hi Srav – there are usually direct flights from both Delhi to Baku & London to Baku via Azerbaijan Airlines. But I believe they are currently suspended due to the pandemic

This is fab!

hi its easy drive to baku

I have visited Azerbaijan in jan 2020 with my wife. Our tour guider was ROMAN he was so Cooperative and know the historical information about Azerbaijan really enjoyed. It feels like he was my childhood friend. Highly recommended from my side.

Can we drive in Azerbaijan with Indian DL (english) or will need IDP

Hello an IDP is preferable though some local car rentals also accept Indian DL 🙂

Thanks for the detailed description its is both interesting and enriching.

We are going to be based out of Baku. Does it make sense to various short trips from Baku or take a longer trip and cover the places that you covered. Thanks.

Hey not all these can be covered on day trips but most can 🙂

Hello, Do you recommend renting an economy car for exploring the countryside or a 4×4? Thinking if I could pack some light trails while exploring. Any recommendations on where to recommend from? Thanks.

Hey Adil – a 4X4 is not compulsory for a road trip in Azerbaijan. You can pick something that is budget-friendly, no problem 🙂

It would be really helpful if you could give recommendation for where to take cars on Rent.

Hey you can compare prices and book car rentals for Azerbaijan here https://kayak.co.in/in?a=kan_148771&lc=en&url=%2Fcars

Hey, Would you suggest visiting Azerbaijan in winters to experience snow?

hey guys.. Awesomely explained 🙂 Just a question how about last week of October to the mountain of Xinaliq for a self driving road trip? Will it be snow and bitter cold?

Hey Nisar – yes I believe so but it’s still gorgeous 🙂

Ohhh what to say about Azerbaijan.. breathtakingly Beautiful country with amazing people .. But we personally cannot imagine Azerbaijan without our guide and friend Roman .. pure hearted soul .. Guys if you are planning to visit Azerbaijan please book Roman as your guide .. He will make your trip 100 times better .. never seen anybody as punctual as Roman .. He knows every nook and corner of Azerbaijan.. he will take you to the best food joints ..He will show the best of Azerbaijan.. Roman was with us throughout our stay ( 11 days ) in Azerbaijan.. he made everything soo easy and smooth for us with 2 toddlers in hand..he even bought jackets foods tea and what not for us .. he became a family.. I am really greatful for Savi and Vid for recommending this gem of a person .. even we loved spending time with his wife wasifa .. booking Roman was the best decision we have made while visiting Azerbaijan.. Thanks again guys ❤️❤️❤️

So so lovely to hear this Rameeza 🙂

Can you please give an idea about the charges

Hey did you visit Xinaliq during end of October, planning to go myself in few days from now. How was the weather and road conditions? Pls do share

Hey road was absolutely fine. Weather was cold, so do pack some woollens, especially a warm down jacket 🙂

Thanks for your detailed explanation. I am planning to travel from Saudi for 7 days with my family in December. I arrive from riyadh to baku and how about the return, should it be from Baku itself or is there any other airport to fly back from? for the ticket purpose.

Hey there – returning from Baku itself is most convenient 🙂

We just returned from our 10 day trip to Azerbaijan and I am really glad I found this blog before we left. We booked Roman as our guide during our stay there and we couldn’t be more grateful for him.

From taking us to breathtaking landscapes, to feeding us delicious local food, Roman helps you get a truly wholesome experience. He recommends and takes you to places based on your interest and is very mindful of your comfort, safety and budget. We particularly enjoyed our two day trip to quba and xinalig village in the mountains where Roman arranged warm azer chai,delicious jam and a home cooked meals for us. I would highly recommend Roman for anyone considering a holiday in Azerbaijan as having him around makes your experience stress free and relaxing.

Hey so happy to hear you enjoyed this guide to Azerbaijan and had a good time on your travels 🙂

Thank you for your detailed description. It is both interesting and informative.

How can we reach Roman? Thank you

Hey – the phone number is in the article above 🙂

I have been trying to reach the number, but it is sadly out of service :/

Hi I am Roman. My mobile is active. You can reach from +994 70 367 51 39

Thanks for sharing your experience in such detail. This is a huge help for those planning to travel to Azerbaijan. I have a question regarding the local currency Manat. Is forex card widely accepted there? Or do you recommend to carry more local currency in cash?

Forex cards are accepted in most of the places. We usually just withdraw a small amount of local currency from ATM when we land in a new place. Carrying Manat from India is not necessary.

hi…planning a 5 day trip to Baku in october…should we stay overnight at GABALA or a day trip is good enough. Any other place near Baku for overnight stay can also be recommended. Thanks in advance

The pictures said it all. Very beautiful captures.

I wanted to understand if we need the driving license for the country in case we opt for car rental and what is the process?

Hey Ananya – if you have an Indian driving licence in English, that will work 🙂

Hi Savi&Vid, The article is really insightful. Thanks for including each and every detail. I just wanted to know how safe it will be for a solo female traveller? Do share your thoughts. One of your ardent followers, Neeraj

Hey Neeraj – it is safe, don’t worry 🙂 However would recommend sticking to the more popular/bigger cities 🙂

Hi Savi& Vid,

your artical is very helpful. we are travelling to Azarbaijan i, on 25th of this month. our next destination is Georgia on 1st Oct from Baku. So we have exact 5 days in hand for exploring Azarbaijan. We are travelling with Family of 5 members(all are pure vegetarians)(Mom-Dad-Sister-in-law and two of us). How to plan the days so that we can explore maximum of Azarbaijan. Can you help? We have booked the flight tickets and visa. No bookings has been made for Azarbaijan. Any tips you will give as we are travelling with family. would you suggest self-driving?

Hello – you can plan based on the article! You should spend all your time in Baku with a day trip to Shamakhi and half-day trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag. Baku has a number of vegetarian restaurants but in remote places like Xinaliq, vegetarian food is harder to find

We are travelling- all adults to Azerbaijan for 5 days in October and were deciding between staying for 2 nights either in Gabala or Quba ? Which one would you guys suggest?

Hey it’s so hard to choose but we love Quba 🙂

The whole itinerary is exciting and helps to plan an efficient trip. Wanted to check if IDP is required or Indian licence would work here and in Georgia both.

Hey Aditya – you can use your Indian licence to drive in Georgia as long as it is in English 🙂

I’m planning on going with my boyfriend to Azerbaijan beginning of November for 10 days. Now we’re backpacking and lifting. Is it safe? We would sleep in hostels 🙂

Is there beautiful nature as well?

Yes it is very safe – we had a great time. Yes there is beautiful nature outside Baku – if y ou want, you can go to the northern village of Xinaliq -it’s very beautiful

Hi Savi and Vid,

You people are gems.Like seriously one in million.I have been following you since my college days and always wanted to plan the whole trip just like yours.

You people carry a pocketful of sunshine wherever you go, brightening the lives of those lucky enough to know you.

I wanted to follow your itinerary to Baku for 7 days.Can i plan in December?Is it worth going

Thank you so much for your kind words Sanya 🙂

Yes Baku should be nice in December but it will be a bit cold, which can always have its own magic 🙂 hope you have an amazing trip

Hi Savi & Vid, we have planned a trip on 15 Dec for a 5-day tour to Baku & Azerbaijan and close tourist attraction, we are vegetarians if you could recommend good veg restaurants.

Hi is end March a good time to visit? Loved ur blog. Keep it up.

Yes March end should be nice 🙂

Do you think AirBnbs (apartments ) are good/safe instead of hotels? We are 3 families and i think it will be economical if we just book a 3bedroom apartment via airbnb?

Rest i am trying to follow you iternaty as well as suggestions in comments.

Yes, they are safe. Go with the ones that have previous reviews and are hosted by superhosts

Hi ! Loved the itinary ‘. can I fly into Baku to visit Georgia and then fly back into Baku on the e – visa and back to mumbai or would have to book one way flights to each destination ?

You can do that theoretically, however make sure that your e-visa for Azerbaijan is a multiple entry one. To be honest, given the good direct flight connections with both baku and georgia from India, we’d do Mumbai-Baku-Georgia-Mumbai

Hello..We are travelling on 23rd March for 10 days. 1) Could you suggest a good travel insurance. 2) Also we are planning to use ThomasCook One Currency Forex card. Hope its accepted in Azerbaijan like every other country. 3) And we are staying in Shahdagh Mountain Resort for 2 nights. Will we get a taxi from Baku to drop us and pick us back after 2 days, or should we book another taxi from Shahdagh to Baku separately. How easy is it to get a cab from Shahdagh back to Baku.

1) We use HDFC ergo and Bajaj Allianz. Thankfully, never had to make a claim till now, but have heard that both these are good with claims 2) You should check that with ThomasCook. 3) I think your hotel should be able to arrange a taxi back from Shahdagh to Baku.

I have used TATA AIG in the past and had made medical claims as well. It was an easy process. I have explored a lot and find this policy to be the best.

Thanks for the amazing description and itinerary details. Also, would connect with Roman for our trip. thanks for recommending him.

I wanted to know:

1) if Azerbaijan is good for restricted mobility residents. I am asking because I have a heart condition due to which I can’t climb stairs and walk on difficult terrain.

2) Is June end a good time to travel. will it be too crowded because of vacations etc.?

Thanks a lot

Hey, any apps / website you would recommend for car rentals for self drive (Automatic) and can you guide on the procedure for international license?

We usually use an aggregator like Skyscanner or Kayak. In Azerbaijan we rented from Avis, and used an Indian license without any problem

Hello, regarding forex, I checked with a couple of forex agencies and they all told me to carry either usd or euros in my forex card because very few of them deal with Manat. Is it ok if I travel with usd or euros in my forex card? From your experience, do you think that’s a good idea or should I get Manat in my forex card?

Doubt that you’ll be able to get Manat added on your forex card. you can get EUR or USD added. You can withdraw Manat on reaching Baku

Hi Savi and Vid

I have followed numerous suggestions on your blog but your recommendation of Roman is completely off. He is a cheat and you should seriously think about removing his suggestion from your website. (I have proof of all that I have written below and am happy to provide you the same to take your decision).

I’d just like to provide my feedback about Roman who has been highly recommended here on this forum. I trusted it blindly as I have followed many suggestions on this website and all so far have been positive but it has been an appalling experience with him.

I asked for a quote for 8 people from the onset and got a quote from him which I agreed to. Just 10 days or so before my arrival suddenly he changed the price saying that we need a bigger vehicle. Again my requirement did not change at any point.

Even though this was a red signal I agreed to the cost revision not wanting to spoil my plans.

Then suddenly on the day before my tour planned by him I was told that the tour is without a guide. Now why would anyone contact a guide for a tour (2 months in advance as well) – take the itinerary suggested by him and go in just a car without a guide. Then he says he was booked out 3 months in advance (I had booked through him 2 months in advance).

I am still in Baku and honestly it has been an appalling experience with him. If after this warning you still plan to contact him please negotiate with Roman like you would a LEGAL contract not assuming anything and EVERY word should be mentioned and vetted and checked again because it will be conveniently used against you when required. Even if any punctuation is missing get it added as that will be used as an excuse later to cheat you and change the agreed to terms. I have proof of all this and am happy to show anyone interested so you do not face the same situation as me.

I have travelled to just about every country in North America, Europe and most of Asia, Austraila and many in Africa – so pretty much the world and nowhere have I seen such blatant volte face as I have right now.

BE careful and safe travels to all.

Hi! Thank you for sharing your experience and insights! It’s of immense help to those planning a visit to Azerbaijan. I am visiting Azerbaijan in May with my daughter. I would love to rent a self drive car as I’ve done many road trips in India including in the Himalayan region. I had some concerns though. How safe would it be for 2 women to drive in the country side by themselves? Does Google Maps work well in the country side? Is there good network for mobiles to work to be able to navigate your way? If you could please help clarify the above concerns it would be a great help. Thanks.

It should be safe provided you follow all normal travel precautions. We had an amazing time driving in Azerbaijan and exploring the remote villages. Google maps and network both worked well. Have a great trip 🙂

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Azerbaijan Travel

Azerbaijan travel invites you on a journey across the Caucasian leg of the Silk Road, where history and modernity collide across dreamy semi-desert landscapes. Retrace the path of ancient Zoroastrian pilgrims, walk the cobbled streets of artisan villages and examine ancient petroglyphs up close. From ultra-modern skyscrapers to bubbling mud volcanoes and medieval caravanserais, Azerbaijan surprises travelers at every step.

If Azerbaijan has already captured your imagination and you are looking for practical details on how to prepare for your upcoming trip, we invite you to check out our Azerbaijan Travel Tips .

Your Guide to Azerbaijan by a Local Travel Expert

• 1. Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting?
• 2. Your Dream Vacation
• 3. Azerbaijan Visa Matters
• 4. Is Azerbaijan Safe for Travel?
• 5. Choose Your Transport
• 6. Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan
• 7. Azerbaijan Travel Map
• 8. How Many Days Do You Need in Azerbaijan?
• 9. At Your Service
• 10. Holidays and Festivals
• 11. Curious about Azerbaijani Cuisine?
• 12. Dos and Don’ts in Azerbaijan
• 13. Speak the Language
• 14. Virtual Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Further Reading
• 15. Did You Know That…

Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting?

• Azerbaijan is full of contrasts , with nine climate zones stretching across the country. Snow-capped Caucasian Mountains border hot, dry deserts while sun-soaked meadows merge with Caspian Sea coasts. But Azerbaijan’s contrasts go beyond nature: cutting-edge architecture straddles caravanserais laden with secrets, while Soviet designs blend with Islamic architecture in a land that never ceases to amaze.
• Azerbaijan is the Land of Fire a nickname it has known since antiquity. It is home to some of the world’s most enviable gas and oil fields, nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes, Ateshgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple and the natural, eternally burning flames of Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain).
• Azerbaijan is affordable , a land where thrifty travelers can find feasible options for extensive exploration. With delectable yet cheap food and cozy budget hotels and guesthouses, Azerbaijan offers options galore for the economical tourist.
• Azerbaijan blends the best of East and West as it sits at the juxtaposition of numerous civilizations. The old Silk Road atmosphere is still palpable among the merchants who proffer oriental spices in local bazaars, at the cozy tea houses hidden in the shade of glass office buildings and in the medieval Icheri Sheher (Inner City) guarded by forlorn Soviet structures .

Your Dream Vacation

Taste the arid winds of the Caucasian semi-desert, pray in the ancient temple of fire, stroll the corridor of oriental palaces and rest in the shadow of enduring caravanserais. Let Azerbaijan bewitch you with its delicious pilaf, tea served in delicate pear-shaped glasses and bustling bazaars. Craft your tour around the land’s fine-tuned artistic traditions, intricate petroglyphs or bubbling mud volcanoes.

Our Azerbaijan travel packages are as diverse as the clients we serve. Whether you are into history, outdoor adventures or cultural pursuits, chances are we have a tour that perfectly suits your interests. Options include everything from day trips to Azerbaijan’s major sites and attractions to extensive, multi-country expeditions. We are also happy to design a personalized Azerbaijan travel itinerary tailored to your specific needs and passions. Just drop us a message and get one step closer to your dream vacation!

Visa Matters

In recent years, Azerbaijan’s visa policies have gradually become more relaxed. Currently, citizens of over 90 countries including Australia, EU members, Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand, UAE and the U.S. can apply for an e-visa which is issued within 3 days. Passport holders of another 12 countries, including China, Japan, Israel, and South Korea, can get a visa upon arrival, while citizens of 10 countries, including Russia, can enter Azerbaijan visa-free. Azerbaijan is open for tourism, and getting there has never been easier.

Is Azerbaijan Safe for Travel?

Overall, Azerbaijan is a very safe country to explore. Azerbaijanis are a kind, hospitable people who will go the extra mile to accommodate travelers. However, as in any country, crime does occur. Stay vigilant to avoid pickpockets and avoid flashing your belongings at bus terminals, train stations, on public transport and in other crowded areas. Negotiate prices with taxi drivers and street vendors in advance to avoid being overcharged.

If you decide to drive around the country on your own, drive during the daytime. Some roads, particularly in the mountains, are marked by potholes and uneven pavement, so driving after dark can be dangerous. Pay extra attention when crossing the street, as Azerbaijani drivers are not always mindful of pedestrians .

Choose Your Transport

A number of direct international flights connect Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, with global travel hubs such as Beijing, Dubai, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Moscow, New York, Paris, Tbilisi and Tel Aviv. Other routes connect Baku with the major Central Asian cities of Almaty, Ashgabat, Nursultan, Tashkent and Tbilisi, and a convenient railway connection links Azerbaijan with Georgia, Russia and Ukraine.

Once in Azerbaijan, you can explore the country in a private vehicle or utilize domestic flights for longer routes between Baku and Ganja, Nakhichavan and other cities.

Please note that Azerbaijan travel restrictions do not permit direct travel between Armenia and Azerbaijan .

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

With nine climate zones stretching across the country, Azerbaijan is a worthy travel destination year-round. Spring and autumn draw the most crowds with their pleasant temps and vibrant landscapes, but summer and winter also have plenty to offer:

Winter: Winter transforms the high peaks of Azerbaijan into a snowy white paradise. Ski resorts at Shahdag and Tufandag are filled with frenzied fun, while many see wintertime as a chance to slow down and relax over hearty Azerbaijani food. Since Azerbaijan’s winter is usually quite mild, many local attractions are still accessible to travelers. With fewer tourists around, you can count on a much more individualized experience and unbeatable off-season discounts.

Spring: The season starts with the Persian New Year, the country’s most important holiday celebrated at the end of March. If you want to shape your tour around cultural immersion activities, spring is a great time to come! The weather noticeably warms up by late spring, when flowers and green foliage start to dominate the landscape. Not surprisingly, nature lovers find spring the best period to enjoy Azerbaijan’s great outdoors. Autumn: As September approaches, the summer heat decreases while fruits and vegetables ripen in gardens and farms. Travelers flock to admire the autumn forests surrounding Lake Goygol in Ganja or to observe bird migrations in local national parks.

Autumn: As September approaches, the summer heat decreases while fruits and vegetables ripen in gardens and farms. Travelers flock to admire the autumn forests surrounding Lake Goygol in Ganja or to observe bird migrations in local national parks.

Summer: Summers in Azerbaijan are hot, with temperatures in Baku occasionally reaching 40°C (104°F). It’s the perfect time to explore the Caspian Sea beaches or, if you wish to escape the coastal heat, to hike in the Caucasus Mountains.

• Azerbaijan Weather
• When is the best time to visit Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan Travel Map

Use the Azerbaijan Map to locate the country’s main cities and find out what each one has to offer:

How Many Days Do You Need in Azerbaijan?

Our local tourism specialists have offered their personal Azerbaijan travel advice for must-see sites and itineraries:

• Baku – Metropolitan capital of Azerbaijan where trendy skyscrapers mix with historical sites galore, it’s also the perfect gateway for exploration of Absheron Peninsula and nearby Gobustan. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Icheri Sheher , Heydar Aliyev Center , Baku Boulevard, Nizami Street, Azerbaijan Carpet Museum How to get off the beaten path: Explore the bustling alleys of Green Market (Yashil Bazaar) or visit the Modern Art Museum.  
• Greater Baku – This large area surrounding the capital encompasses almost the entire Absheron Peninsula as well as a number of islands. Befitting its size, Greater Baku spoils with a variety of attractions, from natural phenomena to manmade architectural and historical wonders. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Ateshgah Temple , Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape , Gobustan Mud Volcanoes, Yanar Dag How to get off the beaten path: Visit Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve to explore the history of Absheron Peninsula.  
• Sheki – This fascinating city is the cultural and architectural gem of Azerbaijan. Sheki is rich in Islamic architecture, delectable regional food and fascinating Silk Road history. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Sheki Khan’s Palace , Juma Mosque, Sheki Caravanserai, 19th-century hammam How to get off the beaten path: Dedicate some time to explore Gelersen-Gerersen Fortress , or visit Christian Church in Kish .  
• Ganja – One of the oldest cities in the Caucasus, Ganja boasts a plethora of historical and cultural monuments. The town prides itself as the birthplace of the famous Persian poet Nizami, and his tomb is a popular site for visitors. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Imam-zade Mausoleum , Old Ganja Fortress , Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum , Sheikh Bahauddin Complex , the bottle house How to get off the beaten path: Slow down to enjoy the beauty of Goygol National Park with its alpine landscape, crystal clear lakes and pristine forests.  
• Quba – Set on the northeastern slopes of Shahdag Mountain, Quba spoils summer vacationers with a cool climate and spectacular mountain scenery, not to mention the best apples in Azerbaijan. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Chirag-Kala Fortress , Gilgilchay Fortress , Juma Mosque , Sakina-Khanum Mosque How to get off the beaten path: Experience the unique culture of Khinalug , the oldest village in Azerbaijan, or visit the elusive Jewish community at Red Town (Red Sloboda).  
• Shamakhi – Home to a sizeable astrophysical observatory, Shamakhi was the former capital of the Shirvan Empire and one of the largest trade centers along the Caucasian Silk Road. Today the city is famous for silk production, carpet weaving and an impressive number of historical monuments. It is also one of the best places to try Azerbaijani wine. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Juma Mosque , Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum , Village of Lahij , Diri-Baba Mausoleum-Mosque , Gulistan Fortress How to get off the beaten path: Explore local wineries to sample young local wine.  
• Nakhichevan (Nakhchivan) – Azerbaijan’s oldest city is also the capital of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Local tradition claims that Noah founded the city after the Flood and subsequently died and was buried here. To reach Nakhchivan, you must catch a domestic flight from Baku. How long should I stay? 2-3 days Major Sites: Gulistan Mausoleum , Momine Khatun Mausoleum How to get off the beaten path: Leave the city behind and step into the ruins of the magnificent Alinja Fortress, visit the spectacular Karabaglar Mausoleum or explore the ancient Gemigaia Petroglyphs .  
• Gabala – An ancient city with a history dating back to the 4th century BC. With its many ruins and relics, Gabala is a perfect destination for history buffs. How long should I stay? 1 day Major Sites: ruins and excavations of Old Gabala , ancient capital of Caucasian Albania How to get off the beaten path: Visit Udin Temple , a unique architectural monument of Caucasian Albania, or drive to Hazra village to see 15th-16th century domed tombs.  
• Lankaran – A subtropical paradise in southeast Azerbaijan near the border with Iran. The city’s landscape harmoniously combines high mountain tops, fertile lowlands and pebbly coasts. How long should I stay? 1 day Major Sites: Lankaran Fortress , Pir Hussein Mosque and Mausoleum How to get off the beaten path: Immerse yourself in Khanega , a sophisticated complex of mausoleums and mosques on the banks of Pirsagat river.  
• Naftalan – This small city in the foothills of the Lesser Caucasus attests to the importance of oil to Azerbaijan’s economy and culture. In Naftalan, local oil is believed to have therapeutic effects and is used as a natural treatment in unique oil spas. How long should I stay? As long as you want to stay at a spa resort, usually at least a week Major Sites: Naftalan oil spa resort and treatments How to get off the beaten path: Enjoy a visit to the quirky Museum of Crutches, where you can admire a collection of crutches left behind by patients said to be successfully treated in Naftalan.  
• Nabran – This popular Caspian Sea resort delights with subtropical forestland and a long, lovely beach. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major Sites: Nabran beach and affiliated resort facilities How to get off the beaten path: Leave the beach behind and hike in the Nabran forests, rich with unique trees particular to this area.

At Your Service

Whether you would like to join a group tour, arrange a day trip or simply get a little help with domestic transport, we would love to make your trip smooth and memorable. Our Azerbaijan Travel services include:

Azerbaijan Holidays and Festivals

Azerbaijan is the only Muslim country in the South Caucasus, and as such the country’s culture and customs vary widely from their predominantly Christian neighbors. This difference is apparent when it comes to national holidays: As Muslims, Azerbaijanis observe Ramadan Bayrami (Eid al-Fitr) and Gurban Bayrami (Eid al-Adha) but not Christmas or Easter. Persian New Year, or Navruz, is also widely celebrated in the country.

Most parties in Azerbaijan are loud, colorful and full of laughter. This hospitable nation is always happy to welcome guests during festivities, so take advantage of the opportunity by arranging your Azerbaijan travels around one of these celebrations:

New Year (1st-2nd January) – New Year is one of the most popular holidays in the country, a joyful time spent with relatives and friends. It begins on the evening of 31st December with a splendid feast. Once the clock strikes midnight, spectacular fireworks shows erupt all across the country. The best ones take place in Baku, particularly at Baku Boulevard. Best place to celebrate: Baku

Novruz (20th-25th March) – Navruz is the celebration of the Lunar New Year, which according to Persian tradition begins with the arrival of spring. The festival is celebrated with song, dance, games and copious amounts of food. Best place to celebrate: Baku, Sheki

Republic Day (28th May) – Republic Day commemorates the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, established on 28th May, 1918. The Republic was the first secular democratic country in the Islamic world, a fact which brings great pride to Azerbaijanis. Each year on this day, top officials lay a wreath at the Republic Monument in Baku, and concerts and parades celebrating Azerbaijan’s history and culture are held across the country. Best place to celebrate: Baku

Gabala Music Festival (July-August) – Gabala Festival starts at the end of July and lasts for a week. This open-air festival combines classical piano concerts with jazz improvisations and an evening of traditional mugham music. Best place to celebrate: Gabala (Qabala)

Baku International Jazz Festival (October) – This fantastic musical event, which has been taking place in Baku since 2005, brings together jazz musicians and jazz lovers from all around the globe. Rather than a one-day event, it’s a series of concerts stretched over several days. Best place to celebrate: Baku

Goychay Pomegranate Festival (November) – The Pomegranate Festival is an annual cultural celebration featuring a carnival and an exhibition dedicated to different varieties of pomegranates and pomegranate products. Visitors can also enjoy concerts of traditional Azerbaijani music, performances of various folklore groups and friendly competitions. Best place to celebrate: Goychay

Check out our list of Azerbaijan holidays to learn more about other events you can incorporate into your Azerbaijan travel plans.

Curious about Azerbaijani Cuisine?

Our list of top dishes to taste while in Azerbaijan:

• Dolma: Delicious dish of minced meat, rice, spices and herbs which are wrapped in vine or cabbage leaves or stuffed inside a vegetable before being cooked. In 2017, the Azerbaijani tradition of making dolma was inscribed on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• Kebab: Pieces of seasoned meat, usually mutton, placed on skewers and fried over a coal barbecue called a mangal (manqal). The dish is frequently served with vegetables and a thin, unleavened flatbread called lavash.
• Ovdukh: A yogurt-based soup served cold. Yogurt is mixed with water and poured over sliced boiled meat, hard-boiled eggs, sliced cucumber and herbs.
• Qovurma: A simple yet delicious dish featuring mutton spiced with saffron and stewed with onions and tomatoes. Qovurma can also include chicken and fruit.
• Kufta (kofta): Delectable meatballs made of mutton or beef in tomato sauce. The meal is flavored with onions, salt, pepper, sugar and vinegar.
• Lavangi: – The complete opposite of kufta, it features a whole baked fish, chicken or duck filled with walnuts, onions and spices before being baked. Lavangi is most popular in the coastal regions.
• Piti: A highly popular soup made of tail fat and vegetables cooked in an aromatic mutton bone broth.
• Plov: This sumptuously seasoned rice-based meal comes in over forty varieties that differ in ingredients and cooking techniques. Traditionally, Azerbaijani plov features warm rice and fried pieces of beef or chicken mixed with onions, nuts, dried fruits and spices. In some areas, wheat is used in place of rice.
• Qutab: A thinly rolled dough folded into a cylindrical shape and fried, qutab is usually filled with meat, green vegetables or pumpkin. The finished product is cut into smaller triangular pieces and served with a glass of yogurt.
• Baklava (Pakhlava): Azerbaijan’s most renowned dessert, it’s comprised of layers of thinly rolled wheat or rice dough mixed with honey and nuts. Baklava has many regional variations, but especially popular is the classic Baku pakhlava, with a nut on top of each piece.

Check out our Azerbaijan Travel Guidebook for Food for an in-depth look at

• Azerbaijan’s National Dishes

Dos and Don’ts in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijanis are a gracious people, quick to forgive any mistakes committed by foreigners unfamiliar with local customs. Still, knowing a bit about the host culture is seen as a sign of respect and helps a lot in forging friendships as you travel.

• Take off your shoes before walking into a mosque or home.
• Show respect for the elderly by giving them the best seats on buses and at dinner tables.
• Bring a gift if you will be joining a local family for a meal or an overnight stay.
• Confirm prices with taxi drivers before getting into the car to avoid being overcharged.
• Be prepared to answer personal questions. People in Azerbaijan will be interested in your personal life and will not hesitate to ask about your age, marital status, children, etc. This curiosity is simply a sign of interest and concern.
• Throw bread in the rubbish bin or leave it on the ground, as this is offensive to Azerbaijanis
• Discuss politics.
• Accept gifts straightaway - if someone offers you a present, it is polite to refuse it twice before accepting on the third time.
• Make the OK sign, an offensive gesture in Azerbaijani culture.
• Blow your nose in public, which is rude to Azerbaijanis.

Speak the Language

Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language is the best way to make local friends and connections during your Azerbaijan travels.

Here are some phrases that may come in handy:

Virtual Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Further Reading

• Azerbaijan Travel Tips
• Azerbaijan Tours Pages

Did You Know That...

Azerbaijan may be unfamiliar to many, but the country harbors many fascinating stories and facts:

• Ever heard of the Nobel Peace Prize? Well, Azerbaijan was where the Nobel family made its fortune by discovering and exporting oil to Europe. You can visit the house-museum of the Nobel Brothers in Baku.
• Azerbaijan was where crude oil excavations began. The first well was drilled there in 1848, a decade before drilling started in the United States.
• In other Azerbaijan news, the first oil pipeline in the world was built in 1906 to transfer the “black gold” from Baku to Batumi seaport (519 miles).
• About 45% of the world’s mud volcanoes are in Azerbaijan.
• Neft Daşları is a settlement built entirely on stilts. It started as an oil rig and developed into an entire town situated on elevated walkways in the Caspian Sea.
• Baku is the birthplace of Garry Kasparov, a former World Chess Champion.

Azerbaijan Guide

• Landmarks and Attractions
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Handicrafts
• Exhibitions & Events
• Travel Restrictions - Covid-19
• Azerbaijan Tourism
• Azerbaijan Trip Planner
• Best Time to Visit
• Solo Traveler Guide
• Things to Do in Azerbaijan
• Azerbaijan Visa
• Azerbaijan Embassies
• Embassies in Azerbaijan
• Azerbaijan Airlines
• Crossing Borders
• Telephone Codes

Azerbaijan Services

• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Cancellation Policy

• Group Enquiry? NEW

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

Nohur Lake, nestled in the picturesque region of Gabala, Azerbaijan, is a serene haven offering respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the lake's tranquil waters mirror the beauty of its surroundings, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates visitors.

Shahdag Mountain Resort

Shahdag Mountain Resort, nestled in the breathtaking Greater Caucasus range of Azerbaijan, offers an unparalleled alpine experience. With its pristine slopes, luxurious accommodations, and a range of outdoor activities, it's a haven for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, promising unforgettable adventures in every season.

Tufandag Ski Resort

Tufandag Ski Resort in Azerbaijan is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering a thrilling experience amidst the stunning Caucasus Mountains. Spread over an area of approximately 4.5 square kilometers, this resort boasts a range of exciting activities for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Azerbaijan lies the mesmerizing natural wonder known as Yanar Dagh, or the "Burning Mountain." This remarkable site, located on the Absheron Peninsula near Baku, captivates visitors with its otherworldly beauty and mysterious flames that have been burning continuously for centuries.

Yanar Dagh is a testament to the geological forces that shape our planet, with natural gas seeping to the surface and igniting upon contact with the air. As visitors approach this enchanting site, they are greeted by a surreal spectacle: flames dancing atop the rocky slopes, casting an ethereal glow against the backdrop of the Caspian Sea.

Legend has it that Yanar Dagh has been burning since ancient times, with local tales and folklore attributing the phenomenon to the breath of a mythical fire-breathing dragon that once roamed the land. While the origins of the burning mountain may be shrouded in myth and mystery, the natural beauty and awe-inspiring spectacle it offers are undeniably real.

Chukhur Gabala

Chukhur Gabala, located in the Gabala District of Azerbaijan, is a picturesque region known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational activities. Situated in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Chukhur Gabala offers visitors a serene and scenic escape.

The Palace of Shaki Khans

The Palace of Shaki Khans stands as a testament to Azerbaijan's rich history and architectural brilliance. Built in the 18th century, its intricate design and lavish interiors showcase the opulence of the Khanate era. Today, it remains a symbol of cultural heritage and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Azerbaijan.

Gabala City New Mosque

Gabala City New Mosque stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural magnificence in the heart of Gabala, Azerbaijan. With its elegant minarets piercing the sky and its intricate geometric patterns adorning its facade, the mosque is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Gobustan National Park Museum

Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Azerbaijan lies the Gobustan National Park Museum, a treasure trove of ancient history and cultural heritage. Situated on the Absheron Peninsula, this remarkable museum stands as a gateway to the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Azerbaijan's prehistoric past.

At the heart of the museum lies the sprawling Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock art, ancient petroglyphs, and archaeological significance. Dating back thousands of years, these enigmatic carvings and inscriptions offer invaluable insights into the lives, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the people who once inhabited this land.

World War II Memorial Park

The World War II Memorial Park in Gabala commemorates the sacrifices and contributions of soldiers during the war. This serene park features monuments, sculptures, and a reflective atmosphere, inviting visitors to honor the past and reflect on the significance of peace. Gabala's World War II Memorial Park stands as a testament to remembrance and gratitude.

Gabala Archaeological Centre

The Gabala Archaeological Centre is a treasure trove of ancient history nestled in the heart of Azerbaijan. With artifacts spanning millennia, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. Through exhibits, interactive displays, and guided tours, visitors embark on a captivating journey through Azerbaijan's rich archaeological heritage.

Shaki Museum Of History And Local Lore

Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape

Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape in Azerbaijan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and historical significance. The site is located approximately 64 kilometers southwest of Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan.

Gobustan National Park

Sure! Gobustan National Park in Azerbaijan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and unique geological formations. It offers insights into prehistoric human life and culture, with thousands of petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age. The park's diverse landscapes attract visitors worldwide.

Mardakan Castle

Mardakan Castle, an architectural marvel nestled within the captivating landscapes of Azerbaijan, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Perched majestically atop a hill in the picturesque village of Mardakan, this medieval fortress exudes an aura of grandeur and mystique, inviting visitors to step back in time and unravel the secrets of centuries past.

Dating back to the 14th century, Mardakan Castle holds a storied past steeped in legend and intrigue. Built during the reign of Shirvanshah Akhsitan I, the castle served as a strategic stronghold, guarding the approaches to the Absheron Peninsula and providing protection against invasions from neighboring lands. Its sturdy walls, towering bastions, and intricate architectural details reflect the military prowess and engineering ingenuity of its builders.

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