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eternal flames the city of winds

Welcome to Baku – a truly contemporary city criss-crossed by history. From the modern elegance of the Flame Towers standing proudly above to the medieval UNESCO-listed Old City at its core, there is something for everyone in our stunning capital.

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Where East meets West

In Baku you will discover a constantly evolving tapestry of life and energy from bazaar to penthouse. Being a coastal city, Baku is intrinsically open-minded and hospitable. Guests are welcome to stroll along the Caspian promenade (the Boulevard), visit the Old City (known locally as Icherisheher) and enjoy the unique architectural blend of East and West.

Baku visitor map

Located at an elevation of 28 meters below sea level, Baku is the  world’s lowest-lying national capital city.

Baku is the  largest city on the Caspian Sea  and of the Caucasus region.

Known as the City of Winds , there are two main gusts to look out for in Baku – the warmer Gilavar blowing from the south, and the cool Khazri sweeping down from the north.

what to do in Baku

traditions of the East with a modern twist

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Baku, Northern route

a palace to happiness recounts a history of love

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Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography

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Hit the bull’s eye at Baku Shooting Center

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Take a yacht trip on the blue Caspian

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In the abode of flames an exciting adventure

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Birdwatching in Absheron National Park

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House-museum of Gara Garayev

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The jazz world of Vagif Mustafazade

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Take a journey through Azerbaijan’s literary history

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House-museum of genius musicians

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Nobel brothers’ house-museum

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Modern art in ancient city

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The National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

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Exciting wildlife in the city center

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Take a walking tour of Soviet films shot in Baku

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Visit the world’s first oil tanker museum

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Baku Olympic Stadium

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Gala State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve

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The Museum of Miniature Books

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Polish heritage in Baku

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Relax and have fun at Zire Ecopark

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Shop and socialise in the Port Baku area

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Snap a photo of the Flame Towers

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Admire the curves and collections of the Heydar Aliyev Centre

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Browse the home of Azerbaijani fine arts

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Take a wine bar crawl

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Visit Yashil Bazaar for a world of aromas

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Gutab-making masterclasses

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Enjoy the Caspian sea & beaches

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Visit Baku's Carpet Museum

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The Perfect Baku & Azerbaijan Itinerary With Day Trips to Sheki & Gobustan

May 23, 2023 by Bino Leave a Comment

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant and modern destination that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and entertainment. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Baku is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Caucasus region. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive 4-day itinerary for exploring Baku and the surrounding areas, highlighting the best things to see and do in this fascinating city and in Azerbaijan.

Table of Contents

Getting to Baku

Baku is served by the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which is located approximately 20 km from the city center. The airport is the largest in Azerbaijan and is well-connected to other major cities around the world. There are several airlines that operate direct flights to Baku, including Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa. Travelers can also find connecting flights from other major cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Baku is connected to other major cities in Azerbaijan and neighboring countries by rail. The city’s main railway station is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line connects Baku to Tbilisi in Georgia and Kars in Turkey. The journey from Tbilisi to Baku takes approximately 12 hours, while the journey from Kars to Baku takes around 30 hours.

Day 1 – Old City of Baku 

Old city tour.

old city of baku – Icherisheher

On the first day of the Baku itinerary, visitors can explore the historic Old City, also known as Icherisheher . This UNESCO-listed site is home to several attractions, including the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

The Old City is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with historic buildings and mosques. Visitors can take a guided walking tour or explore on their own. The area is home to several souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can easily spend an entire day here exploring the different nooks and crannies and that’s exactly what I did.

Maiden Tower

maiden tower

One of the most iconic landmarks in Baku is the Maiden Tower , located in the Old City. This 12th-century tower stands at 29.5 meters tall and is shrouded in mystery and legend. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

The Maiden Tower has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a watchtower, lighthouse, and even a prison. Visitors can learn about the tower’s history and significance at the on-site museum.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

palace of the shirvanshah

Another must-visit attraction in the Old City is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs . This 15th-century palace complex was the residence of the Shirvanshahs, rulers of the Shirvan region of Azerbaijan.

The palace complex includes several buildings, courtyards, and gardens. Visitors can explore the various rooms and halls, including the Divankhana, a reception hall adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.

Museum of Miniature Books

This is a cute little museum within the Icherisheher and is said to be the only museum in the world dedicated to miniature books. You can find versions of well known books such as The Little Prince or various plays by Shakespeare in micro form. There is also a huge international selection spanning the likes of Chinese communist Mao-era books to Islamic scripture. Entrance here is free.

Juma Mosque

The underrated Juma Mosque deserves a visit, especially when you’re already exploring the Icherisheher. This is often skipped by group tours so there’s a fair chance you’ll find the place to yourself at any given time. The architecture is beautiful with intricate carvings on the stone facade of the mosque. 

Chill in a Teahouse

a teahouse in baku’s old city

While exploring the old city of Baku, make sure to stop by for tea and cakes at one of the teahouses within the vicinity. For great views, Cay Bagi 145 offers sweeping views of the Maiden Tower from the topmost dining room. Admire the scene while munching on excellent Russian Honey Cake and traditional tea.  

National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

national museum of the history of azerbaijan

Stretching an entire block, the National Museum of the History of Azerbaijan is located a few blocks away from the old city walls. The building used to be the residence of an oil magnate until the Soviet Army confiscated the premises and turned it into a museum. The museum itself consists of 2 parts – the first is a showcase of the opulence of the 1920’s when the building was occupied for its original purpose. Visitors will pass through ornately decorated rooms filled with priceless furniture and antiques. The second part of the museum showcases the history of Azerbaijan. The latter was closed during my visit. Do note that the entrance to the museum is from Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Street. 

Day 2 – Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Center & Museums

Day 2 of the Baku itinerary offers visitors a mix of modern and old architecture, stunning views and a relaxing stroll along the seafront.

Flame Towers

flame towers of baku

On the second day of the trip, visitors can start their day by visiting the iconic Flame Towers . These three skyscrapers are the most recognizable landmarks of Baku and are a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. The towers are illuminated at night and offer a stunning view of the city. Visitors can also take a funicular for 1 Manat to the top of the towers for a panoramic view of Baku. The adjacent Highland Park offers not just a great view of the towers but also of the skyline of Baku.

Carpet Museum

A short walk from the entrance to the funicular is the Carpet Museum . The building itself is shaped like a rolled carpet and inside, the exhibits provide a visual showcase of the different carpet styles in Azerbaijan, including the historical regions of Azerbaijan that are in present-day Iran. It is worth visiting for those who are into carpets or who are aesthetically-inclined. 

Baku Boulevard (Bulvar)

After visiting the Flame Towers, visitors can take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard , a beautiful promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea. The boulevard is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and offers a variety of activities such as bike rentals, cafes, and street performances. The boulevard also features a Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s eye view of the city.

Heydar Aliyev Center

heydar aliyev center

In the afternoon, visitors can head to the Heydar Aliyev Center , a modern architectural masterpiece that houses a museum, exhibition halls, and a conference center. The building was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. The museum inside the center showcases the history and culture of Azerbaijan, and visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the building.

Tip: Afternoon is the best time to visit the Heydar Aliyev Center as the sun will be shining on the front part of the building during this time.

Window Shopping in Nizami Street

pedestrian area of nizami street

You can spend the late afternoon to evening window shopping along the pedestrian section of Nizami Street . One thing I noticed about Baku is that shops are often open until late, with restaurants closing even later. Most of the buildings along Nizami Street are floodlit at night and make for an atmospheric scene when walking around the area. I asked the locals who actually pays for the electricity bills and was told the government does. 

Day 3 – Gobustan & Other Day Trips Near Baku

Gobustan national park.

petroglyphs of gobustan by bruno girin

On the third day of the Baku itinerary, visitors can explore the Gobustan National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes. The park is located approximately 60 km southwest of Baku and can be reached by car or public transportation.

The petroglyphs at Gobustan date back to the Upper Paleolithic period and provide a glimpse into the lives of ancient humans. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn more about the history and significance of the petroglyphs.

gobustan mud volcanos by nick taylor

In addition to the petroglyphs, Gobustan is home to over 300 mud volcanoes, which are unique geological formations that spew mud and gas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mud volcanoes to learn about their formation and see them up close.

Ateshgah Fire Temple

ateshgah fire temple by nick taylor

After visiting Gobustan National Park, visitors can head to the Ateshgah Fire Temple , located approximately 30 km northeast of Baku. The temple is a unique religious site that was once used by Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs.

The temple is known for its natural gas fires, which have been burning for centuries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple to learn about its history and significance.

The final stop on the third day of the Baku itinerary is Yanar Dag , a natural gas fire that has been burning for centuries. The fire is located approximately 25 km north of Baku and can be reached by car or public transportation, or as a final stop in a day trip that includes the Ateshgah Fire Temple.

Visitors can watch the flames dance and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The fire is particularly impressive at night when it illuminates the area.

Overall, the third day of the Baku itinerary offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders and cultural sites of the region.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Shamakhi and Sheki

Aside from Baku, Sheki is another popular destination for those visiting Azerbaijan. Being 4 hours away, some travelers invariably choose to stay overnight. If you have the time, staying overnight allows you to explore Sheki at a more leisurely pace and to head to additional places such as the mountainside village of Lahic which is known for crafts. That said, it is entirely possible to do Sheki as a day trip and I did exactly that. From Baku, I departed at around 8AM and got back at 9PM. The day trip allowed me to stop at Shamakhi, the Diri Baba Mausoleum and Nohur Lake before taking in the sights of Sheki. 

juma mosque in shamakhi

Roughly midway between Baku and Sheki is the town of Shamakhi . It is most known for the Juma Mosque , a historic place of worship and the oldest mosque in Azerbaijan. It is considered a significant example of Islamic architecture in the Caucasus region. The mosque originates from the 8th century during the Arab invasion of Azerbaijan and was later renovated and expanded in the 17th century. The mosque has a distinctive rectangular shape and features a large central hall with a high ceiling and wooden columns. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy.

inside shamakhi’s juma mosque

One of the most notable features of the Juma Mosque is its minaret, which stands at a height of 24 meters and is decorated with intricate brickwork and ornamental motifs. The minaret is one of the oldest surviving examples of Islamic architecture in the Caucasus region and is considered a masterpiece of medieval brickwork.

A further hour or so from Shamakhi is Nohur Lake . It is a picturesque lake located in the Gabala region of Azerbaijan and is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. During autumn, the trees on the hills surrounding the lake turn into a flurry of red and yellow, making it an especially scenic spot for photos.

The lake is fed by several mountain streams and is known for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding landscape and create a stunning visual effect when viewed in the early morning before the winds set in. The lake is also home to a variety of fish species, including trout and carp, making it a popular spot for fishing. Aside from fishing, visitors to Nohur Lake can take part in a range of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and picnicking. There are several hiking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests and visitors can also rent boats or kayaks to explore the lake itself. Visitors who are heading to Sheki typically make a customary stop to admire views of the lake. 

Sheki Khan’s Palace

sheki’s khan palace

Sheki Khan’s Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Sheki. It was built in the 18th century and served as the residence of the local ruler, the Khan of Sheki. The palace is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful frescoes.

A typical tour of the palace takes visitors to various rooms that are decorated with beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows. Outside the palace is a large garden with fountains and a pool.

sheki khan palace

Along the walk to the main palace building, visitors can marvel at local craft shops, including one that showcases just how the stained glass windows were restored without using a single nail. 

Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its history and architecture. Photography inside the palace is prohibited.

Caravanserai

caravanserai of sheki

The Caravanserai is another popular historical site in Sheki. It was built in the 18th century and served as resting houses for traders and travelers who were passing through the city. Up to this day, the caravanserai is used as a place for lodging. It has now been converted into a hotel. While the facilities are not plush, the atmosphere evokes a much simpler time. There is also a charming central courtyard filled with trees and benches for guests to relax in. The outer part of the caravanserai is filled with souvenir shops and teahouses. 

Albanian Church

albanian church in kish village, sheki

The Albanian Church in Kish Village is a historic Christian church located in the village of Kish in the Sheki Rayon of Azerbaijan. The church is believed to have been built in the 1st century AD and is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in the Caucasus region. It was originally an Albanian Apostolic Church and was later converted into a mosque during the Islamic conquests in the 8th century.

In the 19th century, the church was renovated and restored by the Russian Empire, which controlled Azerbaijan at the time. It was then used as a Russian Orthodox Church until the early 20th century. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the church was returned to the Azerbaijani government and was declared a national historical and architectural monument.

skyline of sheki

Where to Eat in Baku

Baku offers a wide range of Azerbaijani cuisine with its unique blend of flavors and spices. Visitors can try the traditional dishes such as plov, dolma, and kebab. Plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, is a must-try for anyone visiting Azerbaijan. Dolma, stuffed grape leaves or vegetables, is another popular dish. Kebabs, grilled meat skewers, are also a staple of Azerbaijani cuisine.

For those who prefer vegetarian options, there are plenty of options available. Badimjan dolma, stuffed eggplant, and lobiya choban salati, a bean salad, are some of the vegetarian dishes that visitors can enjoy. Azerbaijani cuisine also features a variety of soups, including dovga, a yogurt-based soup, and shorba, a meat-based soup.

Here are some recommended restaurants that I have personally tried:

Nakchivan – This nicely decked restaurant specializes in cuisine from the Azerbaijan exclave of Nakchivan. Check out the Nakchivan variation of Dolma, the Chicken with Pomegranate Sauce as well as their crunchy flat walnut pies. 

Sumakh – This is another atmospheric restaurant to check out in Baku for local food with an extensive menu of local dishes. Servings are huge so it may not be ideal for solo diners. Their plov and lamb dishes are excellent.

chicken cutlet in marivanna

Marivanna – kitschy and instagram-worthy Russian restaurant in the city center near the coast. 

Dolma – This underground restaurant is very touristy but they serve a wide variety of Azerbaijani and Caucasus dishes so if you are pressed for time, this city center restaurant is a great option.

United Coffee Beans – this is probably the closest you can get in Baku to a hipster cafe. While coffee houses abound in the city, the number of establishments that offer vegan milk options is limited. United Coffee Beans is one of them. They also have a range of healthy eats including grain bowls and wraps.  

Accommodation

When planning a trip to Baku, finding the perfect accommodation is crucial. Fortunately, Baku offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.

Luxury: InterContinental Baku – Located right in the heart of the city, the InterContinental Baku is housed in a strategic location. It is just next to Sahil Metro Station and about 10 minutes walk away from the Icherisheher (Old Town) and the pedestrian shopping street of Nizami. Rooms are plush and the lighting is touch-based.  

Budget: Sahil Hostel & Hotel – There are a few hostels where backpackers congregate in Baku and Sahil Hostel & Hotel is one of the more prominent places of lodging. Don’t be fooled by the rather un-glamorous entrance – the hotel itself is modern and clean. Wooden parquet floors help shield guests from the cold from autumn until spring. Private rooms are also available, including those that have their own balconies. This hostel is also an excellent place from which to watch the Formula 1 in Baku. 

Helpful Tips for Baku & Azerbaijan

• Travel Insurance: In this age of uncertainty, I’d err on the side of caution and purchase travel insurance. You can check out Worldnomads as they have quite an extensive coverage, even including personal accidents into their list of benefits.
• Getting Around: While in Baku, I use Bolt app which allowed to get around different spots in the city easily despite knowing no Russian or Azeri language. I got to pay local price and most trips within the city cost me less than 3 Manat (~ around 2 USD or less).
• Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan: Most places in Azerbaijan, especially the area near Baku which is semi-arid, don’t get much rain so there’s no rainy season to be wary of. However, do not that it can get very hot in summer which is in July and August. 

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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12 Exciting Day Trips From Baku: Mud Volcanoes, Mountain Hikes, Mosques & More

This round-up of the best day trips from Baku, Azerbaijan includes short independent trips you can do with public transport and longer Baku tours. Whether you’re looking for nature, hiking, culture, history or food and wine, this list has something for you!

Baku is the gateway to some of Azerbaijan’s most incredible mountains, surreal landscapes of mud and fire, enthralling villages, and even the wine region.

It’s easy to get waylaid by the capital’s charming the Old City, Icherisheher , and the ultra-cool urban architecture , but don’t forget there are plenty of amazing things to see and do right on Baku’s doorstep.

I recommend spending at least 2-3 full days in Baku . That’s enough time to see the city highlights plus take 1-2 day trips around the Absheron Peninsula and beyond.

For all the best things to see and do in the city, see my Baku City Guide .

Getting around Azerbaijan can be a bit challenging, but it’s possible to do many of these Baku day trips independently using marshrutka vans or trains. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions for each destination.

For longer drives and more complex routes, I highly recommend joining either a guided tour or taking advantage of the hop-on-hop-off-style transfers available. In the next section, I list my top picks.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Quick links: The best Baku day tours

⭐ Top-rated Baku day trip: Combined tour to the Gobustan mud volcanoes, petroglyphs, Yanar Dag & Bibi Heybet Mosque → Check availability here on Viator .

⭐ Best extended day trip: Tour of the copper workshops in Lahic and ancient Shamakhi with an Azerbaijani picnic lunch in the forest near Ismailli. → Check availability here on Viator .

⭐ For mountain scenery & hiking: Day trip to Xinaliq, Azerbaijan’s highest village → Check availability here on Viator .

⭐ For architecture & culture: Day trip to Sheki and the UNESCO World Heritage listed Palace of the Sheki Khans → Check availability here on Viator .

⭐ For Azerbaijani wine: Day trip to Qabala → Check availability here on Viator .

Map of Baku day trips

→ Click here to open the map .

How to plan a Baku day trip

I’ve included detailed transport information for each destination in the next section. 

Here is a quick overview of your transport options for travelling out of Baku plus a few handy links:

Metro & intercity buses

Many of these shorter day trip destinations on the Absheron Peninsula are easy to reach from the Old Town using a combination of metro and buses. Public transport in Baku is linked up to Google Maps, which makes it very easy to navigate the city using your phone.

Pick up a rechargeable BakıKART for 2 AZN when you first arrive. A single metro trip costs 0.30 AZN, and bus fares range from 0.30-0.50 ANZ depending on the route.

Regional buses

You no longer have to travel all the way to Sumqayit to catch a marshrutka or coach. Regional buses to towns and cities outside Baku now depart from the International Bus Terminal Complex located here . To get there from Icherisheher, simply take bus 37 from Nizami Garden to Bilajari Circle (0.30 AZN; 20 mins).

The bus station publishes schedules and fares on their website – which is surprisingly easy to use. Check times and ticket prices for popular destinations here .

Organised day tours

Generally speaking, organised day trips from Baku are great value for money and take a lot of the hassle out of travel. I highly recommend joining a day tour with private transportation for longer trips, especially anything that requires more than three hours of travel.

Viator has the best range of itineraries and tour companies in Azerbaijan. Click here to browse all day trips from Baku .

Best day trips from Baku for history, culture & scenery

1. day trip from baku to gobustan national park – mud volcanoes & petroglyphs.

• Distance from Baku: 65 km (40 miles)
• Travel time: ~4 hours return
• Best for: History, culture, adventure, families with kids

A short drive south via the Caspian coast, Gobustan (Qobustan) is by far the most popular day trip from Baku. This was one of the first places I visited after arriving in Azerbaijan and it’s an experience I’ll never forget .

There are two things to see in the area. First and foremost, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is one of the country’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites , where you can observe more than 6,000 petroglyphs – some 40,000 years old . After visiting the small but fascinating exhibition, you are then led through the open-air museum to view the ancient engravings hidden amongst caves and boulders. Entrance costs 10 AZN per person and includes an English-speaking guide.

There are mud volcanoes all over the Absheron Peninsula, including a big cluster 1.5km inland from Gobustan. It’s a short off-road drive from the museum to reach this otherworldly landscape, where little craters bubble and puff, spilling ice-cold mud onto the dry earth.

How to get to Gobustan from Baku with public transport

To get to Gobustan from Baku independently, you’ll need to use a combination of public transport and taxis.

First, take a south-bound bus 125 from Azneft Square to the Karvansaray Shopping Centre (0.40 ANZ; 30 mins). Cross the road to Bina Shopping Centre and board the south-bound 195 bus (1.30 AZN; 45 mins) to Gobustan House of Culture in the centre of Gobustan town. From there, a local taxi to the National Park takes around 10 minutes and should cost ~12 AZN. A taxi to the petroglyphs and the mud volcanoes combined should cost ~30 AZN.

Best Gobustan day tours

TOP CHOICE: Gobustan, Mud volcanoes, Fire temple, Fire mountain Group Tour with Bag Baku . This is the tour I did when I visited Gobustan. English-speaking guides and transport to/from Baku are included, but you need to purchase your own museum ticket. They also make a quick stop at the ‘burning mountain’, Yanar Dag (see the next section for more info). → Check prices & availability .

PRIVATE TOUR: Gobustan, Mud volcanoes, Fire temple, Fire mountain Private Tour . If you prefer to travel sans group, Bag Baku offers the same itinerary as a private tour. It’s very good value for money. → Check prices & availability .

2. Day trip along the Absheron Peninsula – flaming hills & fire temples

• Distance from Baku: 100 km (62 miles)
• Best for: Adventure, scenery

The Absheron Peninsula is the piece of land that extends into the Caspian Sea north and east of Baku. As well as more mud volcanoes and a surreal shoreline of oil rigs, this area offers a range of other quirky landscapes and attractions – including the famous ‘flaming mountain’, Yanar Dag, and the Ateshgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple.

A tour of Absheron from Baku will typically include Gobustan to the south plus several stops to the east of the city. It involves a bit more driving, but it’s worth it to book a combination tour if you have time to see more of the area.

If you just want to visit Ateshgah or Yanar Dag, you can quite easily do it independently by bus. See numbers #9 and #10 on this list for more information.

Best Absheron Peninsula tour

ALL-INCLUSIVE GROUP OR PRIVATE TOUR: Gobustan & Absheron Tour All Entrance Fees and Lunch Included . Available as a private or group tour, this itinerary includes hotel pick up, lunch, and tickets to Gobustan Reserve. Yanar Dag and the Ateshgah Fire Temple are also included in the itinerary. → Check prices & availability .

3. Day trip to Khinaliq – hiking & high mountain villages

• Distance from Baku: 220 km (137 miles)
• Travel time: ~8.5 hours return
• Best for: Nature, mountain scenery, hiking

Khinaliq (Xinaliq / Khinalug) is one of the most popular places to go hiking in Azerbaijan. Located north-west of Baku in the Greater Caucasus mountains, the tiny village of 2,000 people is considered to be the highest and most isolated in the country. (Along with Ushguli and Bochorna in Georgia , it’s among the highest in the South Caucasus region ).

Khinaliq’s main attraction is its pristine mountain scenery, best appreciated when hiking along one of the marked alpine trails around the village. The History-Ethnography Museum of Khinaliq offers insights into the area’s Caucasian Albanian heritage and Tikmes embroidery traditions.

Sometimes called the ‘museum under the open sky’, this is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan and one of the most spectacular landscapes in the region. Because it’s such a long drive – and because there’s so much to see – it’s best to spend a few nights in Khinaliq, staying at one of the local guesthouses in town.

If you’re pressed for time, it’s possible to visit in a day from Baku, but only by joining a guided tour. I only recommend this one for the summer months when the high mountain pass is completely clear and the days are long.

Best Khinaliq tours

TOP CHOICE: Quba and Khinaliq Village Tour . This 10-hour day trip has a packed schedule. On the way to Khinaliq from Baku, you’ll visit Besh Barmag mountain, Masdargah waterfall, Qachrash forest, and a number of other scenic viewpoints. After a short stop in Quba village, the tour culminates with a full two hours in Khinaliq. → Check prices & availability .

BUDGET GROUP TOUR: Guba Khinalug from Baku Group Tour . This budget-friendly tour includes stops at Besh Barmag mountain, Qachrash forest and Masdargah, and still gives you three full hours to explore Khinaliq. You’ll eat lunch with a local family and get a chance to visit the History-Ethnography Museum plus a local mosque. → Check prices & availability .

BEST CHOICE FOR HIKERS: Khinalig-Galakhudat hike with Bag Baku . If you want to focus on hiking, this day trip takes you straight to the mountains to maximise your time on the ground. The hike from Galakhudat village to Khinaliq is 8km (easy grade) and takes around five hours to complete. Arriving in the village by foot is a special experience. When you get there, you’ll be greeted with a home-cooked meal. → Check prices & availability .

BEST CHOICE FOR SCENERY: Khinalug and Candy Mountains (Group or Private) Tour . This tour follows a slightly different route and includes stops at the ‘Candy Cane Mountains’ near Khizi (similar to the ones in Udabno in Georgia ) as well as Qachrash forest on the way up to Khinaliq. → Check prices & availability .

4. Day trip to Quba – Azerbaijani carpet weaving & Jewish history

• Distance from Baku: 168 km (104 miles)
• Travel time: ~5 hours return
• Best for: Culture, history, textiles

Quba (Guba) is a small town in the foothills of the Caucasus that’s used as a departure point for visiting Khinaliq. Some hiking tours make a quick pit stop here to change vehicles, but if you’re interested in culture and traditional textiles , it’s a worthy day trip destination in its own right.

Quba is known for being the country’s apple-growing capital (more than 1000 varieties of the fruit grow here) and the home of one of Azerbaijan’s seven schools of carpet weaving. Workshops and studios line the main streets, with women diligently knotting huge soumaks and pile rugs behind closed doors. Qadim Quba is one of the most popular workshops and welcomes visitors to tour the studio.

Grab lunch and an apple tea at Alma Cafe on the river before crossing the bridge to Red Village (Girmizi Gasaba). A total contrast to the rest of Quba, this neighbourhood sports rows of tidy red-tiled houses. Home to a large community of Mountain Jews, it was once the only entirely Jewish settlement outside of Israel and the US. Nicknamed ‘Little Jerusalem’, it’s now believed to be the world’s last shtetl.

Visit a few of the eight local synagogues (the Six Dome Synagogue is particularly impressive) and the world-class Mountain Jews Museum . Having opened in 2019, it catalogues the area’s unique history from the mid-18th century onwards, including the WWII period, and provides an insight into local culture and Juhuri language. Entrance costs 10 AZN.

How to get to Quba from Baku with public transport

Quba is ~2.5 hours from Baku by road and easy to reach by bus. Marshrutka minivans and larger coaches both depart from Baku International Bus Station.

When you arrive, proceed to the top level and look for buses waiting in the large outdoor depot area. If in doubt, ask around. Drivers depart regularly throughout the day (every 30 to 60 minutes), with the first bus leaving at 7.30am and the last bus at 5.55pm. Double check the schedule before you go. Tickets to Guba cost 4 AZN per person.

Buses terminate (and return to Baku) at the new bus station on the east side of Quba.

5. Day trip to Sheki – Silk Road history & the Palace of the Sheki Khans

• Distance from Baku: 300 km (186 miles)
• Travel time: ~9 hours return
• Best for: Culture, history, scenery

Sheki is my favourite place in Azerbaijan and a must-visit for every traveller. Ideally you should plan to spend 2-3 days in Sheki , but if one day is all you have, it’s better than nothing.

Alongside the newly UNESCO-listed Palace of the Sheki Khans with its glimmering shebeke stained glass windows, you should wander the historic Sheki old town, which features charming cobbled streets and several restored Silk Road-era caravanserais. One of the stone inns has been refurbished and serves as a hotel. Staying the night here is truly one of the best experiences you can have in Azerbaijan.

Sheki is a long drive from Baku – and it will be an exhausting day – but I still think it’s worth it to make the trip out. There’s no way you can do this by public transport though, so your only option is to hire a taxi or join an organised tour.

Best Sheki tours

TOP CHOICE: Private Sheki Tour . This day tour includes door-to-door transfers from Baku and an English-speaking guide. On the way to Sheki, you’ll stop at the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi, but most of your time will be spent in Sheki touring the summer palace, the Albanian-Caucasian Church of Kish, and the caravanserai. → Check prices & availability .

MULTI-DAY OPTION: Shamakhi, Gabala and Sheki tour (All inclusive) . If you can find time in your itinerary, this overnight trip has a much better pace, is more affordable – and most importantly, it allows for a night and full day in Sheki. On the first day, you’ll drive up from Baku stopping at the Diri Baba Mausoleum, the town of Ismailli, Gebele and Nohur Lake. The second day features an in-depth tour of Sheki before returning to Baku in the late afternoon. Accommodation at the Sheki Palace Hotel and two lunches are included. → Check prices & availability .

6. Day trip to Shamakhi and Lahic – ancient mosques & Coppersmiths

• Distance from Baku: 173 km (108 miles)
• Travel time: ~5.5 hours return
• Best for: Culture, history

Shamakhi (Şamaxi) and Lahic (Lahij) are two charming small towns in central Azerbaijan. Shamakhi is one of the oldest cities in the country and formerly served as the Shirvanshahs’ capital until 1192. Known for its carpet weaving, poetry and folk dance, it’s also home to one of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, the Juma.

The lush hills around the city hold many treasures, including wineries and even alpaca farms! The Yeddi Gumbaz (‘Seven Domes’) is a historic cemetery complex above the city and the final resting place of the last ruler of the Shirvan Khanate .

Fifty kilometres deeper into the mountains via a nail-biting serpentine road, the tiny village of Lahic is a UNESCO Creative City famed for its old streets and coppersmiths’ workshops. Step back in time as you wander the rows of tiny wooden shops, walking to the beat of a dozen anvils tapping beautiful designs into plates and jugs.

Again, you could easily spend 2-3 days exploring this area but it’s still possible to see the highlights on an extended day trip from Baku.

How to get to Shamakhi from Baku with public transport

There are no direct buses to Shamakhi that I’m aware of. The easiest way to get there is to take a bus from Baku International Bus Station to Gabala and ask the driver to drop you off early on the highway outside Shamakhi. Buses depart every hour between 10am and 6pm. Journey time is around 2 hours, and the fare is 7.60 AZN.

To get to Lahic from Shamakhi, you’ll need to take a local taxi. This should cost around 7 AZN.

Best Shamakhi & Lahic day tours

TOP CHOICE: Lahij Tour & Picnic Party (All inclusive) . This full-day tour includes a visit to Shamakhi, two hours in Lahic, plus an Azerbaijani feast with local wine in the forest near Ismailli on the way back to Baku. → Check prices & availability .

TRANSFER: Independent Tour to Shamakhi & Lahij . If you prefer something more hands-off, this transfer service from Baku is unguided. The driver will make two pit stops at Diri Baba Mausoleum and the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi before arriving in Lahic, where you get a full three hours to explore the town at your own pace. → Check prices & availability .

7. Day trip to Gabala – mountains, waterfalls & skiing

• Distance from Baku: 216 km (134 miles)
• Travel time: ~6 hours return
• Best for: Mountain scenery, skiing, hiking, adventure

Azerbaijan’s premier outdoor resort, Gabala is one of the best places in the Greater Caucasus for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the slopes of Tufandag Mountain Resort transform into trails for quad-biking, hiking and paragliding.

Gondolas whisk visitors up and down the mountains. In Gabala city, you can find Caucasian-Albanian churches and a gamut of local restaurants, while there are several waterfalls and lakes walking distance from the centre.

This landscape is a breath of fresh air after buzzing Baku and the perfect place to relax in a hot spring and take in some cool mountain air. A three-hour drive from the city, it’s another long day trip but quite easy to organise travelling either by bus or with a private driver.

How to get to Gabala from Baku with public transport

Buses depart from Baku International Bus Station once an hour starting from 10am. Travel time is 3.5-4 hours, and the fare is 7.60 AZN. In Gabala, buses terminate (and return to Baku) from the Bus Station here .

Best Gabala day tours

TOP CHOICE: Shamakhi and Gabala Tour (All inclusive) . The highlight of this day tour is riding the gondola at Tufandag for a close encounter with ‘Sleeping Beauty Mountain’. On the way up from Baku, you’ll stop at the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi and break for a picnic lunch in the forest near Ismailli. The tour culminates with a visit to Lake Nohur. → Check prices & availability .

BUDGET GROUP TOUR: Gabala & Shamakhi Group Tour . This affordable day trip covers Shamakhi, Ismailli and Lake Nohur while also giving you 90 minutes to ride the gondola at Tufandag. Lunch and tea are included but note that cable car tickets must be purchased separately. → Check prices & availability .

8. Day trip to Azerbaijan’s wine region – scenery & vineyards

• Best for: Wine, culture, scenery

While neighbouring Georgia and Armenia are better-known for their ancient winemaking techniques , it might surprise you to learn that Azerbaijan has a long history of viniculture as well. Just south-west of Gabala at the foot of the Greater Caucasus, the Savalan Valley is one of Azerbaijan’s premier wine regions and home to a number of vineyards.

An Azerbaijani wine tour usually includes a tour of the grounds followed by tastings of regional wines accompanied by local snacks. The biggest commercial vineyard in Savalan, ASPI Winery, is Italian-Azerbaijani and specialises in European-style riesling, chardonnay and merlot.

Best wine tour from Baku

TOP CHOICE: Wine Tour Qabala with Local Lunch . Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit the small Museum of Wine before touring the vines at Savalan ASPI. A tasting of four wines with local bites follows. On the way in from Baku, you will make a stop at Nohur Lake to drink tea and eat local bread. → Check prices & availability .

4 easy half day trips from Baku using public transport

9. ateshgah zoroastrian fire temple – one of azerbaijan’s most sacred sites.

• Distance from Baku: 23 km (14 miles)
• Travel time: ~1.5 hours return

Located on the eastern edge of the city, 30 minutes from the Icherisheher Old Town, Baku Ateshgah is one of the oldest and most important Zoroastrian monuments in Azerbaijan.

Built by the Persians in the 17th century, it has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a place of worship for Hindus and Sikhs. An eternal flame fanned by natural petroleum reserves went out in 1969. It was reignited with the help of gas piped in from Baku.

Entrance to Ateshgah costs 4 AZN per person. Allow for around 60 minutes to visit the temple.

How to get to Ateshgah from Baku with public transport

Starting from the Old City, take the Red Line metro east to Ulduz station (15 mins) then connect with bus 184 to the last stop, Surakhani Station (20 mins). From there, it’s a 600-metre walk.

→ Click here to see a list of day trips that include Ateshgah Fire Temple .

10. Yanar Dag – one of the most popular short day trips from Baku

Azerbaijan’s iconic ‘burning mountain’ is located north of Baku city, around 23km from the Old Town. Legend has it it’s been on fire since the 1950s when a shepherd threw a match into a patch of natural gas.

Yanar Dag is open every day from 10am until 7pm. Entrance costs 9 AZN. It’s best to visit in the early evening to see the three-metre-high flames erupting from the sandstone hill. There’s also a museum cafe-souvenir shop onsite. See here for more information.

How to get to Yanar Dag from Baku with public transport

Ride the Red Line Metro from Philarmonia Garden to Avrasiya Clinic (30 mins), then connect to bus 147 to Yanardagh Reserve (25 mins). The bus terminates right at the entrance to the complex.

→ Click here to see a list of day trips that include Yanar Dag .

11. Mardakan Castle – An alternative Baku day trip

• Distance from Baku: 30 km (19 miles)

Please note: Mardakan Castle is currently closed for renovations.

Located east of Baku past the airport, Mardakan Castle is one of two fortifications in this part of Baku that borders the coast. Built in the 12th century, it has a distinctive quadrangular shape with five tiers and an inner courtyard. The central 22-metre-tall tower has an internal staircase that leads to a viewpoint with stunning views of the Caspian Sea.

How to get to Mardakan Castle from Baku with public transport

Take the Red Line Metro to Koroghlu Station (20 mins), then cross the road to change to the number 136 bus. Get off at the Nizami Cultural Centre (30 mins) and walk another 400 metres to reach the castle. You can’t miss it.

12. Shebeke Beach – sand & sunsets near the city

• Distance from Baku: 40 km (25 miles)
• Travel time: ~2.5 hours return

Baku might not strike you as a beach destination, but there are white-sand Caspian beaches within easy reach of the city centre in the northern Bilgah district. Bilgah Beach Hotel is a popular place for swimming. Quieter beaches can be found at Shebeke and Dachnikov on either side of the peninsula.

How to get to Shebeke Beach from Baku with public transport

Starting from Icherisheher, ride the Metro Red Line to Koroghlu Station (20 mins) and then hop on bus 171. After another 40 minutes you’ll arrive at Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel. From there, it’s an 800-metre walk down to the closest beach or a short taxi ride to the pier at Plyaj Dachnikov.

Where to stay in Baku

If it’s your first time in Baku, I highly recommend choosing a hotel located inside or close to the walls of the atmospheric Old City .

TOP CHOICE: Utopia Hotel (⭐ 8.5). Located within the Old Town walls, this hotel has simple, tidy rooms and a rooftop terrace with water views. Staff are helpful, and the complimentary breakfast is a nice bonus. It’s great value for Baku. I stayed here recently with my dad.

BUDGET: Cth Baku Hostel (⭐ 9.4). Located in the popular student neighbourhood of Yasamal, west of the Old City and just footsteps from Nazimi Metro Station, this hostel has budget-friendly private rooms with shared bathrooms and comfortable communal spaces for socialising.

MID-RANGE: Centric Baku Boutique Hotel (⭐ 9.4). Located just outside the Old City walls close to the National Museum, this modern, stylish hotel has chic rooms with city views. A terrific breakfast is included.

HIGH-END: The Merchant Baku (⭐ 9.4). Located right on the old wall, 600m from the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, this opulent hotel has spacious rooms with private balconies and a gorgeous Silk-Road-inspired cocktail lounge.

Azerbaijan essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I use when I’m planning a trip to Azerbaijan and the Caucasus. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Baku on Skyscanner .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Azerbaijan and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer from Baku Airport to your hotel.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Azerbaijan hotel deals on Booking.com or book a Baku hostel .

SHORT ON TIME? Get to know Baku on this Old City walking tour , or join this panoramic night tour to see Baku in her best light.

AZERBAIJAN GUIDEBOOK: Get your copy of the new Lonely Planet Caucasus guidebook (February 2022).

ALI AND NINO: Pick up a copy of Ali and Nino , Azerbaijan’s national novel. I can guarantee that Kurban Said’s evocative descriptions of Baku will get you excited for your trip!

More Azerbaijan travel resources

• All the best things to see and do in Baku , Azerbaijan’s capital city
• My best photos of Azerbaijan to inspire your travels
• Plan your trip: The ultimate Caucasus itinerary or an efficient 10-14 day Azerbaijan Georgia itinerary
• How to travel to/from Baku and Georgia by overnight train
• Tips for travelling around Azerbaijan by bus
• Guide to exploring Baku Old City
• The 12 best day trips from Baku
• Why you must visit the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku
• How to take a day trip from Baku to Gobustan for the mud volcanoes
• Guide to Sheki , Azerbaijan’s most beautiful city
• Guide to Quba , Azerbaijani carpet weaving
• How to spend the night in a Silk Road caravanserai in Azerbaijan

Your details on how to travel independently in the Caucuses is really helpful, and as far as I can tell, only found on your blogs. Today I used the “ Gobustan from Baku with public transport” guidance and it was spot on. I have used similar advice for Georgia and Armenia. Your blog rocks!

Thanks so much Kevin! Really appreciate it.

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The best things to do in the beautiful Baku

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

Heydar Mosque in the Binəqədi area of Baku at night © Alexander Melnikov / 500px

The capital of Azerbaijan  is a mix of the ultra-modern and the very-old, where the country's Turkish, Russian, Persian and European identities collide on every street. Here's how to explore the biggest city in the Caucasus, with experiences that will give you a feel for Baku’s awesome oddness.

See the incredible Flame Towers by day –  and night

The modern parts of Baku were built with oil money. At the start of the last decade the city went to jaw-dropping lengths to show off its astronomical wealth, and futuristic buildings now completely dominate the skyline. The symbol of Baku has become its Flame Towers  – three shimmering skyscrapers covered with LED panels that light up at dusk, transforming the towers into a flickering red and orange fire. Throughout the night the skyscrapers also morph into a waterfall, and the Azerbaijani flag. These displays are visible from everywhere in the city and gazing at the flames, especially, is a monumentally cool experience.

Try taste sensations of Azerbaijani food and wine

The pretty, pale homes of İçəri Şəhər aren’t as eccentric as the brash New City outside; but if you look close enough they are exciting in different ways. Behind many doors are secret restaurants. These are perfect places to try Azerbaijani cuisine, such as dolma (rice and other fillings wrapped in vine leaves), baliq (grilled sturgeon with a plum sauce) and qutab (savoury pancakes, sometimes stuffed with minced camel). The rooftop terraces of the Old City's Persian-style hotels, such as the decadent Sultan Inn , are also great spots to watch the sun go down with a bottle of pomegranate wine.

Explore the maze-like İçəri Şəhər, the Old City

Baku’s oldest and most mellow quarter is a maze of narrow sandstone streets known as İçəri Şəhər (Icheri Sheher, the Old City). From the 12th century this place was the centre of the Shirvanshah dynasty, which ruled over what is now Azerbaijan until 1539. Today about 3000 people still live within these stone walls, and work in İçəri Şəhər's art galleries, cafes and bath-houses. These Turkish-style hammams open from very early until very late, with separate opening hours for men and women.

Enjoy the views from Qız Qalası, Maiden's Tower

One of the oldest buildings in the Old City is Qız Qalası, known in English as the Maiden’s Tower . This Unesco-listed tower is not much to look at, but the stubby stone fortress is the setting for dozens of Azerbaijani myths and legends – and from the top there are clear views out over the Caspian Sea. Despite its name, the Caspian is actually a vast lake, which explains how Baku can still be so far below sea level. It is the world’s lowest capital city.

Stroll up to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Climbing the sandstone streets, past walls decorated with characterful ceramics and existentialist graffiti, you reach the highest part of the Old City, and the second Unesco-listed building in İçəri Şəhər: the 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs . The palace is now home to a museum of Azerbaijani history – its beautiful stone chambers now have cool multisensory installations inside. The palace's courtyards are also some of the best places for night-time views of the Flame Towers.

Honor Azerbaijan's fallen at Şəhidlər Xiyabanı ( Shehidler Hiyabani)  cemetery 

At the top of the steep hill in the New City that takes you to the Flame Towers, Şəhidlər Xiyabanı (Shehidler Hiyabani) is a cemetery and memorial to the first Azerbaijani soldiers who were killed during the Karabakh conflict in the 1990s. In this complex there is also a memorial to the Turkish soldiers who died during WWI, and a mosque that was donated to Baku by Turkey – both signs of how closely the two countries are linked.

Admire Heydar Aliyev Centre designed by  Zaha Hadid 

Taking pride of place in the centre of the city, Baku’s other out-of-this-world piece of architecture is the curvaceous and brilliant-white Heydar Aliyev Centre . This exhibition space and concert venue, designed by architect Zaha Hadid, seems to change shape as you walk around it; the idea was to symbolise the fluidity and romance of modern Azerbaijan. 

Marvel at the contradictions of modern Azerbaijan 

Perhaps Baku’s biggest contradiction is that, as you stare at its futuristic landmarks, you are really looking into its past as well. Azerbaijan fell into an economic crisis soon after the Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Centre and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum  (shaped like a giant rolled-up carpet and displaying the country's largest collection of them) were completed, which put a stop to the outlandish new buildings.

The country is still astoundingly wealthy – the annual Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix isn’t the only time of year when the streets are filled with expensive sports cars – but Baku is beginning to go mainstream as well. While a few years ago Baku was all about dazzling visitors with its originality, now in its new venues, like Park Bulvar Mall , you could be almost anywhere in the world. Its central pedestrian zones, Fountains Square and the nearby Nizami St, are filling up with European stores and brunch-spots.

Catch up on Baku's past at the Historical Museum

The Old City isn’t the only place to explore Baku’s past. The Historical Museum is worth a visit to learn about the other eras from Azerbaijan’s history, from the medieval Shirvanshahs, to centuries as part of Iran and the Russian Empire, and then its life as a Soviet Republic. The museum is housed in an opulent mansion that belonged to one of Baku’s greatest late-19th-century oil barons, which is worth visiting just for its dazzling interiors.

You might also like: Baku for architecture buffs: the ultimate self-guided tour    8 stunning European cities for architecture    This ultra-marathon showcases the splendors of the Nagorno-Karabakh

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2022

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How to spend 2 days in Baku, the fascinating capital of Azerbaijan

Share this 2-day baku itinerary.

Last updated on: 27 January 2024

In this article I tell you all you need to know about how to spend 2 days in Baku, the fascinating capital of Azerbaijan. You will discover rich history, beautiful architecture and more. I visited the city as part of my Azerbaijan itinerary and I really loved it! 

Table of Contents

Azerbaijan map with all sights mentioned in this baku itinerary, a city with many "layers" of history, prehistoric times.

Humans have inhabited the area since the  Paleolithic era . Petroglyphs in the area point to a high development level of the local tribes during the transitional period from the Stone Age to the beginning of the Bronze Age . As is the case with many cities, the capital of Azerbaijan started as a small fortress settlement on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

The arrival of the Persians and Mongols

Two thousand years ago the city already had a well-developed seaport. At that time, it was under the influence of Ancient Rome. Between the 5th and 7th century the region was a part of Shirvan, a historical Iranian region during the Sasanid Empire (221 to 651 AD).

In the 10th century the city grew even more in importance. It became a large commercial port at the Caspian Sea. The city also experienced numerous attacks of the Rus’ people during that time. During the 11th century Seljuks (Turkic tribes) started attacking the area. In 1066 they attacked the city for the first time. At the end of the 12th century, the Shirvanshah State with its capital Baku fell under power of the Seljuks.

Upon the breakup of the Mongol state in the 14th century , the Shirvanshahs fought for independence. They obtained independence after Uzbek ruler’s Amir Timur ’s death. For a century, Baku and the State of Shirvanshahs were independent.

During that period, they erected the famous Shirvanshahs’ palace. Widespread works on estate maintenance of urban amenities took place. Many caravanserais and bridges in the area also appeared. Things changed again when the Sefevid dynasty in Iran came to power. In the year 1501 , Shakh Ismail Sefevi occupied the city and annexed the country’s territories to Iran.

Ottoman and Russian conquest, oil boom & Azerbaijani independence

Due to continuous clashes between Iran and the Ottomans, the city fell under Turkish power several times. Notably, in 1578 the Ottomans captured the city. However, Iranian troops managed to retake it shortly after.

Since the city was one of the largest commercial seaports on the shores of the Caspian Sea, the city was strategically important. This is why the Russian Empire also got involved in the area. Russian troops occupied Baku khanate for the first time in 1796. Eventually, the city fell to the Russian Empire in 1805 and would remain part of Russia until Azerbaijan’s independence on 18 October 1991 .

Meanwhile, in 1846 oil had been discovered in the area. Thanks to this, the city turned into a major oil producing center. When Azerbaijan proclaimed its independence on 30 August 1991, Baku became the capital of Azerbaijan. 

Today , oil production continues to be important for Azerbaijani economy. Partly thanks to oil money, the city is developing fast and changes are rapid in the city. Some call it the “Dubai of Caspian Sea”. However, the name does not do justice to the city’s cultural heritage. It deserves at least two days of your time during your trip to Azerbaijan. It is actually one of my favorite cities to date. Let’s find out all about the best things to do in Baku!

Starting day 1 at Fountains Square

We had booked a nice low-key hotel in the heart of the city. This was ideal for starting our Azerbaijan itinerary by exploring the major sights of Baku. Our first stop was Fountains Square (Fəvvarələr Meydanı). As the name indicates, here you will find dozens of fountains throughout the square. They date from the Soviet era in Azerbaijan. It is a bustling square with many upscale stores, restaurants and hotels. There is also an underground passage leading to the Caspian Sea promenade (more on that later).

Next to Fountains Square you will notice the building of Nizami Museum of Azerbaijan Literature (Nizami Gəncəvi Adına Azərbaycan Ədəbiyyatı Muzeyi). The museum is in a characteristic building with a blue majolica on the façade. Here you will find the statues of six representatives of Azerbaijani literature: 

• M.F. Akhundov,
• J. Mammadguluzade and
• J. Jabbarli. 

Maiden Tower: a strategic landmark

A short walk towards the Caspian Sea brought us to one of Baku’s most famous sights, the Maiden Tower (open 09:00-18:00).

This tower predates the Shirvanshah period.  As I mentioned earlier, the city held a strategic position on the trade routes between Iran and Russia. The city was also one of the centers  of the legendary the Silk Road (more on this in my amazing trip here ). This brought wealth to the region and allowed rulers to build public buildings like bathhouses, mosques, and caravanserais. 

Exploring Icheri Sheher, the picturesque Baku Old City

The historic core of the city.

Shortly after, we reached the Old City (İçərişəhər / Icheri Sheher) . The Old City measures 21.5 hectares and is a unique, albeit somewhat over-restored, historical ensemble right in the center of the city.

The history of Baku starts where Icheri Sheher stands today. Here you will find many buildings made out of limestone and narrow winding roads. Icheri Sheher was declared a historical and cultural reserve in 1977. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000.

A thick fortress wall surrounds three sides, whereas the southeastern side is open to the Caspian Sea. Originally, there were two fortress walls and also a wall on the side facing the Caspian Sea. However, the outer wall has since been destroyed.

Admiring beautiful Islamic architecture at Muhammad Mosque

Another iconic structure inside the old city is the Minaret of Muhammad Mosque . Another name of this is Siniggala, meaning “damaged tower”. The original mosque dates from the 11th century.

The mosque got its second name (“damaged tower”) in 1723, when a military squadron of Russian Army approached Baku from the Caspian Sea during the Russo-Persian War (1722-1723). The squadron demanded the city’s surrender but locals refused. In response, Russian warships began to bomb the city. One of the Russian shells hit the minaret of Muhammad Mosque and damaged it.

At some point, a strong wind blew the Russian ships further out to sea. The local population interpreted the wind as a divine punishment to the Russians. The minaret and mosque remained in a damaged state until the middle of the 19th century. The minaret became a symbol of the persistence and courage of the defendants.

Witnesing Persian glory at the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

For many centuries, the city did not extend beyond the borders of Icheri Sheher. Everything the city residents needed was inside these walls. The rulers of the city even lived alongside their subjects at the Palace of the Shirvanshahs (Şirvanşahlar Sarayı) (open 10:00-18:00). This is one of my favorite places to see in Baku!

I mentioned earlier that between the late 1300s and 1500, the Shirvanshah dynasty made the city its capital. Shirvanshah Palace was built during the 15th century together with some of the older buildings in Icheri Sheher, many of them mosques.

There are no inscriptions that survive on the palace. The time of its construction is known thanks to the dates in the inscriptions on the architectural monuments. On one of the inscriptions there is the name of the ruler who ordered to establish these buildings: Shirvan Khalil I, who reigned between 1418 and 1465). The year 839 (1435/36 in the Gregorian calendar) is visible on the tomb. The year 845 (1441/42) is visible on the minaret of the Shah’s mosque.

Even after the Shirvanshahs moved their capital back to Shamakhi, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) to the west, building continued in Icheri Sheher. About 3,000 people still live in Icheri Sheher today.

Learning about miniature books

If you have plenty of time in Icheri Sheher, it is worth checking out the Museum of Miniature Books (Miniatür Kitab Muzeyi ; opening hours ). This is the only museum of miniature books in the world.

We left Icheri Sheher and started walking southwest. We walked by the characteristic yellow building of Baku Philharmonic Hall and continued south until we reached the funicular.

Baku Flame Towers: a landmark symbolizing modern Azerbaijan

Our next destination was the Flame Towers , one of the best places to see in Baku and a highlight of a typical Azerbaijan itinerary. There are three skyscrapers and the highest one reaches 182 meters (597 ft). The three flame-shaped towers symbolize the element of fire. This is a reference to Azerbaijan’s motto, “ The Land of Fire “. This in turnrelates to natural gas flares shooting from the earth as well as Zoroastrian worshippers seeing in fire a symbol of the divine. You see, today’s Azerbaijan used to be a center of Zoroastrian faith before Islam arrived in the 7th century.

The three buildings consist of 130 residential apartments in 33 floors. There is also a Fairmont hotel tower with 250 rooms and 61 serviced apartments as well as office blocks. It cost approximately $350 million to build the Flame Towers. Construction began in 2007 and the towers were ready in 2012. The façade of the three Flame Towers functions as large display screens thanks to more than 10,000 high-power LED lights. 

Martyrs' Lane: remembering the fallen ones

The Flame Towers are next to Upland Park . In the park you will find Martyrs’ Lane (Şəhidlər Xiyabanı). This is a cemetery and memorial to those killed by the Soviet Army during Black January 1990 and also during the First Nagorno-Karabakh Wars with Armenia between 1988, 1994 and 2020.

Learning about carpets & enjoying panoramic views

Early in the afternoon we descended the hill towards the Caspian Sea, then stopped by the characteristic building of the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum ( opening times ). The building looks like – you probably guessed it – a huge carpet! It is one of the most fun things to do in Baku, a place to learn about the region’s long carpet-making tradition.

About 600 meters (2,000 ft) south of the Carpet Museum you will find Baku Eye . This is a vast ferris wheel that is lit up at night. It offers very nice panoramas of the city and Caspian Sea.

Relaxing by the Caspian Sea

We continued walking northeast along the sea until we reached Baku Boulevard . Walking from one end of the boulevard to the other is about 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) and is very pleasant. I loved the vibes there and it is a great place to observe the locals and have a drink.

Some of the best cafes in Baku Boulevard are Le Cafe, and Palma Cafe.

People watching & impressive architecture at Nizami street

We headed inland again, towards the northwest, until we reached Nizami street after about 15 minutes. Nizami Street is a large pedestrian and shopping street in the center of the city. It carries the name of classical Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi. If you want a real taste of Baku at night, then this is a great place to start!

I found Nizami street very interesting architecturally, a mix of various styles and directions. This is because construction took place in three main stages: in late 19th/early 20th century, between the 1950s and 1970s, and after Azerbaijan’s independence in 1991.

Most of the buildings dating from the first period reflect neo-renaissance, neo-gothic, baroque and neoclassicism architecture. Neo-Moorish style is also present. Architects have also attempted to use elements of national Azerbaijani architecture.

In the area you will also find Təzə Pir Mosque which dates from 1914 and is worth a visit if you are into Islamic architecture.

Another place to visit if you are into the architecture is the Palace of Happiness (Səadət Sarayı). It is located between Təzə Pir Mosque and Icheri Sheher at 6 Murtuza Mukhtarov street. The building is in neo-gothic style and dates from the early 20th century.

Enjoying Azerbaijani cuisine for dinner

Our first day was over and we celebrated it with an excellent meal at a traditional restaurant in the center of the city.

Some the best restaurants in Baku are Sahil Bar & Restaurant, Merci, Dolma Restaurant, Khamsa Restaurant, Mari Vanna, and Kurban Said Restaurant.

Nightlife in Baku is also rather active. Some of the best bars are Hops Pub, Finnegan’s, Double Eleven Cocktail & Wine Bar, and Pub William Shakespeare.

Day 2: venturing outside the city center to Heydar Aliyer Center

On our second day in Baku we wanted to visit museums and learn more about the country’s history. Our first stop was Heydar Aliyev Center . It carries the name of Heydar Aliyev. He was the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003. His son Ilham Aliyev took over and is in power as of 2022. Heydar Aliyev Center is known for its distinctive neo-futuristic architecture. It has a flowing, curved style that avoids sharp angles. 

Inside the building you will find the Mini Azerbaijan exhibition on the second floor. It features a 45-story building and you can learn about the history and architecture of buildings exhibited. There are various other exhibitions that present the history and culture of the country from an Azeri perspective. It is one of the most memorable buildings I have visited to date.

Learning about the region's Zoroastrian past

From Heidar Aliyev Center it is worth continuing a few kilometers east to visit a sight of major symbolism: Baku Atesgah Fire Temple .

“Ātash” is the Persian word for “fire”, which occupies a central role in Zoroastrianism. The four holy elements of Zoroatsrian belief are: ateshi (fire), badi (air), abi (water), and heki (earth).

Atesgah is a pentagonal complex, which has a courtyard surrounded by cells for monks and a tetrapillar-altar in the middle. Earlier I mentioned that in today’s Azerbaijan there used to live significant populations of Zoroastrians. Based on Persian and Indian inscriptions, we also now know that the temple once functioned as a Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian place of worship.

The Ateshgah was a pilgrimage and philosophical centre of Zoroastrians from the Northwestern Indian subcontinent. They engaged in trade with the Caspian area via the Grand Trunk Road.  The stopped functioning as a place of worship after 1883. It has been a museum since 1975. 

If you have more time you can do a Caspian Sea cruise . This one seems to be popular.

How about taking a couple Baku day trips?

I loved the capital of Azerbaijan, but it is a shame not discovering more of the beauty of Azerbaijan. In my Azerbaijan itinerary I describe how to take two amazing and easy day trips from Baku to Gobustan National Park and the remote Khinaliq village .

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Practical information

Best time to visit baku.

Late April to late September is a good time to visit the city The weather is warm, but usually not too hot. It is also very dry and sunny.

Flights to Baku

Heydar Aliyev International Airport is very modern and efficient. It and it has decent connections with Europe and Asia. Even some low-cost airlines from Europe fly there, such as Wizz Air. On this page you can find a very convenient airport map.

Baku airport code is “GYD”, which will be printed on your ticket.

How many days to spend in Baku

Two full days will allow you to have a great Baku city break. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the city and could have easily spent more time there. Actually, I recommend that you do so to discover the rest of Azerbaijan. 

Make sure to take one or more day trips from Baku

The capital of Azerbaijan is fantastic, but so is the rest of the country. Two essential day trips are to Gobustan and Khinalug . They are great additions to your Azerbaijan itinerary .

Best area to stay in Baku

The area between the Old City (İcheri Sheher) and New City Park is the best area. It is close to most sights and also to the very enjoyable Boulevard.

Hotels in Baku

Accommodation options vary greatly, and you can find something for every budget. A decent mid-range hotel room for 2 can cost as little as $30-$40 per night. Here are a few suggested accommodations in Baku:

• Seven Boutique Hotel : I stayed there and it was excellent for the price. The location was very central, too.
• Molokan Inn Hotel

If you have a bigger budget, then JW Marriott Absheron Hotel is one of the best 5 star hotels in Baku.

What to wear in Baku

Azerbaijan is a Muslim country, but not as conservative as other countries. Western attire that does not provoke is perfectly acceptable.

How to get from Baku airport to city center

By public transportation : The Aero Express Bus is an ideal means if you wasnt to save money. You can see the route and latest schedules on their page . The bus generally runs every hour from 6am to 11pm.  The bus runs between Heydar Aliyev Airport and 28 May metro station in the center of the city.

By taxi : Taxis are the fastest way, but way more expensive. You can order a taxi in the Yandex app, or grab one outside the arrivals hall. A fair price is around $18.

How to get around Baku

By public transportation : The city is itself very walkable. It also has a good metro (see map here ) and bus network. 

By taxi : It is possible to get around by taxi using the Yandex app. In this way you avoid paying too much, as the price is fixed. It worked very well for us when we wanted to get to places further away quickly. It was very cheap as well. Uber also works via a local partner. 

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So, is Baku worth visiting?

I was very happy I could spend 2 days in Baku. It is a city with a special atmosphere at the crossroads of civilizations. Since the introduction of an e-visa it is much easier to visit the city, so go ahead and plan your visit! If you can, combine your visit with a trip to Georgia and Armenia to get the full Caucasus experience. I think of this trip often and cannot wait to go back one day. How about you?

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Reading Material

These are the best-rated guides to Azerbaijan. You can purchase them online easily by clicking on the icons.

Did I mention I loved the food in Azerbaijan? 🙂 Here are a few great books about the local cuisine.

History & Literature

Azerbaijan has been a meeting point of many different peoples and has a fascinating history. here are a few highly-rated books to learn more.

Related Caucasus itineraries

Georgia – How to spend 2 amazing days in Tbilisi

Georgia – The best things to do in Svaneti, Georgia’s mountain paradise

Azerbaijan – Top 10 places to visit in Azerbaijan for first-time visitors

Ecuador – A perfect day trip to Cotopaxi and Limpiopungo lake

Armenia – An amazing 2-week Armenia itinerary

Azerbaijan – A fun day trip from Baku to Gobustan National Park

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About the author

Hi there, my name is Panos and I live and breathe for traveling! I have visited more than 55 countries so far and aim to discover them all! In my eyes, traveling is not a lifestyle item, but a way to learn and broaden one’s horizons. My philosophy is that, if you plan well, you can discover new places in a more relaxed way without spending a fortune. Being a natural-born travel planning consultant, I love making amazing trips accessible to everyone. I have done tons of on-the-ground research before each trip, and have documented my journeys in detail.

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Things to do in Baku in 3 days – A complete guide

By Joan Torres 19 Comments Last updated on April 24, 2024

Until very recently, Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, was a real off-the-beaten-track destination only known by the most intrepid travelers.

Pierce Brosnan, in the James Bond movie The world is not enough , was the first person who finally told us about its existence, when he showed images of some oil fields right in the desert plains around Baku.

Those images, however, didn’t really trigger any interest in the country, as people thought that, perhaps, Baku was not very different from the Arab Gulf monarchies, which was a really wrong approach.

Whereas it is true that Baku is an oil-rich city and, in fact, Azerbaijan was the top world exporter at the beginning of the 20th century, many years before the Gulf monarchies discovered the black gold, on the other hand, it is also a city with a very deep history, belonging to a region which has been inhabited for thousands of years, besides having an important role in the Silk Road , as well as, of course, being part of the USSR for nearly a century.

Nevertheless, thanks to exponential development, Baku today is an almost futuristic city that manages to combine both tradition and modernity, two elements that can be seen together all across the city.

After visiting Baku on two occasions, here is a complete Baku travel guide with all the best  things to do in Baku in 3 days, including plenty of travel tips.

For more places to visit in the country, read my complete itinerary to Azerbaijan

In this Baku travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Where to stay
• How to move around
• What to do in Baku
• Where to eat
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Azerbaijan

With its Backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Azerbaijan

Introduction to traveling to Baku

From the end of the 19th century, Baku has been a global leader in oil exportation and has been growing at full speed, but it was only after the dissolution of the USSR and Azerbaijan’s post-independence, that this development was accelerated, Baku became a futuristic and modern city, perfectly comparable to European standards.

However, due to the obvious corruption, or preferably, bad resource management, this development has been exclusively focused on the capital, to the extent that its contrast with the second largest city, Ganja, where you can still find unpaved streets in the city center, is huge.

The capital of Azerbaijan is a luxurious city, a  Dubai -like-concept but with a real soul, meaning that, in the city center, you can find a Rolls Royce official store and the most luxury brand stores, along with buildings and mosques from the 12th century.

Going to Tbilisi? Check out my city guide to Tbilisi

Baku is, definitely, the most developed city in the Caucasus (including Armenia and Georgia ) but, in my humble opinion, this development is economic, not social.

Whereas, in its neighbor Georgia , many young people are quickly learning European values, in Baku, even though they are a rich and supposedly secular city, people are much more traditional, and you will quickly realize when you only see men hanging out in most places, people not speaking English and, overall, people being more closed-minded.

However, visiting Baku is totally worth it and not only due to its eccentric composition but also because it is a real blend of Europe, the East, and the Soviet Union, so, so chaotic, that it’s practically impossible to define it, and that’s the most exciting thing about it.

Visa for visiting Baku

From January 2016, you can  apply for an e-visa to visit Baku.

The visa costs 25 USD, takes 3 working days and is valid for 30 days.

For 50 USD, you can also apply for an urgent visa and get it on the same day.

All Western nationalities are eligible for the e-visa but you can check the full country list here .

Where to stay in Baku

Backpackers Hostel – Sahil Hostel – The busiest hostel in town, as it is really cheap, plus everything is brand-new and very clean. A nice place to meet other travelers, it also has private rooms.

Budget Guest House –  Khazar Old City Guest House – If you want to stay in a traditional house, in the heart of the old city, this is the most highly recommended.

Mid-range Hotel –  Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel – The top well-rated boutique hotel in town is a traditional building in the old part of Baku.

Top-end – Four Seasons –  Located downtown, this is the best 5-star hotel in Baku. The building where is it built is a real landmark, by the way.

Transportation – How to move around Baku

Moving around baku by taxi.

In order to avoid bargaining with taxi drivers, I recommend you use Uber and short taxi rides costing around 2-3AZN (1.20 – 1.70USD), so moving around by taxi is also a feasible way to check all the places to visit in Baku. Apparently, Yandex isn’t available anymore.

Moving around Baku by metro

There are two metro lines and a single ticket costs 0.30AZN (18¢). However, first, you have to get a metro top-up card which costs 2AZN (1.20USD).

Alternatively, you can buy a single-use metro card, which you can only top-up once and costs 0.20AZN (12¢).

Moving around Baku by bus

There is a modern bus network but you will have to know where you are going. The price is the same as in the metro.

How to get from and to the airport

How to get from baku city center by bus.

There are buses going and coming to the airport every 20 or 30 minutes, all day long. They drop you off in downtown, in front of 28th May metro station. A single ticket costs 1.30AZN (75¢) and it also works with the metro card.

How to get from Baku city center by taxi

With Uber, a taxi ride costs around 10AZN (5.90USD).

For generic info about moving around the country, read the transportation section of this guide.

Things to do in Baku in 3 days

In 3 days, you can cover most things to do in Baku, including a day trip to visit the mud volcanoes and the petroglyphs of Qobustan .

If you are interested in all the tours offered in Baku, as well as day trips from Baku, there is a large offer of tours that can be booked online. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Map of the places to visit in Baku

What to do in Baku on day 1

The first day Baku itinerary is quite optimistic but, if you plan well ahead, I think you can manage it.

Baku Old City

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the walls of the Old City mark the boundaries of where the city used to extend.

Its oldest building is claimed to date from the 11th century, although some historians think that it might belong to the 7th.

As in any old city, the best you can do is getting lost among its entangled streets but there are a few buildings which are must-visits, like Maiden Tower , one of the most iconic buildings in the country, which is even printed in one of their notes.

The tower contains a museum that shows the historical evolution of Baku and you can also climb to the top to enjoy some of the best views in the city. Going to the top costs 10AZN (5,90USD).

The other building which you can’t miss is the Shirvanshas Palace , whose main attraction is a stunning mosque from the 15th century. The  Shirvanshas is the dynasty that ruled the region for nearly 700 years, from the 9th to the 16th century.

From all the things to do in Baku, the Old City is, certainly, the most interesting one.

Do you want to visit the Old City of Baku with a professional guide? CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

The Carpet Museum

In my opinion, the cool part about the Carpet Museum is not getting in, as the outside is much more awesome than inside. Jokes aside. If you are interested in Persian carpets, just go ahead but, if not, the coolest thing is to take pictures at the waving walls that are trying to imitate a carpet.

Read: Everything you need to know to travel to Georgia

The Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are the three flame-shaped skyscrapers which managed to link Baku to the concept of futurism by themselves.

To be honest, they are only 182 meters high but, due to their position, in the upper part of Baku, they are visible from anywhere.

You can get there on foot through some stairs that go along a beautiful park. There is a funicular at the bottom of the park but I always found it closed.

The towers were finished in 2012 and, besides showing off, their main purpose is to accommodate pretentious businesses like Fairmont Hotel , one of the top hotels in the city, a Lamborghini dealer store, and I don’t know what other posh stuff.

The oil extractors

This place is off the main tourist trail but, if you are interested in checking out some perfectly functional oil drillers, this is your chance.

They are not very far and, actually, you can get there on foot from the Flame Towers. They are just behind the TV tower (you can see the exact location on the map), from where you can also enjoy pretty cool views of the city and the bay.

By the way, if you get down to the seaside, you will pass by a very poor neighborhood of Baku, which clearly shows the huge social inequality that rules in this country.

Taza Pir Mosque

A one-hundred-year-old mosque, even though it was built on a place that used to serve as a sanctuary from the 15th century.

To be honest, this isn’t an outstanding mosque but, for me, the most interesting part was to see the other face of Azerbaijan, which is the face of Azerbaijani men worshipping and showing their faith to Islam.

Like all the Muslim ex-Soviet countries, the Government of Azerbaijan is secular but, its main peculiarity is that, unlike the rest of the world, the most religious people are the young ones and not the elderly that lived in the Soviet Union, as Islam is only now coming into fashion. When I was traveling in Uzbekistan , I also observed a similar situation.

Heydar Aliyev Center

Another pretty cool thing to do in Baku is visiting the futuristic building whose architect is the deceased Iraqi-British woman Zaha Hadid .

With its surrealistic and almost impossible curved walls, this building is a perfect sample of innovation and modern art.

Its surroundings are filled with super weird statues, like giant rabbits and snails, apart from the classic I Love Baku .

The building accommodates different types of temporary exhibitions. The entrance fee costs 15AZN (9USD).

Museum of Miniature Books

If you have the time, you can also visit the museum that has the World Guinness Record for the largest collection of miniature books, including the 3 smallest books ever, measuring 2mmx2mm, which can only be seen using a microscope.

Like me, you may be thinking that those mini-books don’t make a lot of sense, basically because you can’t read them, but they originate in an ancient Persian tradition.

Fountain Square and the rest of downtown

Composed of the most fashionable shops, restaurants, bars, hipster cafés, parks and so on, I recommend you finish your day in downtown, in the area around Fountain Square, the place where all the local people gather to hang out.

What to do in Baku on day 2

Yasil market.

I bumped into this market by mere chance and then I found out that it is very famous among locals, but I didn’t see any tourists.

Yasil is a traditional market which has been restored as per Baku modern standards. It is a typical fruit and vegetable market and everything sold is seasonal.

I was lucky enough to visit Baku in October, the pomegranate season, the symbol of Azerbaijan.

Almost all stalls were filled with pomegranates and they were selling freshly squeezed juice for just 1AZN (60¢).

Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

Did you know that Azerbaijan was formerly called The Land of Fire ?

From the 12th century, tales from travelers wandering this region mentioned the existence of several magic fires found across the area.

They thought those fires were magic because they burnt continuously without any wood but, what they didn’t know is that the fire was coming from natural underground gas fields.

Yanar Dag is one of those fires which is still burning, even though the fire is artificial today, as it was extinguished after they discovered an oil reserve next to it in the 19th century.

How to get there – Yanar Dag is outside of the city. To get there, you will have to catch the 147 bus from Azadliq metro station. Alternatively, you could also get there by Uber, which is easier, quicker and won’t cost you much.

Fire Temple Ateshgah

In the 18th century, a merchant traveler was so fascinated by one of those flames that he decided to build a worshipping temple on it.

How to get there – The temple is very close to the airport and the 184 bus passes close to it.

What to do in Baku on Day 3

Day trip to qobustan to see the petroglyphs and the mud volcanoes.

During the Stone Age, around 15,000 years ago, when the Caspian Sea waters were higher and the region was completely green and fertile, a bunch of hunters decided to settle in some caves in the area.

These caves were decorated with their own art style and more than 600 petroglyphs were drawn, many of them still being in very good conditions. Today, these paintings have become one of the best places to visit in Baku.

For more information, read my article about the petroglyphs of Qobustan (it includes prices and how to get there).

Moreover, if you are interested, you can also visit some volcanoes that expel mud , which have become a real tourist attraction. They are very close to the petroglyphs and you can only go by car.

If you want to make things easier and go with a guide, there’s this tour targeting the petroglyphs + mud volcanoes + an ancient mosque from the area. I think it’s worth it. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TOUR

Where to eat in Baku

Here are my restaurant recommendations (all places are frequented by locals).

Budget – Xezer Restaurant – Local eatery serving traditional food.

Gourmet fast food – Gourmet Pendir & Chorek – The first national fast-food chain in Azerbaijan serves good quality local sandwiches and stuff like that.

Fine dining – Sumakh – A local fancy restaurant serving high-quality food and awesome service.

More information for visiting Baku

📢 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.

Tours – Here you can see a big bunch of tours in Baku, as well as day trips from Baku.

SIM Card – You will need one, especially to move around by Uber. I recommend Azercell. You can buy a SIM Card in many mobile stores but you should go to the official store of Azercell, as you will be charged the real price. There is a big one in Fountain Square.

All guides and articles for traveling in Azerbaijan destination

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

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These were my top recommendations for what to do in Baku. If you know of any other places to visit in Baku, kindly let us know in the comments section. 

19 comments

I never went to the oil extractors and i wish i had thought about that! One thing i think you should have mentioned though is the beautiful designs of some of the metro stations 🙂

oh yes, the stations were pretty nice indeed 🙂

Hey Joan, I love this travel guide to Baku very much, very detailed, thank you 🙂 I have a question: is it safe to take photos of the petrol extractors? I mean, I am pretty sure that in some countries they would not like people to sniff around them, for several reasons. I have been living in several countries in the Arab Gulf, and I am pretty sure that you would not be allowed to take photos of them. I would not even try it! Thank you and keep up the good work!

Hey Marc, thank you for your email. You can’t really compare it to the Gulf because the Gulf petrol areas are very deep into the desert and they are in restricted areas. The ones in Baku are in the suburbs of the city, some of them located right next to houses, meaning that the area is not restricted at all. Does this mean that you can take a photo of them? Well, I don’t know, but I have been there twice and there wasn’t official surveillance at all. I only saw a few workers roaming around who didn’t really care about my presence.

I was in the oil field at Romanov, 40 minutes outside Baku a few days ago. There is surveillance and locals keeping an eye open. When we were about to leave the oil field a company car came at high speed and they men in the car screamed that taking photos was forbidden. They was quite aggressive. I had the camera under my jacket, else they probably would have demanded that I delete the photos. My Azerian father in law explained that the oil companies are concerned about making the pollution too exposed in these days of social media.

wow, thanks for sharing your experience, Michael!

Very useful information, keep up the good work ! very well done !

Hi, I am reading over and again – to prepare for our short visit coming up to Baku. Just so you know, the visa is now good for 90 days. Any thoughts on survival guide for vegetarians (no egg, fish, meat, chicken, in short no animal food of any kind) who can take milk, yoghurt?

Hi Vasu, the visa is valid for 30 days. I just re-checked the official e-visa portal and there are no changes. I think you are confused because it says that you can travel for 30 days within a 90 days period but you can’t exceed those 30 days.

I am not a vegetarian, so I can’t really give you many tips. They don’t have a very vegan cuisine but I remember that most menus had salads and some eggplant-based dishes.

I cannot see the map for places to visit in Baku.

Maybe it is a problem of your browser

Thank u very much for valuable informatin you prensent for us.Baku,s weather,s more pleasent and mild and than dubai.Baku is the capital of Azeebayjan, İt,s people are turk, it was colonized by soviet 101 years ago, but they,re not russion. Thank u every body★)

Joan – your guide has proved very useful while I have been in Baku. Just to say that Azerbaijan appear to have got on board with 2-tier foreign tourist / local prices for their main sites: Maidens Tower and The Palace now both 15 Manat to access; Fire Temple Ateshgah 4 Manat & Yanar Dag 9 Manat. The Quobastan Petroglyphs were 10 Manat – but as the museum staff picked me up in their bus to take me to the site from Baku I am quids in on that one 😀

Hey Andrew, glad you found it useful and thanks for the price updates 🙂

Hi, iam planning to travel with Family December first week,. Can you please advise us as we want to see snow filled area. Can we have one day trip from Baku to hill stations. Thank you

Hi Yes, you can go to the area around Quba

Hi Joan, thank you for the amazing work! I am flying to Azerbaijan in a few days and your guide is of great help. I wonder if you have ever visited Sumqayit polluted areas and/or poor neighborhoods (slums) in Baku? I know that “Shangai” has been demolished but I am sure there are still deprived areas of the same kind. Any idea about that?

Hi Isabelle. I did walk through some slums (by pure coincidence) when I was walking around the TV tower, very close to it, but I don’t know the name of those slums

“Wow, this guide on things to do in Baku is absolutely fantastic! I recently had the opportunity to spend 3 days in this vibrant city, and this blog provided me with an incredible list of activities and attractions to make the most of my trip. From exploring the historic Old City and its charming narrow streets to visiting the iconic Flame Towers for breathtaking panoramic views, there was never a dull moment. I especially loved indulging in the local cuisine and trying out traditional Azerbaijani dishes at the various restaurants recommended in the article. Thanks to this comprehensive guide, I had an unforgettable experience in Baku and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting destination to visit!”

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Travel Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Baku travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this wonderful capital in the country of Azerbaijan.

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Table of Contents

Baku Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Baku, Azerbaijan

1. heydar aliyev cultural center.

Suggested Tour:  Baku: 3-Hour Private Night Tour (Yanardag & More)

2. Baku Old City

Suggested Tour:  Baku: Old City Walking Tour

3. Baku Boulevard

Suggested Tour: Baku Panoramic Night Tour

4. Flame Towers

5. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

6. Fountain Square

Suggested Tour:  Full-Day City Tour of Baku with Azerbaijani Lunch

7. Highland Park

As elsewhere in Baku, it is striking in its ideal cleanliness, well-maintained area. The observation deck offers a wonderful view of the whole of Baku. Great place for photos of the beautiful scenery of the whole city at a glance. It’s near the famous Flame Towers.

8. Ateshgah – Fire Temple

Suggested Tour:  Baku: Burning Mountain & Zorastrian Temple Private Tour

9. Maiden Tower

Suggested Tour: Baku: Historic and Modern Baku Tour

Baku Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Baku, Azerbaijan

Day 1 – weekend guide to baku, azerbaijan.

Baku Old City –  Start your tour by wandering around the old city of Baku. Explore everything here, eat at any restaurants or cafes, you’d get to travel back in the ancient Baku.

Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum –  See how carpets are made, even the most expensive carpet of Azerbaijan.

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center –  Be amazed and stunned with the amazing architecture of this center. Designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, it offers a lot of great photo opportunities.

Flame Towers –  You can go here by funicular or stairs. Anyhow, you’ll surely have a good time enjoying the view it offers from the observation deck.

Highland Park –  Since it’s near the Flame Towers, why not spend your time here as well?

Ateshgah – Fire Temple –  Discover and learn more about the interesting history of Zoroastrianism.

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku Boulevard –  Rent a bike and stroll around this boulevard for a relaxing last day in Baku.

Maiden Tower –  Before you leave Baku, never miss the chance to visit the iconic Maiden Tower.

Baku Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re a Backpacker

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and private parking. The units come with air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the hostel, every room has a seating area.

Price: Starts at $25 per night for Twin Room with Private External Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Check-in Old City Aparts

Check-in Old City Aparts features sea views and free WiFi. Every unit has a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a microwave. A fridge and kettle are also available.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Deluxe Apartment, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Drop Inn Baku

Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Budget Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re on a Budget

ATFK Hotel Baku

ATFK Hotel Baku offers a gym. Free WiFi and free private parking are also available on site. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a flat-screen TV, fridge and electric kettle. The private bathroom includes free toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and hairdryer.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Standard Double Room, includes taxes and charges, add $6 for breakfast (optional),  and it offers a free cancellation.

Sahil Hostel & Hotel

Units at the Sahil Hostel and Hotel are air-conditioned and soundproofing. Grand Prix Formula 1 Race track turn 4 and 5 are visible from some rooms of the hotel and from the main balcony. Guests can also find free toiletries and hairdryers for their comfort.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Twin Room with Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, add $5 for breakfast,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Old East Hotel

Old East Hotel boasts a restaurant, bar, and free WiFi throughout the property. Every room at this hotel is air-conditioned and comes with a TV. Guests will also find a kettle in the room. Each room has a private bathroom. The hotel also provides tour desk services and car hire.

Price: Starts at $72 per night for Standard Double Room, add $2 for taxes and charges , free breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you want Luxury

JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel

This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, on the Freedom Square. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel feature a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, work desk, and a laptop safe. Guests will find a bath, shower, bathrobe, and slippers in each luxury bathroom. WiFi is available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $156 per night for Deluxe, Guest Room, 2 Double, City View, add $2 for taxes and charges , add $22 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Hilton Baku

Featuring a revolving rooftop bar, a pool, and a gym, this seafront hotel is an 8-minute walk from Baku’s Old City. Air conditioning, hot drinks facilities, and a 32-inch flat-screen TV are featured in all rooms and suites at the grand Hilton Baku. Rooms are spacious and bright and feature king-sized beds. Cocktails and wonderful views can be enjoyed in the Hilton’s 360 Bar.

Price: Starts at $161 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $2 for taxes and charges , add $19 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Dinamo Hotel Baku – Adult Only

Dinamo Hotel Baku offers a unique experience with its spacious bedrooms, free WiFi, exquisite International cuisine, and classic afternoon teas. The rooms designed in Art Deco style feature exclusively commissioned fabrics, exceedingly comfortable beds, and marble bathrooms with designer toiletries. In-room mini-bar, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres are available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $160 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $28 for taxes and charges , add $18 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Baku, Azerbaijan

Situated on the Caspian Sea, the Azerbaijani capital of Baku combines a Medieval old town with an ultramodern skyline, bringing together Persian, Turkic, Soviet and European influences. With the city’s best attractions ranging from scaling 18th-century skyscrapers to exploring its very own Little Venice, the Azerbaijani capital has something for everyone.

1. icheri sheher (baku’s old city).

Historical Landmark

Baku’s UNESCO-listed fortified old city was the Medieval capital under the Shirvanshahs. Today, it’s the capital’s historic heart and home to the Maiden Tower, traditional carpet weavers and a plethora of bars and restaurants . Visiting traders in eras past often referred to Icheri Sheher as the Acropolis of Baku.

2. Maiden Tower

Building, Memorial

3. Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

5. Nizami Street

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark, Shopping Mall

Named after the Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi, the 3.5-kilometre-long (2.2-mile-long) Nizami Street forms Baku’s main shopping district. As you stroll along its length, pay close attention to the architecture, which moves from Baroque and Neo-Gothic to Neo-Renaissance facades and Stalinist styles.

6. Government House

7. Fountain Square

8. Flame Towers

9. National Flag Square

National Flag Square marks the western end of Baku Boulevard. Officially opening in 2007, the square is a symbol of national pride. The giant flag, which measures 70m × 35m (230ft × 115ft) on a flagpole standing 162m (531ft) tall, was featured in the Guinness World Records as the world’s tallest flagpole, but Baku’s efforts were overtaken in 2011 by the 165m (541ft) Dushanbe Flagpole in Tajikistan.

10. Baku Boulevard

11. Mini-Venice

12. Teze Pir Mosque

13. Baku Funicular

Train Station

14. Ismailiyya Palace

15. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

16. Palace of Happiness

17. Caspian Sea Cruise

18. Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre

19. Nizami Museum of Azerbaijan Literature

Building, Museum

20. Bilgah Beach

Natural Feature

To combine exploring history and culture with a seaside break, head 35km (22mi) northeast of Baku to Bilgah. Here, you’ll find a clean, sandy beach – the ideal spot to take a dip in the Caspian Sea. Admission is free, but you have to pay a small fee to use the sunbeds.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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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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88 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.

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What’s it REALLY like to travel to Baku, Azerbaijan?

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When I think back to my travels in Baku, Azerbaijan, one anecdote comes to mind. I’m driving through the highway as we speed past modern, silver buildings interspersed with sand-colored mosques and souks, set back against the arid landscape. My guide points out a cluster of buildings on one side of the highway.

“See those buildings?” he tells me. “Our journalists live there. They get to live there for free.”

I smile weakly and say, “Oh. For free. Cool.” Inside, I’m thinking, really? In exchange for what?

That’s what it’s like to grow up in a country without freedom of the press. Journalists living in government-provided housing is seen as something to extol to international visitors, rather than something that should be kept under wraps.

That’s not to say that Azerbaijan is horrifying. Far from it. I found Baku to be an intriguing destination, quite often perplexing, and well worth a three-day visit with my boyfriend before traveling on to Georgia and Armenia.

Table of Contents

Azerbaijan: A Modern Land of Fire

Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire — this is a country where flames can and do burst out of the earth in unexpected places. There are places close to Baku where you can see eternal flames billowing out of the ground, or even from the water. And the reserves of natural gas cause unusual geological effects, like bubbling mud volcanoes.

And sitting in the middle of that fiery desert, on the banks of an inland sea, is one of the world’s most prolific collections of modern architecture. The most famous of which are three modern towers shaped like flames, lighting up with even more flames at night.

If you mention modern architecture set against a desert, where do you think of first? Dubai, maybe, or Doha, Qatar? I got a similar vibe from Baku. Azerbaijan is rich with oil money, thanks to its location next to the Caspian Sea, which had led to insane levels of recent development.

While Dubai and Doha have their share of modern buildings, Baku sprawls like neither city. As you’re driving around Baku, it seems borderline uncanny that you can cruise over so many hills and still see all kinds of modern, interesting buildings.

Within this unusual setting, there are a lot of cool places in Baku to explore and enjoy.

Best Things to Do in Baku

The good thing about visiting a city like Baku is that there isn’t an established tourist trail — you don’t need to hop from sight to sight.

Have dinner overlooking the Flame Towers. On a whim, I ended up at Panoramic Restaurant . While most of the windows face away from the Flame Towers, there is a tiny outdoor patio with only three tables that has a view of the Flame Towers! Do what I did — go early in the day to check it out, then make a reservation for that exact table for sunset that evening.

Explore the old city of Baku. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place where the architecture differs enormously from the rest of the modern city. The old city dates back to the 6th century and it gives you an idea of the incredible cultural history in this region from Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Shirvani, Persian, Ottoman, and Russian cultures. The Maiden Tower is a great spot for a view of the Flame Towers. And just outside the old city is the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum.

Visit the markets. What struck me about Baku’s markets is how immaculate they are. I’m used to seeing piles of produce flung in every direction; it seems like Azerbaijanis make every effort to shape their produce into the most aesthetically pleasing piles. The conical shapes on the mango slices and dried flowers are perfect.

It extends to larger fruits, too. Apples were stacked in clean straight lines; perfect green watermelons made up the perimeter. One table even grouped tomatoes not just by type but by size, arranging them into perfect mounds!

Normally I’m a bit uneasy at markets because I feel guilty when I don’t buy anything, but I felt more relaxed here. That and men kept giving me macadamia nuts to sample — the best macadamia nuts I’ve ever tasted. (Did I buy any? Nope. Macadamias are one food that I avoid because if I have one, I’ll have a million.)

Check out Heydar Aliyev Center.  In a city filled with modern architecture, this is one of the most famous buildings of all (and a symbol of Azerbaijan, named after its most beloved leader). The building contains a museum and conference center with rotating exhibitions. But even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth it, because it’s in the middle of a giant park, which becomes a place to see and be seen at sunset.

This is easily the best Instagram spot in Baku. I recommend coming around sunrise or sunset for the best light.

Enjoy the cafe scene. While the old city was surprisingly more dead than I expected, I loved the neighborhood just east. This area was filled with all kinds of interesting cafes and restaurants, and I loved walking around and exploring.

Spend an evening down by the Caspian Sea. I was a bit surprised that there was so little seafood on the menus in Baku, despite being located on the sea. But there is one place where seafood is the star: Derya Fish House .

Once you step out of your cab, you arrive to a windy waterfront filled with locals celebrating the end of the day. Oh, and it’s cheap! The two of us had a whole fish, bread, a bowl of olives, eggplant caviar, lemons, pickled vegetables, cheese, and pomegranate sauce on the side for just $18.

Best Day Trips from Baku

The best day trip from Baku is its most famous day trip — to Qobustan to see the mud volcanoes and petroglyphs.  Qobustan National Park (sometimes written as Gobustan) is just under an hour’s drive from Baku.

Qobustan is known for its mud volcanoes. To get to them requires an off-roading vehicle. When my car pulled to the side of the road, I assumed we’d be getting into some kind of jeep — but was I ever surprised when we got into a tiny Soviet-era Lada! It didn’t look like it would last a day in the desert, let alone go off-roading to mud volcanoes!

And soon we reached the mud volcanoes.

The gurgling is a lot slower than I thought it would be — just a constant, slow BLURP! BLURP! every few moments. Like the volcano had eaten a lot of beans that day.

The landscape is beautiful and dramatic — but that wasn’t all we’d see.

Next up in Qobustan was the petroglyphs — ancient rock art. I’ve seen ancient rock art in other parts of the world, like Kakadu National Park in Australia , but this rock art is uniquely impressive. You see people dancing, people hunting, petroglyphs of animals. It has survived remarkably well, and this is why Qobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing Qobustan was one of the highlights of my time in Azerbaijan, and I feel like you can’t go to Baku without making a stop here.  See tours to see Qobustan’s mud volcanoes and petroglyphs.

The other half of my day was spent touring the famous sites on the opposite side of Baku. Here you’ll find two more attractions that prove that Azerbaijan is the land of fire: Ateshgah, the Zoroastrian fire temple, and Yanar Dag, where the fire bursts from the earth.

Ateshgah is a temple on the outskirts of Baku. It was built in the 17th and 18th centuries, though ceremonies have taken place on the same site as early as the 10th century, and it has been a center of worship for Zoroastrians, Sikhs, and Hindus. The flame inside the temple is naturally occurring, but it actually went out in 1969 due to environmental destruction. The fire today is lit by Baku’s main gas supply.

At Yanar Dag, you can see a steady fire burning from the bottom of the hill. Fed by natural gas, this is another fire that never extinguishes. It was so toasty down by the fire — I have never wanted to have a stick and a bag of marshmallows so much in my life! (And let’s not kid ourselves, a bag of graham crackers and chocolate waiting by the table.)

Ateshgah and Yanar Dag are two places that show you how interesting of a natural environment Azerbaijan is. See tours to Ateshgah and Yanar Dag here.

Azerbaijan Food

What kind of food will you be eating in Azerbaijan? Delicious food. Surprisingly good food. The dishes I ate were most similar to Turkish cuisine, fresh and flavorful. While there were some similarities to their Georgian and Armenian neighbors, Azerbaijani food is very much its own thing. I was only in the country for a few days, so this is by no means an exhaustive guide, but it contains several of my top hits.

I ate a lot of dolma — vegetables stuffed with a mixture of rice and meat. While “dolma” can mean stuffed grape leaves or cabbage leaves in other cultures, in Azerbaijan it can mean any kind of stuffed vegetable.

Also popular are kebabs of all kinds, and plov, roasted rice and meat dishes.

Eggplant dip was everywhere — made from roasted eggplant, peppers, and onions and mixed with a variety of herbs and spices. This was the perfect start to a meal. You eat it with bread.

My absolute favorite dish was at Panoramic Restaurant in the Old City — I can’t remember the name and REALLY should have written it down, but it was a skillet filled with chicken, cherries, potatoes, and chestnuts. It sounds like a winter dish but it was solely on a hot summer night.

While you don’t see a ton of fish on the menus in Azerbaijan, you will down at restaurants on the Caspian Sea like Derya Fish House . I recommend ordering a grilled white fish with pomegranate sauce on the side — it brings the same kind of acidity that you get from lemons.

As for Azerbaijani wine, it does exist and it’s worth sampling, but it’s nothing to write home about. Georgia and Armenia have much better wine.

Azerbaijanis love sweets and pastries, and I tried a few different kinds of baklava — one made with walnuts, one made with almonds, one made with hazelnuts. I honestly think walnuts are king — they need that slightly bitter flavor to cut the sweetness. Hazelnut baklava was dangerously sweet!

And Azerbaijanis are crazy about tea. Tea breaks are important punctuation marks of the day. You can sweeten tea with jam, and they serve it with small pastries.

This is just a sample of the delicious food I ate in Azerbaijan.

Want to learn more about Azeri cuisine?

Go on a food tour in baku..

Travel Azerbaijan with JayWay Travel

On this trip I traveled as a hosted guest of JayWay Travel , a boutique travel agency specializing in Eastern and Central Europe.  I’ve worked with JayWay Travel in Ukraine in the past and they do such a good job putting together bespoke itineraries where you don’t have to worry about a thing. JayWay recently added Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia as new destinations where they have local experts.

For my three-day trip to Baku, that meant pick-ups and drop-offs at the airport; a full-day private tour to Qobustan and the fire region, including a stop at a market; a local SIM card, and support throughout the trip. That was perfect for me — I knew my first day would be spent napping and taking it easy due to the weirdly timed flight (see more on that below), and I liked getting to do my own exploring on the final day.

As I always say, if you’re an experienced traveler, you don’t need JayWay in order to travel. But JayWay is perfect for your parents, older travelers, less experienced travelers, and experienced travelers who want someone else to plan their trip for a change. It’s an enormous time-saver when you’re busy, too.

The Caucasus is a fantastic travel destination, but it’s not nearly as easy to travel as Europe. Azerbaijan is a country just waking up to tourism, and they don’t have the established tourism infrastructure of other countries. It’s a good place to have a helping hand.

Learn more about JayWay’s Azerbaijan trips here.

Where to Stay in Baku

Most of the time when I visit a new city, I stay in the old town or old city because it’s usually the prettiest, most central part of town.  Baku’s old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which made it seem like a slam dunk, and so I stayed at a hotel in the old city, the Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel.

While I had a good stay there, I actually don’t recommend staying in the old city of Baku. It’s beautiful but it’s mostly inaccessible to cars (to get an Uber or taxi, you need to walk a distance outside the old city); you are constantly going up and down stairs; there are lots of aggressive touts around the Maiden Tower; there aren’t as many cafes and restaurants as you would think. If you have mobility challenges, you should absolutely avoid staying in the old city.

If you do want to stay in the old city, the Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel is a nice midrange choice. It’s comfortable, the internet works well, it’s not too deep into the old city, and the staff are great. And the best thing about this hotel is that it has an Illy cafe in the lobby. Reliable quality coffee isn’t always easy to find!

So which Baku neighborhood is best? I recommend staying in a hotel just east of the old city. This area is home to lots of cool restaurants, cafes, parks, and nightlife. And because it’s part of the main city, cars can drive the streets and you can hail Ubers close to your hotel. Most of it is flat, though there are some steeper parts.

Recommended Baku Accommodation:

• Luxury: JW Marriott Absheron Baku
• Midrange: Passage Boutique Hotel
• Budget: Renaissance Palace Hotel
• Find deals on more Baku hotels here.

Azerbaijan Visa

Azerbaijan requires a visa for most visitors. In the past it was difficult and expensive for most westerners to get an Azerbaijan visa for longer than a few days. Now it’s MUCH easier and cheaper — you can get an e-visa online for just $20! See the full list of nationalities eligible for the e-visa here.

You order the visa online, it takes around three days to process, and you print it out and bring it to immigration with your passport. Don’t keep it on your phone; bring an actual printed copy.

Order your visa directly from evisa.gov.az . NOTE: THIS IS THE CORRECT SITE; DO NOT BE FOOLED BY IMPOSTERS! There are many third party visa sites that mimic the layout of this site, then try to charge you $50 for the same exact thing. I almost got fooled by one of those sites.

Flying to Baku with Azerbaijan Airlines

I flew nonstop from New York to Baku on Azerbaijan Airlines.  This is the one direct flight from the United States to Azerbaijan. The flight takes 11 hours and currently flies twice per week.

While it’s awesome to fly nonstop, the flight leaves at an awkward time: it departs New York at 11:30 AM and arrives in Baku at 6:30 AM, which is 10:30 PM New York time. As a result, you probably won’t be able to sleep much if at all, and you’ll likely spend your first day in Baku in a jet-lagged stupor. Plan a low-key day for your arrival if you take this flight.

I was lucky to fly in Azerbaijan Airlines’s Comfort Club, as someone special upgraded me for my birthday. Comfort Club is like the stop between premium economy and business class.

You get comfier seats and a TON more space (the seats go much further back but don’t lie flat), you’re served multiple courses for meals, and you get lounge access at the airport (in my case, the cheese-and-champagne-filled Air France lounge at JFK). I was able to stick my feet straight out without touching the seat in front of me (I’m 5’4″). I didn’t get into the entertainment but there was a decent selection of movies. For an 11-hour flight where I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep much, I was so glad to have this level of service!

If you’re coming from the US on another line, you can get connections on Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. Azerbaijan Airlines flies to cities including Tbilisi, Tel Aviv, Paris, London, Dubai, and several Turkish and Russian destinations.

Travel to Azerbaijan BEFORE Armenia

If you’re planning to travel throughout the Caucasus, you should try to travel to Azerbaijan before Armenia. It will make your life much easier.

Azerbaijan and Armenia don’t have diplomatic relations, and all borders are closed. Armenians are not allowed to enter. (While Armenia doesn’t have diplomatic relations or border crossings with Turkey, Armenians are allowed to travel to Turkey anyway, so Azerbaijan is much stricter.)

When I arrived in Azerbaijan, I was asked if I had ever traveled to Armenia. I said no, and there was no evidence of Armenia in my passport. But I do know people who have been interrogated heavily for traveling to Armenia previously, regardless of their nationality.

If you have visited the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is Azerbaijani land currently occupied by Armenia, you will automatically be rejected. (They also ask you if you’ve traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh when you apply for your visa, which will also earn you a rejection if your answer is yes.)

However, Armenian immigration officials are more forgiving. They do ask you if you visited Azerbaijan and why, but if you only visited as a tourist, they don’t care and they let you in without any problems. This is why I recommend visiting Azerbaijan first and Armenia second. (It’s best to go via Georgia, either by land or by plane.)

Unfortunately, ethnic Armenians of different nationalities (whether they’re American, Russian, French, Lebanese, Argentine, or something else) are often rejected at the border based on their last name. From what I’ve researched, it seems to come down to the mood of the immigration officer, and I’ve heard that some people try to convince the immigration officials that their last name is Persian.

If you’re an ethnic Armenian who wants to travel to Azerbaijan, or a person whose last name ends in -ian or -yan, I recommend you do more research. This is beyond my pay grade.

Traveling to Baku: The Takeaway

I’m very happy that I got to travel to Baku — but I think this is a one-and-done trip. Which is fine! Not every destination has to be an “I can’t wait to go back” destination. I’m so glad that I visited and had the experience this interesting city had to offer.

Looking back at my two-week trip to the Caucasus, I think that starting with Baku was a good idea. I was able to take advantage of the only nonstop flight to the Caucasus from New York, and then I moved on to Georgia and Armenia, which were both more impressive. I wouldn’t have done it any differently.

Chisinau and Minsk: Two Offbeat Soviet Cities

Essential Info:  My trip in Baku was entirely organized by JayWay Travel , a travel company that organizes custom private tours in Central and Eastern Europe. They organize everything as soon as your feet touch the ground in your country, from flights and tours to airport pickups and a cell phone or SIM card. JayWay recently added Azerbaijan as one of their new specialties, along with Georgia and Armenia. In Baku I stayed at the  Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel . Rates from $56. When using Uber to get around Baku, be sure you check the license plate — some drivers here operate with a different car than the account they claim to have. Never get in a car unless they match. Travel insurance is essential before every trip — in case of an emergency, it could save your life and finances. I use and recommend  World Nomads  for trips to Azerbaijan.

Many thanks to JayWay Travel for hosting me on my Caucasus trip, including covering my expenses in Azerbaijan. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you traveled to Azerbaijan? What did you think?

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The Hangry Backpacker

Go Alone. Get Lost. Eat.

Baku, Azerbaijan: Complete Solo Travel Guide

April 6, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 3 Comments

Solo travel is one of the best ways to see Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. This fascinating city barely registers on most travel radars, and there are plenty of reasons, from food to history, to visit Baku.

Here is everything you need to know for a solo trip to Baku, complete with tips getting around, expenses, safety and what to do:

Practical Information for Solo Travel in Baku

Baku, azerbaijan.

Baku is a rapidly developing city. Azerbaijan is in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, with the Caspian Sea to the east, Iran bordering to the south and Armenia, Georgia and Russia forming borders to the north and west.

Travel to Baku primarily consists of foreigners visiting for work, with major international petroleum companies maintaining a presence in the area. The country has massive natural gas reserves that have fueled a boom in the capital city.

Solo travel to Baku and the rest of Azerbaijan has increased in recent years, with the city seeing an influx of independent travelers. Outside of Baku, the tourism industry in Azerbaijan remains in infancy. There is a lot of nature to enjoy, tons of great food and plenty of picturesque villages, but not a lot to offer for most tourists.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport is Azerbaijan’s gateway of travel to the world. The airport is nice, shiny and new.

Entrance to Azerbaijan through Baku International Airport is fairly simple for solo travel. The process begins online, where you apply and pay ($25) for a visa. It takes about a week for confirmation. Upon arrival in Baku, immigration officials really have one concern: whether or not you’ve been to Armenia . After answering no, the official flipped through my passport to confirm, took my photo and fingerprints, then sent me on my way. Quick and simple.

Make sure to have a copy of your hotel booking. This is a visa requirement.

Before leaving the secure area, there is an ATM down the escalators, in the corner on the ground floor.

Transportation to the city is easy. Solo travel on a budget in Azerbaijan will require a lot of public transportation, and the Airport Express to Baku city center is a deal.

DO NOT take a taxi. Prices for taxis are absolutely insulting. I was quoted no less than the equivalent of $50 for an official taxi to the city. Prices were not negotiable. This is legal robbery of unsuspecting visitors.

Instead, the Airport Express stops directly in front of the terminal. Tickets for the bus can be purchased at a small kiosk (cash only), outside the doors and next to a coffee stand. The bus departs every 30 minutes, heading to the city center with one stop along the way. The bus is air conditioned, clean and comfortable.

The Airport Express costs about 2 Azerbaijani manat (AZN). That’s barely more than $1. Don’t waste money on a taxi.

The bus unloads in the city center, at 28 May metro station, where you can take a subway, walk or find a more affordable taxi to your destination.

Baku, Azerbaijan Solo Travel Costs

While the rest of Azerbaijan lags behind, Baku is as incredibly expensive place to live, evidence by the designer shops and fancy high rise condominiums popping up across the city.

For travelers, Baku isn’t the cheapest destination, but travel to “Little Dubai” can be done on a budget. There is not an abundance of hostels and guesthouses in the city center. Most foreigners, likely in Azerbaijan for business, wind up in one of the many luxury hotels of Baku.

Of the limited options available, travelers can expect to pay a per night average of 30-40 AZN (about $20 USD) on the low end. A room with air conditioning, which is not normally needed in Baku, will cost more.

However, in 2018, Baku experienced one of the hottest summers on record, with temperatures 20 degrees (Farenheit) above average. The surge in power demands caused massive blackouts in Baku and across Azerbaijan, even leading to the subway system losing power and shutting down.

Ride the Subways

Solo travel in Azerbaijan eventually leads to the subway in Baku. The Baku Metro is the best method for getting around the city. Riding on the Soviet-era subway trains is an uncomfortable, but fun ride. The trains are only about 50 years old, but you can feel every jolt, bolt, twist and turn as they blaze beneath the streets. Perhaps it is the rickety, old cars, but the Baku Metro feels faster than any other subway in my travel experiences.

Seriously, hold on.

The Baku Metro is typical of Soviet metro systems. Like others, it is incredibly far below city streets, effectively doubling as a bomb shelter. And it is beautiful. Despite everything else, the Soviets deserve credit for their subway systems. The detail and intricate design put into each station is impressive. There are also reminders on the walls of lessons learned about propaganda and communism, but that topic isn’t exactly cheerful.

The Baku Metro is good news for a travel budget. One ride on the subway is 0.2 AZN. A reloadable card is required, which costs 2 AZN. The card plus five rides will cost a mere 3 AZN. That’s less than $2 USD! Buses are even cheaper, making public transportation the easy choice for solo travel in Baku.

English is sparse in Baku, so plan your routes and know your stops before setting out for the day.

Solo travel in Azerbaijan is a thrill, but easy in Baku. Free from the constraints of prearranged group travel buses, solo travelers are able to go where they please on the speedy trains of Baku.

Safety in Baku

When hearing of solo travel to Baku, most people express confusion and concern that anyone would travel to Azerbaijan. In fact, many westerners are entirely unaware that Azerbaijan is a country.

That’s okay, though. What people lack in awareness of Baku is simply a better opportunity for off-the-beaten-path solo travel. With Baku off of most travel radars, the worry is that a solo traveler could be in danger in Azerbaijan.

Thankfully, there is no need to fear for safety in Baku. As long as you aren’t Armenian, Azerbaijan is a safe country. The two countries aren’t exactly best buds, and travel across the border is practically impossible.

Locals in Baku are out and about enjoying the city’s parks and are helpful to tourists. Any notion of being unwelcome is not apparent.

For visitors to Baku, the city is safe. Walking the wide, shiny promenades in the city center, it’s hard to imagine feeling any worry. Bakuvians enjoy their city and do not want any disturbance of the peace. Meanwhile, the Azerbaijani government has worked hard – and done a great job – to eliminate any extremist groups that may hinder progress and harm a good reputation of safety.

How to Dress in Baku

The only area tourists should exercise caution in Azerbaijan is with clothing. Unlike some nearby Muslim nations, women in Azerbaijan dress freely. Baku is more liberal than the rest of the country, with women enjoying high fashion and dressing to impress.

Western women may encounter staring. Lots of uncomfortable staring. When it is warm out, it is tempting to wear a tank top and shorts, a skirt or something cooler. This is fine in Baku, and your safety is not at risk, but the stares can be uncomfortable. It is best to move along and ignore the onlookers.

For men, dress in Azerbaijan is peculiar. Men in several countries in the world wear long pants year-round. In Azerbaijan, men wearing shorts is particularly taboo. A few government officials have been outspoken about the issue. There are men in Baku bold enough to wear shorts, but not many.

Tourists get a pass on wearing shorts more than locals in Baku, but I recommend blending in as much as possible for solo travel anywhere.

Onward Solo Travel from Baku

Onward travel from Baku, heading elsewhere in Azerbaijan, is a simple, yet complex affair for solo travelers. If you’re going back to the airport, simply retrace your steps, starting where the Airport Express drops off at 28 May station. If further travel is via bus, travelers need to go to the main bus station.

The bus station is easy to reach from the Baku Metro. Take the Green Line from 28 May Station to Memar Əcəmi Station. There, switch to the Purple Line to Avtovağzal , which is one stop away. Avtovağzal means “bus station,” and that’s where you want to go.

Navigating the Baku bus station can be a headache for solo travelers that don’t speak the language. Hopefully for you, my headache will help you avoid the same frustration.

Tickets can be purchased at the station, inside in the back of the building . On the 3rd level. The back of the building appears empty, but there will be a few ticket windows open. Say the name of your destination and the employees will direct you to the appropriate window.

This doesn’t sound complicated, but in a massive, four-story international bus station with hundreds of shops – and did I mention no one speaks any English? – finding the right ticket window can be a nightmare. Get there early and be patient. Also, good luck.

What to See & Do in Baku

Gobustan petroglyphs.

Gobustan is a site of prehistoric petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. The rock carvings include Viking ships, Roman markings, as well as depictions thousands of years older.

The visitor center and museum at this UNESCO-designated site is informative, interesting and modern. Entrance is cheap, at 5 AZN.

There are thousands of carvings spread out among the barren rocks, with paths leading around many of them. However, the carvings are underwhelming. Truthfully, pictures are sufficient. Sure, the carvings are interesting and anthropologically important, but they’re much smaller than images suggest. It’s fairly difficult to even get a decent photograph without a high-powered lens.

Consider that the drive to Gobustan takes at least an hour and hiring a car is the only practical option. Time is better spent in Baku for most tourists. If you have a spare day and anthropology excites you, wandering Gobustan for a few hours is the perfect activity.

Mud Volcanoes of Gobustan

If Gobustan is alluring, make sure to save time for a more interesting site nearby. Also in the Gobustan National Park are the famous mud volcanoes. The area is home to nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes.

If you’re thinking massive mountains spewing mud, scale down your expectations. Mud volcanoes are large mounds in a geothermally active area.  Mud bubbles up and slowly oozes out, over time building up to these mini “volcanoes.”

The Gobustan mud volcanoes are a fascinating thing to see in Azerbaijan, but require a tedious journey from Baku that makes solo travel to the spot almost impossible for non-locals. Theoretically, it is possible to catch a bus to the nearest town. From there, drivers may or may not be hanging out by the road waiting for passengers. But the bus takes a long time and runs inconsistently.

The route to the mud volcanoes – it is not a road – winds along a dusty, bumpy path. Drivers have a deep trust in their cars, careless and fearless of the terrain. They drive straight through bumps and obstacles at a blistering pace in their old Soviet jalopies. As for off-roading in an old Soviet Lada, it’s pretty fun. Wear sunglasses and bring a cloth, though. It’s dusty.

The site is not developed – it’s just there . On the day I visited the mud volcanoes, there were no other tourists in sight. A few locals were soaking in one of the bubbling pits of mud, which is supposedly therapeutic.

The Azerbaijan mud volcanoes are pretty cool, but it is best to think twice about making the solo travel venture to Gobustan from Baku. It’s a long way out for a short wander. Although the next time I visit Baku, I plan to have a mud soak of my own.

Ateshgah of Baku

The Ateshgah of Baku is a temple that has been home to fire-worshiping Hindus, Sikhs and Zoroastrians. The current complex is a few hundred years old, but there is evidence of use going back over one thousand years.

The temple is centered around a flame in the center that burned naturally from gas leaks for hundreds of years. The original flame finally burned out and the current flame is man-made, but the temple is still authentic.

The trip out to Ateshgah of Baku is like any solo travel in Azerbaijan – crowded buses and a lot of guessing, traveling on an indirect route to finally reach the destination.

With the cheap transportation mentioned above, and an admission cost of only 4 AZN, the Ateshgah of Baku is a great budget activity for a day. The best part of visiting the Ateshgah of Baku is seeing a side of the city few other tourists ever will. Bus 184 from Koroğlu metro station will (eventually) get you to the Fire Temple.

Yanar Dag is a another fiery attraction outside of Baku. This is an open, 50-foot-long flame coming out of the ground. There’s so much natural gas in Baku that it is literally leaking out of the ground. At some point, this gas leak ignited and has been burning for years.

Why Yanar Dag is often recommended to tourists is beyond me. It’s certainly intriguing, but to spend several hours bussing around Baku only to come upon a little bit of fire is a colossal waste of time.

The suburbs and towns the bus passes through are very different from the city. For window-watchers like myself, that is the cool part of this excursion. However, unless you are in need of some kind of solo travel day-challenge of navigation, stay in Baku.

Yanar Dag, it’s a fire. See the picture above. Save the time.

Exploring Old City Baku

Old City Baku is a real-life postcard before your eyes. The tiny, walled Old City is another UNESCO-designated site travelers can check off the list. The various buildings range from a few hundred to a thousand years old.

Among the narrow, winding streets of Old City Baku are mosques, museums, a palace and the iconic 12th century Maiden Tower.

The Old City may be small, but it is worth spending at least a day wandering the area. Oddly, the streets are calm and quiet, while thousands of people walk the streets beyond the walls. There are several shops for tourists as well, selling everything from gaudy t-shirts to beautiful handmade rugs.

Restaurants in the Old City range from touristy Italian to fast food. There are a few restaurants serving local food, too. The prices are inflated, owing to the location, but the food is fantastic and is a great starting point for a curious eater.

Shopping in Baku

Travelers in search of cool trinkets and souvenirs will find plenty in the shops around Old City Baku. The rugs are a tempting spoil for any traveler to the region. But before you go and drop serious cash on an antique rug, buyer beware.

There are strict laws regulating the purchase of rugs. Souvenir rugs will (probably) cause no issue. But authentic, especially antique, rugs are not easily (read: legally ) transported. Old rugs that are eligible for tourist export are subject to serious taxes, sometimes effectively doubling the price. If you’re caught trying to bring an antique rug out of the country, expect a lot of grief, including fines, visa revocation and possibly criminal charges.

Oh, and locals may ignore the laws and sell rugs anyway. Customs officials will not be sympathetic to your plight, and trouble will ensue.

The tip: when in Baku, travel light and leave the rugs behind.

Eating Cheap in Baku

Baku is not an expensive city. Aside from the accommodation costs mentioned above, solo travel to Baku can be done on a budget. Food is not expensive, either.

There is a growing industry of fine dining and expensive restaurants in Baku, but you can still eat great food elsewhere. Piti, a simple mutton and vegetable soup, is an Azerbaijani national treasure that is worth eating at least once. Other common foods include various lamb dishes, dushbara (Azerbaijani dumplings), an assortment of yogurt-based dishes and great pastries.

If you’re looking for something quick and cheap, there are few places in the world with as many shawarma stands and shops as Baku. In Baku and the greater region, for any sort of solo travel on a budget, shawarma is your best friend. They do it right in Azerbaijan. Ayran, a popular salty yogurt beverage in the wide world of shawarma, is always the perfect pairing.

Local bakeries are also a great source of cheap food. Freshness is the norm in Baku, and you can grab a few pastries to eat for the day for a few manat.

Finding cheap food is an important part of travel , and Baku is an easy place to turn your cash into plenty of delicious local food.

Azerbaijani Beer & Cheese

Azerbaijanis love their beer and consume more booze per capita than any other Muslim country in the world. (Technically, Kazakhstan consumes slightly more, but it has a considerable population of non-Muslims.) Xirdalan, the de facto national beer of Azerbaijan, is a drinkable brew readily available in Baku. Xirdalan is a soothing relief from the dry, windy air.

Azerbaijanis eat cheese when they drink beer. The cheese is braided when made and served in strings. The chewy cheese comes in long, thin strings and has a slight smokiness to accompany the high saltiness. It may not be endemic to Azerbaijan, but it pairs perfectly with beer. And locals eat it, so join in!

The best part about beer in Baku is that it is really cheap. A giant mug of that delicious ice cold golden nectar from the gods can be yours for 1-2 AZN, about a dollar.

Baku is a destination barely on the radar of most tourists. Azerbaijan is often lumped in with the turmoil of surrounding areas, but the country is peaceful and safe. Foreigners are welcome and locals in Baku are receptive to tourists.

Azerbaijan is changing, and Baku is at the forefront. Head-turning skyscrapers are just the beginning. Fortunately, Baku has a strong hold on its culture and visitors can enjoy the best of the city’s food and culture.

Despite a few expensive aspects of visiting Azerbaijan, it is generally an affordable destination, and solo travel in Baku is a wonderful experience.

Reader Interactions

May 2, 2019 at 9:24 am

Hey I just wanted to say that I saw your recent collab on The Ninja Gypsy’s blog and just wanted to say that I am so glad to see other bloggers have the same positive sentiments about this country that I do! I’ve visited four times myself and fallen in love a little more each time. This country truly is one of the most underrated in the world.

May 2, 2019 at 3:57 pm

Hey, thanks for checking it out! I couldn’t agree more. It’s a beautiful country and definitely underrated. Four times? That’s awesome! I can’t wait to go back myself.

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

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

One Week in Azerbaijan Itinerary: An Introduction

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

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

Azerbaijan: First Impressions

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

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

Azerbaijan 1 Week Itinerary Map

7 Days in Azerbaijan Itinerary in a Nutshell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

Related Read: Best Hotels in Baku Near Nizami Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Day Trip to Quba | Overnight in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Explore Sheki | Overnight in Sheki

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijan Trip: How to Plan

Best time to visit azerbaijan.

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Azerbaijan

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

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

Visa for Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Connected in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Azerbaijan Itineraries

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 4 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 5 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 6 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 10 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 14 Days

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

Azerbaijan Travel FAQ

Is azerbaijan located in europe or asia.

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

What is Azerbaijan Most Famous For?

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

How Many Days in Azerbaijan?

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

Which Month is the Best for Travel in Azerbaijan?

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

Is it Expensive to Visit Azerbaijan?

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

Is Azerbaijan an Islamic nation?

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

Is Azerbaijan Safe?

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

Is Azerbaijan Tourist-Friendly?

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

Is Azerbaijan Family-Friendly?

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

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Anjali Chawla

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

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

Thanks for writing and keep it up!1

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

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

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

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An Ultimate Guide to Azerbaijan

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

Azerbaijan: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for the First-Timers

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

Azerbaijan: First Impressions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where is Azerbaijan

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

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

How Many Days in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

How to Get to Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

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

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

Unmissable Experiences in Azerbaijan

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

• Explore the Ancient & Modern Wonders of Baku

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

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

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

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

• Experience the Silk Road Legacy in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Discover the Historical Castles and Fortresses of Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Tour the Ancient Villages of Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Uncover the Breathtaking Natural Wonders of Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Things to Consider While Traveling to Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Azerbaijan Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 26, 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.

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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