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15 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Icheri Sheher

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

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

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

3. Absheron National Park

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

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

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

4. Garasu Volcano

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

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

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

5. Naftalan Oil Resort

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

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

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

6. Gobustan

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

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

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

7. The Caspian Sea

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

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

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

8. Shirvan National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Yanardag

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

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

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

12. Baku Seaside Park

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

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

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

13. Ateshgah

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

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

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

14. Yanar Bulag

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan:

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

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

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

One Week in Azerbaijan Itinerary: An Introduction

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

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

Azerbaijan: First Impressions

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

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

Azerbaijan 1 Week Itinerary Map

7 Days in Azerbaijan Itinerary in a Nutshell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Explore Baku | Overnight in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

Related Read: Best Hotels in Baku Near Nizami Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Day Trip to Quba | Overnight in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Explore Sheki | Overnight in Sheki

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijan Trip: How to Plan

Best time to visit azerbaijan.

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Azerbaijan

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

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

Visa for Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Connected in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Azerbaijan Itineraries

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 4 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 5 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 6 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 10 Days

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

Azerbaijan Itinerary 14 Days

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

Azerbaijan Travel FAQ

Is azerbaijan located in europe or asia.

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

What is Azerbaijan Most Famous For?

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

How Many Days in Azerbaijan?

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

Which Month is the Best for Travel in Azerbaijan?

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

Is it Expensive to Visit Azerbaijan?

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

Is Azerbaijan an Islamic nation?

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

Is Azerbaijan Safe?

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

Is Azerbaijan Tourist-Friendly?

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

Is Azerbaijan Family-Friendly?

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

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6 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!

How much to tip the driver and guide for a 7 days trip

I did not see tipping as a common practice in Azerbaijan, and no one asked for it. However, if you feel your driver and guide provided excellent service, a small gesture of gratitude is always appreciated. For a 7-day trip, you might consider around 10-15% of the total tour cost. Hope that helps.

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Wander-Lush

One-Week Azerbaijan Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Days in the Land of Fire

Looking for an easy Azerbaijan itinerary to see the best of the country in one week? This guide pulls together the best things to do in Azerbaijan for first-time visitors. Detailed transportation info, travel tips and up-to-date advice included.

No trip to the South Caucasus region is complete without dipping your toes in Azerbaijan.

More Orient than Occident, it is in many ways a stark contrast to Georgia and Armenia . But just like its neighbours, Azerbaijan is an overwhelmingly safe destination that is easy to travel independently using a combination of public transport and transfers or with a hire car.

Azerbaijan is rich in both nature (alpine hiking, winter skiing) and history and culture (particularly from the Silk Road period ). From the ultra-modern capital of Baku to the charming city of Sheki – one of my favourite places in the entire region – Azerbaijan might be lesser-known, but it is no less fascinating.

I have been lucky enough to visit Azerbaijan three times now. I was even invited to speak about the country on the Amateur Traveler podcast . Living in Georgia, I have plans to return soon – there are still so many places I am yet to see.

If you’re looking for an easy add-on to your Georgia itinerary or something more substantial to insert into a broader Caucasus travel itinerary , this Azerbaijan itinerary showcases the best of the country’s north and beyond.

Also see: My recommended Azerbaijan Georgia itinerary (overland travel through the two countries).

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.

Azerbaijan itinerary overview & map

Here is a brief outline of the itinerary described in this guide.

Below, you will find a day-by-day breakdown of the route, including things to do, where to stay, and transportation tips for getting from place to place.

Days 1-2: Baku

Day 3: Day trip to Gobustan & the Absheron Peninsula

Days 4-5: Quba & Khinaliq 

Day 6: Shamakhi, Lahic, Tufandag & Gabala (overnight in Sheki)

Day 7: sheki.

Click here to open the map in Google Maps .

How to plan an Azerbaijan itinerary

First, here are some basic pointers to help with planning your Azerbaijan visit.

When is the best time to visit Azerbaijan?

Spring (late March-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit Azerbaijan and the Caucasus more broadly. These months bring pleasant temperatures, lighter crowds, and a host of cultural festivities.

In spring (March 20 in 2025), Azerbaijan celebrates the Persian New Year with the Novruz festival. The five-day event includes folk music and dance performances, processions and other rituals around Baku and the entire country.

In autumn (September and October), there are several autumn festivals including the Goychay Pomegranate Festival, the Persimmon Festival in Balakan and the Apple Festival in Quba.

For the past 8 years, Baku has hosted the Grand Prix . In 2024, the race will take place from September 13-15 and in 2025, from September 19-21. Keep in mind that the city is very busy during this period, and accommodation prices are inflated. The race takes place right in the centre of the city, and there are road closures that make it a bit trickier to get around.

How many days in Azerbaijan?

I recommend a minimum of 2 days to see Baku , and a minimum of 7 days to see Azerbaijan (the main highlights of the northeast and northwest). With 10 days, you can see more of the country, including Nakhchivan.

This itinerary focuses on northern Azerbaijan and can therefore easily be combined with Georgia and/or Armenia. Keep in mind that the Azerbaijan-Armenia land border is closed, necessitating transit through Georgia.

See below for up-to-date information on entering and exiting Azerbaijan.

Do you need a visa for Azerbaijan?

Most visitors to Azerbaijan require a visa. Citizens of a dozen countries (including the UAE and Turkiye) do not need a visa.

For everyone else (including citizens of the EU, Australia, the US and the UK), you will need to apply for an e-visa in advance . This electronic system was introduced in 2017 and makes it very easy to get your documents in order.

Visas are valid for a period of 90 days from the start date you specify (meaning you must enter the country within that window), and will cover you for a stay of up to 30 days. Only single-entry visas are available.

The fee is 25 USD, payable by credit card. Standard processing takes 3 days, or you can apply for an expedited visa for an additional fee.

To apply, visit Azerbaijan’s official evisa platform and fill out the form. Note that you will need to provide the address of your first accommodation in Azerbaijan.

In addition, anyone staying in Azerbaijan for more than 15 days must go through an additional step of registering their stay with the State Migration Service. Failure to do so might result in a fine or worse. As your guesthouse to assist you with the process, or register online here .

How to get to Azerbaijan

In 2020, Azerbaijan closed its land borders to inbound travellers. As of 2024, land borders remain sealed – meaning no one can enter Azerbaijan by land. The Tbilisi-Baku night train is on pause and will (probably) relaunch as the Baku-Kars Railway in the coming months.

For now, the only way to enter Azerbaijan is by air. From Tbilisi, there are multiple daily flights with Azerbaijan Airlines (Buta) and Georgian Wings. Additionally, there are direct flights to Baku from Istanbul , Dubai, Doha , and several cities in Europe (London, Rome, Vienna, Barcelona and others).

Foreign passport holders are, however, permitted to exit Azerbaijan overland (by foot only) – meaning you can cross the border back into Georgia. I did this myself in spring 2023.

In light of these restrictions, I recommend starting your Azerbaijan itinerary in Baku and ending in Sheki. From Sheki, you can either cross the land border into Georgia (as I did most recently) or return to Baku to fly out.

How to move around Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has a railway network and a coach bus/marshrutka system for intercity travel. For Nakhchivan, daily domestic flights are available from Baku.

There are several apps you can use to check transport schedules and reserve tickets. I recommend ADY for trains and Biletim for buses.

If you wish to hire a car and self-drive in Azerbaijan, I recommend using the Local Rent website . The roads in Azerbaijan are generally good – especially the highways. There is a heavy police presence and a lot of cameras, so always stick to the speed limit.

I have included detailed transport instructions – including options for private transfers – in each of the itineraries below.

Buying a SIM card in Azerbaijan

Obtaining a SIM card in Azerbaijan used to be a very difficult process (back in 2017 when I first visited, it took me a full day to get the job done). Times have thankfully changed. On my recent trip, I bought an Azercell SIM from the shop on the main square. You will need to bring your passport and sign one contract (the process takes around 20 minutes). I paid 30 AZN for a SIM with 30 GB of data (valid for 30 days).

ATMs & money

The currency in Azerbaijan is manat (AZN). Most ATMs in Baku charge a withdrawal fee. We found Pasha Bank (red and green machines) did not incur a fee, and we were able to withdraw a maximum of 500 AZN. Outside of Baku, it is still very much a cash economy, so I do recommend carrying cash with you.

One week in Azerbaijan itinerary

With 7 days in Azerbaijan, you can fit in the best of Baku plus parts of the north of the country. I recommend venturing north-east into the Greater Caucasus mountains first, then heading north-west towards the Georgian border. The city of Sheki is Azerbaijan’s real treasure and the highlight of this itinerary.

This route plan works well as an open-jaw trip. If you are travelling onward to Georgia next, you should plan to cross the land border at Balakan-Lagodekhi to avoid doubling back through Baku. This is exactly what I did on my last trip.

Day 0: Arrival in Baku

To get to your accommodation in Baku from the airport, I recommend using the Airport Express bus. It departs from in front of the arrivals terminal every hour on the hour between 6am and 11pm, and terminates in the city centre outside the 28 May Metro Station.

The fare is 1.30 AZN, and tickets can be purchased from the machine outside the airport hall (cash only).

Alternatively, pre-book a private transfer to your hotel online here . I do not recommend using the Bolt taxi app at the airport as scams are common.

Day 1: The Best of Baku

On your first morning in Baku , wake up early and grab a slice (or a slab) of fresh baklava for a quick breakfast, or enjoy a slow-paced start to the morning at a traditional tea house.

Jump on the metro at Sahil Station and head north-east on the Red Line towards Nariman Narimanov. If you are a fan of underground art , you can take a detour to visit Nizami, Xalglar Doslugu and Elmler Akademiyasi Stations, all of which are embellished with mosaics and other Soviet-era decorations. Just note that photography is strictly prohibited inside the metro (and from personal experience, I can tell you this rule is rigorously enforced!).

The ultra-modern Heydar Aliyev Center is one of Azerbaijan’s most impressive landmarks – and honestly one of my favourite buildings in the world. It is a very evocative piece of architecture and a lot of fun to photograph.

After you have walked a lap around the building and peeked inside, head back towards the city centre on foot, stopping for a look at the Yasil Bazar , Baku’s green market. Jump back on the metro at 28 May Station and ride to Icherisheher to spend your afternoon exploring Baku’s walled Old City . 

Find that famous photo spot – where the modern Flame Towers rise up behind the historic facades. For a nice view over Baku, climb the Maiden Tower , and don’t miss my favourite museum, the Underground Bath Museum (Yeralti Hamam), a 17th-century hamam that contains a fascinating exhibition about bathing culture.

You need at least 1.5-2 hours to fully explore the Shirvanshahs Palace and its various mosques, tombs and museum displays. Depending on your timing, you can do this before or after lunch.

When it’s time to refuel, head to Passage 145 and find a table beneath the arched roof that is painted with charming pictures of Old Baku traders and artisans. Order the Baku salad (a punchy combo of tomatoes, red onion, cornelian cherries and mint) and to finish, a slice of the balli tort honey cake.

At 3pm, join the 2-hour Baku Old Town & Oil Heritage Walking Tour hosted by Azerbaijan Traveller. If you’re lucky, you will meet the exceptional guide Gani Nasirov. This walk will give you a lay of the land and some much-needed local insights to start making sense of the hodgepodge that is Baku beyond what you have already seen.

An hour or so before sunset, hitch a ride on the Baku Funicular to Highland Park . Walk Martyrs’ Lane and visit the Shahidlar Monument before staking out a position at the viewpoint for a panoramic view of Baku city and the Caspian Sea at golden hour.

Descend the stairs and take a stroll along the Bulvar promenade , which is beautiful at twilight, before heading to Dolma Restaurant for dinner. I recommend the house special dolma and the pumpkin plov.

If you have the energy, head to ETUD for a Mugham jazz session, or to KEFLI for a quiet glass of Azerbaijani wine.

Recommended reading: 15 things to do in Baku

Where to stay in Baku

• Luxury: The Merchant Baku
• Boutique: Centric Baku
• Mid-range: Utopia Hotel
• Budget: SAHIL Hostel & Hotel

Find more Baku accommodations here on Booking.com .

Day 2: Alternative Baku

Start your morning at 90’lar or Old School , two nostalgia-themed cafes that are popular among young Azerbaijanis. If it’s a quick coffee you’re after, Coffee Moffie opens at 8am and serves great specialty coffee.

Walk the ring of streets on the Inner City’s periphery to see some of Baku’s finest 20th-century buildings . The Fantaziya Hamami , an abandoned bathhouse, the Saadet Sarayi or Palace of Happiness and the Ismailiyya Palace are all must-sees. Cross Fountains Square , a popular gathering place, Nizami Park , with its massive statue of the beloved poet, and the Philharmonia Garden , perhaps the loveliest of all of Baku’s manicured public gardens.

For lunch, sit down to a spectacularly presented Azerbaijani kebab at Fisincan .

In the afternoon, venture outside the city to Balakhani . To get there, you first need to ride the metro to Koroglu Station then take bus 214. Uber also works.

Balakhani is a historic oil neighbourhood where you can still see tiny rigs ploughing the earth. The streets have been beautified in the image of a Greek village, and there is some very interesting street art and a couple of cute cafes. Walk up to the cemetery to see the turbe (mausoleum) and explore the old hammam.

When you’re done, grab a taxi to travel 30 minutes to the 9th Microdistrict, a residential area on the northern side of the city. The Heydar Mosque features four domes and a facade covered almost entirely with engraved stone. It is quite a sight to behold – and even better once the sun sets and it is illuminated by floodlights.

Return to Sahil via the Nasimi Metro Station and grab dinner at Mari Vanna a few blocks back from the waterfront.

Spend your third and final day in Azerbaijan exploring the Absheron Peninsula and the Caspian Coastline beyond Baku.

This classic day trip itinerary covers the Gobustan mud volcanoes and petroglyphs, the Ateshgah Zoroastrian Temple and Yanardag, the famous ‘flaming hillside’.

If you ask me, the highlight is definitely the bubbling Gobustan mud volcanoes , which represent the highest concentration of mud geysers anywhere on earth. A guided walk through the nearby Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve reveals some of the 6,000 examples of prehistoric rock art undercovered at the site.

The Ateshgah Zoroastrian Temple has been restored and turned into a museum, and it is a great place to learn the basics of the ancient fire-worshipping religion. You might find Yanardag a little underwhelming, but the myth of a burning mountain lit by a careless shepherd is very unique.

On my last trip to Baku, I took this day tour which I booked through Viator . It includes lunch, all entrance fees, and all transportation.

When you return to the city in the evening, enjoy a traditional hammam treatment at Agha Mikayil before dinner.

Recommended reading: How to plan a Gobustan day trip

Days 4-5: Quba & Khinaliq

On Day 4, start the journey north to Khinaliq , Azerbaijan’s highest village and newest UNESCO World Heritage Site . The 230-kilometre (143-mile) trip up from Baku takes around four hours by car or a little longer by marshrutka van/taxi, with a paved road making the last stretch a lot faster and more pleasant.

Remember to bring cash with you as there are no ATMs in the village.

Arrive in the afternoon with enough time to visit the local mosque , wander through the two ethnographic museums , and venture up to the viewpoint before eating a home-cooked dinner at your homestay-style guesthouse. Khinaliq has 5,000 years of fascinating history behind it (and its own language) – so try to soak up as much of the culture as you can.

Primarily a hiking destination, Khinaliq is the starting point for some extremely scenic treks through the Greater Caucasus mountains. The most popular route, the Khinalig to Galakhudat Hike , takes around 7-8 hours (16 kilometres) and is the perfect way to spend Day 5.

The only way out of Khinaliq involves transiting back through Baku. For this reason, I recommend returning to the city in the late afternoon on Day 5 and spending the night in Baku.

Recommended reading: What to expect when you visit Khinaliq

If you have time, there is an option to break up the journey to/from Khinaliq with a short stop in the city of Quba for the Mountain Jews Museum and the traditional carpet-weaving workshops .

Recommended reading: Visiting a carpet weaving workshop in Quba

Where to stay in Khinaliq

• Top-rated guesthouse: Zaur Guest Hause
• Alternative guesthouse: Mountain House

How to get to Khinaliq from Baku

Minibuses to Quba depart frequently (every 20-40 minutes starting from 7.30am) from the International Bus Terminal in Baku. Travel time is around 3 hours and 20 minutes, and a ticket costs 5.30 AZN.

From Quba, you will need to take a taxi the rest of the way. Drivers wait on the street adjacent to the Central Bus Station, around this point . It is best to arrive in the early afternoon, between midday and roughly 4pm. Expect to pay 10-15 AZN per person or 40-60 AZN for the whole car. Alternatively, pre-arrange a transfer through your guesthouse in Khinaliq.

If you prefer to visit Khinaliq as a day trip from Baku (and spend nights 4 and 5 in the city) this hiking tour with Bag Baku features an accompanied one-way trek from Galakhudat into Khinaliq and a home-cooked meal at one of the guesthouses.

Day 6 is a travel day, taking you from Baku on the tip of the Absheron Peninsula all the way to my favourite place in Azerbaijan, the Silk Road city of Sheki in the far north-west. I highly recommend you make the most of it by doing some sightseeing along the way.

Following the M4 Highway, there are several key stops to make between Baku and Sheki:

• The Diri Baba Mausoleum , a 15th-century mausoleum perched on a limestone cliff.
• The Juma Mosque in Shamakhi, the oldest mosque in the Caucasus (dated to 734 AD).
• Lahic , the famous coppersmith village (see my Lahic Guide for things to do when you’re there).
• Tufandag , Azerbaijan’s premier ski resort with a year-round gondola that you can ride for amazing mountain views.
• Gabala , a resort town with thermal springs and petroleum oil baths.

Additional optional stops include the Zarnava Hanging Bridge near Lahic, Nohur Gol lake outside Gabala, and the Yeddi Gozel or ‘Seven Beauties’ waterfall.

When travelling by private car (see below), you can quite easily cover all of the above in a day with time for lunch in or near Gabala.

Arrive in Sheki in the evening and check into your hotel before enjoying dinner at the Old Town Sheki restaurant.

Where to stay in Sheki

• Unique: Sheki Karvansaray Hotel
• Boutique: MinAli Boutique Hotel
• Mid-range: Macara Sheki City Hotel
• Budget: Central Hostel

Find more Sheki accommodations here on Booking.com .

How to get to Sheki from Baku via Shamakhi, Lahic, Tufandag & Gabala

There are two ways to do this trip: Book a one-way transfer tour with TES Tour , or hire your own car.

I recently visited Azerbaijan with my dad and we decided to hire a car and driver for 36 hours to travel from Baku to our accommodation in Sheki, stopping at all the points mentioned above along the way. It was efficient and affordable, and we lucked out by getting a great driver-guide.

If you are a confident driver, you can always rent your own car and replicate the itinerary. This would of course give you a bit more flexibility to stay longer in Lahic, for example, or to overnight somewhere different en route to Sheki. I recommend using the Local Rent website to find a rental car.

If you are content to skip the places along the way, you can travel directly from Baku to Sheki by bus. There are three daily departures plus a night bus. Tickets cost 10.95 AZN, and travel time is around 5.5-6.5 hours.

This will give you an additional full afternoon in Sheki, which you can easily fill (see below and Days 9-10 of the next itinerary for more suggestions for Sheki and the surrounding area).

Recommended reading: How to travel from Baku to Sheki

This itinerary saves the best for last. A city of caravanserais and silk workshops, Sheki is absolutely my favourite place in Azerbaijan – and one of my favourite places in the world.

If you opted for the transfer with TES Tour, you will start the day with a visit to the Sheki Khan’s Palace (entrance is included in the tour price) and a short drive out to Kish for the Caucasian Albanian Temple .

Whilst in Kish, be sure to stop at Ilhama Tea House for a piece of fresh-baked lapali chorak, a Kish specialty bread filled with a sweet-sour paste made from ground walnuts, diced onions and cornelian cherry syrup, and a strong glass of black tea.

If you are staying the night in Sheki, bid farewell to your driver and return to the Khan’s Palace (your ticket is good for the full day) ahead of the Khan’s Mosque , the lesser-visited Winter Palace , and the Upper Caravanserai . Pause at Halvaci Yehya to buy a slice of sugary-sweet Sheki halva, and at Kelaghayi Silk Scarf Shop to buy a special silk souvenir.

Spend the evening walking the magical streets of Sheki and feast on Azerbaijani plov at VIP Karvan Restaurant before retiring for the night.

Recommended reading: My ultimate guide to visiting Sheki

Departing from Sheki

TES Tour gives you the option to return to Baku with your driver, or to continue all the way to the Georgian border. I recommend you stay in Sheki for an additional afternoon and night before continuing the journey the following day.

It is possible to cross overland into Georgia via the Balakan-Matsimi land border. First, take a taxi from Sheki to the immigration point (around 40-60 AZN), the cross by foot (the process takes around 40 minutes, and you will need to present your Azerbaijan e-visa again.

In Georgia, you can pick up a local taxi to take you to Tbilisi (around 120 GEL) or stay closer to the border area and start the Georgia part of your trip in Kakheti Wine Region or Vashlovani National Park .

If you are flying out of Baku, return to the city from Sheki by marshrutka (vans depart every 30-60 minutes from the bus station) or taxi. Note that trains between Baku and Sheki are not running at present.

Extend your trip: More places to visit in Azerbaijan

Qax/ilisu (add 1 day).

From Sheki, you can quite easily press further towards the Greater Caucasus to Qax (Gakh) where there are some great hiking opportunities.

This is a multicultural corner of Azerbaijan, home to St George’s Church, the awe-inspiring Kurmukhi Church, and countless other towers and ruins associated with Caucasian Albanian, Georgian and Armenian heritage.

At the end of the valley, Ilisu was once the centre of a sultanate. The 16 km Ilisu-Gashgachay trail and the hike to Ilisu Waterfall both make for a nice day walk. For more ideas, check out this article I wrote for National Geographic Traveller about the four best hiking trails in Azerbaijan .

Nakhchivan (add 2-3 days)

Separated from the rest of Azerbaijan by southern Armenia, the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is an adventurous addition to any itinerary, and especially suitable for travellers who are interested in hiking and history.

Internal flights to Nakhchivan from Baku are operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, with 10 departures per day. Flight time is 1 hour and 20 minutes and tickets cost 140 AZN return.

Spend one day in the city centre visiting Noah’s Mausoleum, the 18th-century Palace of Nakhchivan Khans, the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, and Yezidabad Castle. Get an early start the next morning to arrive at Alinja Castle before 10am. The climb to the top of the ‘Machu Picchu of the Caucasus’ takes the better part of two hours, and it’s best to start when there is still some shade. Explore the castle grounds, then hike up a little higher for a bird’s eye view.

The Tomb of Sheikh Khorasan and Ashab-i Kehf Cave are two more historical sites located close to Alinja Mountain. The best way to see all three is by hiring a driver for the day. Your accommodation can help with this – expect to pay around 50-60 AZN per car.

Lankaran (add 2-3 days)

Located in the far-southern corner of Azerbaijan, just shy of the border with Iran, Lankaran is the country’s tea and fruit growing region. Here, the Caspian Coast meets the Talysh Mountains to produce rich soils and unique landscapes. Like Guria in Georgia , tea was cultivated here during the Soviet period, with the first bushes planted in 1932.

I visited Lankaran in spring 2023, and was impressed by how different this corner of Azerbaijan is compared to the rest of the country. I visited Nilado Green, a popular tea farm, and the Citrus Valley plantation, where there is a beautiful farm-to-table restaurant set amongst the fruit orchards. Tours and experiences can be organised direct or through Lankaran DMO ( details here ).

Lankaran is also known for its national parks and wetlands. Hike in Hirkan National Park, or go birding in the marshy Gizil-Agach State Reserve.

Buses to Lankaran set off from Baku’s International Bus Terminal throughout the day (10+ departures) between 7.30am and 6pm. Travel time to Lankaran is 2.5-3 hours, and the fare is 8.50 AZN.

Ganja (add 1-2 days)

Located in western Azerbaijan, Ganja is the country’s third-largest city. It is most often associated with the poet Nizami, who was born in Ganja in 1141. The Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum is one of the city’s biggest attractions.

On the outskirts of Ganja, Imamzadeh Ibrahim is a complex of mosques and mausoleums decorated with blue tiles that is reminiscent of Islamic architecture in Uzbekistan. The archaeological site of Old Ganja is located nearby.

Two hours by road from the border, Ganja can be used as an alternative gateway into Georgia via the Red Bridge Customs Post. Onward transport to Tbilisi via Rustavi can be organised at the border.

To get to Ganja from Baku, you can either take a bus (6-6.5 hours; 10.75 AZN) or a local train (9 hours).

Azerbaijan essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I use for 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 (use my link for 5% off).

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

RENTAL CAR: Use Local Rent to find an affordable rental from a local agent.

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.

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

• My Azerbaijan travel tips & latest guides
• All the best things to see and do in Baku , Azerbaijan’s capital city
• Baku Old City , what to see & do inside the old walls
• The Heydar Aliyev Center , my best photos & visitors’ tips
• 12 best day trips from Baku , where to go & how to get there
• How to take a day trip from Baku to Gobustan for the mud volcanoes
• My guide to Sheki , Azerbaijan’s most beautiful city
• My tips for visiting the Khan’s Palace in Sheki , a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• How to spend the night in a Silk Road caravanserai in Azerbaijan
• How to travel from Baku to Sheki
• My guide to Khinaliq , trekking & homestays
• My guide to Lahic , traditional crafts & ancient architecture
• My guide to Quba , Azerbaijani carpet weaving
• How to travel to/from Baku and Georgia by overnight train
• All about the BTAK railway from Baku to Kars via Tbilisi
• My best photos of Azerbaijan to inspire your travels
• The ultimate Caucasus itinerary for Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan
• Efficient 10-14 day Azerbaijan Georgia itinerary for overland travel
• Tips for travelling around Azerbaijan by bus

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• interesting facts
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• publications
• sustainable Azerbaijan
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• Western route
• Southern route
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• heritage sites
• UNESCO heritage
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• wineries in Azerbaijan
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top 10 things to do in Azerbaijan

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

Breakfast in Baku’s Old City

Kickstart your day of sightseeing with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in the cobbled streets of Baku’s Old City . Indulge in egg-based dishes such as pomidor chigirtma , a delicious fusion of scrambled eggs and cooked tomatoes, enjoyed with piping hot tandoor-baked bread, sweet honey, farmer’s cheeses and creams, yoghurts, and copious amounts of tea – a magical mix made even better by the company of family and friends.

Explore Sheki’s old town

Surrounded by lush Caucasian countryside in the north-west, Azerbaijan’s latest UNESCO World Heritage site is waiting to be discovered! Spend an afternoon quietly wandering Silk Road-inspired streets, admiring Sheki’s signature gabled-roof architecture and intricate brickwork, reflecting this city’s past as a major trade and crafts hub . Call in at mosques and museums, caravanserais and palaces , and sample a type of baklava unique to this part of the Caucasus.

Visit ancient churches

Long before the Arab conquest brought Islam to Azerbaijan from the 7th century, Christianity was widespread throughout Azerbaijan and remained robust in certain areas throughout the Middle Ages. Even today, the village of Nij is home to an ancient Christian people called the Udis who gather every Sunday at a charmingly restored 17th-century church. Visiting the many ancient churches scattered around the countryside is a great way to discover Azerbaijan’s history and heritage.

Bathe in healing oil

Approximately one hour’s drive from Ganja is Naftalan – a resort town famous for its healing oil which for centuries has been used here to cure all sorts of ailments. Treatment typically involves taking daily baths of crude oil for at least a week at one of the town’s many wellness centres.

Hike between timeless mountain villages

Shrouded in myth and legend and populated by a myriad of multicultural peoples, the spectacular Caucasus Mountains have attracted intrepid travellers and explorers for centuries. Azerbaijan is blessed with a glorious mountainous stretch spanning the entire north of the country which is dotted with timeless mountain villages linked by an emerging network of hiking trails .

Marvel at Baku’s modern wonders

Over the last decade Baku’s skyline has been transformed by some spectacular modern architectural masterpieces. The crown jewel is the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Centre , but the Flame Towers , Carpet Museum and others are equally innovative and inspiring.

Relax by the Caspian Sea

Azerbaijan has over 500 km of Caspian Sea coastline. You’ll find scenic views from north to south and plenty of sun-soaked beaches just a 30-minute drive from Baku. There, each summer the golden sands of the Absheron Peninsula come alive with luxury resorts and water parks, local fish restaurants and scenic beaches.

Go wildlife-spotting in national parks

Home to nine of the world’s 11 climate zones, Azerbaijan’s natural diversity is likely to surprise and delight. A great way to experience it is by visiting some of the country’s 9 national parks that protect rare fauna and flora in important wilderness zones.

Sample Azerbaijan’s new wines

Boasting beautiful terroirs and saline soils, Azerbaijan’s wine industry is undergoing a major revival. Stunning flavours are being produced from foreign and native grapes at a growing number of wineries in diverse corners of the country, and several chic wine bars are bringing European style to the rapidly developing Azerbaijani capital.

Embrace the tea culture

Tea is synonymous with hospitality in Azerbaijan where tradition dictates that a guest should not be allowed to leave a home without being offered it. Azerbaijani tea ceremonies have evolved over centuries to have their own rites and rituals. It is served in a special pear-shaped glass with lemon and sugar, and often a tray of delicious honey, jams and sweets. This is an experience you can have anywhere in the country, from upmarket hotels to quiet village teahouses.

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

Best Things to Do

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Heydar Aliyev Center

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

Maiden’s Tower

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

Alinja Castle

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

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

Möminə Xatun

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

Yarat Contemporary Art Centre

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

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

Flame Towers

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

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Architecture

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

With its futuristic architecture and its maze-like Old City, Baku is full of contrasts. These are the best things to do in the capital of Azerbaijan.

Sep 5, 2019 • 5 min read

Nov 9, 2018 • 2 min read

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17 Fascinating Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Azerbaijan is one of them.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yanar Bulag

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

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

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

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

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

Mud Volcanoes

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

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

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

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

Naftalan Oil Baths

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

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

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

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

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

Shirvan and Agh-Gol National Parks

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

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

Gobustan National Park

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

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

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

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

Lake Goygol

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

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

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

The Caspian Sea

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

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

Viva Boutique Hotel

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

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

Check Rates and Availability

Art Club Baku

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

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

Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan: Practical Tips

• Want to book your stay ? Booking.com is the best place to start.
• Trying to find a flight to Azerbaijan? Compare flights on Skyscanner.
• Need travel insurance ? We love World Nomads – and they’ve got your back in Azerbaijan.

Read More Azerbaijan Guides

A perfect weekend in baku: a sample itinerary.

• A Day Trip to Xinaliq, Azerbaijan’s Highest Altitude Mountain Village

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

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

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

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

Funny how travel can be like that.

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

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

AMEI!! Quero muito conhecer. Nuca pensei que o Azerbaijão tivesse lugares tão lindo

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

I don’t remember the first time I heard about Azerbaijan , but it’s always held an exotic allure to me. Azerbaijan — even the name sounds exotic — a place of…well, I didn’t know what. It just sounded intriguing and off the beaten path. I knew two things about Azerbaijan before I visited: it once won the Eurovision Song Contest and has a lot of oil money.

It was only in the last few years that I began to think in earnest about visiting.

But years passed without any progress toward that goal — until one June when, on a whim, I went there with a friend. We had found a cheap flight from London , so off we went!

Sometimes that’s all it takes to end up somewhere.

Azerbaijan matched my expectations: Baku was a modern city steeped in oil money with a recently built subway, fast Wi-Fi, and tons of Parisian-style and futuristic buildings, while the rest of the country was 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. Old babushkas with their backs bent and heads covered with scarves wandered past with groceries, off to make dishes for the family.

To help you make the most of your trip, here are two itineraries to ensure you see the highlights, save money, and get off the beaten path!

Table of Contents

What to See and Do in Azerbaijan: One-Week Itinerary

On your first day here, wander around the old city. The Old Town is surrounded by a towering medieval stone wall, and, within this part of the city, you’ll find narrow winding streets and plenty of historic monuments to explore. Visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, which was built in the 15th century and includes a mosque, bathhouse, and mausoleum. Inside you’ll be able to see all kinds of relics and artifacts that have been discovered around Baku.

You’ll also find the ancient Muhammad Mosque within Old Town which dates back to the 11th century. Don’t skip the famous Maiden Tower with its great views of the city. The oldest parts of Maiden Tower are believed to have been constructed between the 4th and 6th century CE while the newer parts are from the 12th century. (Fun fact: They still have no idea what this tower was built for, but many believe it was originally used as a Zoroastrian temple, and various mysterious legends surround the site. )

Book lovers will be enchanted when visiting the Museum of Miniature books, which is located in the Old Town. The museum is part of a personal collection and features thousands of teeny-tiny books. The oldest tiny book is a copy of the Quran from the 17th century and the smallest book is a copy of “The Most Miraculous Thing” that can only be read with a magnifying glass and measures 6mm x 9mm (less than one inch!)

Afterward, go on a free walking tour with Baku Free Tour and then take in the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum (the country is famous for carpet making and the museum itself is actually shaped like a carpet) and the National Museum of History, which will give you a decent understanding of the history of Azerbaijan.

Where to stay in Baku: Sahil Hostel – This hostel has comfortable beds, a nice common area, and incredible showers (they even have massage sprays). The staff is not that friendly, but its central location and facilities, as well the ease with which you can meet other travelers, more than make up for that.

Additionally, nearby are the famous and iconic Flame Towers. Built in 2012, they stand 182 meters (600 feet) tall and are covered in LED screens displaying images of dancing flames (hence their name). One of them is a hotel with a restaurant at the top; the food there is supposed to be very good and fairly priced. I highly recommend watching the sunset over the city near the Flame Towers, then seeing the tower’s LED lights come on.

As a unique contrast to the ancient history of Baku’s Old Town, head to the Heydar Aliyev Centre. Designed by Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi-British architect, this hyper-modern structure is one of the most interesting buildings in Baku. The design is fluid and curvy with hardly any harsh angles. The space is often used for events like rotating art exhibitions and gala concerts. Check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

Next are the petroglyphs in Gobustan, 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.

Then visit Ateshgah, a temple that has been used as a Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian place of worship (now it’s a center for Zoroastrians). Each room has really detailed panels about the history of the temple, the pilgrims who visited it, and the Zoroastrian religion. In the center of the complex is a flame representing God.

Until 1969, the temple featured a natural eternal flame, but it went out from the overuse of the area’s gas. Now the fire is relit by a pipeline connected to a nearby city. The temple itself is a castle-like structure with a museum surrounding it.

Finally, there is Yanar Dag (“burning mountain”), which is a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside. Marco Polo once described the land in this area as being on fire because of phenomena like this, but this is the only fire left. It’s kind of a disappointment, as it’s really small. It’s not worth the journey, to be honest, but it’s included in most tours, so you’ll see it anyways.

None of the sites are too far from Baku, and can all be done in a day. Most leave around 10am and get back around 5pm. I suggest taking a tour instead of going on your own, as it makes getting to these sites easy. Only Ateshgah is reachable by public transportation. All the other sites will require a car. Lots of people on Couchsurfing offer rides too. A full-day tour will cost about $40-60 USD and include lunch.

Days 4 & 5 – Lahij Take a three-hour bus to Lahij in the Caucasus Mountains, home to less than 1,000 people. Lots of day tours come here because the town is famous for copper wares; you’ll hear the clang of metalwork throughout the day. On your way, you’ll wind through the mountains, over bridges, and along a road so narrow you’ll feel like you’re going to fall off before you reach the town. When I was there, the road was partially out because of heavy rain and I was not a fan of driving the narrow, gravel road to town!

But it was worth it!

Lahij is beautiful, with cobblestone streets, panoramic views of the valley, and old locals sitting in the town square eyeing the tourists that wander past on their way to hike for the day. The tiny village is over 2,000 years old and is known for its craftsmanship. Over 40 unique craftsman trades have been practiced here throughout the ages. These include leatherwork, blacksmithing, carpet making, and of course creating copperware.

There is also a unique cuisine in this region, so make sure to try some during your stay.

Overall, though, there’s not much to do in Lahij itself. There’s a tiny museum that takes five minutes, and you can ride a horse or shop if you want, but the real reason to visit is to go hiking. There are a lot of trails in the mountains around town, and it’s best to ask your guesthouse or the tourist office for information, as there’s no trail map. There are some 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.

Where to stay in Lahij: Ancient Lahij Guesthouse – This cozy homestay offers free Wi-Fi, a garden and terrace, fully-equipped kitchen, and a delicious free breakfast. It’s cheap and charming.

Days 5 (& 6?) – Sheki Next, head to Sheki via public bus, a famous stop on the Silk Road, where you can see the old caravanserai (inn with a courtyard), which housed traders and merchants centuries ago. Built like a castle to protect merchants (high walls, one gate), it dates back to the early 18th century. Now, it’s a restaurant (skip it) and a hotel.

Sheki Khan’s Palace is the country’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built in 1797. It was the summer residence for Shaki Khans and features exceptionally well-preserved frescoes that were painted at various times throughout the 18th century. Additionally, there’s a fortress and a few churches in the old town fortress down the street from the caravanserai. All in all, you only really need a few hours to see everything in town.

Be sure to visit nearby Kis to see the Albanian church, which dates back to the 5th century and was restored with the help of Norwegians in the early 2000s. If you’re staying for longer, consider booking some of the interesting craftsmanship classes and workshops offered in the area.

Afterward, go to the Gelersen-Göresen ruins, which are a lot more expansive than those in Lahij and provide some incredible views of the surrounding valley. Originally used in a fortress, the medieval ruins date back to the 8th or 9th century. The name translates to “you come, you will see.” Around the fortress, there are deep, seemingly bottomless wells that may have served as booby traps for enemies.

I’d recommend taking a taxi there, as it’s an uncomfortable and not very scenic two-mile walk on an open and exposed road. Your driver will wait (or might join you, as mine did).

Overall, you really only need a day for these sights. There’s not much to do, and the attractions aren’t that stellar. Sheki is a popular day trip from Baku and a weekend spot for locals, who head to the resorts located on the way to the ruins. The only reason I would stay longer is if you wanted to do some hiking and horseback riding in the area.

Where to stay in Sheki: Ilgar’s Hostel – Ilgar is an incredible host. This homestay is really basic. No A/C, simple accommodations, very basic bathroom. It’s cheap but you’re staying in Ilgar’s home with his family and he’s an awesome host who speaks fluent English and knows everyone in the area. There’s nothing he can’t help with!

What to See and Do in Azerbaijan: A Two-Week Itinerary

Days 4 & 5 – Quba Head north by bus to the mountain town of Quba for a cooler climate, old mosques, and traditional carpets in beautiful alpine surroundings. There’s a lot of hiking here, too, and many people also visit Tenghi Canyon. You can also stop in Khinalig, a major Zoroastrian center, or Krasnaya Sloboda, the only all-Jewish town outside of Israel , populated by the Juhuro, or Mountain Jews.

Where to stay in Quba: Vadi Chalet Hotel – This upscale hotel offers mountain views, an airport transfer, pool, and air-conditioned rooms. It’s not cheap, but if you want to splash out on something nicer than guesthouses, this is your best option.

Where to stay in Qabala: Kahran Hostel – This is a newly opened hostel in a good neighborhood located next to some great cafés, bars, and restaurants. It’s a social environment and the staff is really helpful.

Day 10 – Ganja Azerbaijan’s second-biggest city dates back to the 6th century. There’s an attractive square near another caravanserai (similar to the one in Sheki), some traditional churches, a very odd house made from bottles, and the Tomb of Nizami Ganjavi, the country’s most famous 12th-century poet (he’s kind of a national hero). It’s a good stopover on the way south.

Where to stay in Ganja: Old Ganja Hostel – It’s located right in the center of the city, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

Days 11 & 12 – Lankaran Before heading back to Baku, go south to visit this sleepy resort town on the Caspian Sea. See the Old Prison and Lighthouse (Stalin was actually a prisoner here for a while), visit the ancient bazaar, the 18th-century fortress, and the 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 about 250 bird species. You can take organized tours from town.

Where to stay in Lankaran: Khan Lankaran Hotel – There are not many hostel options in Lankaran, but this hotel is affordable and incredibly cozy. The restaurant serves Azerbaijani and European food, as well as local drinks.

Day 13 – Head back to Baku before heading home. Head back to Baku for any final things to do before flying out of the country and heading back home!

Whenever I leave a place, I always ask myself: On a scale of 1 to 10, how likely am I to come back? I feel like I’m a 6 with Azerbaijan.

I loved my time there and, if I were in the region again, I would definitely visit again to do some longer hikes I missed this time. I found the people to be incredibly warm and hospitable. Even though we couldn’t communicate a lot (outside Baku, English is not widely spoken), we pantomimed and communicated nonverbally , which led to some fun and lots of laugh over the confusion of trying to figure out what we were both trying to convey.

The food in the country is excellent: a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean styles, with lots of rice, chicken, fresh vegetables, and spices. The landscape is stunning with lush valleys and farmland and the raw beauty of the Caucasus Mountains in the north.

And Azerbijian is very safe too, as the government doesn’t want to anything to ruin the tourism sector (and, being a quasi-dictatorship, it has the power to make sure nothing does).

All in all, Azerbaijan is an awesome destination. It’s definitely a place you shouldn’t miss, especially if you want something a little exotic, cheap, and filled with outdoor activities.

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Book Your Trip to Azerbaijan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 24 Most Beautiful Places in Azerbaijan

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

Architectural Landmark

Absheron National Park

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

Natural Feature

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

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Another hotspot for history connoisseurs: Shamakhi. Boasting a history of two and a half millennia and housing the former Shirvan Empire’s capital, the small town is worth the two-hour drive from Baku. Medieval archaeological ruins and the crumbling Gulistan Fortress that dates back almost a thousand years make interesting sites. The region is historically a hotspot for carpet weaving as well as being the birthplace of several Azeri poets.

The Caucasus Mountains

Two mountain ranges stretching from the Caspian to the Black Sea and splitting Azerbaijan and Armenia, form the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains. According to experts, the mountains are some of the most culturally and linguistically diverse regions on the planet. Various ethnic groups and languages different to Azeri are found in these isolated communities contributing to their diversity. Hiking through uncharted wilderness and following the trails on the ambitious Transcaucasian Trail are highlights.

The mountain villages

Head to the opposite side of the Qudailchay River traversing Quba and stroll through Qirmizi Qesebe (Red Town). This 2,500-year-old settlement houses a community of mountain Jews living in an enclave said to be the largest all-Jewish settlement outside of Israel . Other near villages include the remote Khinalug, Qusar, Lahij and Saribash.

Gobustan National Park

Gobustan (or Qobustan) is one of the most visited national parks in Azerbaijan. Located 60 kilometres (37.3 miles) to the southwest of Baku, the UNESCO-listed site combines petroglyphs with mud volcanoes and musical rocks. Some rock carvings decorating the walls date back 40,000 years and depict various shapes from human figures to animals. Most intriguing out of the 6,000 carvings are those portraying whales and dolphins, which aren’t believed to be in the Caspian Sea. Gaval Dash, the symphonic rock, resembles a tambourine when struck. Azerbaijan’s mud volcanoes are nearby too. Gobustan is one of the more popular day trips from Baku which can often be arranged by the hotel .

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

The Caspian Sea

The Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world, makes for one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani coastline stretches for more than 500km (310mi) from the southern border with Iran to Dagestan in the north. Despite some of the coast and beaches near Baku suffering from pollution, you can find beautiful resorts in Sumgait in the northern part of the Absheron Peninsula. Lankaran, four hours south of Baku, near the Iranian border, has some nice resorts too.

The second city and birthplace of famous 12th-century poet, Nizami Ganjavi, attracts relatively few tourists compared to Baku. But make the 370-kilometres trip (230 miles) journey from the capital, taking approximately four and a half hours, to experience this historical city. Ganja as the name might suggest doesn’t refer to marijuana . Instead, a rich history dating back to the 6th-century along with ancient mosques, caravanserai, churches and a house constructed from bottles awaits.

Heading south from Baku along the Caspian Sea towards Iran reveals the sleepy resort town of Lankaran . With Neolithic origins and a long stretch of coastline, Lankaran is one of the local’s favourite places to visit in Azerbaijan. Stroll through the town and visit the Lighthouse, Lankaran Fortress, Heydar Aliyev Memorial Park and the Old Prison. Beach lovers are recommended to head a few kilometres south to Kanarmesha while fans of the outdoors can take a day trip to the Ghizil-Agaj State Reserve. The second houses more than 200 species of birds, wolves and boars.

Shirvan National Park

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

Agh Gol National Park

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

Goyazan Mountain

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

Lake Goygol

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

Ghizil-Agaj State Reserve

The colossal nature reserve occupying the Ghizil-Agaj Bay sits to the north of Lankaran. Stretching more than 70 kilometres (43.5 miles) from the Caspian Sea and encircling the bay, Ghizil-Agaj State Reserves is a haven for migratory birds. Birds from Northern Europe and Siberia make their way during the winter, forming just a fraction of the 250 species of bird who call the area home. On top of this, expect to see wolves, wild cats and almost 50 types of fish. Ghizil-Agaj along with Agh Gol are the only national parks in Azerbaijan featured on the World Heritage List of Ramsar Wetlands .

Lake Sarysu

Lake Sarysu holds the title as Azerbaijan’s largest lake. Located in the Kur-Araz Lowlands and stretching a total length of 22 kilometres (13.7 miles), the freshwater lake offers both incredible views and a plethora of wildlife. Travelling here can be a challenge for even the most adventurous visitor, but the views and unspoilt terrain are worth the effort.

Mingachevir Reservoir

Look at a map and see a large body of water located near Ganja. Stretching for 70 kilometres (43.5 miles) with a maximum width of 18 kilometres (11.2 miles), a visitor might assume it’s a huge lake. After all, it dwarfs both Sarysu and Agh Gol, the largest and second largest lakes in Azerbaijan. But it’s not. The water in Mingachevir contains a vast reservoir and Azerbaijan’s most important hydroelectric station. Known by locals as ‘the sea’ and with small sections of ‘beach’ along the shores, Mingachevir Reservoir might be worth visiting for a non-touristy day trip in Central Azerbaijan.

The Kura River begins in Eastern Turkey’s Lesser Caucasus before traversing through Georgia . Entering Azerbaijan from the north and passing through Mingachevir Reservoir, the meandering waterway eventually drains into the Caspian Sea. Not only is the Kura the longest river in Azerbaijan but at 1515 kilometres (941 miles) it holds the title as the biggest in Transcaucasia. Throughout history, the Kura provided a lifeline for several villages and communities for irrigation, especially during the long dry summers. Today, it’s the primary water source in Azerbaijan.

With a length of 1072 kilometres (666 miles), the Araz River ranks among the longest in the Caucasus. Formerly entering the Caspian Sea and now joining to the Kura, the Araz plays an integral role in regional history. Traders and armies used the river as a highway, and it later marked the territorial border between Russia and Persian. But most intriguing is the association with the biblical River Gihon first mentioned in Genesis. The rich biodiversity with almost 70,000 birds from more than 200 species live along the Araz’s shores and wetlands.

Samur River

Beginning in Dagestan among springs and glaciers in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Samur flows south before discharging into the Caspian Sea. The river itself only has a small portion in Azerbaijan forming part of the east-west border with Russia for more than 30 kilometres (18.7 miles). Two tributaries stretch south into Azerbaijan providing water for the Samur-Absheron Channel used for irrigation. Visiting the river and enjoying the views is possible on a day trip from Quba.

Not typically included in the guidebook’s top places to visit in Azerbaijan but worth a special mention. The small town of Naftalan near Ganja offers a weird type of spa treatment. Believed to date back more than 1,000 years and popularised by the Soviets, Azerbaijanis today visit the spa to bath in crude oil . Some believe bathing in this special grade of oil has health benefits including treating skin disorders and neurological problems. Adventurous tourists can try this experience for themselves.

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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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Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Other Attractions

Absheron national park.

Maiden Tower

Heydar Aliyev Centre

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

The Caspian Sea

Shirvan National Park

Agh Gol National Park

Goyazan Mountain

Lake Goygol

Icheri Sheher

Garasu Volcano

Baku Seaside Park

Ismailiyya Palace

Mud Volcano

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

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

Location: Dashgil, Azerbaijan

Highlights: Highest number of Mud Volcanoes in the world

Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum

Imamzadeh İbrahim

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

Shahdag Mountain Resort

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

Tufandag Ski Resort

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

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

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

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

Chukhur Gabala

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

The Palace of Shaki Khans

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

Gabala City New Mosque

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

Gobustan National Park Museum

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

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

World War II Memorial Park

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

Gabala Archaeological Centre

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

Shaki Museum Of History And Local Lore

Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape

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

Gobustan National Park

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

Mardakan Castle

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

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

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10 Things to do in Azerbaijan & My 5 Day Azerbaijan Itinerary

10 Things to do in Azerbaijan – & My 5 Day Azerbaijan Itinerary

You want to know the main things to do in Azerbaijan? Don’t worry, I’ll try to keep it simple and not talk too much, you can scroll down to top 10 things to see in Azerbaijan, or my 5 day Azerbaijan itinerary and ignore the rest! Anyway, I love travelling in Caucasus region, home to Georgia, Armenia, South Ossetia, Abkhazia and Azerbaijan. The region is full of unique cultures, beautiful landscapes and has yet to be bombarded with tourists in the same way most of Europe has. Although Georgia is my favourite country in the region, Azerbaijan is the country most full of fascinating contradictions, and there is a lot of things to do in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan holidays are suddenly on the up and it’s easy to see why Wedged in the beautifully scenic Caucasus mountains (where you can climb Mt Elbrus , Europe’s highest mountain), between the semi-desert and the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan is still carrying the memories of a difficult 20th century. Yet now awash with new optimism, Azerbaijan is buoyed by its newly minted status as a major player in oil. Suddenly it’s rich, and it’s not afraid to show it. Check out my Azerbaijan 5 day itinerary, full of Things to do in Azerbaijan, I hope it helps when you reach the country!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT AZERBAIJAN

How long should you spend in azerbaijan.

You can get away with 3 days if you’re in a rush, you would be able to visit Baku, and the Gobustan Natinal park (the UNESCO world heritage site home to the mud volcanoes). You could also spend 2 weeks and see the whole country! Personally, though, I think 5 nights is the perfect amount of time to spend in Azerbaijan.

Is Azerbaijan expensive?

It’s certainly not cheap. You could squeeze by on $50 a day staying in the few hostels they have in Baku and eating street food. I spent about $100 a day in a decent hotel and not worrying too much about money.

Is it safe to visit Azerbaijan?

Very safe. The only thing to note is to not talk about the relationship they have with Armenia or the disputed territory of Nagorno Karabakh (and certainly don’t visit it from the Azerbaijan side, but you can visit it from the Armenian side if you visit there). 

Do I need a visa to visit Azerbaijan?

Yes. You can get it online here . It costs $25 to get it within 3 days, and $51 to get it within 3 hours. Most countries are eligible. You can check if you are eligible here . 

Anything else?

The Caucasus is a wonderful, ancient region to travel in. If you do travel to Azerbaijan, I’d really, really, really recommend making it at least a 2-week trip and doing an overland Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia trip (in that order, if you go to Armenia first, you can’t go to Azerbaijan due to their break down in relations). You can also then visit the 3 disputed territories of South Ossetia (accessible only via Russia though), Abkhazia (accessible from Georgia) and Nagorno-Karabakh (accessible from Armenia). It’s a true travel adventure. 

Top 10 Things to do in Azerbaijan

Before I go through my Azerbaijan 5 days itinerary, let me list the Top 10 things to do in Azerbaijan. If you visit Azerbaijan, regardless of your itinerary, try not to miss out on these, especially numbers 1-7!

• Baku Old City – the Unesco World Heritage site includes the City Walls, the Maiden Tower, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs
• The Flame Towers – Baku, and Azerbaijan’s new modern icon
• Bibi Heybat Mosque – Home to one of the descendants of the Prophet Mohammed
• Ateshgah Fire Temple – A fascinating insight into Zoroastrianism and their worship of fire
• Sheki – Gorgeous traditional town on the former Silk Road perched on a hilltop 5 hours West of Baku
• Lahij – A culturally diverse settlement focused on local handicrafts and cobblestone alleyways, really cool.
• Gobustan Mud Volcanoes – Azerbaijan’s 2nd UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Mardakan or Buzovna beach – if you’re there in the summer, join the locals on the beach
• Quba and Tenghi Canyon – If you have time to kill, head north and go hiking in Caucasus mountain foothills in Azerbaijan
• Tufandag or Shahdag ski resorts – If you’re here in December, January or February go skiing for less than $12 a day!

Things to do in Azerbaijan; A 5 Day Azerbaijan Itinerary

5 nights is the perfect amount of time to get to grips with Azerbaijan and its main highlights, so let’s get started

Day 1 on your Azerbaijan itinerary: Baku Old City, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Baku is where it all starts. Spending two days in a city, which boasts arguably the world’s most awe-inspiring skyscrapers alongside a UNESCO listed old city, is a great introduction to the contrasts that Azerbaijan holds. The flashy capital, Baku, boasts architecture that even the Emiratis in Dubai would cast a jealous eye over. 

Baku Old City: Take a local breakfast on the city’s waterfront promenade, Azeri cheese and bread, and, head by foot to the old town and immerse yourself in what Baku used to be. You can take a free walking tour of the Old City, or spend the next few hours with your guidebook wandering the beautiful haze of cobbled, winding alleys and medieval architecture. Just make sure to spend some time in the sandstone Palace of the Shirvanshahs, home to the Azeri dynasties who led during the middle ages.

Next up is the imposing 29m Maiden’s Tower, the icon of Baku’s old town and well worth the knee-jerking climb for unparalleled views of Baku Bay and the old town.

Once you’ve had your fill of culture, venture back to the waterfront where you can stroll along the Bulvar, sampling all the national drinks ranging from the wonderful Azeri sherbert (a home-grown fruit juice with a generous helping of sugar and a touch of rose water) to the flavorful local teas, and maybe grab yourself a beer for sunset.

Day 2 on your Azerbaijan itinerary: Baku 

Wake yourself up with a wonderful local coffee at one of the endless coffee shops west of Fountain Sq. Then move on to the venue that Azerbaijan hoped would be their introduction to the Western world – the Crystal Hall. Built exclusively for the 2012 Eurovision song contest, the hall never fails to impress. Shining like a diamond snowflake on Baku bay, the venue truly is a sight to behold. The Crystal Hall spared no expense; the project (controversially) cost millions and is as lavish as it is expensive. The hall was built entirely on recaptured land from the Caspian Sea and basks in the glory of the world’s second tallest flag pole. It’s another site that is worth getting up close and personal within its own right.

After lunch by the hall, venture to the rickety funicular railway and take the free ride all the way to the top of Martyrs’ Alley. The sombre graveyard pays tributes to those who fell in World War II. After paying your respects you’re rewarded with the most breathtaking views of the entire city. Spin around and you’ll see Baku’s and Azerbaijan’s newest icons in all their glory – the Flame Towers.

After strolling back down to the city, pulling on your glad rags, it’s time to party in the Caucasus’ most cosmopolitan city. With both ex-pats bars and local hangouts aplenty, everyone is spoiled for choice when wanting to cut loose in Baku.

Day 3 on your Azerbaijan itinerary: Gobustan National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Jump in a taxi, book a tour or from Maiden Tower hop on Bus 88 or 120 to take bus number 88 or 120 to the ‘Field of 20’ stop, then Bus 195 to the National Park. Today is two of the best half-day trips Azerbaijan has to offer. The Petroglyphs at Gobustan are another UNESCO listed site and date back as far as 12TH century BCE. The museum attached to the rock carvings will whet your appetite just enough before you go searching for the carvings. As you walk around the barren, semi-desert landscape of Gobustan you’ll be catapulted back in time amongst the cave paintings themselves, a true highlight of any trip to Azerbaijan.

Just another 10km or so beyond Qobustan is one of the more obscure destinations to be found in Azerbaijan or the surrounding region. The mud volcanoes are definitely worth adding to your itinerary. The ugly 10-foot tall mounds aggressively spout thick mud 24 hours a day, just don’t get too close or you’ll be wearing a nice little reminder of your time here (like the author). The volcanoes can be tricky to locate, so make sure your driver either knows the route personally or chat to some locals at Qobustan to get the lowdown on how to find them. And be prepared to tip a few extra dollars at the end, he may be required to do some minor off-roading!

NOTE: If you’re a fast tourist or super-pushed for time, you could squeeze Day 1, Day 2 and Day 3 into just 2 days. An early start to get to Gobustan, back for late lunch then a dash around Baku. 

That night, depending on your level of adventure, you can either stay in Baku once more, or take the slow 11pm nighttrain to Sheki, which will get you to Sheki around 6am in the following morning (that’s what I did). Luxury ticket, with a bed, is about $12!

GOOGLE MAP FOR DAYS 1, 2 AND 3 ON YOUR AZERBAIJAN ITINERARY  

Day 3 or 4 on your azerbaijan itinerary: sheki.

If you didn’t take the night train, you can take a four-hour taxi from Baku to Sheki.

First things first.

1. You have to visit Sheki when you visit Azerbaijan. It’s amazing, and often people consider it the highlight of there trip here.

And 2. Stay in the famous Caravansarai regardless of your budget ($30 or so per night). It’s an ancient hotel which was home to traders, poets and merchants in the Silk Road days, pretty cool! After that, Sheki is a place where you will just wander around and soak up the gorgeous views and beautiful architecture. Have brekki at the Sheki Bazaar, check out the Friday Mosque, the tea house inside the Palace of the Sheki Khans. If you have time, head out to see the church at Kish, and think about dinner ar the Karavan Palace. 

Day 4 or 5 on your Azerbaijan itinerary: Lahich

I wouldn’t be surprised if Sheki stole your heart, so if you’re travelling on a long trip, you may well spend another day and night there. But, if you live in the real world, and your holiday time is set-in-stone, then it’s time to get moving. Your last stop on the 5 night itinerary, Lahich. 

Lahich is kind of like Sheki before Sheki realised how beautiful it was. In Lahich, you may be the only tourist there, now that is a trip worth making! To get here, you have to get from Sheki to Ismaili, then Ismaili to Lahich. A taxi is your best bet (about 3 hours and $30), failing that you’re on the minibuses for most of the morning, on perhaps longer.

Lahich, or Lahij, is set in the valleys of the Caucasus mountains.You’ll be back in modern Baku tomorrow, so this is the last true taste of Azerbaijan culture. Walk the cobblestone nooks and crannies, or go for a little hike. 

NOTE: If you only have 3 or 4 days in Azerbaijan, you can skip Lahich and go straight back to Baku.

Day 5 or 6 on your Azerbaijan itinerary: Back to Baku

A 4 hour winding mini-bus ride from Lahich to Baku, or a 2.5 hour taxi journey and you’re back in the Capital just in time for your flight. I hope you guys will share the love I have for this region after your week or so in Azerbaijan. Countries like this are in short supply these days. Beautiful, cultural, friendly and yet to be overwhelmed with tourism. You made it, and you can tell your grandkids you did before everyone else!

Google map for your 5 day Azerbaijan Itinerary, including Quba as an optional hiking addition

AZERBAIJAN 3 DAY ITINERARY? 4 DAY? 1 WEEK?

3 DAYS: I would spend Day 1 in Baku and do the Old city, take the night train to Sheki. Spend Day 2 in Sheki, sleep there. Morning taxi back to Baku for half-day in Baku and sleep there.

4 DAYS: I would spend Day 1 in Baku and do the Old city, take the night train to Sheki. Spend Day 2 in Sheki, sleep there. Morning taxi back to Baku, but go via Gobustan and the mud volcanoes, sleep in Baku. 

1 WEEK+: I would follow the 5 day itinerary above, but after Lahich head north to Quba for a night or 2 hiking, and check the Tengealti canyon. Also, if it’s summer hit the beaches at Mardakan or Buzovna, and if it’s winer hit the slops at Tufandag or Shahdag resorts. Perfect!

Overlanding to Georgia, and on to Armenia:  If you’re going to Georgia, you can take a night train directly from Baku to Tblisi (Georgia’s Capital) but that means skipping Sheki, don’t do that, Sheki is so lovely. I’d do Baku (and then north to Quba if you want to hike, then back to Baku), then on to Lahich, then Sheki, then Tblisi. Done.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Writing this blog post has brought back so many amazing memories from my time in Azerbaijan. I overlanded from Iran, and then on through the Georgia, Armenia, Nagorno-Karabkh, back to Armenia, back to Georgia, into Turkey and all the way across Turkey. A brilliant, brilliant trip, and a route I’d recommend so highly. And now, with this blog post, I’m going to take my mum back to Azerbaijan next year I think, I just haven’t told her yet! 

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12 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

• Sep 21, 2023

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

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

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

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

Top places to visit in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Baku

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

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

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

2. Icheri Sheher

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

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

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

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

3. Qobustan

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

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

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

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

4. Mud Volcanoes 

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

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

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

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

5. Yanardag

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

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

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

6. Ateshgah

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Diri Baba, a mausoleum of a Sufi saint

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Gabala

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

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

9. Nohur Lake

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

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

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

Where to stay in Nohur Lake 

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

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

10. Seven Beauties Waterfall

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

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

11. Xinaliq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi you both 🙂

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

Hi Gayathri,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hey Rachna,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Shiba! Very useful !

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

That’s on the way to Khinaliq/Xinaliq 🙂

Hey, Thank you for sharing!!!

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

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

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

This is fab!

hi its easy drive to baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So so lovely to hear this Rameeza 🙂

Can you please give an idea about the charges

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

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

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

Hey there – returning from Baku itself is most convenient 🙂

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

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

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

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

How can we reach Roman? Thank you

Hey – the phone number is in the article above 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

The pictures said it all. Very beautiful captures.

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi& Vid,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is there beautiful nature as well?

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

Hi Savi and Vid,

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

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

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

Thank you so much for your kind words Sanya 🙂

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

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

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

Yes March end should be nice 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I wanted to know:

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

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

Thanks a lot

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi and Vid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BE careful and safe travels to all.

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

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

Hi I’m planning a 10 day trip to Azerbaijan with my family (4 adults). With insights from your itinerary on the blog, this is what I have planned: Baku – Shamakhi – Gebele – Sheki – Ganja – Baku (4 days) Baku – Quba – Xinaliq (3 days) Baku (3 days)

Can you advise which place to stay in the tours outside Baku? Also would it be more prudent to hire a tour guide with car or self drive. I have driven a lot in India and even to the mountains. Any other important tips would be welcomed.

The places we stayed at outside Baku are listed in the article 🙂 We’d suggest for your time in Baku, you should hire a guide with car. For Shamakhi, Quba Xinaliq, I’d say rent a car and drive yourself. It’s a beautiful drive. Don’t forget the detour to Candy Mountains – that drive is beautiful

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

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

A few things to know before visiting Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

1.  Baku, the Bustling Capital

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

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

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

2.  Icheri Seher, Baku’s Old City

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

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

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

3.  Mud Volcanoes

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

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

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

4.  Yanar Dag, the Burning ‘Fire Wall’

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

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

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

5.  Ateshgah, the Temple of Fire

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

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

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

6.  Mardakan

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

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

7.  Absheron National Park

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

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

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

8.  Khachmaz

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

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

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

9.  Quba

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

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

10. Khinaliq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Naftalan

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

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

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

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

17. Lake Goygol

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

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

18. Goyazan Mountain

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

19. Nakhchivan

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

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

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

20. The Caspian Sea

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

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

21. Astara

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

22. Lankaran

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

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

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

23. Gobustan National Park

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

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

24. Shirivan National Park

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

25. Ag-Gel National Park

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

Azerbaijan itinerary

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

Best Places to visit in Azerbaijan’s Absheron Peninsula

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

Reaching Baku and exploring the modern city of Baku.

Exploring Baku Old City and its UNESCO Heritage Sites.

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

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

Best Places to visit in Northwestern Azerbaijan

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

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

Drive from Khachmaz to Quba and explore this historical city.

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

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

Best Places to visit in Northern Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Best Places to visit in Central Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Best places to visit in Southern Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Visiting Nakhchivan

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

What about the visa?

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

What are the Documents Needed for Visa Application?

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

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

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

The Tourist e-Visa System in Azerbaijan

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

The conditions under this visa also include the following:

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

The Process to Apply for Azerbaijan Visa Online

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

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

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

Helpful resources for visiting Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Confidus

Tuesday 21st of April 2020

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

Passport Symphony

Thursday 23rd of April 2020

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

10 Reasons why you should visit Azerbaijan

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

Hello, Azerbaijan…

Have you ever heard of it?

Do you know where is it exactly? 

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

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

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

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

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

10 Reasons to visit Azerbaijan

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

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

Azerbaijan is an ex-Soviet Muslim country.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The most secular Caucasian country

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

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

Today, Azerbaijan still calls itself a secular Republic.

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

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

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

Read: Top travel tips for traveling to Azerbaijan

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

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

Because Baku is a city that shocks and surprises anyone.

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

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

One of the cheapest countries in the world

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

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

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

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

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

Read: 80 Useful tips for traveling to Iran

Visiting the remotest and most epic sites and fortresses

Seriously, check this castle out. 

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

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

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

Read: Georgia travel tips – Everything you need to know

Huge landscape contrasts

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

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

Weird exclaves for those interested in geopolitics

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

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

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

Soviet relics are still found

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

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

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

The food is also a real blend of east and west

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jokes aside.

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

More information for visiting Azerbaijan

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

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

As well as all our Azerbaijan articles:

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

53 comments

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

Thank you Hra 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

this is a travel blog, not a networking website

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks and I hope you enjoy it 🙂 !

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

sure, a great choice mate 😉 !!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

yes, it should be!

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

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Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev. Photo Credit: Kremlin.ru

Italy Consolidates Strategic Cooperation With Azerbaijan – OpEd

By Peter Tase

On September 4th, The President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, begun his working visit to Italy, at the invitation of the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella.  Azerbaijan and Italy have forged a strategic partnership over the last decade and economic, trade and political cooperation has reached the highest levels.  President Ilham Aliyev was welcomed by the Italian President Sergio Mattarella, both leaders discussed the ongoing regional events and the energy future of Europe. Italy and Azerbaijan have shaped a strategic alliance that will certainly endure the test of time. 

On September 5, 2024, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev and Giorgia Meloni, President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic attended a ceremony of the exchange of documents signed between Azerbaijan and Italy, in Rome.  

The “Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Eni S.p.A company of the Italian Republic on biofuel and biomaterials” (a trilateral document) was exchanged by Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, and Claudio Descalzi, CEO of the Italian company Eni S.p.A.  [1]   

The “Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Eni S.p.A company of the Italian Republic on cooperation in oil and gas production and midstream projects for energy supply security” was exchanged by Rovshan Najaf, President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan, and Claudio Descalzi, CEO of the Italian company Eni S.p.A. 

The “Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Eni S.p.A company of the Italian Republic on energy transition and greenhouse gas reduction” was exchanged by Rovshan Najaf, President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan, and Claudio Descalzi, CEO of the Italian company Eni S.p.A.

For the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev: “Italy and Azerbaijan have worked as strategic partners for many years, and the corresponding declaration was adopted almost ten years ago. Our cooperation covers many areas, and we have regular political contacts. This is my third visit to Italy since 2020, and President Mattarella paid a visit to Azerbaijan in 2018. High-level contacts demonstrate that we are very close partners.”  [2]   

On September 5th, as part of the Azerbaijani President’s working visit to Italy, Rome hosted the Italy-Azerbaijan roundtable. The event was co-organized by the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO), the Confederation of the Italian Industry (Confindustria), and Italy’s Ministry for Enterprises and Made in Italy. The roundtable brought together officials and over 40 entrepreneurs from sectors such as energy, chemicals, the automotive industry, pharmaceuticals, construction, and metallurgy. [3] 

According to the Azerbaijan State News Agency: “Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijan’s Economy Minister, characterized Azerbaijan-Italy relations as strategic, describing Italy as Azerbaijan’s largest trade partner.” Minister Jabbarov emphasized the importance of “strengthening cooperation with Italy, particularly noting the successful involvement of numerous Italian companies in various sectors of Azerbaijan’s economy, including their activity in the liberated Azerbaijani territories.” The minister stressed that the discussions and agreements reached at the roundtable would create new opportunities and further enhance relations between the two countries.  [4]    

Adolfo Urso, Minister for Enterprises and Made in Italy, and Emanuele Orsini, President of the Confederation of the Italian Industry (Confindustria), emphasized the strategic energy partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy, highlighting the potential for expanding bilateral cooperation in the non-oil sector.  

Other speakers included Yusif Abdullayev, Executive Director of AZPROMO, Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of the Board of Azerbaijan’s Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA), Ulvi Mansurov, Executive Director of “Azerbaijan Investment Company” OJSC, and Elkin Nurmammadov, Vice Rector of Azerbaijan’s ADA University. They provided insights into Azerbaijan’s export and investment potential.  

The discussions also focused on boosting cooperation in sectors such as industry, renewables, infrastructure, transport, textiles, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

The event concluded with the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) between AZPROMO and Confindustria, Azerbaijan’s Matanat A and Italy’s Dromont Comec, “Improtex Industries” LLC and Leonardo Electronics, and Saloğlu and Italy’s Visionnaire – İPA and Biesse S.P.A. companies.  These documents envisage joint production, services, research, project development, and experience exchange.  The Azerbaijani delegation also held meetings with representatives of the Italian Trade Agency, Annatura Company, Scorpio Group, and Coldiretti Company.  

On September 6, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev delivered a speech at the session titled “Azerbaijan’s role in the new geopolitical environment” at the International Cernobbio Forum themed “Intelligence on the World, Europe, and Italy.”

In his speech, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized:

“I came here from Rome, where yesterday I had meetings with President Mattarella, who made a great speech this morning, and Prime Minister Meloni. During our meetings and discussions, we once again reconfirmed the strategic character of our bilateral ties. Italy and Azerbaijan have worked as strategic partners for many years. The corresponding declaration was adopted almost ten years ago. Our cooperation covers many areas. We have regular political contacts. This is my third visit to Italy since 2020, and President Mattarella paid a visit to Azerbaijan in 2018. High-level contacts demonstrate that we are very close partners.   

We have very active trade cooperation. Italy is Azerbaijan’s number one trading partner in the world. Last year, our trade turnover was close to 16 billion US dollars. We see potential for growth not only in the energy sector but also in other sectors. Azerbaijan is the Italy’s number one oil supplier and number two gas supplier. This is also an important part of our cooperation. [5]    

Energy supplies today clearly demonstrate that national security cannot be separated from energy security. The 3,500 km integrated pipeline system from Azerbaijan to Italy, known as the Southern Gas Corridor, today ensures energy security for ten countries. We now have ten countries receiving gas from Azerbaijan, seven of which are members of the European Union. That is probably why the European Commission calls Azerbaijan a pan-European gas supplier and a reliable partner.  

But as I said, the pipeline starts in Azerbaijan and ends in Italy. But its route, with extensions and interconnectors, covers a broad European and Eurasian geography with strong growth potential. Today we are in a process of negotiations with at least three European countries with respect to the gas supply.  

Of course, energy and trade are not the only part of our bilateral agenda. We are also actively working on humanitarian issues. The Italy-Azerbaijan University, which has already started functioning, is a great example of the diversification of our cooperation. Five leading Italian universities like Luiss, Sapienza, Bologna, Milan, and Torino, and Azerbaijan’s ADA University, have created this joint venture, which will be instrumental in our future cooperation. The students who are already studying and those who will study there will naturally be connected to Italy. They will know the Italian language, Italian culture and the great historical heritage of the Italian people.  

I start my introduction with this important bilateral part because it demonstrates that when relations are built on mutual trust, mutual respect, and recognition of mutual interests, then we see progress. That is how relations must be built between countries, which are situated far from each other and belong to different continents.”

The head of state of Azerbaijan also made remarks on the current geopolitical situation: “Talking about the geopolitical situation – because the topic of my introduction was exactly the role of Azerbaijan in the changing geopolitical environment – first of all, I would like to say that the biggest geopolitical change, not only in the Caucasus but in the broader region, was the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, which really demonstrates that international law can prevail, not only when a legal framework exists but also when you have courage and real strength.  

For 30 years, our internationally recognized territories were under Armenian occupation. Despite numerous decisions and resolutions by international organizations, including four legally binding United Nations Security Council resolutions demanding the immediate withdrawal of Armenian forces from our lands, the occupation continued. The OSCE created a special group in order to tackle this issue. For 28 years, this group produced zero results. This demonstrates that international law alone is not enough to ensure justice and peace. So you must have other factors on the table. 

In 2020, a large part of our then-occupied territories was liberated during the 44-day Patriotic War. But that was not the end of the story, as separatists continued to undermine sovereignty of Azerbaijan. Last September, it was the last full stop when sovereignty of Azerbaijan was totally restored. The conflict actually ended as it should have. 

This is a good example for many other countries, which struggle for their territorial integrity and sovereignty without success. In our case, I think Azerbaijan demonstrated that international law, along with strong political will, consolidation of the society, and physical strength, can make a serious geopolitical change. After that, for the first time since the collapse of the Soviet Union, we can achieve peace in the Southern Caucasus. It is reachable. The latest developments in the negotiation track between Azerbaijan and Armenia demonstrate that. We are actively continuing negotiations, with almost 80 percent of the peace treaty paragraphs having been approved. We have already started not only the border delimitation process, but also demarcation. Yes, it’s a first small step. Only about 13 kilometers of our border, which is more than 1000 kilometers. But it is a step in the right direction. 

We hope that Azerbaijan’s initiative to start peace negotiations will result in a peace treaty that will be important not only for the Southern Caucasus but for all parts of the world. That will be an example of how countries that have fought for 30 years, with Azerbaijan suffering from aggression and the total devastation of almost 20 percent of its territory, can work together to achieve peace. 

The final point which I want to raise in my introductory comments is that, in two months, we will host the largest climatic conference, COP29. The decision was made last December. We have had less than one year to prepare. It is important that the decision was made by the consensus of almost 200 countries. We consider it as a sign of respect for Azerbaijan. For the first time in history, COP will be held in our region. 

We are actively working in order to build bridges between different actors on the global arena. As we all know, the climatic topic is something which divides countries and peoples. There are mutual claims and accusations about who is more responsible for damaging the planet and who has to pay more and etc. While not being a major actor on international arena, I think it is achievable for us to build bridges between the Global South and the Global North.”

On September 6 th , President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with CEO of Italy’s Ansaldo Energia company Fabrizio Fabbri in Cernobbio, Italy. 

The discussion highlighted Ansaldo Energia’s involvement in the reconstruction of Azerbaijan’s largest Thermal Power Plant in Mingachevir. The fact that four gas turbines made by Ansaldo Energia for the newly constructed plant with a capacity of 1280 megawatts have been delivered to Azerbaijan to install there was noted at the meeting. The project is expected to be completed by the end of this year or early next year.  

They also shared their views on potential collaboration with Ansaldo Energia in the field of “green energy.” The company expressed strong interest in contributing to the enhancement of Azerbaijan’s energy system and indicated its intention to collaborate with Azerbaijan’s Azerenerji OJSC.  The signing of cooperation agreements between Ansaldo Energia, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Energy, and Azerenerji was mentioned, with confidence expressed for a joint activity in the future.  On September 6th, the president of Azerbaijan concluded his historic visit to the Republic of Italy. [6] 

Resources: [1] https://president.az/en/articles/view/66794

[2] https://azertag.az/en/xeber/president_ilham_aliyev_italy_and_azerbaijan_have_worked_as_strategic_partners_for_many_years-3167362

[3]   https://azertag.az/en/xeber/rome_hosts_italy_azerbaijan_roundtable-3167810

[4] https://rome.mfa.gov.az/index.php/en/news/5583/mikayil-jabbarov-held-a-series-of-meetings-in-italy

[5] https://azertag.az/en/xeber/president_ilham_aliyev_addressed_session_on_azerbaijan_039s_role_in_the_new_geopolitical_environment_at_international_cernobbio_forum_video-3167318  

[6] https://azertag.az/en/xeber/president_ilham_aliyev_completed_his_working_visit_to_italy_video-3168022

• ← Prophet Abraham The Hebrew: The First Successful Prophet – OpEd
• 5th Generation Warfare And Pakistan: Navigating The New Battlefield – OpEd →

Peter Tase is a freelance writer and journalist of International Relations, Latin American and Southern Caucasus current affairs. He is the author of America's first book published on the historical and archeological treasures of the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan (Republic of Azerbaijan); has authored and published four books on the Foreign Policy and current economic – political events of the Government of Azerbaijan. Tase has written about International Relations for Eurasia Review Journal since June 2012.

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Lewis Hamilton: Mercedes driver's F1 qualifying struggles analysed ahead of key Azerbaijan and Singapore challenges

Lewis Hamilton has been comprehensively outperformed in qualifying this season by his Mercedes team-mate George Russell; Hamilton has admitted he "can't figure out" his lack of speed; watch the Azerbaijan GP live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend, with Sunday's race at midday

Wednesday 11 September 2024 10:13, UK

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Despite having 36 more pole positions than any other driver in the history of Formula 1, qualifying has undoubtedly been Lewis Hamilton's Achilles heel this season.

The seven-time world champion is down 12-4 to team-mate George Russell in Qualifying, while the younger Mercedes driver also holds a 2-1 edge in Sprint Qualifying.

Russell is a formidable opponent for any driver over one lap, earning the nickname 'Mr Saturday' for his qualifying performances early in his career at Williams, but the swing from an 11-11 head-to-head score last season, to domination in 2024, is surprising.

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Two wins in three races before the summer break showed that Hamilton's race craft, in particular his ability to manage tyres over full distance, remains truly elite.

A 36-point lead over his team-mate in the drivers' standings reflects Hamilton's continued excellence on Sundays, although it must be noted that some bad luck for Russell has played a part.

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Hamilton has 104 pole positions in F1 and has been capable of producing special laps throughout his historic career, but as he approaches the age of 40, it is fair to wonder if his speed over one lap is fading.

With two races upcoming in Azerbaijan and Singapore where qualifying is particularly important, the pressure is growing on Hamilton to prove he can still mix it with the best on a Saturday.

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Hamilton's staggering Monza admission

When there are suspicions an element of sporting superstar's performance is on the decline, it would usually be the media who point it out.

Take, for example, continued discussion over whether Cristiano Ronaldo still possesses the attributes required to play international football for Portugal.

Somewhat surprisingly, in Hamilton's case the most damning criticism has come from the man himself, as he appeared to finally boil over following Italian Grand Prix Qualifying.

Not for the first time this season, Hamilton had appeared to be in contention for pole throughout practice and even the early stages of qualifying, but in the crunch time of Q3 failed to put together a clean lap and ended up sixth on the grid.

His frustration was no doubt heightened by the fact he was outperformed by Russell, who took third despite having had limited practice time after Hamilton's 2025 replacement Andrea Kimi Antonelli pranged his car during the weekend's opening session.

Hamilton told Sky Sports F1 : "I am furious, absolutely furious. I could have been on pole, at least on the front row. I just didn't do the job at the end.

"No one to blame but myself. Qualifying has been my weakness for a minute now and I can't figure it out.

"The car felt better than last race and the team deserve better. Maybe they will get that with Kimi."

Continuing his quite staggering series of remarks, speaking to the written media moments later, he added: "I'm just not very good at qualifying, simple as."

Is a technical issue hampering Hamilton?

So why is the sport's greatest driver, at least according to the statistics, struggling?

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that Russell is clearly doing a phenomenal job. Even a below-par Hamilton is not easy to dominate, and the pressure Russell is applying to his team-mate with his consistency may be playing a part.

From a technical standpoint, the closest thing we've had to an explanation came from Mercedes technical director James Allison.

Speaking in June, at which point Russell had built an 8-1 qualifying advantage over Hamilton, Allison suggested the latest generation of F1 cars do not suit the latter's driving style on a flying lap.

"Lewis has, not by accident, been the best qualifier in the history of the sport, because I think he's been the best driver in the sport, but he's struggling to make it stick this year by fine margins," Allison said.

"I think, to a degree," Allison said. "The current car-tyre combo, not just us, across the pit lane, it doesn't like being hustled - you almost get the best lap times when you're not trying.

"When the car is producing good laps, the drivers are almost like, 'I wasn't expecting that, I was almost cruising.'

"And when it's qualifying and the pressure's on and it's time to deliver, I don't think those are the circumstances that get the best from quite fussy tyres."

If Allison's suspicions are true, one can safely assume that he would have discussed them with Hamilton, and that the Brit would have surely tried to adjust his approach to qualifying.

This may be where Hamilton's Monza frustration is coming from, that he has so far been unable to find a way to get the best out the W15 when it matters most.

Pressure only set to intensify

While Hamilton has been able to overcome his qualifying woes with brilliant drives on several occasions this season, such recoveries will be very difficult to pull off over the next two weekends.

Overtaking was near impossible last year in Baku, and while the DRS zone is likely to be lengthened to create more entertainment, it is still a circuit where making forward progress can be a major challenge.

For example, if a driver were to qualify lower down the field, there is the potential to get caught in a DRS train that could get make pulling off passes on the main straight very tough.

Passing at Baku might prove to be a relative breeze compared to Singapore, where even a huge pace advantage isn't enough to guarantee clearing those ahead on track.

This was best evidenced in the thrilling stages of last year's race as Ferrari's Carlos Sainz held off Lando Norris and George Russell to win.

Hamilton will know that there is no room for error over the next two Saturdays, further ramping up the pressure of him to deliver.

Another factor that could soon begin to play on his mind is that his challenge won't be easing next year, with his next team-mate Charles Leclerc considered by many to be F1's fastest driver over one lap.

While being outqualified by a team-mate will no doubt dent Hamilton's pride, the biggest concern for him will be not being able to take full advantage in the event Ferrari are able to provide him with a title-challenging car next season.

'The characteristic of a champion'

It's clear that the situation is causing some quite significant distress to Hamilton, but his current and future employers seem to be less concerned.

Reacting to Hamilton's self-critique in Italy, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff insisted the comments were those of "a champion" and that the Brit continues to set a great example for Russell and Antonelli.

Wolff said: "I think the great characteristic of a champion is to first look at himself and say, 'What did I do wrong?'

"And I think that's what he's doing. He's trying to find where he can improve, what he could have done better and where he's lost their performance.

"He's been very strong, and was a role model for George, and even for Kimi. It's something that is important for the team. But the greatest of all time are very critical."

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As for Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, the Frenchman said that he is not worried about Hamilton's form given the race results the future Ferrari driver has been achieving.

"No because he won in Spa," Vasseur said. "I will take the win at the end of the race more than the pole position."

It would be foolish ever to count Hamilton out, but there is certainly doubt - most crucially from the man himself - as to whether he can regain the form that once saw him dominate Saturdays.

Formula 1 leaves mainland Europe for Baku and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix this weekend, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream every F1 race and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership - No contract, cancel anytime

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