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

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

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

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

Jump Straight To

Visas and arriving in Azerbaijan

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

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

Getting around in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Suggested itineraries for Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Budgeting for a trip to Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Food – what to eat in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Best time to visit Azerbaijan

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

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

Packing for Azerbaijan

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

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

Some tips and warnings for exploring Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Day by day breakdown of a trip to Azerbaijan

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

Accommodation in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drive back to Baku

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

Quba and Xinaliq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sheki and Ganja

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi you both 🙂

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

Hi Gayathri,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hey Rachna,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Shiba! Very useful !

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

That’s on the way to Khinaliq/Xinaliq 🙂

Hey, Thank you for sharing!!!

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

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

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

This is fab!

hi its easy drive to baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So so lovely to hear this Rameeza 🙂

Can you please give an idea about the charges

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

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

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

Hey there – returning from Baku itself is most convenient 🙂

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

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

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

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

How can we reach Roman? Thank you

Hey – the phone number is in the article above 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

The pictures said it all. Very beautiful captures.

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi& Vid,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is there beautiful nature as well?

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

Hi Savi and Vid,

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

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

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

Thank you so much for your kind words Sanya 🙂

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

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

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

Yes March end should be nice 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I wanted to know:

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

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

Thanks a lot

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi and Vid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BE careful and safe travels to all.

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

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

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• A One Week Travel Itinerary...

A One-Week Travel Itinerary To Azerbaijan

Few can find it on a map, let alone travel to Azerbaijan. But the Land of Fire has history, incredible hospitality, and nine climatic zones creating astonishing diversity. With the new eVisa and fall in oil prices, Azerbaijan makes for an affordable destination to spend a week.

Day one: arrive in baku and sightseeing.

You’ll fly into Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Getting to the city is easy: either take one of the black cabs (make sure you negotiate the price) or the bus, which drops passengers at 28 May tube station. The express bus departs every 30 minutes costing AZN1.30 ($0.80). You need to buy a BakiKart from the machine in the terminal and give it to the driver.

Depending on what time you arrive in Baku, the priority may be either sightseeing or food. For sightseeing, head to Icheri Sheher, the 15th-century old town and visit Maiden Tower, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and walk around the fortress walls. If you’re hungry, you’ll find several traditional restaurants in the old town area and international ones on Fountain Square.

Other must-visit attractions in Baku include strolling along the promenade (Baku Boulevard), riding the funicular to Martyrs Alley and Eternal Flame for views of the city, and taking a Caspian Sea Cruise. Walk along Nizami Street for shopping and to see late 19th century architecture, photograph the Flame Towers during both the day and night, and marvel at the futurist Heydar Aliyev Centre.

Day Two: Visit the Fire Temple and Burning Mountain

Azer translates to ‘fire’. Azerbaijan has strong cultural links to fire from the early Zoroastrians to the burning mountain at Yanar Dag and modern Flame Towers. Day two takes you to experience the full extent of the Land of Fire. Either join a tour or use the metro and bus, which cost less than $3 in total.

Get up early and visit Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag, the burning mountain. The Fire Temple dates back thousands of years. The current temple was built 500 years ago. Take bus 184 from Koroglu Metro Station. After the temple, return to this station and take bus 217 to Yanar Dag.

Yanar Dag in a rural Baku suburb is both awe-inspiring and surreal. A 10 metre-horizontal strip (33 feet) across the scorched mountain continuously burns regardless of the sub-zero winter temperatures or occasional torrential downpour. Ignited natural gas leaks from underground reserves and burns.

Day Three: Gobustan’s Petroglyphs and Mud Volcanoes

Day three involves visiting Gobustan (Qobustan) National Park and the mud volcanoes. UNESCO Gobustan , 60 kilometres (37.3 miles) southwest of Baku, has more than 6000 rock carvings including some estimated to be 40,000 years old. Inside you’ll see Gaval Dash, a large rock that makes a similar sound to a tambourine when struck. The weird mud volcanoes spewing freezing mud from subterranean gas reserves are are nearby, too.

Be prepared to splurge on a tour or else settle for a complicated day on public transport. Tours start at $70 per person with an English-speaking guide and last six hours. If you use the bus, first get to Field of 20 (20-Ci Saha) bus stop in Baku and take 195 heading to Alat. Get off in Gobustan. Write the name in Azeri along with a request to stop here on a piece of paper and show the driver. They probably won’t speak English. From the bus stop, either take a taxi or walk the 3 kilometres (1.9 miles) to the National Park. You’ll need to get a taxi to visit the mud volcanoes.

Day Four: Head to Ganja

Visitors who travel to Azerbaijan often visit the historical second city, Ganja. Dating back to the 6th century and the birthplace of famous 12th-century poet, Nizami Ganjavi, Ganja offers a glimpse into traditional Azerbaijan before the the wealth from black gold.

It’s a long journey from Baku to Ganja, taking up to four-and-a-half hours on the 370-kilometre trip (230 miles). Tickets cost AZN10 ($5.90) departing from Baku International Bus Terminal on the outskirts of the city. Take the green line to Memar Ajami and the purple to Avtovaghzal.

When you arrive in Ganja, head to the central square near Ataturk Avenue and grab a bite to eat. Don’t expect any English. If you have the energy, go sightseeing or wait until tomorrow.

Day Five: Sightseeing in Ganja

Ganja’s main attractions include the Bottle House, giant Tomb of Nizami, and 15th-century Shah Abbas Mosque. The History and Ethnography Museum along Ataturk Avenue makes for an exciting stop for an hour, and the ruins of Shah Abbas caravanserai are on the square opposite. Walk along the pedestrian street, snap a few photographs and head to the historical Khan Baghi Park.

Lake Goygol, a mountainous lake surrounded by lush forest, is 45 kilometres (30 miles) and accessible on a half-day trip. In the evening, take a taxi to the large Heydar Aliyev Park on the outskirts of Ganja.

Day Six: Travel to Sheki

Sheki, the historical mountain town near the Georgian border, is the final stop. Regular buses leave from Ganja, and depending on the weather, should take up to three hours.

Most who travel to Azerbaijan skip Sheki, but they miss out on the historical and natural wonders. The main attractions include the 18th-century Sheki Khan’s Palace (Khansarai), the caravanserai that once housed Silk Road traders and a set of medieval baths.

Day Seven: Final Day of Sightseeing

Stroll along the streets in Sheki and soak up the history one last time. Tourists who travel to Azerbaijan often visit neighbouring Georgia from Sheki. If this is your route, take the bus from Sheki to Azerbaijan’s border town at Balakan. Get a taxi to the border, cross into Georgia and then catch another marshrutka (minibus) from nearby Lagodekhi to Sighnaghi. Or, take the six-hour bus from Sheki back to Baku.

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

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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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

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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Home » Asia » Travel Safety

Is Azerbaijan Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Food you’ve never heard of before, incredibly scenic mountain ranges and valleys, epic centuries-old history and some truly friendly people. The reasons to go to Azerbaijan – not usually a sought after destination – are more numerous than you would probably have ever have thought!

There is a whole lot of stuff that you can do around this country, from exploring the Soviet grandeur of its capital city (Baku) to going skiing at the resort area of Gebele. We promise, you will find yourself slowly falling in love with Azerbaijan when you travel here.

The problem is that it’s not a paradise here – far from it, in fact. Beginning with petty theft and pickpocketing and ending with an ongoing border dispute with neighbouring Armenia, there sure are some real ugly issues going on here.

To help you make smart choices when you are travelling around this country and ensure that you stay as secure as possible we have created this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in Azerbaijan…

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How Safe is Azerbaijan? (Our take)

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Azerbaijan has an interesting history with both Silk Route era things to learn about as well as Soviet heritage to discover. Today however, life in Azerbaijan is centred around its cosmopolitan coastal capital Baku, which boasts a historic core that’s UNESCO certified.

There’s also the Caucasus Mountains to see, rural villages, mud volcanoes and semi-deserts to get to grips with. Despite this abundance it is only just now that Azerbaijan has piqued travellers’ interests.

The question of how safe Azerbaijan is safe to travel is often asked as little is known about the country. But rest assured this is actually a very safe country; some even tout it as one of safest countries not just to travel to, but to live in (more on that later).

The capital, like most cities in the world, does have some crime to contend with. Things like petty crime, pickpocketing and scams aren’t unheard of and tourists are often targted. Azerbaijan also has to deal with political instability as well as violent conflict in the region Nagorno-Karabakh (disputed with Armenia).

You will also have nature to worry about, too. Seasonal flooding, landslides and earthquakes can definitely affect the safety levels and transport around the country.

However, for the most part, Azerbaijan is pretty safe. What you’re going to have to watch out for the most is dodgy taxis, fake police, and scams.

Let’s take a closer look at the details…

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Azerbaijan Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Azerbaijan. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Azerbaijan.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

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Azerbaijan is a pretty interesting place to visit. There is a whole lot to explore within the 86,600 square kilometres of the country. It is however unfortunate that 7,614 square kilometres of this is disputed territory.

It has a population of 9,981,457, and considering that, the number of tourists that arrive in the country each year is relatively large. For example, in 2018 Azerbaijan received 2,849,600 tourists from over 196 countries. That figure was actually up 5.6 percent in 2017, marking a big increase in visitor numbers.

Considering that tourism has been rising around the world in general, the World Travel and Tourism Council stated that, between 2010 and 2016, Azerbaijan was one of the top 10 countries in the world to have the greatest increase in visitors.

This just shows you how much tourism is on the rise in Azerbaijan – and how important it is to the country. In fact, in 2017 it boasted the world’s fastest developing travel and tourism economy, with a 46.1 percent increase.

When it comes to crime in Azerbaijan, it’s said that one in every five crimes is related to narcotics; there’s a lot of drug trafficking across its borders and the country’s authorities have failed to intercept over 90 percent of what does come over the borders.

Despite the drug problem, crime in general in Azerbaijan has been declining. In 1993, there were 246 crimes recorded per 100,000 people; in 2004 there were 185 crimes per 100,000 – the homicide rate also decreased and more crimes were solved.

According to the Statistic Committee (taken from the Azerbaijan government site), in 2016 there were 26,611 reported crimes; in 2017, 26,113; and in 2018, there were 26,381. This shows that, in recent years at least, there is no spike or sudden downfall in crime.

The Global Peace Index of 2019 ranked Azerbaijan surprisingly low in its list of 163 countries: it came 130th. That’s below the USA, Saudi Arabia, and just above Ethiopia. So whilst on the surface, Azerbaijan is safe to visit, the stats don’t seem to say the same thing.

This Southwest Asian nation has, in recent times, had a bit of tumultuous political instability. Declaring independence from the Soviet Union in the 1990s, the country has since grown to become the country it is today. Obviously, however, there are still some problems.

One of the largest issues that Azerbaijan is facing right now is border disputes. Nagorno-Karabakh is the area in question, where there remains a military-occupied ceasefire line. Travel within 5 kilometres of the Line of Contact is highly discouraged, as is travelling anywhere near Armenia.

Though there has been a ceasefire since 1994, gunfire is regularly exchanged, tensions are high, and the disputed region is still heavily land mined.

According to the law, it’s actually illegal to enter the region without the permission of Azerbaijani authorities. It has been reported recently that foreign nationals have had criminal proceedings brought against them. Azerbaijani authorities have even requested for offending individuals found to have visited Nagorno-Karabakh, be extradited back to Azerbaijan to face charges! They take this issue VERY seriously.

There are also tensions around the borders of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Whilst the Azerbaijan-Dagestan (Russia) border is no longer closed, the UK governments travel advisory office, advises against travel to Dagestan.

Being a (relatively) newly independent country, there are a lot of issues that come with this. Demonstrations and political disturbances do occur. There has been violence at these and they are usually heavily policed so we would recommend keeping well away from these.

In short: it’s safe to visit Azerbaijan right now, it’s just important to be aware of the political situation and how sensitive things have been (and still are) in border areas.

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Azerbaijan is a cool place to visit. People are friendly even in the capital city. Men give up their seats on buses for women, the history is fascinating, and the landscapes are epic. Understandably, more and more tourists are choosing to visit Azerbaijan, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to worry about here. Here are some safety tips for Azerbaijan to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

• Protect yourself against crime  – crime levels are low in Baku, but pickpocketing – even mugging – occurs, so be vigilant
• Don’t carry large sums of money  – if a would-be thief sees you pull out a note from a bulging wallet, you may become a target
• Ensure taxis drop you off outside where you want to be – this helps you avoid walking around at night, which is something that puts you at risk
• Report any crimes to the police – call 102 and you can speak to English-speaking staff; just don’t sign any documents you don’t understand
• Don’t pay bribes  – sadly this is part of everyday life, but it’s not encouraged for visitors to be doing this
• Respect local customs and religions  – Islam, though mostly secular, is the majority religion here, so it’s important to be respectful and sensitive around things like Ramadan, for example
• It’s illegal to proselytise  – thinking of converting people to any other religion? Think again!
• Keep your passport with you at all times  – the police can and do carry out checks of passports and other ID
• Try to blend in with what you wear  – in Baku, Western-style clothing for men and women is normal; outside of the city, wearing shorts (male or female) might cause you some hassle
• Stay away from drugs – possession is illegal and can get you a long (6-7 years) spell in prison, or hefty fines
• LGBTQ+ travellers should consider cultural differences  – whilst not illegal, the LGBTQ+ community is not accepted in much of wider Azerbaijani culture: especially outside of Baku
• Don’t take photographs around military bases or government buildings  – these are sensitive areas and you may be questioned or detained if you do photograph them. Just don’t – no matter how cool they look
• Avoid talking about politics  – even saying derogatory things about the president (or his family) can get you jailed or deported!
• Don’t mention Armenia  – or the Nagorno-Karabakh region, it’s still a sensitive issue (not even a private conversation)
• If you’re of Armenian descent, you may have trouble entering Azerbaijan  – Sorry Kardashians…
• Hide travel books – Rough Guide? Lonely Planet? Keep it low key; authorities have been known to take them for some reason
• Be wary of antiques and rugs – exporting either requires a certificate and can be difficult; even if you do secure a certificate there can be a lot of trouble at customs on the way home
• Ask a local before you go hiking – isolated areas can be quite dangerous, so it’s best to follow local advice
• Watch out for bears!  – this is a real danger, especially in spring (after hibernation); they live in forested, upland areas. Do not approach them
• Be careful of snakes, too  – Azerbaijan has two brands of venomous vipers
• And yellow scorpions…  – Watch your step!
• Travel during the daytime – distances can be deceptively long, so it’s important to plan to be on the road only in daylight hours (due to road conditions, mainly)
• Register your presence  – in Azerbaijan for longer than 10 days? Let the State Migration Service know; hotels will (usually) do this for you, but Airbnbs and self catering lodgings probably won’t
• Protect against mosquitoes  – malaria, believe it or not, is present in the country (high risk between May and October), as is encephalitis
• Learn some Russian  – English isn’t spoken very much in Azerbaijan, but Russian is; learn a few phrases to help you get around

As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when you are planning to travel to Azerbaijan. As well as all of the above, the climate, the earthquakes, and other natural threats, can pose a risk to your safety. In general, most of all, it’s not so much a case of keeping “safe” as it is being sensitive: of people’s traditions, their religions, the politics and the government of the country. Be a respectful traveller.

Losing your money anywhere in the world is not only not a very fun experience that puts a dampener on your trip – it can actually mean not being able to pay for travel, accommodation or food.

Not having any money is bad enough as it is, but is made even more frustrating when you find out somebody actually stole it from you… and unfortunately, there is a bit of an issue with tourists being targeted by pickpockets and petty thieves in Azerbaijan.

To make sure that you keep your money safe in Azerbaijan, then, we would highly recommend purchasing a money belt. We recommend packing one for every trip .

Though it can seem like a pretty simple choice – it’s just a money belt, right? – there is actually a whole world of money belts out there to think about.

If you ask us, however, many of these money belts aren’t that great: they have too many pockets, they’re overcomplicated, they can be uncomfortable and they can actually be quite obvious, clearly bulging out under clothing.

The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. It’s affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and it’s sturdy – what more could you ask for out of a money belt!

First of all, it’s literally just a belt – no fuss, just a belt with a buckle and a secret zipper pocket where you can stash your cash. We love the simplicity of this.

Even if a potential pickpocket tries to pick your pocket, or dip into your bag, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that your money for the day is securely stashed in this awesome money belt.

Let’s be honest: travelling solo to Azerbaijan will be a truly amazing experience. Even just visiting the capital, Baku, is a fascinating city which has plenty of food, history and friendly people for people travelling to this country by themselves to get totally enamoured with.

Being by yourself allows you to soak up everything the country has to offer, at your own pace, without having to stick to someone else’s itinerary. It’s great! Then again, travelling alone does come with its own risks, so here are some tips for solo travellers in Azerbaijan.

• Do not be afraid of using the Baku Metro by yourself. This 50-year-old, Soviet-era extravaganza of a public transport system is not only beautiful but a very convenient way of getting around the city. Though this metropolitan amenity is not known for its crime (of any type), it still pays to be aware of your surroundings.
• Be careful with what you wear because even men wearing shorts can be taboo – scratch that, it’s just not ok. Maybe if you’re in a tour group, you could get away with wearing shorts – and maybe in Baku, by yourself – but outside of the capital, and especially travelling solo, you should stick to long pants.
• Get out and about in Baku’s parks, museums and interesting attractions. Everybody is very welcoming, eager to talk to you and help you out, and you shouldn’t ever feel in danger. Feel free to wander the city, but still – doing so at night does come with more risks than daytime explorations.
• Plan your trip! Though winging it is fine in other countries, Azerbaijan is not Southeast Asia and you will get a lot more out of the country by planning your itinerary. It’s much easier to travel around if you book in advance; for example, turning up at accommodation without a booking is something that doesn’t really happen here.
• Keep in touch with your friends and family back home – let them know what you’re doing, where you are, and when you plan to do these things and be at these places. Having someone know your route is much safer than going off grid; people will know your last whereabouts if something should happen. If your itinerary changes, tell people. Consider starting a Google Doc for this.
• We all know that having a few drinks is fun, but we really wouldn’t recommend going out and getting completely wasted. Not only is it dangerous because you won’t be able to find where you’re staying, but you’ll also put yourself at risk of scams or mugging, with more capacity to make bad decisions.
• You should have more than one way of accessing your money. It’s all well and good having a load of savings, but if you lose your bank card, you have no way to get to all that money. How will you pay for your accommodation, your bus ticket, even your next meal? Have at least one other current bank account, an emergency credit card, and a stash of cash – just in case.
• Travel light! It’s no fun lugging a whole lot of baggage around with you when you’re supposed to be hot-footing it around a cool new country. You’ll feel out of place, it’ll be uncomfortable, and you may be more at risk from potential thieves. Try travelling with one bag.

Travelling by yourself in Azerbaijan is going to be a lot of fun. There is a whole load of cool stuff to see here, a load of history, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. On top of that, you pretty much get to do whatever you want to do, whenever you want to do it.

That doesn’t mean that everything is going to run smoothly. In fact, being a tourist can make you a target for pickpockets and scammers; being by yourself, that risk increases. It’s important to be vigilant, say no to overly friendly strangers, and be aware of your surroundings.

Travelling as a female by yourself in Azerbaijan might not seem like a good idea, but in fact, you can travel solo as a female quite safely in this country. It’s a hospitable place where most people will welcome you – and where women are treated with a fair amount of respect.

That said, being a solo traveller who also happens to be a woman, there are a lot more things to look out for than a male traveller. You will have to watch out for everything from what kind of hotel you book yourself into, what streets you walk around, or what bar you choose to visit. To help stay safe and ensure that enjoy your trip to the fullest, we’re sharing our top tips for solo female travellers in Azerbaijan.

• You may be surprised to find out that men in Azerbaijan are pretty chivalrous. It will not be uncommon to see, on the metro, for example, men giving up their seats for women – even if they’re not elderly women. Women are the priority when it comes to seating on public transport and men will stand up to make that happen.
• On a similar gender and public transport note, if you are going to travel on a marshrutkas , be aware that women travel up the front and men travel at the back.
• Whilst Azerbaijan is pretty safe, some solo female travellers do get unwanted attention – for things like walking around alone at night, or even simply catching a taxi by yourself. It’s not normal in Azerbaijan for women to go out alone after 9pm; if you want to avoid the hassle, consider venturing out in a group.
• Meet up with other women! The best way to do this is through online groups like Host A Sister, where locals of cities and towns around the world advertise themselves to potential travellers to their home countries. You get a bit of local knowledge, travel around safely, and make a new friend; you may even get a place to stay.
• Don’t feel that booking yourself on a tour is a cop-out: it’s not. A tour is a sensible way to travel around Azerbaijan; it will allow you to explore more of the country (in fact, sometimes it’s the only way to explore deeper). Make sure you do your research and only go with a reputable tour company. Consider booking in person at tour offices, since online prices tend to be pricier – for some reason.
• Be careful with what you wear. Yes, Azerbaijan – as a Muslin country – is generally more liberal than its neighbours, but you might be stared at for wearing things like strap tops and shorts in the capital. In more rural areas, you should definitely dress more modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Don’t worry about covering your head: that’s not a thing in Azerbaijan. However, if you are going into religious buildings – not only mosques but also churches – then you will have to wear a headscarf. Perhaps keep one of these handy, just in case.
• In more conservative places, it can be a bit of an eyebrow-raiser if a woman is drinking alcohol by herself. Similarly, the çayhane  (teahouse) is not somewhere that women go – at all – being only frequented by men, as are cheap local restaurants called a yemekhane . As fun as they might seem, they’re just not for women and you will almost certainly feel uncomfortable.
• When it comes to accommodation, there are choices to mull over, from villas and hotels to bed and breakfasts and family homes; there’s a mix of places to stay here, even hostels make an appearance. With any of them, it’s important to do research: make sure they come well-reviewed by other female travellers, are in safe areas and won’t make you feel insecure.

It turns out that Azerbaijan is pretty safe for solo travellers. But as with anywhere in the world, it’s probably not a good idea to be walking around dark, deserted areas of towns and cities by yourself. However, this may be your everyday experience back at home anyway.

Not like everywhere in the world, however, dressing modestly in Azerbaijan is something that you should do. Even in the fairly liberal capital of Baku, shorts will elicit some stares from the locals. Outside of cities, expect eyes on you if you wear shorts and strap tops.

Although it’s not somewhere we would recommend for first time solo female travellers, this country is still a very visitable place. Even then, to get more into Azerbaijan, you should consider a tour; this will keep you safe, secure, and you’ll get to meet people, too.

Surprise, surprise: Children are a huge part of Azerbaijani society and are regarded very highly. If you take your children on a trip to the Southwest Asian country, you can expect to have a great of (positive) attention showered on you and your kids.

You will get a very warm reception. Local people will really enjoy meeting you and your children and will even help you out if you look like you need some.

It’s pretty normal for adults to just start chatting to your kids, or take them off you, but don’t be alarmed! This is just a way of being friendly.

When it comes to things to do for families in Azerbaijan… In Baku, for example, there is plenty to you and your kids occupied – from fairground rides and amusements to shopping malls and parks.

A particularly lovely part of the city is Baku Boulvar, a 10 kilometre stretch of coastline that’s pedestrianised and family friendly, filled as it is with restaurants and other amenities and attractions.

The hotels, in general, are pretty family friendly and there are often resort areas; these will have hotels that boast child friendly rooms (where children can share for no extra cost) and be located near to some cool attractions, such as Gebele – with its lakes and ski resorts, as well as the biggest theme park in Azerbaijan.

Be aware, however, that when you are in Azerbaijan, journeys can take a long time; they can prove pretty tricky if you’re with your children and you don’t have the spare cash to pay for a more seamless way of getting around. Delays are common. Before you know it could be spending hour after hour in a cramped minibus in the sweltering heat.

Don’t worry though: extensive travel around the country may not be overly interesting for your children. Outside of the capital and surrounding areas, much of the country’s attractions involves hiking, old monuments and horseriding (for example); if your kids aren’t keen on this, or they’re too young to appreciate it, then it may not be worth the time or the effort involved.

Speaking of being outside the large cities, be prepared to not have easy access to products such as disposable nappies and baby food.

Though Azerbaijan is safe for families, our suggestion (especially if you are travelling with really young children) is to simply stick to Baku and its environs. You can still see some amazing places, but without the hassle or the stress.

Well, driving in Azerbaijan is pretty much a must if you want to get to some truly remote areas. That’s virtually the same for every country in the world.

Then again, it’s not always easy and it’s definitely not always safe.

Many of the most remote areas can only be accessed by 4×4 vehicles, such as Jeeps, as the roads are simply not in good enough condition for regular vehicles. There are, however, new highways – for example, Baku to Quba in the north, and Baku to Astara (Iran) – which makes long-distance travel slightly easier.

If you are planning on renting a car, make sure you have insurance. If you get into some kind of collision, do not move the vehicle before the police arrive to make a report, otherwise, you may just void your own insurance.

Drivers should only take to the road in Azerbaijan if you’re experienced. It can be pretty chaotic, to say the least, here: the road conditions can be very poor; the drivers can be unpredictable, and there are often pedestrians indiscriminately crossing the street. Don’t expect for one-way streets to be respected, for road closures or diversions to be marked, or for traffic lights to even work (they often just flash).

Even in Baku, roads have potholes, open manholes, a lot of garbage and even sinkholes to contend with; obviously these cause a danger to drivers and pedestrians alike.

If all this sounds dangerous in the daytime, imagine trying to tackle it at night – and without street lights.

Be wary of other drivers; it’s not uncommon for locals to ignore traffic rules completely, skip red lights, not pay attention to lanes, not be aware of other motorists and pedestrians.

Speeding is pretty typical, which results in some nasty accidents. This is exacerbated on rural roads, often unpaved and sometimes winding and mountainous.

During the winter, snowfall can create issues, especially further into the mountains. If you are travelling outside of Baku by car during the winter, you should definitely make sure you are prepared with provisions like extra food, a torch, a shovel, a blanket, and warm clothes.

One good thing: There is zero tolerance for drink driving. This means no amount of alcohol is allowed to be in your system, so it’s best not to – and very stupid to do so anyway (but do you think everyone heeds that rule here…?).

All in all, you can rent a car and drive in Azerbaijan. Is it safe? Not really. However, if you really must, then we highly recommend that you are an experienced driver who has driven abroad, and/or in adverse conditions, before.

Trying to figure out if Uber is actually operating in Azerbaijan is somewhat confusing.

There are conflicting reports regarding its availability – and whether or not it is easy to use. However, we can report that Uber is active, though it is operated under a local franchise in Baku.

Locals themselves highly recommend using Bolt, a similar service which allows you to book taxis through an app. It’s very popular and, most importantly, it’s safe.

There are a number of options on offer when it comes to choosing a taxi service in Azerbaijan; from London-style cabs in Baku to app-based options and more local companies, there’s a fair bit to choose from.

However, there are a few issues. One of these is being ripped off by local taxis, something that is particularly common with rides from the airport often costing way more than they should.

When you want to take a taxi, make sure you either agree on the fare upfront, before you start the journey, or you make sure (or insist) that the meter is switched on. You should also make sure that the seatbelt is working.

A good alternative to paying the inflated prices of taxis at the airport is to simply use the airport bus. It’s a tiny fraction of the price a taxi will charge you, so we would say go for that instead.

If the driver is speeding – which is, in all likelihood, a possibility – you can (and should) ask him to slow down.

A good thing to do, if you want to take a taxi, is to ask at your accommodation for a recommendation of a reputable company; arrange for the taxi to pick up at the door of your where you’re staying.

As with most taxis around the world, it’s important to have the right change. Don’t try and pay a taxi driver with a large bill; they may not genuinely have the cash to break your huge note, or they may just say as much. Either way, have smaller denominations of money to be able to pay your fare exactly.

A hot tip would be to learn a few phrases of Russian; this goes a long way in dealing with many day to day occurrences in Azerbaijan, including taxis.

To conclude, taxis are safe in Azerbaijan, but just aren’t so great from the airport – so try to avoid those.

Public transport in Azerbaijan varies throughout the country, though for the most part, it’s just two main modes of transport: buses and trains.

First of all, let’s dive into the world of Azerbaijan’s buses.

In Baku, the bus station is the central hub for all bus travel throughout the country. Here is where you can buy tickets at the ticket windows; just make sure you know the name of your destination and the employees will be able to point you in the right direction.

This is, however, an international bus terminal spread across four storeys with very little English spoken anywhere. Make sure you get there with plenty of time to spare because it could take a while.

Minibuses, as well as buses, are used to connect towns and cities – both long and short haul.

There are also the matrushkas. They are sort of like shared taxis that run along set routes, often making their way to remote villages. Though that sounds good, they often leave very early and will only leave when they’re full – if you’ve been on local transport elsewhere in the world, you’ll know the “fun” of this.

Buses are generally pretty safe in Azerbaijan, just keep your belongings in sight and stay vigilant in the Baku bus terminal.

Then there are trains. Baku has a great metro system, which is good for budget travellers: a ride on the metro costs as little as 0.2 AZN (i.e. very cheap). To use the metro system you’ll need a card which you can top up, costing 3 AZN (around $2 USD), which includes 5 rides. It’s a bargain – and the metro is beautiful, too; grand and Soviet-style.

However, you’ve probably never seen it because it’s forbidden to take pictures on the Baku Metro (picture St Petersburg’s metro). It’s quite well looked after and has things like safety equipment and emergency procedures in place.

Worried about using the Baku Metro? Don’t be: it’s pretty safe and the signs are in both English and Azerbaijani. There are also police at every station and security checks of bags.

You can also catch international and intercity trains throughout Azerbaijan, too. Journeys on these are usually without issue, but it’s important to keep your belongings close to you and be wary of suspicious characters.

If you’ve got a compartment, don’t leave your valuables unattended and lock your door from the inside whenever you’re in there.

Many of the trains travel overnight (which is when you should be most vigilant) and they’re very, very cheap. You can book your ticket online, up to 10 days in advance, or buy it at a station; note that you will need your passport to buy a ticket.

Overall, the public transport in Azerbaijan is surprisingly safe – not too many issues here.

Although many people in the world couldn’t tell you one dish from Azerbaijan, you are in for a treat if you like food and you’re heading to this country. There’s a lot to look forward to here, from almost Chinese dumplings to huge, succulent watermelons and al fresco dining.

Best of all, eating out in Azerbaijan is not very expensive at all, but in Baku, there is a developing high-end, fine dining scene. A great deal of the food is local, hearty, inexpensive. To help you navigate your way around, here are our tips for eating only the best Azerbaijani food.

• Don’t skip out on the shwarma . You may think you know what a shwarma is, but you haven’t had a shwarma until you’ve had Azerbaijan’s succulent take on the dish. If you’re thinking of trying one, either ask at your accommodation or go somewhere that looks like it’s popular with locals – they know the score when it comes to shwarma.
• Local bakeries are a good place to get a cheap snack. Here you can pick up pastries (many new and wonderful to you) and freshly baked bread. Definitely take advantage of this, for two reasons: you can always stash a pastry away for an emergency snack later on; and you’re not likely to get ill from eating breaded goods, either!
• Another thing to take advantage of is the people selling local produce at the side of the road. It won’t be just like random fruit, but actual handcrafted goods like preserves, jams and other delicious things, presented nicely and sold cheaply. Don’t be scared to try: these people do this all the time and know what they’re up to.
• Get on the beers! Azerbaijan, as a country, is the largest Muslim consumer of beer in the world – the favourite being Xirdalan. It’s very nice to drink on a hot day. Tip: Do as the locals do and pair it with smoky, salty and sometimes plaited lengths of cheese that seem to go so well with a refreshing beer.
• Visit local markets. These are always a good measure of the culture of a country, so don’t be afraid to dive in there and see what’s going on. In Baku, hit up Yesil and Meyveli Markets for two of the city’s best places to peruse fresh produce. (A good spot for cheap food, too).
• Don’t go all in on the food straight away. The diet here is meat-heavy and involves a lot of spices that you may not be used to; a sudden change in diet can easily upset your stomach, so eating everything all at once may cause you more than a little discomfort. Take it slow!
• Make sure that what you are eating has been cooked properly. If you are able to see who is cooking your food, ensure that it is being cooked freshly as opposed to just being served up as something that has been sitting around all day.
• Probably the most basic tip of all is to wash your hands. All the grime and dirt on your hands could definitely lead to you getting sick, especially if you are handling your food directly with your hands, so make sure that you cleanse your hands before you eat any meal.
• As a failsafe, it might be a good idea to bring some anti-diarrhoea medicine as well as some rehydration sachets; though the food in Azerbaijan isn’t unsafe, it might just be the case that something disagrees with you.

Azerbaijani food is pretty amazing, and won’t be much like anything you’ve had before. National dishes of the country include piti – a simple mutton and vegetable soup (well worth trying) – as well as  dushbara  (dumplings) and  ayran  (sort of like an Indian  lassi ).

Round it up with some of those tasty pastries and you’re on to a winner. The best tip of all, we would say, is to go where the locals go: ask people you meet, the staff at your hotel, or simply see where is the busiest and join the crowds to try the tasty food that’s on offer here.

Unlike a lot of places, in a strange turn of events, in rural areas of Azerbaijan, the water is much better than it is in the cities.

Why? This is because the water in rural areas is often drawn from natural springs. You can often see people at roadsides filling up at dedicated bulaq (springs) for everyone to use.

In the cities, however, the tap water is not safe in Azerbaijan. You should boil it first (1 minute vigorous boil; 3 minutes for higher altitudes).

We recommend taking a water bottle with a filter; yes, plastic bottles of water are available at shops, but let’s not add to the already plastic problems of the planet.

Probably not the first destination you would think of when you think “I’m going to emigrate,” Azerbaijan may not attract as many people looking for a change in scenery as, say, Bali, but it’s definitely got its pluses.

Baku is, despite everything we’ve just mentioned, is a pretty safe city. It’s surprisingly beautiful, as well.

It is surprisingly expensive to live there, but most days you can walk through the streets of the city late at night and see families and their children together; you can see this quite a lot in the family friendly Boulvar area – even until the early hours of the morning.

People in Baku, or in Azerbaijan in general, are pretty friendly, and will often stop to chat with you (though neither of you may know very much of the other’s language).

It’s a pretty safe country on the whole and, if you want to move there, there’s no overarching risk involved in doing so.

However, it is good to know about some of the issues that currently face the country. One of the biggest things you should never do is try and broach the subject of Armenia or the ongoing disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh; it’s probably best that you never even mention Armenia – even to the new Azerbaijani friends you make in private.

Corruption is an issue that many people in Azerbaijan have to face at some point and may end up affecting your life at some point. It’s up to you whether you bribe or not, but it’s not really something you should encourage.

Whilst crime rates are low across Azerbaijan, there are petty criminals who will target (mainly) foreigners in (usually) large, crowded places. The best way to not be a victim of this is to try to blend in with how you dress as much as possible. Chances are that, living there, you won’t be looking like a tourist every time you step out of the house anyway.

There is also a concern about human rights – something you will have to come to terms with living here. International organisations have shown “concern” over issues related to freedom of speech, which is always a worrying sign.

As we mentioned earlier it’s an actual offence to criticise the name or the de facto ruling Aliyev family. Journalists have been arrested and harassed for doing this, so if you’re an expat in Azerbaijan, we would warn against doing this. Whilst the actual people are pretty friendly here, the government is less so, which is like so many otherwise incredible countries in the world.

If you really are planning a move to Azerbaijan, either off your own back or if you’ve received a job offer, then we would recommend doing research – and a lot of it. Find other expats who live there, do thorough research into the safest places to live and pay a visit to the country before you take the plunge.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

When it comes to the healthcare in Azerbaijan, firstly it’s important to note that medical facilities are not equal throughout the country.

In Baku, however, there are shiny new hospitals and clinics with brand new equipment. These are usually clean and reliable, but you should still take care: many people are not convinced of the quality (or skills) of the staff on offer here.

To give you a general idea… The healthcare system in Azerbaijan is free, government-run and is often seen as inefficient, under-financed and disorganised.

If you really need to go to a hospital or clinic, going private is the way to go. This is the ideal scenario if you really need medical attention. In this case, you should make sure that your medical insurance covers the costs of private treatment in Azerbaijan – and you should take evidence of it to the hospital (or clinic) in question.

Further afield, which means pretty much anywhere that isn’t Baku, it’s going to be pretty difficult to find any sort of medical facility that’s safe or well maintained; much of the time, these don’t exist anyway. Locals in this case either have to travel a very long way to get any level of healthcare, or just avoid getting it altogether.

Because of this, if you are planning to travel anywhere outside of Baku, we advise that you take a well-stocked first aid kit with you on your trip.

In an emergency you should dial 103 and ask for an ambulance; in a serious situation, you may have to be evacuated to Turkey or Western Europe. Medical insurance is very important.

Even though the rest of the country may be pretty safe, the healthcare in Azerbaijan isn’t so good. It’s of a decent standard in the capital city, but don’t expect much in the way of good health services anywhere else. For that reason: make sure you’ve got medical insurance; have a first aid kit at your disposal, and bring plenty of medication you may need to take.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Azerbaijan.

How dangerous is Azerbaijan?

For the most part, Azerbaijan is not dangerous at all. Things like petty crime, pickpocketing and scams aren’t unheard of and tourists are often targeted. Azerbaijan also has to deal with political instability as well as violent conflict in the region Nagorno-Karabakh (disputed with Armenia).

What should you avoid in Azerbaijan?

These are the things to avoid in Azerbaijan: – Don’t speak about Armenia – Don’t bring anything from Armenia into the country – Don’t share any political opinions with locals or people in uniform – Don’t be rude to women

Is it safe to travel Azerbaijan?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Azerbaijan, as long as you don’t come from Armenia, or have an Armenian stamp in your passport. In that case, you won’t get into the country anyway. Petty and violent crime is something to keep in mind and watch out for.

Can you drink alcohol in Azerbaijan?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Azerbaijan, but only in the capital city. Here you can buy alcoholic drinks in normal supermarkets. Be aware of where you’re drinking though. Alcohol is not allowed in or sometimes even near religious places such as mosques.

Azerbaijan is not somewhere that you would imagine as a safe country. Being situated where it is, Russia to the north, Turkey to the west, Iran to the south – and with smaller, often undefined (and unrecognised) neighbours besides – the region is theoretically a volatile one that could go one way or the other. Border disputes are still a real issue in Azerbaijan, and probably the greatest threat to the country’s safety.

Then again, that’s speaking in terms of the country. Armenia and Azerbaijan may both lay claim to the Nagorno-Karabakh region, and there may be potshots and landmines in that area, but it’s localised to that particular part of the country. Unless it turns into full scale madness (not likely), then this particular issue is not likely to affect you – unless, that is, you choose to talk about Armenia at all…

And not being able to criticise the government (or the “ruling” family)? That doesn’t sound cool to us. However, it’s important you know these things, because then you realise that sometimes you have to tread carefully through a country – not just blaze through without a care. Besides, there’s petty crime to concern yourself with. Just make sure you travel sensibly, and respectfully, and you will be fine here.

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Anna Sherchand

Solo Female Travel Blog

4 days in Azerbaijan itinerary

I am on a mission to travel to all 193 countries in the world (but not in a race, more like in a slow and steady fashion) and so far have traveled to 73 countries in 5 continents SOLO! Crossing 70 was a big milestone I achieved this year because I work hard, save, and do these trips, and feel the joy of sharing my travels here. If any of my travel guides have helped you, please share, comment, or support on social media. So, today, I am writing about 4 days in Azerbaijan itinerary.  This 4-day itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, combining the rich history and culture of Baku with day trips to explore Gobustan, Yanardag, Absheron, and Sheki. Each day is filled with diverse activities, offering a taste of Azerbaijan’s heritage, culinary delights, and breathtaking landscapes. First of all, Azerbaijan is situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Southwestern Asia, bordered by Armenia and Turkey to the west, Iran to the south, and Russia and Georgia to the north. The nation’s eastern boundary is defined by the Caspian Sea. This unique location has influenced Azerbaijani cuisine, which exhibits culinary influences from its neighboring countries. (I will be sharing my favorite Azeri meals below)

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new. It’s a scientific, cultural, and industrial center. After the second oil boom in 2006, the city turned into a modern one with unique extraordinary jaw-dropping masterpieces. Its rich history is interwoven with modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers of all kinds. The allure of Baku lies in its striking contrasts – from the ancient walled city’s timeless charm to the awe-inspiring Flame Towers illuminating the night sky. This city is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty waiting to be discovered.

As the sun rises over the Caspian Sea, I can’t help but feel the anticipation of an exhilarating 4 days in Azerbaijan adventure. With its rich cultural tapestry, diverse cuisine, and welcoming locals, Baku promises a day of exploration, immersion, and unforgettable experiences. So, fasten your seatbelt, fellow adventurers, as we dive headfirst into Azerbaijan 4 days itinerary – a journey you won’t soon forget.

1. How to get to Baku, Azerbaijan

2. get a local sim card, 3. how to get around baku, 4. useful apps, 5. is baku safe for solo female travelers, 6. good to know, 7. where to stay in baku, 8. when is the best time to visit baku, day 1  old town, morning exploration sunrise, mud volcanoes, caspian sea, qobustan, mid day fire, land of fire, fire temple of baku, heydar aliyev, evening magic with azeri plov, day 3 , morning drive and cotari gerges, day exploration of kis alban, and the palace of sheki khans, the palace of sheki khans, an afternoon with shebeke craft workshop and shops, where to stay in sheki town, what to eat in azerbaijan, day 4 , morning hike, is azerbaijan worth visiting.

• Let me know in the comments:

First important Azerbaijan travel tips:

I flew business class with Qantas to Singapore then Eithad Airlines from Singapore to Abu Dhabi and finally Wizz Air from Abu Dhabi to Baku. It took almost 30 hours to get there from Australia. You may have a shorter flight time depending on your tickets and where you are coming from. Either way, I suggest checking flight costs through the most trusted sites such as Google Flights or Skyscanner, and booking it directly with the airline.  Another option is to cross the land border. Nope, it is not possible because you can fly into Azerbaijan without restrictions, and exit via land or sea. But  you cannot enter via a land or sea border and it is unlikely this will change anytime soon. 

Australian passport holders need to apply for a tourist visa beforehand, It took 5 mins online on their official website , and charged 26 USD for a Single entry 30 days visa. The amount paid for the e-Visa is non-refundable under any conditions. Please ensure to check your visa responsibilities before booking flights, activities, and accommodation.

At first, I thought I could use Australian Vodafone roaming for $5 per day but found out it is charged per minute in Azerbaijan. So that option wasn’t used. Besides when traveling sometimes I like to be away from my phone as much as I can so I just did the whole Azerbaijan trip without any local SIM card and only used the WIFI provided at the accommodations. Also, in Baku’s old town, Starbucks and most restaurants offer free wifi, just buy something of course. That being said, you may not want to rely on public wifi for your banking, etc so when it comes to getting a prepaid SIM card in Azerbaijan, you have a few options. You can purchase one in person at international airports, mobile provider shops, convenience stores, or online. It’s important to note that airport SIM cards often come with higher costs and limited data, so they’re not the most recommended choice. However, not all airports may have SIM card shops or free airport wifi. Buying from a mobile provider store in town is advisable, although it might mean a delay in getting data upon arrival. If you prefer immediate connectivity, consider using roaming from your home country or an eSIM or ordering a prepaid SIM card online.

Various data plans are offered by the three main Azerbaijani providers: Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. Anywhere from 1GB to 60 GB from $3 AUD onwards & up.

Among these options, Azercell is considered the top choice for in-person purchases. However, any of these providers will suffice if you can’t locate a specific store. If you’d like to have your SIM card ready upon arrival, you can order one online. Amazon offers a range of plans, such as OneSimCard, which works in over 200 countries, including Azerbaijan, offering data at $0.01 per MB. Alternatively, you can explore prepaid SIM card options on websites like SimOptions, which currently offers a plan for Azerbaijan. Make sure to check for coverage in the countries you plan to visit when selecting an online option.

Getting around Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is relatively straightforward and offers several transportation options. Here’s a guide on how to navigate the city:

Walking : Baku’s city center, including the Old City (Icherisheher), is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city’s attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. Exploring on foot is a great way to soak in the city’s ambiance and architecture.

Strolling on foot is perfect for reaching most downtown destinations, but relying on public transportation can broaden your scope of sightseeing experiences.

Metro: Baku has a modern and efficient metro system with three lines. The metro is a cost-effective way to move around the city, and signs and announcements are typically in Azerbaijani and Russian. You can purchase single tickets or multi-ride cards at the station. The metro operates from early morning until late evening. However, first, you have to get a metro top-up card which costs 2AZN (1.20USD). Alternatively, you can buy a single-use metro card, which you can only top-up once and costs 0.20AZN (12¢)

Bus: Baku has a comprehensive bus network that covers most areas of the city. Bus stops are clearly marked, and routes are typically in Azerbaijani, but some buses display route numbers in Latin script. Fares are affordable, and you can pay the fare directly to the driver when boarding.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Baku. You can hail one on the street or use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt. Ensure the taxi has a working meter, or agree on a fare before starting your journey. Taxis are generally affordable and convenient for getting around the city, especially if you’re traveling with others.

Marshrutkas: These are small, shared minibusses that follow fixed routes and are an excellent way to navigate the city. Marshrutkas are easy to spot and are commonly used by locals. Pay the fare directly to the driver when you board. They can be crowded but are a cost-effective option.

Cycling: Baku is gradually becoming more bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing services. You can rent a bike from various locations within the city if you prefer exploring on two wheels.

Renting a Car: While renting a car is an option, traffic in Baku can be congested, and parking can be challenging. If you plan to explore areas outside the city, a rental car may be more convenient.

Consider using mobile apps like Yandex. Taxi, Uber, or Bolt for ride-hailing services, as well as public transportation apps that provide information on routes and schedules. Uber did not work for me so, I was advised to download Bolt. The app will send a code on your phone to verify so if you are not buying a sim card in Azerbaijan, download it before you leave your country. 

Google Maps – Download offline maps beforehand

Google Translator – For ease of communication with the locals who don’t speak English if required

Based on my recent travel experience, I would say I felt safe in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. It is generally considered safe for solo travelers and is a welcoming and friendly city. However, it’s essential to keep in mind some general safety precautions.

Stay Aware: Like in any city, stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings, such as bags and personal items.

Avoid Unlicensed Taxis : Stick to registered and licensed taxi services or use reputable ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt. Avoid hailing taxis off the street, as unlicensed services can be less safe.

Use Reputable Accommodation : Choose well-reviewed hotels and accommodations. Read reviews from other solo travelers to get a sense of safety and service quality.

Respect Local Customs : Be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Language : Learning a few basic phrases in Azerbaijani or Russian can be helpful for communication, but many people in Baku, especially in the service industry, may speak some English.

Emergency Contact Information : Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including the local police and your country’s embassy or consulate in Azerbaijan.

Travel Insurance : Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers health and emergency situations, as well as trip cancellations or disruptions.

Please keep in mind that the situation can change, and it’s essential to stay updated on travel advisories and local news, especially if you are planning to visit soon. Always check the latest information from reliable sources before your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Remember that Baku, Azerbaijan experience can vary in terms of language support, so having a basic understanding of Azerbaijani or Russian phrases can be helpful.

Currency = Manat/ AZN Capital City = Baku Official Language = Azerbaijani Population = 10.14 Million (2021) Time zone = GMT+4 Driving side = right Calling code = +994

In Azerbaijani language Hi/Hello = Salam Yes = He/ Ha  No = Yox/Yok  Or use the Russian  Da  or  Nyet . Where is … ? = Name of place then say haradadır? (pronunciation hardadi) How much does it cost? = Neçəyədir? (pronunciation necheyedir) Thank you = Çox sağ olun! (say it like choh sa-lo) You are welcome – Buyur ( Bu-yur )  See you = Hələlik! (say it like helelik) Good morning = Sabahınız xeyir! (say it like sabahiniz heyir) Good evening/good night = Gecəniz xeyrə! (say it like gejeniz heyre)

I stayed at the AuRoom Hotel in Baku. It was about a 30-minute drive from the airport and only a 10-minute taxi from the must-see places in town as well.  The hotel also offers an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for AZN 40 per vehicle one-way.

In my luxury suite, there was a lot of space ie Huge King-size bed, a nice comfortable couch, 2 TVs, and a dining table-chair that could be used as a work desk, daily housekeeping with water, breakfast, and free wifi!

Buffet breakfast was fresh, mostly a variety of traditional bread, jams, and cheese but there was hot food too and fruits, cereals, bread, tea, and coffee. Staff at the reception desk were helpful and warm which made my stay great. So overall, I liked this hotel, enjoyed my stay here, and highly recommend it to you on your visit to Baku.

Alternatively, I suggest the following accommodations if you are under or over budget: (all within 1-2 km from the center & good reviews too) Hostels: SAHIL Hostel & Hotel , Hostel Old Town Guest , Cth-Baku-Hostel Mid-Tier Options: Eleven Hotel Baku , VIP Apartment MARRIOTT , Pera Hotel Baku 5-Star Luxury: JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel , InterContinental Baku, an IHG Hotel , Fairmont Baku – Flame Towers

The best time to visit Baku, Azerbaijan, largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. Baku experiences a range of seasons, each with its own unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and the best times to visit:

Spring (March to May):

Best for Mild Weather: Spring is an excellent time to visit Baku if you prefer pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The city’s parks and gardens come to life with colorful blooms, making it a beautiful time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Lower tourist crowds compared to the summer months. Summer (June to August):

Best for Festivals and Outdoor Activities: Summer is the high tourist season in Baku. The weather is warm to hot, with temperatures averaging 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This is when many outdoor festivals, events, and concerts take place in the city. The Caspian Sea is inviting for beachgoers, and the beach clubs are in full swing. Autumn (September to November):

Best for Mild Weather and Lower Crowds: Autumn offers comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is an excellent time to explore the city’s attractions, as the weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer. Ideal for cultural and historical exploration. Winter (December to February):

Best for Budget Travel: Winter in Baku is cold, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). It’s the low tourist season. If you don’t mind the cold and prefer a quieter experience, this can be a budget-friendly time to visit. The city is beautifully decorated during the holiday season, and you can experience a unique winter ambiance. In summary, the best time to visit Baku is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, if you enjoy summer festivals and beach activities, then the summer months are the best for you. Winter is suitable for budget travelers, but you’ll need to be prepared for cold weather. Regardless of the season you choose, Baku offers a rich cultural and historical experience, along with stunning architecture and a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

I landed mid-morning after 30+ hours of flight so was sleep-deprived and exhausted. Ate something small for a late breakfast and slept till 4 pm! After that, I was feeling refreshed and ready to explore the town. 

Ordered a bolt taxi, from my hotel to the old town cost only 2.50 Mantas and just 10 mins.  The old city that has preserved its ancient architecture, and narrow cobbled streets till today. I walked around the historic Old City, known as Icherisheher. This part of Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s rich in history and charm. I then went to the Palace of the Shirvan Shahs (XV cent), and the Miniature Book Museum was still open, the symbol of the city – Maiden Tower (IX cent), Karvansarays, and Nizami Street (shopping and street food options). Don’t worry if you don’t make it here in the daytime because even nighttime exploration of Baku’s illuminated landmarks was great especially the flame towers light show. And that would be one of the best things to do in Baku at night. 

I asked some locals for dinner recommendations nearby and they mentioned Old Garden. This restaurant has outdoor and indoor seating areas and although pretty full, the attention and food were awesome. I had my first ever Azerbaijani meal called Coban Qovuima (chicken, potatoes) for 17 Mantas and Corak which is bread for 2 Mantas.

Remember Azerbaijan does not have hot spicy food. Saffron, turmeric, and black pepper are the main spices they use in their meals. But I figured they offer/grill medium-sized green chilies with their kebabs! So I took a picture of it and ordered it with my meal. Sorted! Alternatively, if you must have spicy food, suggest bringing a spicy sauce from home. After dinner, I ordered a bolt back to my hotel (the restaurant had free wifi) at 2.50 Mantas. Language barrier but the driver was happy to drive by the Flame Towers which was cool to see it so up close! 

Started my second day in Azerbaijan by waking up early to take full advantage of my time in this vibrant city, Baku. After spending one month in Central America , I have become a fan of watching sunrises as previously I was more of a sunset person. So I ordered a bolt taxi from my hotel to Highland Park, the cost was the same as last time 2.50 Mantas only, and I started my day with a breathtaking sunrise view from the top of Highland Park. The serene moment as the sun peeks over the Caspian Sea is a truly magical experience and you can spot Baku’s landmarks along with iconic flame towers.

I ended up talking with a local person who had also come for sunrise. I won’t mention name for her privacy but don’t you love it when you meet like-minded people? We talked about each other, life in general, and had a nice conversation. She was going to Uzbekistan for work in the next few days! I hope to see her again when I go there maybe next year?! She then drove us to Baku Boulevard / Promenade, we walked a bit there, talked more, and had breakfast together. It warms my heart when I meet such sweet souls.

I chose to include this brief story because it highlights an important aspect of solo travel: it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience; you can encounter wonderful people when you radiate positivity and openness. In terms of traditional Azerbaijani morning dishes try “Pərəndə,” a type of omelet, and “Çörək,” the local bread. These dishes offer a delightful blend of flavors and are the perfect way to start your day but of course, the hotel had many other varieties too.

After breakfast, I joined a small group tour to explore the world’s unique Gobustan National Reserve. The area is known for its petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and gas stones. The mud here is supposed to have some medical properties. One of the crazy things to do in Baku would be to get all this mud on my body but it isn’t allowed atm but they are building a resort in the area so that might be possible in the near future. These mud volcanoes reminded me of the mud bath experience I had in Vietnam ! After the mud volcanoes, we went to the petroglyphs site. Qobustan or Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve. Its exceptional significance lies in its remarkable rock art engravings rock, or petroglyphs, which exhibit outstanding universal value due to the richness and density of these depictions. These rock art images provide substantial evidence of prehistoric hunting, wildlife, plant life, and lifestyles. Moreover, Gobustan illustrates the cultural continuity between prehistoric and medieval eras, making it a site of extraordinary historical and archaeological importance. There’s also an interactive museum you can check out after the site. On the way, we stopped to touch the Caspian Sea which was a refreshing small break, and another stop at a Bibi-Heybat Mosque which was beautiful inside with all the glittery green tiles and colorful window glasses. It’s a historical mosque rebuilt in the 1990s that provided scarves and coveralls. In the Republic of Azerbaijan (excluding the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and the occupied regions), there are a total of 2,166 mosques. Remarkably, it’s estimated that there are approximately 120 mosques within Baku alone. So it made sense to visit at least one.

On the way, I also noticed all the gas pipes raised on the streets and we stopped to check out the World’s first oil well which is still producing 1 ton of oil per day! 

We were back in the old town for lunch, I knew where I was having it so I walked straight to Xezer – recommended by another local, let’s call it one of the hidden gems in Baku. A plate full of tasty chicken with bread for $5 AUD followed by an iced coffee at Starbucks with a dash of free wifi! Pic below of the lunch and dinner with clay plate.

I was excited to check out the next stop during my adventure in Baku which was Yanar Dag or “burning mountain”. It is a natural gas fire in Azerbaijan that has been continuously burning for decades. Apparently, the whole mountain used to be on fire but now there was only a small section on fire. This unique geological phenomenon is a popular tourist attraction due to its perpetual flames, which are a result of natural gas escaping from beneath the earth’s surface and igniting upon contact with the air. Clearly, Azerbaijan is called the “land of fire” due to such amazing natural phenomena.  We then went to the temple of Ateshgah, also called the ” Fire Temple of Baku” It is a historical and religious site in Baku, Azerbaijan, known for its unique pentagonal structure and history as a place of Zoroastrian worship. It is an important cultural and architectural landmark, representing the ancient Zoroastrian heritage of the region. In the afternoon, I met the modern Baku’s face, Heydar Aliyev center. It is projected as a complex and futuristic structure that includes the auditorium (convention center), a museum, exhibition halls, and administrative offices. The design of the building is also notable for the fact that neither the interior nor exterior of the building has any angles. The project of the center was designed by the winner of the Pritzker prize and internationally recognized architect Zaha Hadid. 

Back in Baku city and a nice walk along the boulevard people watching along with illuminated landmarks & glittering Caspian sea. Dinner at a seaside restaurant with Caspian Sea views is desirable but tonight I went to Dar Saleem restaurant next to my hotel.

I had delicious Azeri Chicken Plov aka Pomegranate Chicken with Chestnuts, dried prunes, plums, and rice plus a glass of semi-sweet red wine. If you want to try at least one local dish, this would be it. Really recommend it, it was one of the best meals I had on this trip. I was too tired the first day so during my 24 hours in Baku, I missed the following places but they come highly recommended so if you can, consider visiting the Carpet Museum, the House of Government, the Philharmonic Theatre named after M. Magomayev. and the Baku Mayor’s office.

After a tasty breakfast at the Auroom Hotel, it was time to explore more curious places and sights. On the way, we stopped to try some dried fruit roti, another type of local roti, and Azeri tea. 

We drove 3 hours or so then it was time for lunch at a pretty recent restaurant and we were settled with some local chicken kebabs and cherry compote.

Our next stop was Nij village in the Gabala region of Azerbaijan. It is a picturesque and secluded destination in Azerbaijan where visitors can immerse themselves in a unique and tranquil atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The village is particularly renowned for being home to a distinctive small church “Cotari Gerges” belonging to the Udi people, adding to its cultural and historical significance. The church is quite simple but it is a testament to the rich and diverse heritage of Azerbaijan and is well worth a visit for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. It was the first church I visited in Azerbaijan, as a Muslim country I had mostly seen a lot of mosques there. The church also had a separate building at the back with a wall full of pictures of high profiles attending the 1700th anniversary of the official adoption of Christianity in Caucasian Albania.

There are only a few thousand Udi people in the world today and the majority (approx. 4.000) live in this area in Azerbaijan. They have roots in Caucasian Albania. 

Our next stop was the Church of Kish also known from different sources as Church of Saint Elishe or Holy Mother of God Church.

Ancient Azerbaijan, referred to as Caucasian Albania (not to be confused with modern European Albania), encompassed a vast territory from the 2nd century B.C. to the 8th century and was a fascinating region that witnessed the early establishment of Christianity. Over time, it underwent an Islamic conquest, leading to Arab caliphate rule in the 7th century. The capital city transitioned from Qabala in the north to the more centrally located Barda.

As per the accounts of the Greek geographer and philosopher Strabo, ancient Caucasian Albania was home to a diverse population, encompassing numerous tribes speaking 26 different languages. Kish is one of those ancient villages located in the northwestern region of Sheki.

The village roads are made of fluvial stone which is why it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes but Al our tour guide had organized some pretty cool old-school cars to drive us up to the hill. In the village, fluvial stones are everywhere. Streets, fences around the homes, and even houses are built of this beautiful stone. The village is home to the Kish Church, which is one of the oldest Christian churches in the South Caucasus and represents an important piece of Azerbaijan’s historical and religious heritage. 

According to legend, the Kish Church, initially believed to be the world’s first Christian temple, was constructed by Saint Elisha, a disciple of the Apostle Thaddeus. Excitingly, archaeological discoveries beneath the church’s altar suggest that the sacred site traces its origins to approximately 3,000 B.C., while the church itself was founded in the 1st century and underwent five stages of construction from the twelfth century.

The transition from Christianity to Islam in the mid-7th century in Caucasian Albania didn’t diminish the region’s deep-rooted Alban-Christian ideology or its rich national and cultural heritage. Quite the opposite, Islam encouraged Muslims to protect the ancient Alban historical and cultural treasures, along with the traditions of Azerbaijan’s ancient tribes.

The Albans, one of the ancestral tribes of the Azerbaijani people, played a significant role in shaping the region’s unique culture. The importance of native Alban sources in understanding Azerbaijan’s ancient and medieval history and culture cannot be overstated. Christianity began to flourish in the South Caucasus in the first century, with many temples and churches emerging, some of which are remarkably well-preserved to this day. While no epigraphic writing adorns the temple, its architectural features, construction style, and technology strongly suggest it was crafted by Alban architects. This small village, with a population of around 6,000, may not immediately captivate you. However, as you stroll through its tranquil cobblestone streets or drive to the Kish Church, you’ll be rewarded with a captivating perspective set against the backdrop of towering mountains.

Today, Kis Alban functions as a museum, welcoming inquisitive tourists who can explore its rich history and picturesque surroundings.

After Kis, we finally arrived at our final destination for the day Sheki town. The sightseeing started with,

The Palace of Sheki Khans, also affectionately known as the Sheki Khan’s Palace, is a real treasure tucked away in the charming city of Sheki, Azerbaijan. Picture this: a stunning architectural wonder surrounded by chinar trees, adorned with intricate stained glass windows, and painted with beautiful frescoes that seem to tell stories of the past.

Now, here’s the juicy bit of history: this palace was built back in the late 18th century, and it wasn’t just any ordinary palace. It was the ultimate summer getaway for the Sheki Khans, who were the rulers of the Sheki Khanate. These folks knew how to live the good life! They needed a retreat from the hustle and bustle of court life, and what better way to escape than to have a palace as your summer residence?

But there’s more to this place than just grandeur. It’s a shining example of Azerbaijani architecture, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and intricate details. Each room whispers secrets of a bygone era, and the palace is like a time machine that whisks you back to a time of opulence and luxury.

So, when you visit the Palace of Sheki Khans, you’re not just exploring a stunning building; you’re stepping into the history of a Khan, his summer sanctuary, and the legacy of Azerbaijani architecture. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who loves history, culture, and, of course, a touch of architectural magic.

Oh, let me tell you about the Shebeke Craft Workshop! After being completely awestruck by the stunning stained glass windows, I couldn’t resist the chance to dive deeper into the magic of these intricate creations.

At the Shebeke Craft Workshop, we got to unravel the secrets behind those mesmerizing stained glass windows. It was like peeking behind the curtain of a spectacular show. I discovered how these delicate, colorful pieces of art are meticulously crafted and pieced together.

You know, it’s not just about making pretty windows; it’s an art form passed down through generations. Everyone in the group got to witness the skill and dedication that goes into every single piece. It’s a mesmerizing blend of history and craftsmanship that truly showcases the heart and soul of Azerbaijani culture.

So, if you’re like me and you stand in awe of those exquisite stained glass windows, a visit to the Shebeke Craft Workshop and their shops is a must. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the artistry that goes into creating these timeless pieces of beauty. After that, we stopped at a local sweet bakery for the famous Sheki halva which is a syrupy, baked baklava slice made with layers of rice paper, chopped nuts, and spices like coriander seed and cardamom. Few different halva to choose from in the shops. 

The accommodation of choice for tonight was the Old Town Hotel Sheki . Interestingly built with stones the hotel/ room was clean with a garden, terrace, a restaurant, and bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property. Plus a free bottle of water.

They also had an in-house restaurant so I decided to have my dinner here rather than going out. But if you choose to eat out, there are about 10 places you could choose from. Tonight I had saffron rice with chestnuts, dried plums, sultants, and beef in apricot sauce. It was Delicious!  Last night’s Pomegranate Chicken with Chestnuts, prune, and Rice in Baku and tonight’s dinner was off the charts! I enjoyed it a lot, so much so that I am booking a restaurant that does similar meals here in Melbourne.

Alternatively, book another accommodation through a trusted site such as booking.com

Each region of Azerbaijan boasts its own unique cuisine, influenced by its geographical location. For example, southern regions, nestled along the shores of the Caspian Sea and the Kura and Araz rivers, are known for their delectable stuffed fish or chicken dishes, like the lavangi. In contrast, the northern regions favor heartier fare, such as meat and pastry-heavy dishes.

The popularity of these dishes can also vary with the seasons. During the winter, you’ll find a comforting array of soups with meat, like piti, bozbash, and buglama, along with pastry delights such as dushbara (tiny dumplings), xangal, and gurza.

When the warmer seasons roll around, Azerbaijani cuisine shines with offerings like dovga, three-sisters dolma, a variety of kebabs, sachqovurma, qutabs, and an abundance of vegetable dishes and salads. Refreshing beverages like ayran and dogramach, both crafted from a blend of plain yogurt and water, keep you cool.

In Azerbaijan, bread and meat are central to the culinary experience, with bread accompanying most meals. Notably, as mentioned above, Azerbaijani cuisine doesn’t emphasize spicy dishes; instead, saffron, turmeric, and black pepper are the primary spices used in their delectable creations. Bring your own if you must!

Here are a few other Azeri staples you should try like plov (above rice meals), koka (filled buns), and an array of sweets like Sheki Halva. Koka, similar to piroshki found in Eastern European countries, is a popular street food and can be filled with fried onions and mashed potatoes or minced beef. Shekerbura, eye-catching half-moon pastries adorned with intricate patterns and filled with ground nuts and sugar, are another delightful highlight in Azerbaijan.

If you are a regular reader of my blog or Instagram you know I enjoy a good hike. So I was up at 6 a.m. to conquer a hill to watch a beautiful sunrise. 

From the old town hotel, cross the road at the front to Aliahmed Sweetstore, right next to the store take a left and keep going up until you arrive at Sheki Panorama Guest House. You should see a set of stairs in front of you. Better yet, type “55XP+96P, P. Əliyev küçəsi, Şəki, Azerbaijan” on Google Maps and it should show you the way.

I didn’t expect to see a big statue at the top of the hill and was interesting to find myself there and only a few locals on their way to work. No proper sunrise though as the morning was overcast but a good exercise and I was ready for breakfast. I have seen pictures of it on a sunny day and it looks very welcoming.

Few other places to visit in Sheki are Juma Mosque (Cuma Mascidi ), Upper Caravanserai (Yuxari Karvansaray), and Shekikhanovs’ House (Sekixanovlarin evi). Overall I liked the vibe of small town Sheki with its little shops, hiking trails, and fresh air.

Breakfast was mostly all different types of cheese, yogurt, chocolate dip, etc as you can see in the pic above.

After brekky, it was time to pack and leave Azerbaijan for my next adventure 7 days in Georgia Country #75! So the age-old question,

As I mentioned above as of today, Azerbaijan is absolutely worth visiting. It offers a captivating blend of rich history, stunning modern architecture, diverse culture, and delectable cuisine. All of which makes it a compelling destination for all types of travelers.

The next logical step was to cross the border to Georgia my country #75 or if you aren’t doing Georgia, it would be just enough time to head back to Baku for your onward travels. Either way, I hope this 4 days in Azerbaijan itinerary gave you insights and pointers in planning your Azerbaijan trip. 

Let me know in the comments :

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Azerbaijan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory november 2, 2023, azerbaijan - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates.

Exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to  terrorism concerns and areas of armed conflict . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do not travel to:

• The border region with Armenia.
• The  Nagorno-Karabakh  region and surrounding territories due to recent hostilities.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups that continue to plot attacks pose a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. 

Until September 2020 the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding territories were under Armenian control. Following armed hostilities in the fall of 2020 and fall of 2023, Azerbaijan took control of these seven territories and Nagorno-Karabakh. Further military activity could occur in the region.  

Read the  country information  page for additional information on travel to Azerbaijan.

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• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

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

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Explore Baku's Old City

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

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

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

Discover Gobustan's ancient rock art

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

Take a masterclass of Guba cuisine

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

Play golf in the beautiful countryside of Guba

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

Stroll through time in central Gusar

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

Hit the target at Gabala Shooting Club

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

Call into Sheki's craft shops

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

get inspired by Azerbaijan

Select your travel preferences and get personalized recommendations for your trip to Azerbaijan. Drag the dot to indicate how interested you are in the following experiences.

culture & heritage

not interested

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Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography

In the heart of Baku's Icherisheher, the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography... More

From oil innovation to artistic creation

The echoes of a rich oil heritage resonate through the settlements of... More

traditions of the East with a modern twist

Nestled in the heart of Baku, Sharg Bazaar stands as a striking emblem of Azerbaijan's rich cultural variety, fusing a traditional marketplace with a celebration of Azerbaijani heritage and artisanry. More

a palace to happiness recounts a history of love

In the vibrant heart of Baku stands the Palace of Happiness, a beautiful building with quite a story to tell.... More

Kamil Aliyev carpets shine with weaving mastery

“Art will never disappear as long as every artist, every professional, no... More

Azerbaijan right now #ExperienceAzerbaijan

Salam azerbaijan practical information.

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

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

Practical information

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

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

Useful vocabulary

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

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The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Last Updated on November 3, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Many people will know that Georgia is quickly becoming more and more popular amongst western tourists looking to get off the beaten path in Europe. The problem is, however, due to its geographic location in the far east of Europe, it is a long way to go just for a short Georgia itinerary .

That is why many people looking to visit Georgia want to take the time to visit the neighbouring countries as well. However, it can be difficult to map out the perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan itinerary for you.

We spent many months exploring Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan and have gathered all of the knowledge that can help you plan the perfect Caucasus itinerary!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan

Before you get to planning the route for your itinerary, you’re going to want to know when is the best time to visit the Caucasus countries.

Despite the fact that they seemingly occupy a small geographical area, Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan encompass a number of different climate zones and the weather can vary more than it does in most countries in continental Europe.

For instance, there may still be metres of snow on the highest peaks in the Caucasus in August and a city only a couple of hours away would have temperatures well over 35°C (95°F).

That being said, there are certainly times that are better to visit this region than others. On the whole, you can assume that Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan all have continental climates with cold winters and hot summers.

Outside of the mountain areas, winters do tend to be short and mild, mostly with temperatures hovering somewhere around freezing. If you aren’t interested in trekking and don’t mind the cold, then planning your itinerary in the winter can be a decent idea.

There are also the fewest tourist crowds between the months of December and February and ample affordable skiing opportunities throughout all three countries.

Conversely, summer in the Caucasus countries can be incredibly hot — especially in the cities and lowland areas. This is also the most popular time for visitors in all three countries, however, most places in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan are far from overrun.

Summer is the best time to visit if you plan to spend a lot of time in the mountains and do a bit of trekking. It is also a good time to visit if you want to make the most of the coastal areas along the Black and Caspian Seas.

Keep in mind that in some areas of all three countries, temperatures can soar to well over 35°C (95°F) between the months of June and August, including in Tbilisi, Yerevan, and Baku.

Like most everywhere in Europe, arguably the best time to head to the Caucasus is in the shoulder seasons between March-May and September-November. Here you will find the mildest temperatures and the fewer crowds. The only downside is that, especially in spring, there may be mountain areas that are closed to visitors due to snow and ice.

No matter when you decide to plan your Caucasus itinerary, you are sure to have an amazing time exploring Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

How Many Days in the Caucasus?

Now that you know the best time of year to visit the Caucasus countries, you need to figure out how long you want to devote to exploring this region. While we would honestly say that six weeks to two months is the absolute ideal amount of time to spend in Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, we do realise that most typical travellers don’t have months on end to aimlessly wander through the Caucasus.

So that being said, how many days should you spend here? Well, it depends on what you want to do, however, we would recommend planning on spending at least two weeks if you want to visit two countries (such as Georgian and Armenia or Georgia and Azerbaijan) and planning to spend at least three weeks if you want to visit all three countries.

If you have your heart set on visiting all three and you have fewer than 2 or 3 weeks to play around with, we suggest only concentrating on the capital cities of Tbilisi, Baku, and Yerevan.

It is likely that you will want to see more than just the capitals, however, and because of that we really urge you to try to spend as much time as you can in this region of the world. If you want to see the most of what all of these countries have to offer, plan to spend 2 or 3 weeks if you plan to only visit two countries and 3 or 4 weeks if you plan to visit all three.

Getting Around the Caucasus

Now that you know when and how long to visit the Caucasus, you need to know how you plan to get from point A to point B while there. Luckily, it is actually surprisingly easy and straightforward to get around these countries, especially if you’re moving between major cities and it can be very affordable, as well

If you plan on getting around Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia using public transport, you will find that it is pretty easy and there are a couple of options available for you. One thing to note is that typical coach-style buses in the Caucasus aren’t common and instead, most routes rely on minibuses, also called marshrutkas.

Marshrutka routes between major cities operate frequently and they are easy to catch. Usually, they do not operate on a set schedule and only tend to leave when they are full. Depending on the popularity of the route, the more frequently a bus will leave. It is also common to pay your fare directly to the driver, however, this is not always the case and someone will be there to tell you where to pay.

The other common form of “public” transit in the Caucasus is a shared taxi. This mode is more expensive and less reliable than a marshrutka, but it can still be a decent budget option if you don’t want to be crammed into an uncomfortable minibus for a few hours.

You will be able to find a shared taxi to your destination at the same place where the bus leaves. Drivers will usually quote you the price of the car, not the per-person price. Therefore, if you can share a cab with three other people, the price for you will go down significantly. In Georgia, you can book drivers and cars directly through a service called GoTrip .

There are some train connections in the Caucasus, most notably night trains between the capital cities and the Tbilisi to Batumi route, however, the train network is not nearly as developed as in other European nations. On the whole, you can expect train travel to be a lot slower than the bus with far fewer connections, but it definitely is more comfortable than a cramped marshrutka.

Many travellers in the Caucasus also prefer to be in more control of their itinerary and like having the flexibility that their own vehicle allows. Renting a car can be a good option if you want to visit some more off-the-beaten-path destinations or are short on time and want to make the most out of your time in Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

It is worth noting that the road quality in all three countries declines massively outside of the major cities. So you need to be ready to avoid a lot of potholes and to drive over a number of rough, unpaved roads. Drivers in the Caucasus can also be pretty aggressive, so it is necessary to stay very alert and to drive defensively.

If you want to rent a car in the Caucasus, we recommend using RentalCars.com to find great prices from major car hire companies. Alternatively, you can also rent private cars directly from locals through Local Rent.

All in all, it is very easy to get around all three countries with a few different options depending on your budget and preferences.

Entering Armenia and Azerbaijan

Before you start actually planning your itinerary, you need to be aware of the nuances of border crossings, especially if you are planning on visiting both Armenia and Azerbaijan.

It is no secret that Azerbaijan and Armenia and not friends, despite their shared border. The borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan are completely closed and it is impossible to travel between the two. So if you have a brilliant plan to travel from Baku to Yerevan to Tbilisi, it’s time to toss that out the window.

Because of the way border crossings can go, the best way to plan a route through the Caucasus region (if you want to visit all three countries) is to begin your route in Azerbaijan, travel through to Georgia and end in Armenia.

When it comes to entering Armenia, those with EU passports, US citizens, Australians, and New Zealanders do not require a visa and only need a passport to enter the country visa-free. Unfortunately, Canadian citizens do still need a visa before entering Armenia, however, it is possible to obtain a visa on arrival or through an easy e-visa process.

If you plan to visit Azerbaijan, it is almost certain that you will need a visa in advance. Citizens of numerous countries can apply for an e-visa at least three days prior to travelling. The visa application process is very easy and all you need to do is print out the visa and show it to the border guard upon entering Azerbaijan.

3-Week Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

If you want to visit all three Caucasus countries, then you’re going to need at least 3 weeks to do this. Because of the way border crossings work, the easiest way to do this is to begin in Baku and plan to end in Armenia. You can, however, do this route in reverse if it is easier for you to begin in Yerevan.

Days 1-3: Baku

To begin your trip, plan to spend your first three days in Azerbaijan’s capital city. Baku is an incredibly interesting city that combines ultra-modern architecture with grand European boulevards and a Persian-style old town that happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get your bearings by taking a walking tour of the city to get some context for your explorations.

As the most populous city in the Caucasus, Baku is large and you can easily spend a number of days exploring the city. We recommend you plan for two days seeing the sites and attractions of Baku before spending another day on a trip to the nearby mud volcanoes and Gobustan cave paintings.

Where to Stay in Baku

Baku is becoming a popular destination for city breaks among many countries and there is a seemingly infinite amount of accommodation to choose from ranging from the ultra-luxe to a budget backpacker hostel. Here’s where we think you should stay in Baku:

El Royal Hotel  – Situated in Baku’s downtown and within walking distance of the top attractions, this is an excellent mid-range option. They have a number of rooms to choose from, breakfast available and offer airport transfers.

Seven Boutique Hotel – A well-located boutique hotel with a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and a helpful staff to make your stay a great one.

Sahil Hostel – A backpacker hostel located close to Sahil Metro and within easy walking distance of all the main sites. They have a range of private and dorm rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Baku hotels!

Days 4-5: Sheki

After exploring bustling Baku, it’s time to see how much life in Azerbaijan outside of the oil-rich capital. This is why we recommend spending two nights in quiet Sheki.

Sheki is one of the most tourist-friendly towns in Azerbaijan, however, you could easily exhaust all of the things to do in Sheki in one full day.

However, it is worth it to take the time to explore the beautiful palaces and admire the local handicrafts while learning about the town’s Silk Road history. Sheki is also located near some fantastic hiking areas.

Where to Stay in Sheki

Because of its diminutive size, there aren’t a tonne of places to stay in Sheki, however, there are still a few options to choose from depending on your personal budget and travel style. Here are our suggestions:

Ilgar’s Guesthouse – A local homestay, rooms are basic but comfortable, there is decent WiFi and an option to get breakfast in the morning.

MinAli Boutique Hotel – A recently-opened boutique hotel, they have large modern rooms and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other rooms in Sheki!

Days 6-8: Sighnaghi

After exploring Sheki for a couple of days, it’s time to head to Georgia. The most logical next stop would be in the Kakheti region and that’s why we recommend spending days 6 to 8 in Sighnaghi.

It can be somewhat tricky to figure out how to get from Sheki to Sighnaghi , but there are a few options available to you and isn’t complicated if you plan in advance.

This walled hill town is situated in the heart of Georgia’s top wine region and overlooks the fertile Alazani Valley. Spend one day here exploring the town of Sighnaghi itself and another on a tour of the region, visiting some historical sites and a few wineries.

Where to Stay in Sighnaghi

Sighnaghi is one of the most popular getaways for both visitors and Georgian locals alike, therefore, there is a lot of accommodation choice in the small town. Here are our suggestions for the best places to stay in Sighnaghi:

Maya Guesthouse  – A family-run guesthouse with a beautiful view, they have both breakfast and dinner options available as well as a handful of clean and comfortable rooms. 

Guesthouse Wine  – Located in the town centre, this convivial guesthouse has a handful of clean rooms, a breakfast option available and friendly owners. They also make and sell their own traditional wine.

Boutique Hotel BelleVue  – This boutique hotel has several rooms (some with balconies) and a delightful swimming pool. It’s located in the town centre.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Sighnaghi hotels!

Days 9-10: Kazbegi

After spending two days in Sighnaghi, it’s time to venture up into the beautiful Caucasus mountains to the town of Stepantsminda, most commonly referred to as Kazbegi .

Located in the shadows of the imposing Mount Kazbek (Georgia’s third-tallest peak and the 7th highest in the Caucasus range), you will need to transfer buses in Tbilisi in order to reach here from Sighnaghi, unless you arrange a taxi or have your own vehicle.

The most popular activity in Kazbegi is to undertake the beautiful hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which commands incredible views of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding mountains. There are also ample other hiking opportunities in this area.

Many people treat Kazbegi simply as a day trip from Tbilisi, however, we recommend planning to spend two nights (one full day) in order to fully appreciate the scenery and to give yourself enough time to do the hike.

Where to Stay in Kazbegi:

Despite its very small size, there are numerous guesthouses and even some luxury accommodations in Kazbegi. If you’re wondering where to stay in this village, check out our recommendations:

Guest House Kavtarashvili 38 – A well-located, family-run guesthouse with a handful of clean rooms available. There is also an option to include a hearty breakfast.

Red Stone Guest House – Another small guesthouse in Gergeti Village, close to the trailhead to the hike to the church. They have many rooms available and breakfast is included in the room rate.

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi – A luxury hotel with great views of the mountains, numerous amenities, very comfortable rooms, and a great on-site restaurant.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Kazbegi!

Days 11-14: Tbilisi

Spend the next three days in Tbilisi , seeing the main sites and maybe taking the time to go on a day trip or visit some more off-beat destinations and attractions within Georgia’s capital. Three days is the optimal time to spend in the capital of Georgia to really get a feel for the vibrant city and to introduce yourself to Georgian culture.

On the first day, take the time to explore the city centre and old town. Stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, wander around the old town and take in the Botanic Gardens.

On your second day, head across the river and explore the Dry Bridge market and the Marjanishvili neighbourhood. You can then head out on a day trip to Mtskheta on the third day.

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

Tbilisi is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Georgia and, therefore, there is a range of accommodation to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a backpacker hostel or a boutique hotel, Tbilisi has it all. Here are our top recommendations:

Pushkin 10 Hostel – A budget backpacker hostel with great common areas and high ratings. There are both dorm and private rooms available.

Guest House Rampa  – A budget guesthouse in the Old Town, they have friendly, helpful owners and a handful of clean private rooms available along with self-catering facilities. 

Hotel Flower   – A centrally-located boutique hotel within easy walking distance of most of Tbilisi’s main attractions. There are numerous rooms available, 24-hour reception, and breakfast is included in your nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tbilisi hotels!

Days 15-19: Yerevan

After exploring Georgia, it’s time to head south to the capital of Armenia : Yerevan. There are plenty of connections between Tbilisi and Yerevan including marshrutkas, trains and a night train service.

Yerevan is a massive city that feels a world away from Tbilisi, however, it retains its own unique charm and it is well worth spending a lot of time in the city. The well-planned streets of the city centre are easy to navigate and the cafe culture in this cosmopolitan city is enough to rival other European capitals like Paris , Budapest , or Vienna .

Yerevan is an excellent base in Armenia as it also gives you the opportunity to explore many other areas of the country via day trip. We recommend spending a least two full days exploring Yerevan in its totality and then using the rest of your time seeing some other areas of the country via day tour or independent day trip.

Where to Stay in Yerevan:

Being the cosmopolitan capital that it is, there is a ton of option when it comes places to stay in Yerevan. If you’re struggling to find the best place for you, check out our suggestions:

Envoy Hostel – A backpacker hostel, they offer both dorm and private rooms and also organise day tours around the country, with a special discount for their guests. They have helpful staff, clean facilities, and good common areas.

Skyline Hotel Yerevan – A mid-range hotel located within 400 metres of Republic Square, there are numerous clean rooms, a free airport shuttle and a great breakfast in the mornings.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Yerevan!

Days 20-21: Dilijan

After exploring cosmopolitan Yerevan, end your itinerary in the beautiful town of Dilijan. Colloquially referred to as Armenia’s Switzerland, this is the place to go for a mountain retreat in the country and it is popular among both Armenian locals and tourists alike.

While the town itself doesn’t have a lot of sights to see and things to do, it is surrounded by hiking trails and there is a helpful tourist information centre that can tell you the best places to go for a short stroll in the woods or a full day trek.

Depending on where you want to end your time in the Caucasus, you can easily head back to Yerevan to catch a flight out or go from Dilijan to Tbilisi and leave from Georgia.

Where to Stay in Dilijan

Dilijan is an incredibly popular weekend destination in Armenia and, therefore, there are lots of places to stay in the town. If you want to know where to stay in Dilijan, have a look at our top recommendations:

Green Dilijan B&B – This family-run guesthouse with a few rooms available and nice common areas. It is very clean and there is an option to add breakfast for an additional charge.

Kirovi Tun — A small hotel with a range of cosy and clean rooms available and a swimming pool to keep the whole family entertained. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Dilijan!

4 Week Caucasus Itinerary

Four weeks is an amount of time to spend visiting all three of Armenia, Georgian and Azerbaijan as it allows you to see the most of the three countries without feeling too rushed and overwhelmed. Follow this route:

• Days 1-3: Baku, Azerbaijan – Start your trip with three days in the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan
• Days 4-5: Sheki, Azerbaijan – view the UNESCO World Heritage Site and mountain scenery in this lovely town
• Days 6-8: Sighnaghi, Georgia – sip wine and visit historic monasteries in this walled hill town
• Days 9-10: Kazbegi, Georgia – hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church and enjoy mountain views in Stepantsminda
• Days 11-14: Tbilisi, Georgia – take the time to explore the Georgian capital
• Days 15-17: Yerevan, Armenia – take in the sites of the Armenian capital and its surrounding area
• Days 18-19: Dilijan, Armenia – enjoy the pristine nature of Armenia in this lovely mountain town
• Days 20-22: Borjomi, Georgia – soak in healing sulfuric waters or take a day trip to the ancient cave city of Vardzia in this Georgian city
• Days 23-25: Kutaisi, Georgia – get to know Georgia’s third-largest city and its surrounding area
• Days 26-28: Mestia or Batumi, Georgia – hike in one of Georgia’s most remote mountain villages or bask in the sunshine on the Black Sea coast

If you have more than 4 weeks to devote to a trip, then you will have a lot more flexibility for your route. You could, perhaps, choose to go the popular Mestia to Ushguli trek or you could spend longer in Tbilisi, Yerevan or Baku.

You could also venture to a few more off-beat destinations or spend longer in each place in order to both minimise your impact and really get to know the culture.

Planning the perfect itinerary across Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia can seem overwhelming at first, but once you work out how long you have and which places are worth visiting, the task becomes far less daunting.

Are you visiting any of these countries? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to Travel from Tbilisi to Batumi by Bus, Train, Taxi or Flight

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary: 5 to 7 Days (or More!)

How to Travel to Mestia from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi & Batumi

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thank you, very helpful:) <3

Dear Maggie

I do appreciate you generosity in sharing these information, it answers all of question in my head. It is very useful. I am think of visiting Georgia-Armenia-Azerbijan approximately 2 weeks in year 2020, but I have no idea at all about these 3 countries. Luckily that I put the right “key word” when I search, then it’s such a miracle that your web has pop up. Thank you so much & wish you a wonderful day wherever you are!

Thanks for your comment, Oraphan! I’m glad that this itinerary was able to help you and I hope you have a great trip to the Caucasus next year 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Travel to Azerbaijan in 2024 – Everything you must know

By Joan Torres 30 Comments Last updated on April 24, 2024

Azerbaijan is a weird, fascinating country. 

Located on the border between Asia and Europe, Azerbaijan has one of those cultures which is particularly difficult to define, as it is a Caucasian country with a large Turkish and Iranian influence, that used to be part of the Soviet Union, so the end result is such a strange mix of opposed cultures that leaves the traveler very confused. 

I traveled to Azerbaijan twice.

During this period of time, they introduced an e-visa system so, in only two years, tourism has grown exponentially and the country has started to get significant international exposure.

The weirdness of Azerbaijan is what makes it a particularly interesting country and, in this guide, I have compiled everything you need to know for traveling to Azerbaijan . 

For places to visit, don’t forget to check my complete Azerbaijan travel itinerary

In this Azerbaijan travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit
• Travel insurance
• Useful books
• The country and culture
• Tourism in Azerbaijan
• How to get in
• Food and alcohol
• Transportation
• Accommodation
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Azerbaijan

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

🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Azerbaijan

E-visa is available for traveling to in azerbaijan.

Since January 2017, you can apply for an e-visa to travel to Azerbaijan and this is the official Governmental portal .

It costs 25USD and takes 3 working days to proceed. If you want an urgent visa, it costs 50USD. 

Who can apply for a tourist visa for Azerbaijan?

All countries from this list , which includes all Western nationalities and many more.

How long is the Azerbaijan visa valid for?

The single visa is valid for 30 days within a 90 days window – note that there is no double entry visa.

Registration in Azerbaijan

If you are traveling in Azerbaijan for more than 15 days, you will need to register. You can do it in your hotel or at the police station itself.

For more information, I recommend you read this article from Caravanistan . 

Important – Registration is no joke! In 2016, I skipped this registration (at that time, there was not much information about it and the limit was 10 days), so when the police found out, they made me choose between paying a $300 fine or being deported and banned from entering Azerbaijan within 1 year. After 11 months, I tried to apply for the e-visa and it got instantly rejected. In 2019, I managed to get in without any problem.

⛅ Best time to visit Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, you find 9 out of the 11 climate zones .

From glaciers to vast, hot deserts, the landscape in Azerbaijan is full of contrasts. This means that the climate is also very varied so, depending on where you want to go, Azerbaijan can be a year-round destination. 

For example, the mountains are good to visit from April to October but, if you want to do some trekking, summer would be the ideal season. 

The region around Baku has a continental climate, which means that summer is extremely hot and winter very cold, but it can be visited all year round. 

However, I would say that mid-spring and mid-autumn would be the ideal time to travel to Azerbaijan. 

Read: Things to do in Baku in 3 days

🚑 Travel Insurance for Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is an adventurous destination, so go there with the proper travel insurance.

I recommend IATI Insurance because:

• It has all types of plans, from families to backpackers
• One of the few providers with full COVID-19 coverage
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

📚 A book for traveling to Azerbaijan

Travel guide to azerbaijan, georgia and armenia by lonely planet.

There is no guidebook focusing exclusively on Azerbaijan, not even from Bradt, but you need to get the LP guide to the region. 

🕌 The country, the people and the culture

Azerbaijan today.

Azerbaijan is a former Soviet Republic that got its independence in 1991, after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Since 1993, it has been ruled by a political party named the New Azerbaijan Party , a party founded by Heydar Aliyev, who ruled from 1993 to 2003. After his death, his son Ilham Aliyev took over and he still rules today. 

It is said that this political party doesn’t really have an ideology but it is based on nationalism and a personality cult centered on Heydar Aliyev , who is believed to be the first person to make Azerbaijan great and whose name is seen in numerous streets, museums, and places around the country. 

On the other hand, Azerbaijan is one of those fake democracies where the ruling party has been accused of several human rights abuses and authoritarianism but it seems their citizens don’t complain much about it. 

When you arrive in Baku , you will feel that you are in an extremely developed country, as the majesty of its impeccable streets is perfectly comparable to many European cities. 

Traveling to Georgia? Here’s my ultimate guide to travel to Georgia!

However, as soon as you step out of the capital, things change and you will suddenly find yourself in a third-world country. This huge contrast is explained by the fact that Baku is what it is thanks to the petrol and, due to obvious corruption, this growth has been exclusively focused on the capital. 

This kind of fake development is also explained by the fact that, whereas Baku feels much more developed than Tbilisi for example, the capital of Georgia is much more socially developed than Baku, a city where sometimes it is even difficult to see mixed groups of men and women. 

Read: 80 Useful tips for traveling to Iran

Religion in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a supposedly Islamic country, 85% of the population being Shia Muslims and the rest Sunni. Nevertheless, Azerbaijan was the first Islamic country to ever declare itself a democratic and secular Republic (in 1918).

This means that many people in the country are atheist, similar to their brothers and sisters from Central Asia , so religion isn’t really a big deal here, especially in Baku. In fact, there are very few functional mosques. 

The personal story of my local friend During my journey, I met a local, young guy from Baku who turned out to be very religious. In fact, he has a Muslim beard and his wife wears a hijab, something not very commonly seen in Azerbaijan. Anyways, he told me that her wife got a job in a public TV channel but they told her that she had to remove her hijab to come to the office. She obviously refused to do so and, apparently, it was not an option, so she couldn’t get the job in the end. Probably, this is the only Muslim country where these things happen. 

The people: The Azerbaijanis

Physically, most Azerbaijanis look kind of Iranian but a bit different. From a cultural point of view, like I said in the beginning, it is difficult to define them as a single culture. Definitely, they have similarities with their neighbors from Georgia , even Armenia, but they also have many customs from the Iranians.

For example, they are heavy drinkers of tea, and they drink it in the same way Iranians do, using the same sort of glasses and the same amount of sugar.

However, you are likely to see them drinking a shot of vodka right after the tea and, when you go to the rural areas, it really feels like you are in Georgia , as people look kind of the same and the houses have a very similar architecture.

To make it even more surreal, they speak Turkish and you can still see great Russian influence. 

It’s just weird and, no matter how hard you try, you can’t really define their culture as a whole. 

Hospitality

Azerbaijanis are hospitable, not as much as my friends from Iran obviously, but they were all right, perhaps more than in other Caucasian countries. Is it because they are Musli

I don’t know, maybe. In my case, random tea invitations were common and I still keep in touch with 1 or 2 friends who never allowed me to pay for a meal. 

Check out my off-beat guide to Tbilisi

Language in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani is the official language in the country, which is a Turkish dialect. Out of all the Turkic spoken languages, from Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani is the closest one to Turkish.

Most people will also speak Russian but, apparently, not as well as their Central Asian neighbors. As for English, in Baku, some young people can speak it but that’s it. 

Read: 75 Useful tips for traveling to Kyrgyzstan

Is Azerbaijan an off the beaten track destination?

Glad you asked. 

Like I said in the beginning, after introducing the e-visa system in January 2017, tourism has grown exponentially. 

You will see that today, Baku is actually filled with loads of backpacker hostels and tour groups abound. Destinations such as Sheki or Lahic also see a fair amount of tourists and, in remote villages such as Xinaliq, you can already find a wide range of official homestays. 

Nevertheless, Azerbaijan is still an emerging tourist destination, and the number of tourists is not even comparable to any country in Europe. In fact, outside of the main touristic towns, you are likely to be the only tourist hanging around. 

Places like the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, Ivanovka and the towns and villages around Ganja are really unspoiled destinations, which you don’t want to miss. 

If you want to experience the real Azerbaijan, I strongly encourage you to check those destinations out. In my Azerbaijan itinerary , you can find more information about these places.

Read: Tips for traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan

🛫 How to get to Azerbaijan

Traveling to Azerbaijan is very easy. 

Travel to Azerbaijan by air

The international airport of Baku has many connections to Europe and many other countries in Asia and the Middle East . 

Travel to Azerbaijan by land

Georgia – There are two very friendly open borders with Georgia, one linking Zaqatala with Sighnaghi and other one linking Ganja with Tbilisi. The second one can be crossed by train and, in fact, there is a direct night train from Tbilisi to Baku .

Iran – The border with Iran is also open and very friendly but remember that, if you are going to Iran, you will need to be in possession of an Iranian visa .

I also recommend you read my 80 Tips for traveling to Iran . 

Russia – This border is currently closed to foreigners. 

What happens with Armenia? Armenia and Azerbaijan are technically at war, mainly due to the dispute of Nagorno-Karabakh, so the border with Armenia is definitely closed. Nevertheless, you should know that having an Armenian visa on your passport does not ban you from traveling to Azerbaijan (and vice-versa), so you should not worry at all about that, other than getting some standard questioning.  However, if there is any evidence that you have traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh, which is only accessible from Armenia, you will be banned from entering Azerbaijan for the rest of your life. Please note that for entering Nagorno-Karabakh you get a different passport stamp but, apparently, nowadays you can ask them to stamp it on a separate piece of paper. 

Travel to Azerbaijan by sea

Kazakhstan – You can travel to Azerbaijan by boat over the Caspian Sea from a Kazakh city named Aktau. It takes 24 hours and you need a dose of patience because it departs every few days, randomly. Read my 35 Useful tips for traveling to Kazakhstan . 

Turkmenistan – If you are lucky to be in possession of a Turkmen visa, you can also take the boat from Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan. 

💻 Internet and connectivity in Azerbaijan

Wi-Fi – It works surprisingly well all over the country. 

SIM Card – I recommend Azercell. You can buy a SIM Card in many mobile stores but you should go to the official store of Azercell, as you will be charged the real price. There is a big one in Fountain Square and, for a couple of manats, you get loads of data. 

eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Azerbaijan

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Azerbaijan . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Get a VPN for traveling in Azerbaijan

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Azerbaijan. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, they use the Azerbaijani manat (ANZ) and, approximately:

1 USD = 1.70 AZN

ATM and credit cards

In Baku, you can use your credit card pretty much anywhere and ATMs abound. However, once you leave the capital, it is better to bring cash with you. You may find some ATMs in smaller towns but you can’t really pay by card.

Exchanging money in Azerbiajan

There many exchange offices around the country. 

How much does it cost to travel to Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is really cheap. In fact, leaving the fancy Baku aside, this is one of the cheapest countries I have ever been to. These are the costs of the most typical things:

• Backpacker hostels – 7 to 15AZN
• Budget guest houses – 30 to 40AZN
• Mid-range hotels – 60 to 80AZN
• Fast food (Doner kebab, sandwich, etc.) – Around 2AZN
• Local eateries (a meal) – 2 to 5AZN
• Mid-Range restaurants (Normally, only available in Baku) – 8 to 15AZN
• Supermarket (beer can) – 0.50 to 1AZN
• Budget bars or happy hour (local draft beer) – 1AZN to 2AZN
• Night bars  (local draft beer) – 2 to 5AZN
• Short taxi ride in Baku – 2 to 3AZN
• Metro ride in Baku – 0.30AZN
• Bus from Baku to Quba – 6AZN and the journey takes 3 to 4 hours.

Backpacking Budget for Azerbaijan From 30€ – 40€ a day

🍲 Food & cuisine in Azerbaijan

Like its people, the food of Azerbaijan is a real blend of cultures and flavors, with influences from all over the region, from Turkey to Russia, Iran and even Greece. 

From plenty of kebabs to the tzatziki Greek yogurt, Uzbek plov , Turkish dolma , and Iranian dizi , during my journey, I tasted something different every day. 

The majority of Azerbaijanis have never left their country, so they will always tell you that those dishes are originally from Azerbaijan and, depending on the way you look at it, they may be right, as all their dishes are local variations on the original dish. 

Azerbaijan travel tip – Baku is definitely more expensive than the rest of the country but, from Monday to Friday, most restaurants have a lunch deal in which, for only 2 or 3€, you will get a full set menu.

My favorite dishes of Azerbaijan

Piti – One of the most typical dishes consists of vegetables, lamb and chickpeas, all cooked in a clay pot and covered by lamb fat. Once served, you smash it like if they were mashed potatoes. You can also find a variation of this dish in Iran called dizi . 

Yarpak Xangal – It consists of layers of pasta, meat, caramelized onion and yogurt. A very heavy dish. In Central Asia, there is a similar thing called beshbarmak . 

Dushbara – A dumpling soup typical of the northern-western part of the country. You can also find it in Kazakhstan and it is called pelmeni . 

Drinking alcohol in Azerbaijan

As in other beloved ex-Soviet Muslim country, alcohol is not really haram (things which are forbidden in Islam), so beer and vodka are available all over the country, even in small villages.

Actually, many cafés in rural areas do have a barrel of draft beer but it is really, really bad, as it has little gas and is really badly served. 

Drinking vodka with locals

If you are lucky, you may be able to drink vodka with some Azerbaijanis but remember that, if you agree to it, you need to finish the whole bottle. When I was in Nakhchivan, I went for dinner with my host’s family and, when we ordered drinks, his father asked me if I wanted to drink some vodka.

I said OK, thinking that everybody in the table would drink, so we would have 1 or 2 shots per person.

However, apparently, everybody said no but me, so his father forced me to drink half of the bottle before even finishing my food. I was the drunkest person in the restaurant and the next day I felt so embarrassed but, fortunately, in Soviet countries, they are used to people being drunk, so everybody just laughed on the day after. 

Just be aware that, if you aren’t really into drinking, it is better to say no from the very beginning. Otherwise, if you have just one or two shots you will be considered a pussy. 

Beer snacks

If you are having beers with Azerbaijani people, you will see that they always need to order something called beer snacks , which range from smoked cheese to fried meat balls. If you want to do what the locals do, order them whenever you get a beer in a bar. 

🛺 Transportation: how to move around Azerbaijan

Moving around baku.

Metro – In Baku, there is a pretty cool metro and one single ride costs 0.30AZN. You need, however, to buy a 4AZN metro card first. 

Uber – Get this app to move around Baku by taxi. 

For more information on transportation in Baku, read my Baku city guide

Moving around Azerbaijan

Marshrutka – Locals move around the country by marshrutkas, which is what public mini-vans are called in the former Soviet Republics. They are really cheap, leave once they are full and they are connected to pretty much any town and city in the country. 

Train – The train goes from Baku to Ganja and then continues until Tbilisi . However, it doesn’t follow the main touristic trail, so you will have to rely on marshrutkas. 

Domestic flights – I took a domestic flight from Baku to the exclave of Nakhchivan, which is the only way to get there. I flew with Azerbaijan Airlines . 

Car rental – Traveling around Azerbaijan by a rental car is safe, feasible and effective, especially around Quba, as you will be able to go to places that are a bit hard to reach by public transportation.

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Azerbaijan

There is a wide range of accommodation all over the country, from hostels to guesthouses, homestays and regular hotels, including plenty of 5-star hotels in Baku. 

In my Azerbaijan itinerary , I recommend several hotels in each city. 

❗ More information for traveling in 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.

All guides and articles for traveling in Azerbaijan destination

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

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

• Georgia Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Tajikistan
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Moldova
• Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Kazakhstan Travel Guide

30 comments

This is a wonderful write-up to provide potential travellers with an estimate budget. I just wanted to ask, minus accommodation if I estimate 50AZN per day to roam around the city, maybe go to sheki by bus and stay a night there – is it enough? Accommodation is not included in the 50AZN per day budget. I have budgeted accommodation separately.

Prices have slightly increased since the last time I was there but if you stay in budget dorms, I am sure you can make it!

Amazing article about Azerbaijan. I love that you added personal stories of your friends. It’s really devastating how women aren’t always seen as individuals who are entitled to their opinion and choices on some parts of the world.

Hey, I think you got the cost of the metro ride wrong in euros 🙂

thanks for telling me

Hi, I am completing a visa application for Azerbaijan. On the visa application it asks for hotel accommodation details. I will be backpacking starting in Turkey, Georgia etc and I don’t have a definite date I will arrive In Azerbaijan. Can I book a hotel for my last 3 days in Baku before I fly home and include those details in the visa application or do I need to book and detail all the time I expect to be there? By the way I went to Iran in March this year based on your travel blog and then onto Turkey and the Balkans. I had a great time. Your help on the visa would be appreciated.

Hey Michael! The evisa for Azerbaijan only takes a couple of days to proceed, so you could apply during your last days in Georgia. In any case, the accommodation details are for just reference, so you could just make a booking in any random hotel in Azerbaijan, and it should be fine.

Hi Joan, Thanks for your response. My visa came through in 36 hours. As I have already booked my flight leaving from Baku I wanted to ensure I had a visa for Azerbaijan well in advance. I tend to avoid countries which make it difficult to get a visa. I understand in Azerbaijan I will need to register as I will be staying longer than 10 days. I will look at your Pakistan report when I return as I intend to start in southern India and do 3 months and then into Pakistan. The visa for Pakistan looks complicated with letters etc required while India have recently increased the time for Australians to 3 months which is much better for my style of travelling. Keep up the good work and stay safe.

Thank you michael, enjoy Azerbaijan, and your future trip to Pakistan. And yes, the visa can be a pain, but it is really worth the shot. Cheers!

It was really enjoyable to read your review! Azerbaijan is definitely worth to visit. But i don’t really understand why you can’t define Azerbaijanin culture and cousine as a whole. I don’t see any point of comparing Azerbaijanis with any other nation, since they are unique. Coming to cousine, pelmeni are being cooked not only in Kazakhstan. There are many interpretations of this dish in various cousines, but i find Dushbara completely different and unique, as well as other national dishes of Azerbaijan. Ptrobably you’ve never tried levengi, turshkabab, fisincan, which i believe you hardly find anywhere else in the world, but in Azerbaijan. Cheers!!

Thanks for the explanation, I googled these dishes and they look absolutely delicious 😉

Thanks for the great information.

I am based in Denmark and my International Driving License from here states that it doesnt cover Azerbaijan – What is the situation to drive there? What do I need to do / have?

Thanks very much 🙂

Hi Brenda, as far as I know, any EU driving license should be enough to drive around Azerbaijan, as long as you are on a tourist visa. If your Danish license has different requirements, that’s something I can’t know

Is border between Azerbaijan and Iran open for international tourists?

As of today, Azerbaijan landborders remain closed

I like to go to hil quasar to see the village in country life vlog in you tube. Is that possible?

Thanks so much for this write up on Azerbijan, the best uptodate information I’ve read. I am travelling to Nakhichevan from UK with my son in a weeks time as he is in a chess tournament. I just wanted to ask as a women in this area, how will it be regarding what I wear etc. I also want to swim and wondering if I need to buy a special swimsuit? We are also vegan, any advice there?! Thanks Zoe

Hi Zoe, Azerbaijan is generally pretty relaxed, compared to any other Muslim countries. You can dress as you like, within modesty, of course. Regarding vegan food, it’s not the best place for that, but azari cuisine has some pretty elaborated salads

I’m glad that you gave your point of view, Baku seems a very interesting place to go as a tourist but is way better if you can see the city in a whole different point of view.

Hello This is Mr Murad from Sialkot Pakistan.. I would like to tour for azirbahijan..I want to marketing about appare How can I apply visa.. Regards Mr Murad Ali

Hey Beautiful article, thank

Hi Joan. Thank you for the itinerary and the article about Azerbaijan. I’m going to be in Azerbaijan for a week and interested in visiting the South (either hirkan national park or talysh mountains. Do you have any advice about travel there? And if 3 nights are enough (, for one of them only).

Never been in that area, unfortunately!

Hello, I read your post and I think it’s great how you described and explained everything.. iv But I have a question. Yesterday I wanted to apply for an e-visa on the official website of Azerbaijan. They refused my payment. So I wanted to apply for the visa at “Ivisa”. But it says that you can only fly to Azerbaijan and that’s the only way you can apply for a visa. But your post says that the entry by sea is possible. Is entry by ferry via sea really allowed, or could my entry into the country be rejected? I would be happy if you would answer

As long as you have a valid visa, you can use any port of entry to enter Azerbaijan

Just FYI to fill out bank forms before you go. I’m in country right now and all of my cards (from 3 separate banks) were suddenly cut off on Day 3 because Azerbaijan apparently is in a “red zone” that my pre trip research hadn’t uncovered. Aargh. Spending the evening arguing with the banks wasn’t on my bingo card.

Hi Jadzia, I am very surprised! where are your banks from?

Hi there! Thank you for a very informative article about Azerbaijan. We are planning a car trip with kids driving from Greece to Turkey to Georgia and reaching our final destination Azerbaijan. Maybe you could share any update on land borders with Georgia and land border crossing permit for those entering by car; What requirements i need in order to get it? Flying from Greece to Baku is super pricey and not really convenient connection flights either. .. thank you.!!

Hi Liana, borders are open but I’ve never crossed borders with a car, so I can’t tell whether you need permits or not

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Tuesday, May 14, 2024 12:54 pm (Paris)

• International

Armenia detains over 150 during protests against Azerbaijan land deal

The demonstrators were protesting their government's territorial concessions to Azerbaijan, which began on April 23, with the historic process of demarcating the border between these two former Soviet republics.

Le Monde with AFP

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Armenian police said on Monday, May 13, they had detained dozens of people attempting to block streets in the capital Yerevan as part of protests against government plans to concede land to Azerbaijan.

Armenia has agreed to hand over territory it has controlled since the 1990s and has started border delimitation efforts, in a bid to secure an elusive peace deal with Baku and avoid another bloody conflict.

The territorial concessions have sparked weeks of protests by demonstrators, who have blocked major roads in an attempt to force Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to change course.

Protest leader Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan has urged opponents of the deal to flood the streets of Yerevan on Monday in a fresh show of opposition to the deal.

The interior ministry said that a total of 151 people had been detained so far on Monday but that protesters had failed to close off any streets in Yerevan. An Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalist said hundreds of people had joined the demonstration.

Armenia and Azerbaijan, two former Soviet republics in the south Caucasus, have been locked in a stand-off over disputed territory, primarily Nagorno-Karabakh, since the break-up of the Soviet Union.

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The story behind the world-travelling stonemasons of Samoëns

Stonemasons from the village of Samoëns were once known across the world. Today, only two remain — but their legacy is writ large across local streets and beyond.

“Look, that one’s my father,” says 81-year-old Pierre Bianco, pointing to a grainy black-and-white photo in an album. It shows a man wearing a flat cap and waistcoat, standing at the entrance to a quarry alongside a dozen or so fellow workers, all staring solemnly at the camera. One sits on horseback, a small wagon trailing behind. “This was taken in 1903,” he continues. “The horses would travel up to the quarry and take the stone back to town.”

The town is Samoëns, a small settlement in the Giffre Valley of Haute-Savoie, a region of the French Alps. Local lore says its name originally meant ‘seven mountains’, in a nod to the towering limestone peaks that stand guard all around. Pierre’s thick, calloused hands reveal a lifetime spent working with this limestone, first to construct houses, later to create delicate, intricate and almost gravity-defying works of art. Among the array of hand-carved sculptures lining every surface of his living room are smooth, marble-like spheres, slowly rotating on fragile glass stands.

He dives back into the album and picks out another photo, this time showing a group of sombre-looking boys and young men. They’re holding pickaxes and wooden bars, which, as Pierre explains, were once used for levering dynamite into rock crevices. These images are part of a larger collection of newspaper clippings, sketches and illustrations — records documenting a traditional skill and art form that’s in danger of disappearing. “Few young people want to work with stone these days,” says Pierre with a sigh, mimicking a console with his hands. “It’s sad, but it’s very difficult to make a living out of it.”

Pierre is one of Samoëns’ two remaining stonemasons — a profession that once passed down through generations and brought the valley fame and fortune. During the 17th century, Samoëns was revered for its stonecutters, known locally as frahans . Their reputation spread far and wide: they travelled throughout France, working on projects for the famed military engineer Vauban, and constructing the canals at Saint Quentin and on the Rhône-Rhine. The French philosopher, novelist and playwright Voltaire was so taken with their work that he hired them to build his château in Ferney-Voltaire.

“We know the furthest they travelled was Louisiana,” says Aurélie Veisy, a Savoie Mont Blanc heritage guide, as we sip coffee at local cafe À la Jaÿsinia later that afternoon. “We found the names of three masons in New Orleans archives.” Like many success stories, that of the frahans   was a mixture of necessity, opportunity and good luck. Alpine farmers regularly sought alternative work during the winter months, when their fields were blanketed by thick layers of snow. In the Giffre, they turned to the mountains and discovered the local stone had a mineral hardness similar to marble, ideal for construction.

“At one point, there were around 40 quarries in the valley, and nine out of 10 men in Samoëns were stonemasons,” says Aurélie. “There were so many frahans   and they were so successful that a brotherhood was formed.” La Société des Maçons aided the poor, cared for the sick and trained young apprentices in the art of stonecutting. They also developed their own language, called Mourmé. “If they were working and didn’t like their boss, for example, they could talk about him secretly.”

The full story of this secret language has been lost over time. The only record is a Mourmé-French glossary from 1900, created by a marble worker from Samoëns exiled to French-speaking Switzerland, with texts, anecdotes and even a prayer all written in the language. A copy sits locked away in the basement of the town hall, deep in the heart of Samoëns.

Time tested

The next day I meet Nora Bériou by the Stonecutters Fountain next to Samoëns’ tourist office. Depicting a frahan at work, the large statue was created in 2000 by Guillaume Bozonnet, the only stonemason other than Pierre working in Samoëns today. Another Savoie Mont Blanc heritage guide, Nora leads regular tours showcasing the town’s history, which is inextricably linked with that of the stonemasons.

We walk along lanes lined with stone and timber buildings to the church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption. Completed in 1555, it bears the frahans ’ hallmarks — an ornately carved architrave flanked by two stone lions and a pair of grimacing faces. In a small cemetery opposite the church, Nora points out a gravestone with two carved hands, the symbol of solidarity of the stonemasons’ brotherhood.

We cross the road towards La Grenette, the town’s covered market space, first constructed in the 14th century. Every Wednesday, stalls spill into the surrounding streets and car park, but, today, we’re here to admire the roof, supported by limestone columns carved during the mid-19th century by local stonecutter François Mugnier. “He was also commissioned to carve a coat of arms,” Nora says, “but there was a dispute over his fee, so he left the design blank.”

Nearby stand the tall, wrought-iron gates guarding La Jaÿsinia, a botanic garden commissioned by local entrepreneur Marie-Louise Cognacq-Jaÿ in 1906. She picked an enormous limestone cliff as the location for the gardens, which had to be carved, moulded and shaped over three years by some 300 workers. We climb the steep stairs chiselled into the rock face, past plants and trees sourced from all over the world, including a Californian sequoia and a cedar of Lebanon, until we arrive at a petite chapel near the top.  

It’s one of nine churches scattered about the valley, all built by local stonemasons. “Marie-Louise would bring her goats up to graze on these rocks while she looked out,” says Nora as we gaze over the valley, washed in late afternoon sunshine, as Marie-Louise would have done. “That’s why they built this chapel.” Despite the gardens’ haphazard appearance, planting was meticulously planned to allow for blockbuster views such as this.

That evening, I dine at La Fandioleuse, a tiny, packed restaurant that’s been serving an unfathomable variety of crepes for the last 45 years, all of them listed on the menu in Mourmé. I order Le Pèrlu, meaning ‘the cat’, a savoury pancake folded and stuffed with soft goat’s cheese, pine nuts and olive oil. Owner Marie Delesmillières says the names were a homage to her brother-in-law, who spent time researching the language. “There was obviously the family connection,” she says as she pours crepe mixture onto a sizzling galettière , “but I also did it to honour the stonemasons and the town’s history.”

Before leaving, I stop by Pierre’s to say goodbye. I find him standing outside his house by one of his most impressive sculptures. “This was by far my most challenging piece,” he says. “It took me years to create it.” He encourages me to gently push the 440lb Atlantean stone globe, which the breeze is slowly spinning on a thin film of water. As it starts turning in the opposite direction, I realise what a wonderful tribute it is. Despite changes — of direction, of generations — it remains set in stone, like the legacy of Pierre and so many frahans   before him.

Related Topics

• LIVING HISTORY
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• CULTURAL CONSERVATION

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