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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Azerbaijan: A Modern Land of Fire

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Day Trips from Baku

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

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

And soon we reached the mud volcanoes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijan Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to learn more about Azeri cuisine?

Go on a food tour in baku..

Travel Azerbaijan with JayWay Travel

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

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

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

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

Learn more about JayWay’s Azerbaijan trips here.

Where to Stay in Baku

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

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

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

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

Recommended Baku Accommodation:

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

Azerbaijan Visa

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

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

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

Flying to Baku with Azerbaijan Airlines

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

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

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

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

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

Travel to Azerbaijan BEFORE Armenia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling to Baku: The Takeaway

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

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

Chisinau and Minsk: Two Offbeat Soviet Cities

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

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

Have you traveled to Azerbaijan? What did you think?

The best things to do in the beautiful Baku

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

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

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

See the incredible Flame Towers by day –  and night

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

Try taste sensations of Azerbaijani food and wine

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

Explore the maze-like İçəri Şəhər, the Old City

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

Enjoy the views from Qız Qalası, Maiden's Tower

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

Stroll up to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

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

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

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

Admire Heydar Aliyev Centre designed by  Zaha Hadid 

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

Marvel at the contradictions of modern Azerbaijan 

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

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

Catch up on Baku's past at the Historical Museum

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

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

This article was first published Mar 25, 2020 and updated Feb 6, 2022.

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• Azerbaijan Travel Tips: 10 Best Tips To Become The Master Of Travelers!

Renowned as the ‘Land of Fire’, Azerbaijan is all about colorful landscapes and dazzling 21st-century architecture. The humongous image of the Caucasus Mountains blending with the beauty of the oil-rich Capsian Sea is a sight to behold in Azerbaijan. Travelers come to explore this country for these bewitching visions that it beholds. But while traveling to Azerbaijan there are some vital factors that one must keep in mind. If you were looking for tips then you have landed on the right page as we have carved a list of top-most Azerbaijan travel tips that will ensure a butter-smooth vacation for all the tourists.

Top 10 Azerbaijan Travel Tips

Take a look at this list of travel tips for Azerbaijan that you must not forget to include in your itinerary. Note them down or keep them in your mind to have a trouble-free vacation to the ‘Land of Fire’.

1. Get Yourself Registered

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If you are planning to spend more than 10 days in Azerbaijan then it is important to register yourself at the State Migration Service when in Azerbaijan. Usually, hotels or hostels that you have booked take care of this formality to avoid any inconvenience to their guests. Those who are planning to stay in Airbnb have to take care of this formality on their own. If you fail to do so then you may have to pay a hefty fine when going back to your country. Therefore, this is one of the most essential tips for Azerbaijan visitors.

Must Read: 8 Magnificent Places To Visit In Azerbaijan One Must Definitely Visit While In Russia!

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2. Know The Language

When traveling to a new country, it is always important to learn some common phrases of the new language. The official language spoken in this country is Azeri which is a Turkish dialect. Luckily, you might find some locals speaking English but that is rare so don’t keep your hopes high. In rural regions, locals do not speak any of these languages. Instead, they have their own local language like people in the village of Lahic have their own version.

Suggested Read: Summer In Azerbaijan: A Handy Guide For Traveler’s To Enjoy The Heritage Of The Country!

3. Dilemma About Clothes

Although Azerbaijan identifies itself as a Muslim country, it is a secular country. Thus, you can pack whatever you want and wear dresses while traversing the lanes of this beautiful country. You can pack your shorts and tops for exploring the cosmopolitan city, Baku. There are no strict rules regarding clothes to wear and everyone is free to wear what they like. However, it is advisable to wear appropriate clothes in religious places.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Azerbaijan: What To Buy & Where To Shop In The Land Of Fire

4. Taxi Scams

While traveling from the airport to your hotel or desired destination, it is advisable to not choose taxis from outside the airport. They charge a massive amount of money from tourists thus it is advisable to book Uber or Yandex taxis. It will not be a hassle to find these taxis as they are easily available at reasonable prices.

Suggested Read: 7 Best National Parks In Azerbaijan To Witness Its Wildlife

5. Local Transport

One of the best ways to travel within the Baku city is via metro as it is the cheapest and fastest way to traverse around. But if you look for comfort traveling then you can opt for taxis. But it is vital to learn the skill of bargaining here as the taxis charge around 10 times more than the original amount from travelers.

Suggested Read: 5 Exciting Festivals In Azerbaijan That Will Add All Those Festive Vibes To Your Trip

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6. Local Food

Due to Muslim culture in Azerbaijan, the variety of local food is galore. From saffron-flavored Pulov to steaming Kebabs, their local food is full of traditional flavors. Some of the other best dishes that you can try at street stalls and restaurants in Azerbaijan are Kufta Bobash, Piti, Dushbara, Dovga, Qutab, and Lavangi. A trip to Azerbaijan is incomplete without these dishes so do savor these lip-smacking foods.

7. Don’t Litter

Well, you might not want to litter around in Azerbaijan cities like Baku. While exploring the capital city, you will notice that the streets of Baku are spotless. There are rows of dustbins that are used by people regularly. Littering is considered as a taboo in Azerbaijan and if anyone is found littering around then they are charged with hefty fine.

Suggested Read: Hiking In Azerbaijan: Top 6 Hiking Trails In The Majestic Caucasus Mountains!

8. Carry Your Passport Everywhere

According to government laws, foreigners must carry their passports when they go out. Police in Azerbaijan stop tourists and make sure they have their identity card and passport. And if anyone is not carrying their passport then they have to pay a fine. So, make sure to keep your passport and a photocopy of it with you all the time.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Things To Do In Azerbaijan For An Extraordinary Experience

9. Medical Kit

Medical kit is a necessity while traveling to any place. It is better if you keep basic medicines for fever, cold, cough, headache, and painkiller always with you. Moreover, if you are on specific medications then do carry them with you always. In a different country, you might not get the same medicines prescribed by the doctor. So, a medical kit is always helpful on any vacation.

10. Check The Weather Forecast

Before heading out to any place, it is important to check the weather forecast of your destination. Checking the weather in advance can help you in many ways. For instance, you can pack clothes according to the weather. If it is a rainy season then you can always carry an umbrella or a raincoat. For summers you can pack your dresses & shorts and for winter you must an overcoat or sweaters for yourself.

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

If you want your getaway to Azerbaijan to be hassle-free then these travel tips will definitely help you. After booking your tickets, check out the weather of the month you are visiting, pack your medicines, and do not forget to include your identity cards. Keep these Azerbaijan travel tips handy and head for your vacation to Azerbaijan with TravelTriangle . You can also share your experience by leaving a comment below. Have a vibrant and lively getaway!

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Baku Itinerary

Last Updated on January 24, 2024

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.

Because Azerbaijan is something of an “off the beaten path” destination, finding the ideal information on how to plan a Baku itinerary can be difficult.

Though a small country, Azerbaijan boasts an incredibly diverse climate and a very interesting history dating back thousands upon thousands of years, however, most visitors to this oil-rich nation choose to visit the glitzy capital of Baku.

Not a lot is known about Baku and you would be forgiven for not knowing what there is to do in this grand and bizarre city. However, spending a couple of days in Azerbaijan’s capital is sure to be an experience you will look back upon for years to come and Baku is a city that’s worth visiting.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Baku?

When planning your trip to Baku, it can be difficult to figure out just how many days you should devote to exploring the city. As a major capital and the biggest city in the Caucasus region, Baku is massive and has quite a lot to keep visitors occupied for at least a few days.

However, if you’re short on time or want to make sure you get the most out of the Azeri capital, I would say that it is worth spending at least 3 days in Baku.

This amount of time will allow you to see all of the highlights of the capital city in the downtown and Old City areas. It will also allow you to go on a day trip to some of the amazing sites surrounding the city.

If you’re short on time, spending 2 days in Baku is possible and worth it as well, it is just unlikely that you will be able to fit as much as you might like into your itinerary.

It is possible to pack the main sites of the Old City and downtown into the first day and then devote the second day to a day tour. Alternatively, you could simply devote two full days and explore Baku properly and really dig as deep as possible into the city (follow the first two days of this itinerary!)

Regardless if you plan to see Baku in 3 days or you only have 2 to spend, you are sure to be charmed by the cosmopolitan and modern vibes that this city of contrasts has to offer.

Getting To & Around Baku

First things first, it’s generally likely that you will need to apply for an e-Visa before entering Azerbaijan and visiting Baku. Check online to see if you’re required to apply for an e-Visa (citizens of countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the EU, the UK and the USA are all eligible for one). There are only a handful of nations whose citizens can enter Azerbaijan visa-free.

Plan to apply for your e-Visa at least three days prior to travelling to Azerbaijan, however, we recommend applying as early as possible to prevent any complications.

You will need to make sure that all of your information is entered in correctly and you must upload a copy of your passport.

Once your visa is approved, you will need to print it out and then present it to immigration along with your passport while at the border.

Though Baku is quite a large city, the majority of its main tourist sites are actually within very easy reach of each other on foot. If you’re not keen to walk all over the place while in Baku, the city is well-serviced by a great metro system that will get you where you need to go. You can purchase a single ticket from machines at every station.

Taxis are also affordable in Baku , but be sure to be aware of scams. To avoid being overcharged, it is best to call a taxi in advance. We recommend using the Bolt app, which operates prolifically throughout the Azeri capital.

2 to 3-Day Baku Itinerary

Day 1 – old city highlights.

The first day of this itinerary for Baku sees you exploring the lovely UNESCO-listed Old City. This area of Baku sets it apart from the likes of other oil-rich cities like Dubai as the history here dates back centuries.

Explore the Old City

Arguably the best way to get started is with a free walking tour of the Old City and the surrounding monuments. Though the free walking tour craze hasn’t quite taken off here as much as it has in other European cities, the Baku Free Tour , run by the incredibly knowledgeable Gani, is an excellent way to get your bearings and learn about Baku.

The Baku Original Free Walking tour meets every day at 11 AM in front of the Pizza Hut/KFC in Fountain Square. Though the tour is free, because demand isn’t super high, you need to make sure to book in advance online.

The tour will take you all over the old city and explain all of the histories of the area along with some nuances of Azerbaijani culture that you may have not been aware of.

Some of the highlights include learning about the disputed history of the Maiden Tower , stopping by the thousand-year-old Muhammad Mosque , and even seeing the smallest book in the world in the Museum of Miniature Books , which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of miniature books (who knew that was even a thing?).

The tour will also take you by the Shirvanshahs Palace and allow you to admire the beautiful architecture of the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall , which is modelled off of the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco.

While we always recommend free walking tours in most cities that offer them, this one was easily one of the best we’ve been on and it will give you some invaluable information on the history and culture of Baku that you will not get from simply reading a guide — including this one!

After the free walking tour, head to lunch at Dolma , which will give you a great introduction to Azerbaijani cuisine and agreeable prices.

Maiden Tower

Though you will go by this on the free walking tour, it can be worth visiting one of Baku’s most famous monuments on its own.

The Maiden Tower, which was built sometime between the 4th and 12th centuries (a lot is unknown about this structure), is one of the most defining structures in Azerbaijan’s capital. Though the true purpose of the building is not completely known and there are over twenty legends and mysteries surrounding it, there is no doubt that it is an iconic part of the Baku cityscape.

Entry into the Maiden Tower includes a small museum about Baku and the tower within. The views from the top are fine, however, it may not be worth the entry fee to get in. It is also surrounded by glass, which makes it difficult to take good photos from the top.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Constructed in the 15th Century by the former king, Ibrahim I of Shirvanshah, this beautiful palace complex is one of the top attractions to visit on any visit to the Azeri capital.

Surrounded by a lot of fascinating history, it is worth going in to see the beautiful Persian architecture and learning about how the upper classes lived in Baku centuries ago.

The view of the city from the entrance to the palace is also one of the best in Baku, as it expertly combines the antique architecture of the old city combined with sights of the ultra-modern Flame Towers.

The back door is also one of the only examples of Ottoman architecture in the city, but here you can also find an interesting addition to Baku: the cat house. These houses are scattered around the city to provide shelter and a place for food and water to the city’s many stray cats. When we were there, there was a mother with four adorable kittens who had taken up residence there. .

Day 2 – Explore Modern Baku

Day two of this Baku itinerary sees you getting outside of the old city and exploring the grand downtown area. Today is where you will get a better idea about how Baku has evolved over time and the influences it has had over the centuries.

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

After spending time at the Taza Bazaar, head over to the seaside and visit the intriguing Azerbaijan Carpet Museum . Though this may sound like a peculiar concept for a well-curated museum, it is worth the 7 AZN entry fee to see.

Azerbaijan has an incredible history of carpet-making and this museum excellent displays some beautiful carpets, which are wonderful works of art, over three floors. It also includes local artisans who will demonstrate how these carpets are made by hand.

Our favourite part of the museum was on the top floor, which included carpets depicting images of stories and landmarks from Azerbaijan. It is truly amazing to see the amount of skill and detail that goes into these carpets and plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring all of this museum.

Caspian Seaside Promenade

After learning about Azeri carpet making, it’s time to take a stroll along the lovely park lining the beautiful Caspian sea

If the weather is fine, you will see lots of people out and about enjoying the sea breeze and the pleasant vibes of this area of the city. There are a few cafes along the promenade and there is also a bizarre area known as Little Venice that is full of man-made canals and bridges.

For an excellent view, opt to take the funicular to Upland Park. From there, you can get a beautiful, panoramic view of the Caspian Sea and the modern Flame Towers.

After enjoying the views of the Caspian, head to lunch at Cezar, a local restaurant close to the gate of the old city.

Explore Downtown Baku

After spending some time along the Caspian, it’s time to head inland and explore a bit more of the city’s downtown area.

If you want to have some great historical context, we recommend going on the Baku Downtown Free Tour , which meets in the same place as the old city tour (it is also necessary to book in advance for this one).

This tour will take you through Fountain Square , where you will learn its history, and along the pedestrianised and luxury-filled Nizami Street . You will also go past the ruins of the Armenian Church where you can learn a little bit about the history of the conflict between the two countries.

He will also take you to the Sahil Garden , where you will learn about why this lovely park is so controversial among locals.

The tour will also take you by a number of other sites and areas where you will learn about famous residents of Baku and some more history of this beautiful city.

Even if you’re not able to go on this tour, it’s well worth taking the time to explore this area independently or on a paid guided tour. For instance, this historic and modern Baku tour is a good option. Alternatively, you could opt for this old and modern Baku tour which offers both a day and night option.

Day 3 – Mud Volcanoes, Gobustan, Aliyev Centre & More

If you are spending 3 days exploring Baku, then your last day should be spent seeing some sites outside of the city proper, along with one of the city’s most famous buildings.

Though it is possible to take a taxi to all of these places yourself or to hire a car a drive there on your own, getting there by public transport is nearly impossible. This is why we recommend taking an organised day tour.

We opted to book through Tes Tours , who have an office in the old city, and was well worth the per-person price. Alternatiely, this guided day tour is also a great option, though doesn’t include a stop at the Aliyev Centre.

We had a friendly and knowledgeable guide who was able to give us a lot of context and information about the things we were seeing and offered great insight into life in Azerbaijan today.

Mud Volcanoes

As one of the most popular sites to visit as a day trip from Baku, the mud volcanoes are located about 80 kilometres outside of the Baku city centre and are a truly fascinating place to see.

As some of the only mud volcanoes in the world that are powered by natural gas rather than geyser forces, these mounds of bubbling mud are reached by a bumpy dirt road. The landscape surrounding them will make you feel as if you’ve left Earth altogether and they are certainly worth the journey out there.

There is also no entry fee for the mud volcanoes, so you can enjoy this bizarre natural phenomenon completely free of charge.

Gobustan Rock Art

Located not far from the mud volcanoes is another one of Azerbaijan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan.

This historic site is filled with remnants of the prehistoric man, as evidenced by the thousands of years old cave drawings on the rock faces. Some of the petroglyphs are more than 15,000 years old and the area contains more than 6,000 rock paintings dating through tens of thousands of years.

The paintings depict the life and culture of the prehistoric humans who lived in cave areas and have provided archaeologists and anthropologists with much historical insight into the first humans.

Ateshgah Fire Temple

If you are curious to learn about religion in Azerbaijan before the country became predominantly Muslim, then visiting the Fire Temple of Baku is one of the best places to see in Azerbaijan.

This Zoroastrian temple has been in its place since the 17th or 18th centuries, however, it is an excellent place to learn about the world’s first monotheistic religion. This temple is equipped with a few flames that are powered by natural gas, so they will never be extinguished.

Zoroastrians believe that fire is the physical manifestation of God on Earth and therefore it is incredibly sacred for them. It is also the basis for the followers of the Lord of Light from Game of Thrones .

Fire Mountain

Azerbaijan is known as the “land of fire” and nowhere does that become more evident than the fire mountain. This small bit of a hillside just outside of Baku is the sight of a natural gas fire that has been burning for decades.

While it might sound kind of cool to go see a burning mountainside — I was very excited to see this for myself — it might be worth it to lower your expectations and, honestly, it can be worth skipping altogether.

Because of how much Azerbaijan has drained its natural resources, the fire isn’t nearly as big as it used to be. It takes up about one metre of a hillside and, in all honesty, I have seen more impressive fires while camping.

If you do end up visiting, they do charge a small entry fee.

Heydar Aliyev Centre

As one of the most iconic buildings in Azerbaijan today, no visit to Baku is complete without a visit to the incredible Heydar Aliyev Centre.

Officially opened in 2012, this beautiful modern building designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid is one of the most mesmerising works of contemporary architecture in the world today. The building won the 2014 Design Museum’s Design of the Year award, making Hadid the first woman in history to win.

The main enjoyment of the Aliyev Centre is outside of the building, where you can very much enjoy the gorgeous architecture and some of the outdoor temporary exhibitions. Inside, the centre boasts a massive auditorium, a museum, and conference rooms.

Where to Eat & Drink in Baku

Azeri cuisine takes influences from many of its neighbours and friends, including Iran, Turkey, Georgia, and Russia, making a diverse cuisine that is worth sampling. Though it is possible to get some vegetable dishes, the cuisine is meat-heavy so it may prove difficult to be a vegetarian here.

Dolma — Though tourist-friendly, this restaurant serves a range of traditional Azeri fare at agreeable prices. The service is quite good as well.

Xezer Kafe — Located close to the old city gates, this local place has a wide menu with Azeri favourites including delicious soups, dolma, and salads. They also have an English menu to make ordering easier.

Bir Iki — This is a great option if you’re after a quick but tasty doner or shwarma after a long day of sightseeing in Baku. They offer both eat-in and takeaway options.

Coffee Moffie — This is a fantastic cafe if you are looking for a good espresso drink, a cup of Azeri tea, or a glass of local wine. Set with a trendy vibe, this cafe also acts as something of a coworking space for Baku’s freelancers and has a great wifi connection as well.

Where to Stay in Baku

Baku is trying to distinguish itself as a luxury destination, with ample choice for high-end hotels that will set you back a month’s salary. Despite this, however, there are a number of great budget and mid-range accommodation options available in the city as well. These are some of our suggestions:

Cth Hostel Baku – This small guesthouse offers a number of private single or double rooms at very affordable prices. There is a fantastic and hearty breakfast included and it is well-located within walking distance of most main sights. The staff only speaks limited English.

Sahil Hostel – A popular choice amongst backpackers and solo travellers in Baku, this hostel is a great choice in the city. Located closed to Sahil Metro and within easy walking distance of all the main sites, they have a range of private and dorm rooms available.

Seven Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a little more comfort during their trip to Baku. Well located, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and a helpful staff to make your stay a great one.

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

Cultural Notes

Azerbaijan is a Muslim-majority country, however, it has been incredibly secular for some time and there is no state religion declared. Therefore, you will not see many local women wearing hijabs, consumption of alcohol is at a level consistent with Christian-majority countries, and in Baku, loudspeakers announcing the call to prayer are banned, though over 90% of the population identifies as Muslim.

Though there isn’t much religious adherence in Azerbaijan, the country is still quite culturally conservative and patriarchal, and traditional gender norms reign supreme, especially in more local joints in Baku. There are, for instance, cafes and bars where women might feel unwelcome and it may be unwise to wear anything too revealing.

It is also very much a more male-dominated society and it is rare to see many women working in most establishments, except for the more European-style cafes and shops.

Even the idea of men wearing shorts is a controversial topic in Azerbaijan. While the general consensus among locals is that it is okay for foreigners to wear what they will, you still might get some uncomfortable looks and glances.

I would also say it would be unwise to wear short skirts or shorts as a woman in Baku, no matter what time of year it is. Men can be a bit less cautious with their clothing choices, however, it’s worth noting that most Azeri men would not wear shorts. It is generally accepted for foreigners to wear what they desire, though.

Spending two or three days in Baku is an excellent way to see Azerbaijan’s capital and enjoy the fascinating history and unique culture of this rapidly developing city.

Are you planning to visit Baku? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Baku to Sheki: How to Get There & Things To Do

Georgia to Azerbaijan: Tbilisi to Baku & Sheki to Tbilisi

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

Your blog is informative and helpful. I had good time earlier in Georgia and now planning Azerbaijan trip based on your blog. Thank You.

Thanks for the kind words! I’m so happy we could help you plan your trips 🙂

Hi Maggie, This is a very useful blog. I just have one question. How much tip do you think is enough for the free walking tour?

Happy you found this helpful! For the walking tour, it’s common practice to tip the amount that you believe the tour was worth 🙂

Hi..can you recommend where to buy carpets? does the museum sell carpets ? also is there an artisan market? local goods, crafts etc?

Hi, unfortunately, I don’t really know where or how to buy carpets in Baku. Hope you have a great trip!

Going there for 4 days in october for the international soccer. Looking forward.. Any more hints.. Is dining expensive

Hi Patrick, thanks for your comment! Have a look at our price guide for more tips and average expenses for Baku: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baku-azerbaijan-trip-cost/ Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

Thank you great summary, will help me plan my trip next summer!!

Glad this helped, Sammie!

Thank you for sharing this itenary. We found it very useful since we made a 3-day visit to Baku on occasion of the Eid hols in UAE last weekend.

Thanks for your comment, Zajin. Hope you had a great time in Baku!

we are planning for National Day in December. 3 days was sufficient for you?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Top 13 Things To Do In Baku, The Vibrant Capital Of Azerbaijan

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: February 1, 2021  - Last updated: December 11, 2021

Categories Destinations , Azerbaijan , Caucasus

Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, is a former Soviet republic in the Caucasus and variously considered part of Europe or Asia. Baku was once my least favourite city in the world; when I first visited Baku back in 2013, the city was so corrupt that it was impossible to enjoy the city.

I got stopped numerous times a day by local police and by the secret police just by wearing a camera around my neck, asking for bribes, but luckily now the most corrupt city in the world has now cleaned itself up, and Baku is now a perfect long weekend destination.

A blend of ancient palaces and bazaars, modern museums, and skyscrapers designed in the shape of flickering flames.

Although the city is evolving into a futuristic metropolis, it still retains that old-world atmosphere.

Markets still sell hand-woven carpets, and lanterns and locals still feast on delicious mezze in hidden restaurants.

Baku and Azerbaijan is by far the richest city and country in the Caucasus region.

There are plenty of things to do in Baku, and it’s a great time to visit during the city’s transformation.

Baku around the waterfront is definitely one of the most beautiful cities around the world, but it´s also very poor if you venture outside the waterfront part of the city, which is full of water fountains and beautiful marble sidewalks.

The metro in Baku is also almost as beautiful as the subway in Moscow and Tashkent, all decorated in similar ways.

Top Things To Do In Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

Take a walking tour of baku’s ancient walled city.

Baku’s Old City evokes memories of old, with ancient palaces, leafy courtyards, towers, and alleyways.

There are several highlights to explore inside the walls. However, the most popular is the 15th century Palace of the Shirvanshahs – one of the country’s revered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This important structure, which was home to royalty, features mosques, city gates, bathhouses, and mausoleums.

Take a tour to enter the remaining rooms inside the palace and cast your mind back to this era, imagining life through the eyes of people who lived here and summon the experiences of traders who passed through this part of the city on their journey along the Silk Road .

Explore Old City Bazaars

When you explore the bazaars of Old City Baku, it’s akin to stepping back in time.

Clothing and antiques, fresh produce, and even Beluga caviar line the colourful stalls.

If you want to shop with locals, venture to Taza or Yasil bazaars with vendors selling spices, fish, and fresh vegetables.

If you seek a particular product and have your credit card with you, head into the historic centre of Icheri Sheher.

These labyrinths, historic alleyways are lined with hand-crafted rugs, ceramics, and souvenir shops.

Climb to the Top of Maiden’s Tower

Whilst inside the Old City walls, find time to explore Maiden’s Tower.

This 12th century stone structure is one of Baku’s most recognisable sites and is even featured on the country’s banknotes.

The tower, which stands at 29.5 metres tall, boasts a museum that tells the story of Baku, and if you climb winding stairs to the observation point at the top, you’re rewarded with superb views of the Palace of the Shirvanshah’s and Flame Towers in the distance, so don’t forget your camera!

Stroll Along Baku Boulevard

Established in the early 1900s, Baku Boulevard stretches for 2 miles alongside the Caspian Sea.

The area is famed for its architecture – a place where wealthy oil traders constructed their lavish mansions along the seafront.

Several historic and more contemporary landmarks lie along the boulevard – National Flag Square, the Baku Eye Ferris Wheel, Stone Chronicle Museum, and the famous Azerbaijan Carpet Museum.

That’s not all. There’s also an area named “Little Venice”. In this charming Veneto style town, enjoy a gondola ride along canals, relaxing beneath sunny skies as you drift beneath bridges, or break for lunch in a nearby café or restaurant.

Ride on the Baku Eye

One tourist highlight of Baku is taking a ride on the Baku Eye. This huge 60 metres high Ferris wheel with air-conditioned cabins offers incredible vistas across the city.

The ride spins quite slowly, taking around 15 minutes to complete the cycle – the perfect time to capture photographs for your Instagram feed and see the Flame Towers as they illuminate with a spectacular light show after sunset!

Visit the Flame Towers

Set on a hill overlooking the Old City of Baku, these contemporary buildings are constructed in the design of flickering flames.

The unusual design pays homage to the natural gas fires which constantly burn from the ground on the Absheron Peninsula in Azerbaijan.

The three high rise glass towers were designed by HOK and constructed between 2007 and 2012.

They vary slightly in size, with the tallest standing at 182 metres high, and each one is covered in LED screens that simulate the movement of fire and colours of the Azeri flag.

You can see the towers from almost every location in the city, but if you take a ride on the Baku Eye at night, you’ll gain some of the best views and photos as the light show begins.

Discover Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

Carpet making is a huge part of Azerbaijan life. The designs combine folk art, local landscapes and can even symbolise daily life in the country.

Many colourful rugs and carpets have historic importance too, covering floors of palaces and mosques.

This museum has been telling the stories of these carpets since 1967 and today also displays over 10,000 pieces of metal artefacts, jewellery, and ceramics.

If you’re interested in the culture, history, and crafts of Azerbaijan, this place is worth a visit.

Shop on Nizami Street

Baku’s main shopping street is known as ‘Torgovaya’ or Nizami Street to tourists. It’s home to quaint book shops, department stores, chocolatiers, and international restaurants.

Even if you don’t plan to spend, it’s a delightful street to walk along, with impressive Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Gothic architecture.

In the evenings, Nizami Street shimmers with draping chandeliers, turning the busy shopping avenue into a glistening, window-shopping wonderland.

Visit the Atashgah Fire Temple

Situated just 18 kilometres east of Baku is the famous Atashgah Fire Temple.

The castle-like temple in the suburbs was once used as a Zoroastrian and Hindu place of worship. Although the natural eternal flame which illuminated the temple was extinguished in the late 1960s, it’s still lit today with piped gas from Baku.

This centre of pilgrimage is now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, peppered with ancient inscriptions and plenty of stories to tell.

It’s an interesting half-day or full-day trip for anyone interested in religions and Azerbaijan’s history.

Discover the Futuristic Heydar Aliyev Centre

Designed by talented architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Centre stands in direct contrast to the ancient minarets, palaces, and towers of Baku.

This undulating masterpiece built on the former site of a Soviet munitions factory was inspired by Islamic designs and geometric patterns. Materials were used to create a fluid, free-space structure that blends with the surroundings.

Take a walk inside the surreal cavern-like interior and stay while to experience opera, music concerts, or art exhibitions.

Sample Delicious Pakhlava and Pilaf

As Azerbaijan was once on the ancient Silk Road trading route, the country boasts a fusion of different cuisines ranging from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean to Turkish, Indian, and even Chinese! Locals dine on Pilaf – a rice dish similar to Indian Biryani, decorated with dried fruits and nuts infusing a sweet flavour.

Traditionally served in pitta bread with lamb or chicken, it’s a delicious Baku food you don’t want to miss!

When it comes to desserts, Pakhlava is a fragrant pastry layered with honey drizzled nuts, cardamom, saffron, and cloves.

If you fall head over heels for Baku cuisine, you can also join a half-day culinary workshop that incorporates market shopping for ingredients, followed by cooking and sampling the dishes!

Take a Trip to Khinalig Village

One of the oldest villages nestled in the Caucasus Mountains of Azerbaijan is Khinalig or Khinaliq. Located high in the mountains of Quba Rayon, just under 4 hours’ drive northwest of Baku, the 5000-year-old village is about as traditional as you can get – home to families who have lived here for generations.

They live simple lives in minimalist homes with few furnishings, utilising hand-woven carpets, blankets, and cushions to sit and sleep on.

The citizens practise ancient traditions such as Tikmes – a unique embroidery style typical of this region, and you can purchase items from locals in their houses.

This village is enveloped in rich history and nature.

During your trip, you can learn about the Zoroastrian religion, visit the small museum which displays ceramics, coins, and photos, hike in the mountains, and sample authentic Caucasus cuisine!

There are guided tours available from Baku to Khinalig too, which make sense if you have limited time in the country.

Petroglyphs and Mud Volcanoes at Gobustan National Park

Gobustan National Park a UNESCO world heritage site around an hour southwest of Baku.

This magnificent landscape has 6000 rock carvings and paintings dating back up to 20,000 years!

These carvings were used as ancient communication systems to tell others passing through the area what to expect and see.

There’s an interactive museum on-site, showcasing over 100,000 archaeological artefacts, but if you want to remain in the great outdoors, explore the mud volcanoes.

There are over 300 bubblings, mud-filled mounds dotted throughout Azerbaijan and the surrounding waters, but many of them are located here within the park.

The mineral-rich mud is said to have medicinal properties and be good for the skin.

Therefore, the best way to experience them is to take a tour of the park, that way you won’t miss a thing!

Alternatively, if you want to make your own way there, trains from Baku take just over an hour to reach the national park.

About every twenty years or so, a mud volcano here in Gobustan explode with great force, shooting flames hundreds of meters into the sky and throwing tons of mud on the surrounding area. The last one that is reported to have erupted in the area was back in 2001, so, unfortunately, I was not lucky enough to witness that.

How to Get to Baku

As the capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku has its own airport – Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which lies 20 kilometres from the city centre.

The airport is served by several major airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa.

Regular flights operate from most European countries (journey time 3-6 hours depending on departure country), and if you’re arriving from Russia, you can fly to Baku with Aeroflot.

It’s easy to reach Baku city centre from the airport via express minibus shuttles, which operate half-hourly. There are also taxis and metro services from Koroglu station near the airport.

If you plan to travel by train to Baku, there are now services operating to Baku from Ankara, Turkey, Moscow, Russia, and Tbilisi , Georgia . Just remember to allow extra time for border crossings!

Ferry across the Caspian Sea to Turkmenistan or Kazakhstan . More information about that here.

There is NO transportation between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Extra Information about Baku.

Visa for azerbaijan.

Important! If your passport shows any evidence of travel to Nagorno-Karabakh , will you be denied entry (even if you already have an Azerbaijani visa) Azerbaijan has recently introduced an EVISA . Making Azerbaijan an easier destination to visit since you don’t need to get a  letter of invitation (LoI) from a travel agency/contact in Azerbaijan anymore.

Where to Sleep in Baku

Money/prices in baku.

The local currency in Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani manat AZN (Yeni Manat) 1 USD = 1.04 AZN  1 Euro = 1,1AZN

Azerbaijan is by far the most expensive country in the Caucasus region, and it´s not far from western Europe prices. A daily budget should be around 40 Usd+ There´s ATM´s available all around Baku

1,5L Bottle of water  – 0.54 AZN 0.33L Coke/Pepsi –  0.54 AZN A meal in a local restaurant – 7 AZN A meal in a good restaurant – 40 AZN Big Mac meal at McDonald´s – 6 AZN Coffee in a coffee chain – 4 AZN Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) – 3 AZN Beer local 0.5L can – 1.5  AZN Beer imported 0.33L (Heineken) – 3 AZN Gasoline (1 liter) – 0,70 AZN

Friday 5th of March 2021

No 👎 never !A wallet with all the documents was stolen from the hotel, got into a big problem ....... no one does not answer, they bring everything on top of each other, a terrible place! This is my opinion! everyone has an opinion! In my opinion, this country has forgotten about people!

Friday 9th of April 2021

@Ashley, I am sorry to hear about your negative experience! Overall it is not a common case for the hotels in Baku, neither pickpocketing while strolling aroung the city. But let's agree, it can happen anywhere. Yes,the worst when the police don't do anything. I also got into similar trouble in Europe several years ago, i know how it feels and understand your anger, however to rate the country as a terrible place can sound harsh and misleading. Though it would be a great contribution from your part if you just could mention the name of that hotel. Thx!

Christian L.

Saturday 6th of March 2021

Im sorry to hear that. While on my first visit to Baku, I really hated the place, and It was my least favourite city in the world, but luckily the city has at least for me improved. But it´s still far from any of my favourite cites or places to visit

Wednesday 22nd of July 2020

Have you visited Azerbaijan again ? Did you like it then?

Saturday 10th of October 2020

Yes I've been to Azerbaijan, one of the worst countries I've ever been to

Gary Hartfelder

Wednesday 7th of August 2019

Unfortunately, I visited Baku a few months ago and had the same issue. I am American and traveled with a bunch of friends. One of our friends had an Armenian last name and got deported at the airport! She had never even been to Armenia. It was much less enjoyable after that happened, the city was nice but the mood was very depressing for the week we were there. As tourists, it was fine as the people seemed to be friendly, but we seemed to get lots of dirty looks from every law enforcement officer we passed by.

Overall, I could never recommend this place myself after this experience, but I'm sure others may have had alternative experiences.

Tuesday 30th of April 2019

Just the photo issue? any other examples?

Wednesday 22nd of May 2019

Just average problems with police every single day, getting stopped for no reason at all and asking for bribes. But this is years ago, and im now planning to revisit next year to see how Azerbaijan is now.

Murad Muradov

Thursday 11th of April 2019

Dear Christian, I'm sad you had such an experience in Azerbaijan. To be honest I'm quite surprised since your experience seems to be something quite outlandish. Most daily transactions and documentation issues are now completely transparent (there were a lot of issues about 8-10 years ago which have been properly dealt with). Coming to photos, it might happen if you capture from a close distance the Presidential House or objects of military purpose but nothing more, I'm an avid photographer myself (though I usually use a good smartphone cam rather than a professional one) and haven't had any issues whatsoever. There are now Uber and Taxify services operating in Baku (though some drivers may be explicit about preferring cash payment which is an option here). I hope you get to come back for a much positive experience soon!

Hello. It´s a shame that I had just bad experiences from Baku and Azerbaijan, I really wanted to like it. I will probably revisit next year to see if I'm luckier then.

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The Hangry Backpacker

Go Alone. Get Lost. Eat.

Baku, Azerbaijan: Complete Solo Travel Guide

April 6, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 3 Comments

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

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

Practical Information for Solo Travel in Baku

Baku, azerbaijan.

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

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

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

Heydar Aliyev International Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Baku, Azerbaijan Solo Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

Ride the Subways

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

Seriously, hold on.

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

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

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

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

Safety in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

How to Dress in Baku

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

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

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

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

Onward Solo Travel from Baku

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

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

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

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

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

What to See & Do in Baku

Gobustan petroglyphs.

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

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

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

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

Mud Volcanoes of Gobustan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ateshgah of Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Exploring Old City Baku

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

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

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

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

Shopping in Baku

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

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

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

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

Eating Cheap in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijani Beer & Cheese

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reader Interactions

May 2, 2019 at 9:24 am

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

May 2, 2019 at 3:57 pm

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

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Two Passports One Planet

“Jude and Ruby’s Global Travels”

Why and When to visit Baku Azerbaijan – A week’s first-timers itinerary

Why visit Baku, Azerbaijan you might wonder? Well, you’re searching for somewhere new to explore, a place with a mix of great food, ancient traditions but modern comforts. But you also crave a touch of ‘something new’ and creature comforts? Great, then why not get to know this magical city full of cultural fusions and modern pride and possibility.

I will admit I visited a very different Baku for the first time in 1999. At this time, Azerbaijan was hard at work shaping its forward path after independence from the Soviets, for the second time in a century.  I was lucky enough to live here in the 2000s for several years and always love returning to Azerbaijan most recently in 2023.  

Here’s our guide to spending a week in and around Baku, with practical tips to make the most of your visit. For many, it may be reassuring to know English is widely spoken by the younger generation and within Baku, main attractions are well sign-posted in English.  

Introduction to Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan may not top the lists of ‘countries visited yet, but hey that’s THE reason to go now.  It’s growing in popularity fast. With loads of unique things to do and see, a safe, family friendly culture and eating out pretty good value, Baku beats expectations! So, we really encourage you to explore this small, hospitable and beautiful part of the world. 

In a week in Baku, you can tour medieval palaces hidden in the heart of the walled city. After sightseeing, you can sip a cocktail overlooking the entire city from a different rooftop bar each night.

If you’re thinking about mountain hiking after spending time in Baku, you might encounter less English in smaller remote villages, but doesn’t this just add to the adventure?  

First, let’s cover some basics!

Where is Baku?

Azerbaijan views itself geographically as European – remember the country did win a recent Eurovision Song Contest! To the north lies Russia, to the west Georgia, and to the south Iran and Armenia.  There is also a very short 11-mile border with Turkey! We don’t get into politics on our blogs but be aware of the tensions and restrictions associated with historical and ongoing regional conflicts if you plan to travel between countries in region.  

Baku sits on the Caspian Sea, which is in fact a lake. In fact, it’s the largest inland lake in the world, measuring 149,200 square miles (386,400 square km)—larger than the area of Japan. Click here for more amazing facts about the Caspian.

There are resorts along the coast but I think the draw to coming to Azerbaijan is to explore the city, countryside and culture although an afternoon at the pool or beach is always a lovely break from sight-seeing.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Baku?

For the best weather, plan to visit in May/June or wait until September/October. It can be very hot in July/August and you won’t enjoy walking around as much. Many Azeris escape to their country dachas (summer cabins) out of the city. Baku does have a breeze. Sometimes it can be quite windy but don’t let this put you off at all – it’s a plus in mid summer!

Although winters in Baku are mild and typically frost free, surprisingly it can snow occasionally in Baku (here’s our dog, Ellie, when she experienced her first  snowfall!)  There is a ski resort in Quba, north of Baku if you’re looking for a new alpine run!

Good to Know: Azerbaijan Has 20+ Public holidays!

Azerbaijan is a country that loves Public Holidays.   There are over 20 public holidays in Azerbaijan listed here . On these dates, some public sites may be closed. Facilities like restaurants, parks, waterfront areas and shops may be busier as Azeri families spend time together.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Azerbaijan?

Yes, BUT it’s so easy now as you just apply on-line for an e-visa! Here’s what you need to know.

Azerbaijan introduced an e-visa process a few years ago. Believe me, this has transformed the process of getting a tourist visa to enter the country.   Just go on-line and apply here and within 48 hours you’ll receive an email with your visa attached! A single visa is $20 USD (2023).

What’s the Currency of Azerbaijan?

The currency is the Azeri Manat (AZM) and credit cards are widely accepted. I find it is good to have a bit of cash to hand for entrance tickets, buying water or a coffee. Tips are not expected but appreciated. You can pick up cash at the airport on arrival or just ask at your hotel for the nearest ATM.

Most travellers will find prices in Baku good value unless you’re hitting the 5 star/luxury end in which case you will pay global prices.

How to Travel to Baku

Currently the best air routes from within Europe or USA are with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.  Azerbaijani Airlines or Azal (the national airline) has a limited service but this includes direct flights from major hubs of New York, London and regional hubs including Qatar.  There are also sufficient regional carriers  if you fancy combining time in Azerbaijan with say Uzbekistan or Georgia.

Important Tip. If you have visited Armenia, you may be questioned about this before being permitted to enter Azerbaijan. 

There is not a metro or train service from the airport to town (30-40 mins) so either pre-book with booking.com or Uber once you arrive.  Most central hotels have good shuttle and transfer options too.

Land Crossings/Trains To Baku

Unfortunately the international overnight train service between Tblisi, Georgia into Azerbaijan (Baku) has been suspended and at the time of writing does not appear to re-starting passenger border services  any time soon.  You can leave Azerbaijan into Georgia but cannot enter into the country.  It’s worth checking the status if you plan to travel independently, but reliable data can be sparse to come by.

Where to Stay in Baku

Just look on Booking.com and you will see the huge range of accommodation options available in Baku. Take your pick from the stunning seafront ‘Four Seasons’ to mainstream brands like Hilton and Marriott with great facilities, pools and central locations.

Our preference is to stay within the walled Old City; the historic heart of Baku. In 2023, we stayed at a small boutique hotel, Royal Antique. Use Booking.com or  contact them direct for best rates. Here’s the breakfast room with beautiful views and a wonderful eager to please, happy team!

What To Pack for a Trip to Baku, Azerbaijan

Above all, you want to be comfortable on your travels.  For a week in Baku and a couple of trips out of town there are a few items we urge you to pack including:

– comfortable shoes – walking is a must to explore the city’s cobbled streets, climb steps, and hike around on trips out of town;

– headscarf and knee length clothing if entering mosques

– sun-hat and sunscreen

– a little more ‘dressy’ clothing. Azeris dress well and are smart and outfits well put together. For evening dining, enjoy dressing up!

– shorts are becoming more ‘the norm’ but most Azeris do not wear shorts out and about!

– binoculars as city views are simply incredible!

Tips for Getting Around Baku

Central Baku where a lot of the tourist sights are, is easy to navigate on foot. There is a reliable and safe metro system which is cheap way to get across town if you need to. T he Azerbaijani Metro Guide site has a route map and instructions on buying tickets . The stations are well maintained and some are really beautiful.

Uber and Bolt taxi services are  available and, from our experience, are reliable and remove any need to bargain on fares. Your hotel can advise what works based on your location and destinations.

Beyond Baku, you will need to decide whether to take tours, hire a driver or rent a car.  Roads between the main cities are pretty good, but driving may not be what you are used to. If you want to head to some of the mountain villages, I strongly suggest you hire a driver or take a tour.

Things to Do In A Week in Baku

This itinerary blends time in the heart of beautiful  Baku and sprinkles in 2 trips outside the city.  There are so many great places to eat across the city so we won’t recommend daily restaurants by day. However, we share some of our Baku favourites towards the post end!

Use our ideas as a baseline, or follow it as is! If you need help from a travel specialist, we highly recommend Regent Holidays who know this part of the world so well, and offer a range of organized trips to take the work out of your lap!

Day 1 – Introduction to Baku

Morning – old city walled city “icheri sheher”.

First, download a map of the city center.  Next, make your way to the double gates that are the main entrance into the UNESCO recognized 12th century, medieval city of Baku. It’s simply stunning with narrow streets leading to homes, museums, shops, parks, cafes, restaurants and hotels. 

Book with Baku City Tours for a free city walking tour . We do this because despite having lived here, it’s a great way to keep updated. What’s more, we meet local residents who love their city! Arif was a fantastic guide and passionate about his country and its future. His company also offers other tours in Baku and beyond so check out their site above.

After a few hours of exploring, find yourself a traditional restaurant in the old city. 

Afternoon – Hop On-Hop Off Bus to Highland Park

Consider taking the Hop On/Hop Off bus to get your bearings around the broader city.  With 16 stops, this route takes around 1.5 hours to do a full circuit. Why not get off at the Highland park stop for a refreshment (ice cream anyone?) and soak in the panoramic views of the city and the sparkling waters of the Caspian.

You will see a mosque as you walk around the gardens at the top, and several memorials.  Take a walk down what is called Marty’s Alley, where etched faces of those lost in conflict decorate memorial graves. Whatever views you hold, this is a poignant place and a reminder of ongoing conflicts within the region.

Flame Towers of Baku

While you are here, you will be drawn to three massive towers rising out of the hillside.  These architectural icons dominate the skyline but at the same time, blend in with the old and remind us of the important role Baku played in the early energy sector development.  More on how to spend time here on Day 6!

To return to the city, take the funicular down to the Boulevard at sunset for stunning views across the city and Caspian Sea.

Day 2 – Magic Carpets and Ancient Palaces

Morning – visit the carpet museum.

Azerbaijan has a rich heritage of carpet weaving. If you want to buy an authentic souvenir, a hand-made rug will last you years. Before you start shopping though, visit the UNESCO supported National Carpet Museum. which was set up in 1972 and has thousands of beautiful exhibits.  The museum is near the  Boulevard and is designed to look like a rolled up carpet as you can see in the photo below!

Tip: If you want to see carpet making, head to Guba (a couple of hours north of Baku), where traditional weaving continues. You can even take a class!  When our Dad came to visit Baku, visiting the carpet weavers was one of his highlights and the carpet we bought remains bright and beautiful to the day! We also did some bargaining 🙂

Afternoon – Discover Palace of the Shirvanshahs

You likely walked past The Shirvanshahs Palace if you took our suggested walking tour yesterday. Now it’s time to get inside the ancient palace system and the royal way of life that existed here centuries ago.

Open from 10am to 6pm you can easily spend a hour or so here. Buy your ticket at the small booth as you enter through the main gate. Its 15AZM for foreigners and you can book onto a tour, if you enjoy getting more of the secrets and stories of which there are many!

Just round the corner from the Palace, is the Miniature Book Museum, free to enter and open 11am-6pm.  It is closed Monday and Thursdays! Pop your head in for a few minutes and discover a library of tiny literature of every possible genre. It’s fun and fascinating and apparently in the Guinness Book of Records! And between the two, is a beautiful tea garden.

Stroll the Baku Boulevard

After a rest from all that exploring, why not stroll the waterfront Promenade. Exit the old city and cross the main road back towards the carpet museum and you will find yourself in a wide boulevard filled with life,

This is a 4km boulevard  with traditional tea cafes and small kiosks selling treats from candy floss to ice-cream. It’s a delight and full of families enjoying an evening out, especially at weekends. You will get amazing views of the Flame Towers dancing with colors as night falls and in the other direction, the Port of Baku shines out as a modern symbol of the prosperity of the country

Day 3 – Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Why not take a trip out of town and explore a couple of remarkable Azerbaijan sights?

The unique Gobustan National Park is around an hour south of Baku.

First, we recommend a stop at the impressive Bibi Heybat mosque. It’s right on the roadside as you head south. It’s modern but beautiful to visit en route. Many tours to Gobustan will make a stop here.

Next you will arrive in Gobustan which is a small village, but just beyond is an important historic site. 

Start in the well-appointed museum to get an overview. Then drive on further to the site where the petroglyphs can be viewed up close.

It’s quite rough walking so wear shoes with a good tread. Put yourself back in time and imagine how life might have been here. It’s quite intriguing as you stand in what is really an arid desert.

Mud Volcanoes

After Gobuston, it’s on to the mud volcanoes, and if you have kids with you, they will LOVE these. They bubble and pop and are (I was informed) only to be found in Azerbaijan. When we visited in May 2023, a new walkway and viewing system was being constructed along with a mud spa, so that will be a new experience on offer soon!

This day is really best done with a tour because they will give you lunch and it will be around 7 hours door to door. There are limited restaurant facilities in these locations so bring a picnic if you’re traveling independently.

Day 4 – The Old, The New and The Pool

Morning- maiden tower.

You will likely have seen this on your first day city tour and subsequently as you walked around the Old City.  There is many a tale as to why this tower was built back in the 7 or 8 th century. Some regard it as a fortress lookout point as the sea came up here centuries ago; others love to share the tales that are the stuff of legends. You decide what to believe when you visit!

The entrance for foreigners is 15 AZM. There’s a booth next to the base of the tower where you can purchase a ticket. There’s a small museum inside and as you wind your way up the 29 meters of stone staircase, each floor has artifacts to browse over. On reaching the top, you will get great views of the city but a Perspex glass (new, since I lived here) makes taking photographs a little less pleasurable!

Next to the entrance of the Tower, you will find the shady, relaxing cafe called Qiz Qalasi. It’s a perfect spot to sip some Azeri tea with traditional nuts, and jam as you watch life go by. One of my favourite spots in Baku.

Heydar Aliyev Center

Next grab an Uber over to the ‘out of the world’ sensational Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by British Iranian architect Zaha Hadid. The brief was to create a building in the name of Heydar Aliyev (the previous president who is seen as the father of modern Azerbaijan), symbolizing the break away from Soviet times.

It truly is a stunning piece of design and hosts many events, exhibitions and international meetings. Entrance to the museum is currently 15 AZM – use the Heydar Aliyev Official site to buy an e-ticket for entry or buy at the door. 

Afternoon – Relax before Evening of Azeri Culture

If you haven’t already snuck in a little time by the pool, then we suggest you take this afternoon to relax and soak up some rays. 

And now you’re all chilled, why not head out for some live music or theatre show. Baku has a rich arts culture, from galleries to jazz clubs, opera, ballet and an impressive state Philharmonic complex. Check local magazine guide Baku Life for what’s on during your visit. The Baku international jazz festival is a big pull – now in its 18th year.

Day 5 – Day out in Quba Region

Book yourself on a tour that heads north of Baku on the M1 Highway. As you leave the city behind, you will get an appreciation for rural life as you see small settlements and stop off at local sights like the cute Candy Cane mountains.

Within an hour, you will be in Quba staring at the beauty of the Caucasus mountains and exploring small villages where life is so different from the city. Your guide will help you with ideas of things to do but some may be worth checking out ahead of time. It is possible to rent cabins and spend a few days here too. 

Maybe you’re an avid golfer? If so, Azerbaijan has invested millions to bring its clubs to international levels and you can book in for a round at the Guba Golf course w hich golfer friends speak highly of. There is also a course in Baku.

Beyond Quba, most tours keep going to the tiny settlement of Xınalıq. It is literally perched on top of a mountain and so remote that you can only get here in summertime. Baku City Tours have a great day out that combines these destinations o r check with your hotel.  Don’t miss Quba! It’s so relaxing and rejuvenating here.

Day 6 – A little shopping & sipping

Morning – bazaars and bargain hunting.

Living in Baku means visiting the local bazaar for the best food on offer. I used to love my Saturday morning trips to Yashil Bazaar (Green Market) which still is my favourite. You will find fresh produce, spices, herbs, pendir (local cheese), fresh pomegranates, juiced to order, meat, cakes – yes all you could possible want to eat.

This is a great place to buy spices, dried fruits and herbs to bring home. Be prepared to bargain a little – it’s the culture! Teze Bazaar is a Baku institution and been operating for over 80 years. It’s also a little more central.

For a more modern shopping experience, head to one of the modern shopping malls in the city center. The flower shaped Deniz Mall has modern shops or head to the Port Baku area for your designer goods! Nizami street and Fountain Square are lined with retail options too – shoppers, you will love Baku.

Although touristy, I love hunting through the stores in the Old City for a gift or two.  If you find yourself drawn back here, try to make time to stop by the  renown poet Aligaga Vahid’s statute.  

Visit a Tea Cafe In Baku

Next door, is a small cafe which is a little tent full of traditional tea samovars. They have delicious teas, coffee and cakes to choose from and you’re looking right at the old city wall. This is how I like to spend an hour on my last afternoon in Baku.

Afternoon/Sunset at the Flame Towers

So, we’ve given you a little time in this itinerary to pack or visit another part of the city on your last afternoon. But before you head to the airport, we think a last night cocktail is needed at the Fairmont’s Bar 19, within one of the Flame Towers you’ve been admiring all week. 

Take an Uber and park yourself at the window area and just marvel at the city you’ve got to know.  They have a light bar menu too if you’d like to eat here. Enjoy as the city’s night lights start to sparkle beneath you.

Other Amazing Rooftop Bars

There are no excuses not to find yourself a rooftop bar spot during your week in Baku. Other great central spots for a cocktail with stunning vistas are the Hilton’s 360 Rotating Sky Bar or Infinity at the Marriott to toast the end of an incredible week in Baku! 

Baku Restaurants

Gone are the days of heavy carb loaded food in this part of the world. Just check out Baku Restaurants on Trip Advisor and you’ll see what I mean!

The fusion of Persian, Russian and European flavors create a delight in local food options. Equally, you will find excellent Asian, Italian, Indian options from relaxed cafes to fine dining.  We recommend trying at least one traditional restaurant because the food will be authentic and more affordable. Qula or Old Baku Restaurant.

Around Nizami (Fountain Square) you will find restaurants for every taste. An interesting one is an old Cheese factory and the current menu is built on this concept! Fun.

Restaurants to Street Food in Baku

If you want to venture out of the city center a little, grab a ride to White City which has erupted in recent years with designer shopping and elegant eating.

For Asian, Chinar (at the bottom of the Funicular ride) remains a top favourite, and Indian is available along with other regional delights including Iranian and Georgian.

My favourites are old city rooftop restaurants with striking vistas over the city and Caspian Sea.

Finally, don’t overlook street food like the always available Azeri Kebab. You will find many kiosks around Fountain square to buy this ever popular local snack.

Baku – A Fusion of Culture

Baku’s architecture reflects its unique mix of European, Islamic and Soviet influences. It’s a fascinating destination and although you can easily fill a week with this itinerary, there is so much more to discover.  Imagine:

-hiking in the rugged Caucasus mountains,

-joining the annual Baku Formula 1 Race Party (dates are 13-15 September in 2024),

– traveling west to Sheki staying overnight at its stunning caravanserai (ancient trading stop). While here, enjoying local baklava made from hazelnuts. You can even take a cooking class here to learn more about delicious Azerbaijan food. If you’re a foodie, you will love Azerbaijan!

Why Visit Baku Azerbaijan

So many destinations are ‘over visited’ these days! We feel Baku and Azerbaijan offer fresh travel adventures with an element of freedom to roam.

Finally, if you are interested in regional travel incorporating Baku:

How about a roadtrip around Georgia, a neighbour of Azerbaijan. We have a great post on what to see in Georgia from mountains to wine-tasting.

Equally, it’s only a short flight to Istanbul and with multiple flights a day Istanbul is easy to combine with Baku.  Check out Istanbul Highlights for First Time Visitors.

From the times I have spent living and visiting here over 15 years, I know you will leave Baku with new friends!  The Azeris are some of the most hospitable people on our planet. Go see for yourselves!

Thank you May god bless you We are heading to Baku for a week J founs your advice super useful

How exciting Nargiza. Have a wonderful time in Baku and do share any gems you discover.

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

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

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

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

Jump Straight To

Visas and arriving in Azerbaijan

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

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

Getting around in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Suggested itineraries for Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Budgeting for a trip to Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Food – what to eat in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Best time to visit Azerbaijan

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

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

Packing for Azerbaijan

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

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

Some tips and warnings for exploring Azerbaijan

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

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

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

Day by day breakdown of a trip to Azerbaijan

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

Accommodation in Baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drive back to Baku

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

Quba and Xinaliq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sheki and Ganja

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi you both 🙂

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

Hi Gayathri,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hey Rachna,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Shiba! Very useful !

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

That’s on the way to Khinaliq/Xinaliq 🙂

Hey, Thank you for sharing!!!

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

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

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

This is fab!

hi its easy drive to baku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So so lovely to hear this Rameeza 🙂

Can you please give an idea about the charges

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

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

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

Hey there – returning from Baku itself is most convenient 🙂

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

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

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

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

How can we reach Roman? Thank you

Hey – the phone number is in the article above 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

The pictures said it all. Very beautiful captures.

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi& Vid,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is there beautiful nature as well?

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

Hi Savi and Vid,

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

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

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

Thank you so much for your kind words Sanya 🙂

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

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

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

Yes March end should be nice 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I wanted to know:

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

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

Thanks a lot

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

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

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

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

Hi Savi and Vid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BE careful and safe travels to all.

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

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

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

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

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

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One Day in Baku Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku is the capital and the largest city of Azerbaijan. In addition, it is the largest city on the Caspian Sea and in the Caucasus region. Founded in the 5th century, it is revered as the historical, cultural, and business avenue of countries of West Asia. This grand and newly-emerged tourist destination has a population of 3.2 million and is also the sole metropolis of the country. In other words, your one day in Baku will be filled with some amazing things!

The name ‘Baku’ means ‘The City of God’ or ‘The Land of God’. The city is regarded as the architectural child of Paris and Dubai and has three prime divisions, i.e. the ancient city, the Soviet-built city, and the newly-built city. It is also 28 meters below the sea level, making it the lowest-lying country’s capital. Azerbaijan was annexed into the USSR in 1920, where it remained for decades but finally got its independent status in 1991.

So, are you excited for your one day in Baku? If the answer is yes, get your backpacks ready! There is a lot to see.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Baku?

If you’re planning on visiting Baku and exploring the deep history, culture, and eye-opening architectural views, you’ll love every second of your one day in Baku. But what’s the best time to visit the city?

‘Time flies; it’s up to you to be the navigator.’ (Robert Orben)

Planning always plays a pivotal role in any work you do! It is rightly said that an hour of preparation can save you 10 hours of doing. Have a look over the statistics presented here to evaluate and plan when the right time is to visit the mini-Dubai, Baku.

May and September are most likely to be the months of adequate and pleasant weather conditions with an average temperature between 20 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.

The warmest months are July and August . Additionally, the weather remains dry in February, April, May, June. By far, the coldest month is January, when the temperature falls to 6 degrees Celsius. If you are a big fan of rain, then November is the month in which you should plan your visit as it is the wettest month.

Events and Festivals in Baku

Baku, the charming city of Azerbaijan, is a fantastic place for events and festivals. People enjoy them throughout the year, no matter if they focus food, culture, music, wine, and music.

There’s always something exciting and fascinating happening in the country, especially in its capital. Below are some of the famous events that you must see if you’re planning on visiting Baku.

International Baku Jazz Festival

The music festival forum is set up with 115 members from 34 different countries in Baku for this festival. It has several phases and follows with a competition for getting the ‘Best Jazz Performer’ award. This festival has been held since 2005.

Azerbaijan International Food Industry Exhibition

The food industry of Azerbaijan is so important not only because it meets the country’s demands but also because it exports to many other places. The goods include freshly-grown fruit, herbs, vegetables, and spices. Every year in May, an exhibition is held in which all the exports good are displayed.

Azerbaijan International Auto Show

Are you a car/motorcycle lover? If you nodded in agreement, then you really should travel to Baku because the city hosts an annual exhibition every year between March, April, or May.

Maiden Tower International Art Festival

International Art Festival at Maiden Tower has been held since 2010. It is an international environment that brings artists from diverse backgrounds under the same roof. The festival includes street art, workshops, exhibitions, and much more.

Baku Shopping Festival

If you are a shopaholic, then this gathering is for you. It is a seasonal shopping festival that happens twice a year and goes for as long as a month. What makes it unique? This shopping gala has special discounts and is Tax-free .

Baku International Tourism Film Festival (BITFF)

Every November, an annual cultural event is held to promote films on various subjects related to domestic and international tourism, which is viewed by a large audience.

A Few Facts About Baku

• The name Baku is pronounced as ‘Baa-koo.’
• The citizens of Baku take tea with jam. Yes! You heard that right; the drink is go-to for every occasion and every meet-up and is sweetened with jam.
• The residents and citizens of Baku are known as ‘Bakuvians’ or ‘Azerbaijanis.’
• The Currency of Azerbaijan is ‘Azerbaijani New Manat’, and 1 Azerbaijan Manat is worth about $0.60.
• Baku has an exclusive and dedicated Museum for Miniature books. It opened in 2002 and is the finest of its kind in the world. It features over 6500 miniature manuals from 64 different countries.
• Baku also has a Museum of Dedicated Carpets; with various designs and patterns.
• The sport which is famous throughout Azerbaijan and especially in Baku is arm wrestling. Baku also hosts arm wrestling matches in bars and clubs.
• Baku is located in close proximity to Mud Volcanoes.
• Baku is full of exciting and famous tourist destinations like Little Venice on the Boulevard, Baku Flame Tower, Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and many more.
• Baku derives its significance from its administrative functions and the oil industry.
• Baku is indeed an enchanting place full of excitement. It has the ever-burning natural gas fire which burns throughout the year without ever stopping. It is called Yanar Dag.
• Bakuvians love food. Azerbaijan’s national dish, which is also Baku’s most famous dish, is ‘Kutabi.’ These are filled and stuffed pancakes.
• Baku’s literacy rate is 99%. Students are wise and do jobs too, but undergrads who face difficulties in managing job and studies take dissertation proposal writing service.
• When it comes to weddings, Bakuvians are very meticulous. They have a great love for sugar – if there is no sugar, there is no wedding.

One Day In Baku Itinerary

Follow this guide and plan your trip accordingly, even if you are short on time. These are the top places you should visit during your one day in Baku. You can easily tour the city in a day by renting a car at low prices and riding around the city with ease. Just keep this in mind: wake up early and live the moment!

Visit Gobustan National Park

Exploring different landscapes has its charm, and when it comes to exploring Baku, some of its features will really make you say “Wow!”. Scientists have discovered prehistoric mud volcanoes in which you can put your hands. If you dare, of course. Just be careful – an eruption could cover you in mud. The scenery is quite surreal, and you feel very much like you’re on another world, but while you’re here you should also go see the fascinating rock art that can also be found on the national park’s premises.

Go and see the Heydar Mosque

Time for some architecture! The Heydar Mosque is a blend of modern and traditional as it has all the elements you’d expect from a traditional mosque, but it was only built in 2014. Nevertheless, it is exceptionally beautiful, with its minarets reaching 95 meters in height . It is an especially beautiful sight at night, when a white light illuminates the building from all sides.

Experience the astonishing beauty of the Heydar Aliyev Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Centre is an impressive piece of architecture created by architect Zaha Hadid. It outshines all buildings in the city with its curves and flows and often hosts concerts and festivals.

On the second floor, there is a permanent exhibition called Mini Azerbaijan where you can take a look at all the most notable buildings in this country in their scaled-down version. They span from the Middle Ages to the current day, so it’s certainly interesting to see how far the country has come. Other exhibitions are also held here, so take a look and see what you can visit when you come here.

Have some delightful food at Sumakh Restaurant

If you’re hungry, have a delectable lunch at Sumakh restaurant, which is a favorite old-time eatery for locals and tourists alike. It has a modern interior, vibrantly colored walls, wooden elements, and couches ornamented with kilim cushions, all of which creates the perfect ambiance. Oh, and the food is innovative and flavorful, so you are bound to enjoy your meal here.

Walk the Baku Boulevard

Once you’re done with your meal, a nice walk is a great idea. Close to the aforementioned restaurant is the Baku Boulevard . This promenade goes parallel to the city’s coastline, and is usually considered to start at Freedom Square and go all the way to the Old City. Built in 1909, this stretch has been more than doubled in length in the last decade, but the original park is still a beautiful place ideal if you want some time for yourself and to just soak in the city’s vibe and appreciate the fact that you’re here.

Explore Baku Old City

At the end of your walk a very special prize awaits. Baku Old City is the very heart of Baku and the very first place in Azerbaijan to become a part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

This settlement dates back to at least the 12th century and has been beautifully preserved with people still living there. The city walls are still visible, which makes for a great tour through this beautiful place.

One thing you definitely mustn’t miss while you’re here is a visit to Maiden Tower , one of the symbols of Baku and Azerbaijan in general and another World Heritage Site. It houses a museum (which has a gift shop) dedicated to the city’s gradual development and is a part of many stories and legends. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view!

Relax on Fountain Square

End your one day in Baku, at least as far as sightseeing is concerned, on the beautiful Fountain Square (also known as Parapet). The locals absolutely love it, and its easy to see why: numerous fountains are surrounded with bars, restaurants and boutiques, plus there is a lot of wonderful greenery all around you. It certainly seems like a perfect day where you can rest and unwind after a whole day of walking and where you can do some people-watching to see what the local customs are when they have time to spare. Relaxing and very interesting at the same time.

Visit People Live Bar for a thrilling nightlife experience

Lastly, after visiting historical places and having some great food, you should visit People Livebar, a cheerful and stylish café. You can have drinks and listen to a live band while you mingle with the locals. The nightlife in Baku is genuinely astonishing, and the bar is open for 24 hours on Fridays and Saturday.

Where To Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan?

Baku is the largest city in the Caucasus region. Given its position as a significant gateway, it is a favorite choice of many tourists and many people from around the world have a lot of questions in their minds about where to stay in Baku. Getting a place which is in the city center and allows you to commute easily will be an excellent place for a foodie!

Deciding this without having an insight is the trickiest thing to do, so read this and thank me later.

Icheri Sheher Hotel

Mammadyarov Street 1/34, Sabayil , AZ1001 Baku

Are you going to Baku for the first time ? If yes, then Icheri Sheher must be the place of your stay. This fantastic hotel is located right next to the walls of the Old City, so you’ll have quite a backdrop for your stay. Oh, and the view from the place where you have breakfast is absolutely spectacular.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

La Casa Baku

Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Street 15/3, Sabayil , AZ1005 Baku

Hotel recommendation in Baku is La Casa Baku , an attractive 4-star hotel in the Sibayil district of Baku with great features and affordable rates. It is located right next to Caspian Sea, about 300 meters from the shore. You can also rent bikes and enjoy numerous amenities, as well as a continental breakfast.

Oliva Inn & Hostel

26 Həzi Aslanov Street Home 34, Yasamal , AZ1005 Baku

Best hostel recommendation is Oliva Inn & Hostel with great prices. Breakfast is available here every morning, the dorms are fairly big, and the kitchen is well equipped. On top of that, you are very close to many major attractions in the city.

Extra Tips For Visiting Baku

Things you must have in your mind before visiting Baku:

• Do not speak about Armenia. Azerbaijan and Armenia are at war, and talking about Armenia can get you in real trouble.
• Baku is a city that values cleanliness – don’t litter in Baku or you’ll be fined.
• Women are highly regarded. Don’t be rude and arrogant to women.
• Taxis and rent-a-cars don’t accept credit cards; they accept cash only.
• Food and accommodation are cheap compared to other European countries. For a few dollars, you can eat a whole lot.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Baku Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Samantha Kaylee

Samantha Kaylee is currently working as a Planning Manager at Crowd Writer, an excellent platform to avail essay writing service in the UK. She has gained a reputation as a Planning Manager in her clientele. She enjoys traveling and loves to write about her travel experiences. She has shared her experiences and expedition to Baku.

I will save these useful tips. It was a really helpful and very informative blog. It really helps me a lot but if you want to also learn something new and interesting.

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijan matched my expectations: Baku was a modern city steeped in oil money with a recently built subway, fast Wi-Fi, and tons of Parisian-style and futuristic buildings, while the rest of the country was incredibly rural with small towns surrounded by gorgeous mountains and farmland. In tiny villages, old men with canes sat in town squares gazing at passersby. Old babushkas with their backs bent and heads covered with scarves wandered past with groceries, off to make dishes for the family.

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next are the petroglyphs in Gobustan, home to 6,000 rock paintings that are up to 40,000 years old. The well-preserved sketches display ancient populations traveling on reed boats, men hunting antelope and wild bulls, and women dancing.

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

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

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

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

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

But it was worth it!

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

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

Overall, though, there’s not much to do in Lahij itself. There’s a tiny museum that takes five minutes, and you can ride a horse or shop if you want, but the real reason to visit is to go hiking. There are a lot of trails in the mountains around town, and it’s best to ask your guesthouse or the tourist office for information, as there’s no trail map. There are some ruins on the trail leading up from the nearby river and waterfall but be warned: it’s a steep 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) up and the ruins (really just a wall) are easily missed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Days 11 & 12 – Lankaran Before heading back to Baku, go south to visit this sleepy resort town on the Caspian Sea. See the Old Prison and Lighthouse (Stalin was actually a prisoner here for a while), visit the ancient bazaar, the 18th-century fortress, and the 19th-century mosque. You can spend a good day sightseeing here and then another on the beaches further south in Kenaramesha. If you have more time, take a day trip to the Ghizil-Agaj State Reserve, which is home to about 250 bird species. You can take organized tours from town.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Book Your Trip to Azerbaijan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

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

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

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

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Travel Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan [with Sample Itinerary]

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

• List of the Best Backpacker Hostels in Azerbaijan
• The Best Spas, Massages and Hammams in the Caucasus – Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan
• Is Baku, Azerbaijan ready to host the Formula 1? A tourist’s point of view
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in Azerbaijan
• List of the Best Budget Hotels in Azerbaijan

Baku Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Baku, Azerbaijan

1. heydar aliyev cultural center.

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

2. Baku Old City

Suggested Tour:  Baku: Old City Walking Tour

3. Baku Boulevard

Suggested Tour: Baku Panoramic Night Tour

4. Flame Towers

5. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

6. Fountain Square

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

7. Highland Park

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

8. Ateshgah – Fire Temple

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

9. Maiden Tower

Suggested Tour: Baku: Historic and Modern Baku Tour

Baku Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Baku, Azerbaijan

Day 1 – weekend guide to baku, azerbaijan.

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

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

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

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

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

Baku Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan

*All prices are subject to change.

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

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel

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

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

Check-in Old City Aparts

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

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

Drop Inn Baku

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

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

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

ATFK Hotel Baku

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

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

Sahil Hostel & Hotel

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

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

Old East Hotel

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

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

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you want Luxury

JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel

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

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

Hilton Baku

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

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

Dinamo Hotel Baku – Adult Only

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

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

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Baku - 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

Tour details.

• Tour Gallery

• All Tours on private basis
• English-Speaking Professional Driver
• Entrance Tickets: Fire Temple, Fire Mountain, 2 Way Cable Car Gabala
• Hotel Accommodation for 3 Nights Including Breakfast in 4* West Shine or Similar
• Return Transfer from Airport/Hotel with Good AC.
• Any other service not mentioned in the itinerary
• International Flight Tickets
• Lunch & Dinner
• Personal expense
• Tips to the driver
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Day 01 Arrive in Baku and Night Baku City Tour

Arrive at the Airport and welcome with English speaking driver cum guide. Proceed to Hotel Check in and take a rest at hotel. Proceed for Night Baku City Tour for the places , Highland Park , Nizami street.

Day 02 Gabala Tour

After a hearty breakfast, start your embark on a full day Gabala Tour for a place Yeddi Gozel Waterfall , Nohor Lake ,Tufandag Tourism Complex. Evening drops off at the hotel. Overnight. Lunch and Dinner at own arrangement.

Day 03 Absheron Tour

After a hearty breakfast, start your embark on a full day Absheron Tour for a place Fire Temple, Fire Mountain,, Heyder Aliyev Centre , famous I Love Baku for some pictures., Ganjlik Mall Evening drops off at the hotel. Overnight. Lunch and Dinner at own arrangement.

Day 04 Departure From Baku

After a hearty breakfast, free time before check out and get ready to fly back home or to the next.

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Starting from

• 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS
• 100 Availability
• Single Occupancy Price $409
• Double Occupancy Price $230
• Valid Till 2024-09-30
• Duration 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS
• Total Capacity 100 Persons

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