Top Things to Do in Azerbaijan: A Complete Travel Guide
Azerbaijan is a fascinating country where Eastern traditions meet Western innovation. From its cosmopolitan capital to its ancient villages, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse cultural sites, the country offers a wide range of activities for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Azerbaijan has plenty to offer.
Here’s a detailed guide on the top things to do in Azerbaijan, along with tips on how to make the most of your visit.
1. Explore the Old City of Baku (Icherisheher)
No visit to Azerbaijan is complete without a trip to Icherisheher (the Old City) in Baku. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the historical heart of the capital, filled with narrow streets, ancient buildings, and significant landmarks.
- Maiden Tower: One of Baku’s most iconic landmarks, the Maiden Tower dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the city from its top.
- Shirvanshah’s Palace: This 15th-century palace complex is a beautiful example of medieval Azerbaijani architecture and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
- Caravanserais and Museums: As you stroll through the Old City, you’ll come across caravanserais (inns for Silk Road traders) and small museums that highlight the city’s rich heritage.
Travel Tip: Take a guided walking tour to better understand the history and significance of Icherisheher. Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a stunning sunset over the Caspian Sea from the Maiden Tower.
2. Visit the Flame Towers
Baku’s Flame Towers are a symbol of the city’s modernity and connection to its ancient fire-worshiping past. These three skyscrapers light up at night, creating a stunning visual effect that mimics flickering flames.
- Experience the Night Views: The towers are best viewed after dark, when they are illuminated with shifting colors and patterns. Head to the Highland Park for a perfect viewpoint.
- Inside the Towers: One of the towers is a hotel, while the others house offices and residential spaces. Even if you don’t stay here, the Flame Towers are an essential part of any Baku itinerary.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit to the Flame Towers with a walk through Baku Boulevard, a long seaside promenade that’s perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
3. Take a Trip to Gobustan National Park
Just an hour’s drive from Baku, Gobustan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient rock carvings and fascinating mud volcanoes.
- Petroglyphs: Gobustan is home to thousands of petroglyphs that date back over 40,000 years, depicting scenes from prehistoric life such as hunting and dancing.
- Mud Volcanoes: Azerbaijan has the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world, and you can witness these natural phenomena in Gobustan. Watching the bubbling mud is a truly unique experience.
Travel Tip: It’s best to visit Gobustan as part of an organized tour to learn about the history and geology of the area. The park is easily combined with a visit to the nearby mud volcanoes, making it a perfect day trip from Baku.
4. Discover the Beauty of Sheki
The town of Sheki, located in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, is one of Azerbaijan’s most picturesque destinations. Known for its rich history and craftsmanship, Sheki is a key stop for travelers seeking to explore Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage.
- Sheki Khan’s Palace: This 18th-century palace, with its intricate stained-glass windows and detailed frescoes, is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture.
- Caravanserai: Sheki’s historic caravanserai is now a hotel, but it still retains the charm of its Silk Road trading past. Even if you’re not staying, it’s worth a visit to soak in the history.
- Local Crafts: Sheki is known for its traditional crafts, especially shebeke (stained-glass art) and silk scarves, which make perfect souvenirs.
Travel Tip: Spend at least a day or two in Sheki to fully explore its attractions. Visit the nearby village of Kish to see the ancient Albanian Church, one of the oldest Christian monuments in Azerbaijan.
5. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures in Shahdag
For adventure seekers, Shahdag Mountain Resort offers a range of activities throughout the year. Whether you visit in winter or summer, this resort is ideal for both thrill and relaxation.
- Winter Sports: In winter, Shahdag turns into a snowy playground, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. It’s Azerbaijan’s premier ski destination, with slopes suitable for all skill levels.
- Summer Activities: When the snow melts, Shahdag becomes a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. You can go hiking, horseback riding, or even try zip-lining through the scenic landscapes.
Travel Tip: Shahdag is about a 2-hour drive from Baku, so it’s an easy weekend getaway. If you’re visiting during the busy winter season, book your accommodation and activities in advance.
6. Wander Through Lahij
Lahij, a small mountain village in the Ismayilli region, is famous for its preserved medieval cobblestone streets and traditional copper craftsmanship.
- Explore the Village: Walking through Lahij feels like stepping back in time. The stone houses and narrow streets give the village an ancient, tranquil atmosphere.
- Craft Shops: Lahij is known for its copper craftsmanship, and you can visit workshops to see artisans creating beautiful copperware by hand. You can even buy unique copper products to take home as souvenirs.
Travel Tip: Lahij is best visited in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. A day trip from Baku or Gabala is enough to explore the village, though nature lovers may want to stay longer to hike in the surrounding mountains.
7. Relax by the Caspian Sea
The shores of the Caspian Sea offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and exploring. From vibrant city beaches to quiet coastal retreats, the Caspian Sea is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Bilgah Beach: Located just outside of Baku, Bilgah Beach is one of the most popular spots for swimming and sunbathing in the summer. The area also has beach resorts and water sports facilities.
- Nabran: For a more laid-back experience, head north to Nabran, a coastal village that’s perfect for escaping the city. With sandy beaches and lush forests, Nabran is ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Travel Tip: Summer is the best time to enjoy the Caspian Sea, but be prepared for large crowds in popular spots. If you prefer more privacy, visit in early autumn when the weather is still warm but the beaches are less crowded.
8. Experience Azerbaijan’s Wine Culture
Azerbaijan has a long tradition of winemaking, dating back to ancient times. If you’re a wine lover, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the country’s vineyards and wineries.
- Savalan Winery: Located near Gabala, Savalan Winery offers tours and tastings of its locally produced wines. The winery is known for its high-quality red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties.
- Shamakhi Region: Shamakhi is another region famous for its vineyards. The area has several wineries where you can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the winemaking process.
Travel Tip: Plan a wine tour to experience the best of Azerbaijan’s wine culture. Visit in late summer or early autumn when the grapes are harvested for the full vineyard experience.
Conclusion: Plan Your Perfect Trip to Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts and diversity, offering travelers a wide range of experiences, from cultural immersion to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the modern cityscape of Baku, hiking in the Caucasus Mountains, or relaxing by the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan has something for everyone.
- For history and culture: Visit Baku’s Old City, Gobustan, and Sheki.
- For outdoor adventures: Head to Shahdag, Lahij, and the Caspian Sea.
- For relaxation: Enjoy the beaches of Baku or Nabran, or take a wine tour through Gabala and Shamakhi.
No matter what your interests are, Azerbaijan promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich history.