The Best Highlights of Azerbaijan: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re planning to explore Azerbaijan, look no further than this 6-day tour that covers the country’s most significant highlights. This private tour, offered by Guided Azerbaijan, takes you to Baku, Gobustan, Absheron Peninsula, Gabala, Sheki, Guba, and Khinalug.Day 1: Arrival – Baku City Tour
On your first day, your English-speaking guide picks you up from the airport and takes you to your hotel for check-in. Afterward, you’ll start your Baku city tour, where you’ll visit six stops. The highlights of this tour include:- The Old City of Baku, which dates back to the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a 15th-century palace complex that was once the residence of the rulers of the Shirvanshahs state
- Maiden Tower, a 12th-century monument and iconic landmark of Baku
- The Flame Towers, a group of three skyscrapers that are the tallest in Baku and an iconic symbol of the city
- Heydar Aliyev Center, a spectacular building designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid that houses a museum, exhibition halls, and a conference center
- Carpet Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets
Day 2: Gobustan + Absheron Peninsula tour
On the second day, you’ll explore the Gobustan National Park and Absheron Peninsula. Your guide takes you to the following five stops:- Gobustan National Park, which is home to more than 6,000 rock carvings that date back to the Stone Age
- Mud volcanoes, fascinating geological formations that spew mud and other gases
- Ateshgah Fire Temple, a 17th-century temple that was once a place of worship for Zoroastrians
- Yanar Dag, also known as the Burning Mountain, a natural gas fire that has been burning for centuries
- Shamakhi Juma Mosque, an 8th-century mosque located in the town of Shamakhi
Day 3: Gabala- Sheki Tour
On day three, you’ll leave Baku and travel to the city of Gabala. Along the way, you’ll stop at four places of interest, including:- Shamakhi, the former capital of the Shirvan Empire
- The Albanian church in Kish, an ancient Christian church dating back to the 1st century AD
- Nohur lake and village, a beautiful spot in the mountains surrounded by forests
- Tufandag Mountain Resort, a popular ski resort in Gabala where you’ll ride a cable car and enjoy stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains
Day 4: Sheki City Tour
On your fourth day, your guide takes you on a city tour of Sheki, a beautiful town nestled in the mountains of northwestern Azerbaijan. You’ll visit three places of interest, including:- The Palace of Sheki Khans, an 18th-century palace that was once the residence of the rulers of Sheki
- The Sheki bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can buy traditional Azerbaijani souvenirs
- The Caravanserai, an ancient inn that once served as a resting place for merchants and travelers
Day 5: Guba – Khinalug Tour
On the fifth day, you’ll travel to the town of Guba and then on to the remote village of Khinalug, which is situated high in the mountains. Along the way, you’ll stop at four places of interest, including:- Guba Genocide Memorial Complex, a somber reminder of the tragic events that took place in Guba during World War II
- Gkhinaldag Mountain, a scenic spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
- The village of Galeykhudat, a charming village with traditional Azerbaijani architecture
- The village of Khinalug, a remote village that is home to a unique language and culture and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world
Day 6: Departure Day
On your final day, your guide takes you back to the airport for your departure.What’s Included:
- Hotel pick up & drop-off and airport transfers (arrival & departure) with an air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional licensed guide & driver
- Gabala cable car fee (2 lines)
- Meals & drinks (except for personal expenses)
Things not marked on include part:
- Personal expenses
Meeting and Pickup:
- Pickup points: Baku airport or your hotel in Baku
- Start time: 09:00 AM
Additional Info:
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time or do not show up, there will be no refund
Book the tour here:
In conclusion, this 6-day tour is an excellent way to explore Azerbaijan’s most significant highlights with the help of a professional guide. With seamless transportation and accommodation arrangements, you can leave the planning to Guided Azerbaijan and focus on enjoying your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baku
1. What is Baku?
Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is located on the Caspian Sea coast and is the largest city in the country. Baku is known for its rich history, culture, and modern architecture.
2. How do I get to Baku?
Baku is easily accessible by air, land, and sea. Heydar Aliyev International Airport is the main airport in Baku, with flights from major cities around the world. You can also get to Baku by train or bus from neighboring countries. Additionally, Baku has a port with regular ferry services from various cities in the Caspian Sea region.
3. What are the must-visit places in Baku?
- Old City (Icherisheher): This historic walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to many ancient landmarks, including the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace.
- Flame Towers: These iconic towers are a modern symbol of Baku, with an impressive lighting display at night.
- Baku Boulevard: This seaside promenade offers great views of the Caspian Sea, as well as various attractions such as the Baku Ferris Wheel and Carpet Museum.
- Martyrs’ Lane: This memorial site is dedicated to the Azerbaijani soldiers who died in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
- Bibi-Heybat Mosque: This historic mosque is a pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims and a significant religious landmark in Azerbaijan.
4. What is the best time to visit Baku?
The best time to visit Baku is from April to June and from September to November. The weather is mild and comfortable during these months, and there are many cultural events and festivals to enjoy. However, if you want to experience Baku’s hot summer or snowy winter, you can visit during those seasons as well.
5. What is the currency in Baku?
The currency used in Baku and throughout Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
6. Is it safe to travel to Baku?
Yes, Baku is generally a safe city to travel to. However, as with any major city, it is important to take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be aware of your surroundings.
7. What are the local customs and traditions in Baku?
Azerbaijan is a Muslim-majority country, but it has a secular government and a diverse population. In Baku, you will encounter a blend of Middle Eastern, European, and Central Asian cultures. Local customs and traditions include hospitality, tea drinking, and family values. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and be respectful of local customs.
8. What is the cuisine like in Baku?
Azerbaijani cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique dishes. Some local specialties to try in Baku include stuffed grape leaves (dolma), kebabs, pilaf, and pomegranate juice. Azerbaijani food is heavily influenced by neighboring countries such as Iran, Turkey, and Russia.
9. How can I get around Baku?
Baku has a modern and affordable public transportation system, including buses, metro (subway), and taxis. Metro trains run from 6 am to midnight, and tickets cost 0.20 AZN (about 0.12 USD) per ride. You can also rent a car or use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt.
10. What are some cultural events and festivals in Baku?
Baku hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including:
- Baku Jazz Festival
- Baku International Film Festival
- Novruz Bayrami (spring holiday)
- Baku Shopping Festival
- Baku Street Food Festival
Attending these events is a great way to experience Baku’s vibrant culture and connect with locals.
Book Your Tour Now
Baku is a fascinating city with a rich history, diverse culture, and modern amenities. Whether you are interested in ancient landmarks or modern architecture, traditional cuisine or international flavors, Baku has something for everyone. By following these tips and recommendations, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Baku.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Baku – A Comprehensive Guide
Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan, a beautiful and historic city that is fast becoming a top tourist destination. From its stunning architecture to its rich cultural heritage, there’s plenty to see and do in Baku. If you’re planning a trip to this dynamic city, here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time in Baku.1. Visit the Old City (Icheri Sheher)
One of the top things to do in Baku is to visit the Old City, also known as Icheri Sheher. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the historic heart of Baku and is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, the Maiden Tower, and the Mohammed Mosque.How to Get There
The Old City is located in the heart of Baku and is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to the Icheri Sheher station or hop on a local bus or taxi. If you prefer to walk, you can enter the Old City through one of its several gates.What to Do and See
Once inside the Old City, take your time to explore its historic streets and alleyways. Visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, which is one of Azerbaijan’s most iconic landmarks. This 15th-century palace complex is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture and is home to numerous temples, tombs, and other historic structures. You can also climb to the top of the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of the Old City and the Caspian Sea.2. Take a Walk Along the Seaside Boulevard
Seaside Boulevard, also known as the National Park, is a scenic promenade that stretches along Baku’s coastline. This is the perfect place to take a stroll, soak up the sun, and enjoy the views of the Caspian Sea.How to Get There
Seaside Boulevard is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to the Sahil station or hop on a local bus or taxi.What to Do and See
Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and enjoy the views of the sea. You can also visit the Baku Ferris Wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a playground and a small amusement park in the National Park.3. Explore the Baku Flame Towers
The Flame Towers are one of Baku’s most iconic landmarks. These three skyscrapers resemble flames and are visible from almost every part of the city. The towers also light up at night, creating a spectacular display.How to Get There
The Flame Towers are located in the city center and are easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to the Khatai station or hop on a local bus or taxi.What to Do and See
Visit the Flame Towers at night to see them light up in all their glory. You can also visit the Fairmont Baku hotel, which is located inside one of the towers, and enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views of the city.4. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center
The Heydar Aliyev Center is a stunning building that houses a museum, an art gallery, and a concert hall. The building was designed by internationally renowned architect Zaha Hadid and is a masterpiece of modern architecture.How to Get There
The Heydar Aliyev Center is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to the Nizami station or hop on a local bus or taxi.What to Do and See
Visit the museum and art gallery to learn more about Azerbaijani history and culture. Attend a concert or a performance at the concert hall and experience Azerbaijan’s vibrant arts scene.5. Try Azerbaijani Cuisine
No trip to Baku is complete without trying Azerbaijani cuisine. This diverse cuisine has been influenced by Turkish, Persian, and Russian culinary traditions and is known for its rich flavors and generous use of herbs and spices.Where to Eat
There are numerous restaurants in Baku that serve delicious Azerbaijani cuisine. Some of the top places to eat include Karvansaray, Nargiz, and Dolma.What to Eat
Some of the must-try dishes include dolma (stuffed grape leaves), plov (rice pilaf), qutab (savory pancakes stuffed with meat or cheese), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers). Don’t forget to try Azerbaijani tea and baklava for dessert.Book Your Tour Now
Baku is a vibrant and dynamic city that is full of things to see and do. Whether you want to explore its rich history and culture or enjoy its modern amenities and vibrant arts scene, Baku has something for everyone. With this guide, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city and create memories that will last a lifetime.Table of Contents
