A perfect combination of historical richness, traditional values, and contemporary outlook; Azerbaijan is one of the most iconic transcontinental countries situated at the crossroad of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The country is popular for the architectural marvels spread across different cities; right from the idyllic House of Government and Palace of the Shirvanshahs in Baku, mesmerizing bottle house in Ganja, to the charming Shindan castle in Astara and the beautiful Diri Baba Mausoleum in Shirvan. There is a long list of places to visit in Azerbaijan and an avid traveler would be delighted to experience the charm of each of them.
Top Places to Visit in Azerbaijan: The Land of Wine, Wild, and Wonders
Other than its location that makes Azerbaijan the perfect destination to explore; it is also the wide range of places from mountains, and parks, to boulevards, and beaches. There is a never-ending list of places to visit in Azerbaijan and tourists would find each of these destinations intriguing enough to spend their time at each spot. The country welcomes all kinds of tourists from a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or an avid traveler to explore their kinds of places and indulge in the activities that they prefer.
Here are the best places to visit in this charming country for an ideal vacation.
- Baku
- Shamakhi
- Ganja
- Gabala
- Guba
- Shamkir
- Nakhchivan
- Lerik
1. Baku: The City Portraying the Rich Heritage and Culture
Popularly known as the city of winds, Baku is one of the gems of Azerbaijan that must be explored. The city is the epitome of the phrase ‘the only constant in life is change’ and so one would have the pleasure to witness everything from the heritage marvels like Teze Pir Mosque, and Icheri sheher Fortress Walls to the modern landmarks including Baku boulevard, Little Venice, Baku eye, and many more. One of the top attractions in Azerbaijan is the carpet museum in Baku. It features an amazing collection of carpets that were curated during the Bronze Age, the Ancient Period, and the early Middle Ages with a larger part of the carpets being created in the 17th to 20th centuries. Other than the carpets, the museum also exhibits carpet products, creative metalwork, costume, embroidery and jewelry.
Top Attractions: Maiden Tower, Shirvanshas Palace, and Flame Towers
Things to Do: Stroll through Baku Old City, explore the intriguing mud volcanoes, and get the blessings of the Almighty at Bibi Heybat Mosque
Main Airport: Heydar Aliyev International Airport
How to Reach: One can take Airport express bus or Baku bus that run between the airport and Baku City Center
2. Shamakhi: The Perfect Place to Escape the Hustle and Bustle
The birthplace of the famous poets, Sabir and Nesimi, Shamakhi is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. The city is located at the foothills of the Great Caucasus and it is the producer of some of the most flavorful wines in the region. People interested in wine tasting or just want to explore the vineyards must visit the lush green Shirvan Vineyard. If you love to be surrounded by nature then Silent Lake is the perfect spot for you. A waterbody which is hidden between the mountains, miles away from the hush-hush of the chaotic city. Shamakhi is also home to two significant heritage sites; Diri Baba Mausoleum and Juma Mosque.
Top Attractions: Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory, Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum, and Juma Mosque
Things to Do: Wine tour and tasting, visiting Diri Baba mausoleum, and trekking in the mountains
Main Airport: Gabala International Airport
How to Reach: One can take a taxi, a train or drive to their destination from the airport
3. Ganja: The Region with Cultural Significance
Brimming with rich history and showcasing the significant remnants of many strong civilizations, Ganja is one of the must-visit tourist places in Azerbaijan. The city is home to the largest park in the Caucasus which features a beautiful lawn with vibrant flower arrangements, a fun amusement park with thrilling rides, and many eateries to enjoy food. Speaking about the city’s cultural significance, it features Shah Abbas Caravanserai. In ancient times the traders used to stay in the room while commuting through the silk route. An intelligently curated lighting and ventilation system has been discovered from the place. One must also stroll the lanes of Javad Khan Street and appreciate the architecture of many buildings that influence the Russian empire.
Top Attractions: Lake Goygol, Imamzadeh, Nizami’s Mausoleum, and the Russian Church
Things to Do: Explore the famous bottle house, relax in the comfort of the hammam, and enjoy the flavor of Kvas
Main Airport: Ganja International Airport
How to Reach: One can take a taxi from the airport to reach the city
Suggested Read: Top Castles in Azerbaijan: Sink in the History of Medieval Castles
4. Gabala: The Place Narrating Thousand Years Old History
This city is the perfect tourist spot in Azerbaijan for people who enjoy skiing and snowboarding. There is a never-ending list of resorts that offer the training and experience of the thrilling snow sport. Tourists can choose to just sit and enjoy the picturesque views of the Caucasus and relax in the beautiful silence of the mountains. One of the things to do in Azerbaijan is to explore the 2,000-year-old history of Shirvan and Shaki Khans in the city. One of the oldest cities in the country, Gabala is also a dream destination for nature lovers who would appreciate the lush green lands of chestnut and walnut forests.
Top Attractions: Archaeological Center, Yeddi Gozal Waterfall, and Nohur Lake
Things to Do: Take a tour of wineries, enjoy the rides at Gabaland, and indulge in snow activities in Tufandag
Main Airport: Gabala International Airport
How to Reach: One can take a taxi, a train or drive to their destination from the airport
Suggested Read: Top Malls in Azerbaijan: To Have a Shopping Experience Like Never Before
5. Guba: The Region for Trekkers and Adventure Seekers
If you are a mountain person, Guba is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. The lush greenery of the Caucasus mountains is not enough for you to get completely mesmerized, then you must try trekking and encounter the beautiful villages that come on the way. This place is the perfect escape from the chaos of city life. The city of Guba is also home to some significant historical places including Chirag Gala Fort and Sakina Khanim Mosque. One must not miss visiting the amazing Guba Handmade Carpet Factory. There are plenty of restaurants in Azerbaijan but the traditional dishes of Guba must be tried.
Top Attractions: Khinaliq Village, Qechresh Forest, and Afurja Waterfall
Things to Do: Explore the Red Village, hike on the Griz Trail, and try the traditional Guba dishes
Main Airport: Heydar Aliyev International Airport
How to Reach: One can take bus or train from the airport to reach the city
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6. Shamkir: The Land of Flavorful Wines and Beautiful Vineyards
With astonishingly beautiful historical landmarks and the city popular for producing fresh vegetables and fruits, Shamkir ranks the highest on the list of places to visit in Azerbaijan. The city is the perfect destination to explore the western region’s German heritage and learn about Ashug, a kind of folk music. If you are a wine lover, then explore the Sharg Ulduzu winery known for its dry red wine. Speaking about exploring the past, visit Muktariyat Ruins and learn about the marvels that past generations left us to understand more about how they used to work in the olden days.
Top Attractions: Shamkir Church, Shamkir History & Ethnography Museum, Shamkir Fort
Things to Do: Explore the ancient Shamkir, hike on the Soyugbulag Trail, and enjoy the rides at Monuments Park
Main Airport: Ganja International Airport
How to Reach: One can take taxi to reach their destination in the city
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7. Nakhchivan: The Region with Distinct Flavors and Old-Fashioned Villages
This autonomous republic of Azerbaijan has a very interesting location. Of course, history must have played its part well to put this beautiful region in boundation of Armenia on the north and east side, Iran to the south and west side, and Turkey to the west side. One of the amazing places to visit in Azerbaijan is this region that has some of the most jaw droppingly beautiful views of the landscapes, a very distinct cuisine which is not found anywhere in Azerbaijan and some of the old-fashioned villages that are amazing for history buffs to understand the past and culture. Don’t miss trying qovurma shorbasi, dadli qala, and puffy omelets soaked in honey when visiting this beautiful region.
Top Attractions: Momine Khatun Mausoleum, Nakhchivan Khans' Palace, and Alinja Castle
Things to Do: Try the delicious traditional dishes, trek to enjoy the picturesque views, and experience the salt therapies
Main Airport: Nakhchivan International Airport
How to Reach: One can take bus to reach the city center inside the region
Suggested Read: Skiing in Azerbaijan: Explore the White Winter Paradise
8. Lerik: The Place with Medicinal Property in Everything Natural
If you are looking for an escape to the mountains, this city is the perfect place to do so. The majestic Talysh mountains doesn’t just provide with the most panoramic views bit also let tourists mingle with people of some of the oldest civilizations in the region. Tourists have the option to camp around the lush greenery, stargaze, and enjoy the cascading waterfalls at Galabin village. The region is also known as the land of centenarians and it is believed that the water, air and plants contain medicinal quality that cures many of the common diseases. This region would be on the list of unique places to explore in Azerbaijan of curious traveler.
Top Attractions: Cascading waterfalls, lush green mountains, and charming old villages
Things to Do: Trek and camp in the mountains, enjoy the delicious food, and learn about plants with medicinal properties
Main Airport: Lankaran International Airport
How to Reach: One can take a taxi to reach their destination inside the city
Azerbaijan is an interesting as well as intriguing country to explore. With the beautiful blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and modern thought process; the places to visit in Azerbaijan leave tourists mesmerized and impressed. The picturesque views of the Caucasus mountains, the beautiful silence of the lakes, the flavors of the traditional dishes, and the only Jew settlement in the country are enough reasons to plan a holiday. So, if you are looking for a new destination to explore with your family and friends, pick this beautiful country that has been home to many powerful civilizations.
FAQs
Yes, the beautiful country of Azerbaijan has a plethora of stunning places to explore from historical sites, trendy landmarks, snowy mountains, and lush green forests. Wine lovers will have the time of their lives tasting different flavored wines and take some of them back home with them.
The months between April and June and September and October are ideal to plan a holiday in Azerbaijan. The weather during these months is pleasant for tourists to explore and indulge in all the exciting activities.
There are numerous cities to explore during one’s holiday in the beautiful country of Azerbaijan. Some the most visited cities include Baku, Shamakhi, Ganja, Gabala, Guba, Shamkir, among others.
The capital city of Azerbaijan has many heritage marvels like Teze Pir Mosque and Icheri sheher Fortress Walls. The modern landmarks include Baku boulevard, Little Venice, Baku eye, and the carpet museum.
The cities of Shamakhi, Gabala and Shamkir are among those which have been the producers of different flavors of wines for a very long time. There are different tours held in these cities to taste the wine and explore the vineyards.
Spending 7-10 days are enough to explore all the significant landmarks including the historical monuments, the lakes, the mountains, and the restaurants and indulge in all the exciting activities like trekking, snowboarding and skiing.
Here are the important tips to keep in mind while exploring the country.
- Keep your passport with you
- Carry a bottle of water
- Try traditional dishes
- Wear comfortable clothes
There is a long list of stunning places in Azerbaijan that are mesmerizing enough to leave tourists awestruck.
- Caspian Sea
- Icheri Sheher
- Baku Old City
- Caucasus Mountains
- Shirvan National Park
