Things To Do
in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a captivating country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It boasts a mix of modernity and tradition, with vibrant cities like Baku showcasing futuristic architecture alongside ancient historical sites. The country is famous for its hospitality, diverse cuisine, and unique landscapes ranging from the Caspian Sea coastline to the majestic Caucasus Mountains.

Visitors can explore its rich history, enjoy its warm climate, and experience the blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Baku
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Flame Towers and take a stroll along the Boulevard, enjoying the Caspian Sea views.

afternoon
:

Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher), visiting the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant in the Old City, followed by a visit to the Baku Eye for panoramic city views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple and the Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) to learn about the country’s fire-worshipping history.

evening
:

Return to Baku for a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2-5
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$2-5
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$40-100
🍺Local beer$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Warm hospitality and delicious cuisine.
  • Language barrier for non-Russian speakers.
  • Limited public transport outside major cities.
  • Some areas may have inadequate infrastructure.
  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Təşəkkür edirəm" - Thank you
  • "Bağışlayın" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Nerede?" - Where?
  • "Bura necə gedir?" - How do I get there?

Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Visit one of these nice places.

Flame Towers

These three iconic skyscrapers are an architectural marvel, especially stunning when illuminated at night.

Old City (Icherisheher)

The ancient walls and cobblestone streets provide a picturesque backdrop for captivating photos.

Gobustan National Park

The prehistoric rock carvings and unique mud volcanoes create a striking landscape for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors influenced by its diverse geography and cultural history.

Azerbaijan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Plov

A traditional rice dish often served with saffron, herbs, and various meats.

Must-Try!

Dolma

Stuffed grape leaves filled with minced meat and rice, seasoned with aromatic spices.

Kebabs

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with fresh vegetables and bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Baku Food Market

A bustling market where visitors can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Try local street food like 'dovga' (yogurt soup) and 'qutab' (stuffed flatbreads) from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Azerbaijan experiences a diverse climate, with coastal areas having a semi-arid climate and the mountainous regions being colder. Summers (June to August) can be hot, especially in Baku, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. Winters (December to February) are cold, particularly in the north, with temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) in mountainous regions. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality

Azerbaijanis are known for their hospitality; it is common to be offered tea or food when visiting someone's home.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; women may need to cover their heads.

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Safety Guide

Safety

Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keeping your belongings secure is essential. Emergency services can be contacted via a universal number (112) for any urgent situations.

Tipping in Azerbaijan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect hot weather, especially in Baku; perfect for beach outings along the Caspian Sea.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a beautiful backdrop for exploring nature and cultural sites.

Winter

Cold temperatures, particularly in the mountains; a great season for winter sports and enjoying cozy local cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Azerbaijan at Night

Azerbaijan's nightlife, particularly in Baku, is vibrant and diverse, featuring a range of bars, nightclubs, and lounges. Trendy spots like the 360° Bar offer stunning city views, while clubs like Enerji are popular for dancing. The atmosphere is lively, and many venues host live music events and DJ nights, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Hiking in Azerbaijan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Goygol National Park

Located about 200 kilometers from Baku, this park offers stunning hiking trails with views of lakes and mountains.

Zagatala National Park

This park features lush forests and diverse wildlife, with several hiking routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Airports

How to reach Azerbaijan by plane.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Located about 20 kilometers northeast of Baku, this is the main international airport serving Azerbaijan, with flights to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Baku is generally walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance. The Boulevard along the Caspian Sea is pedestrian-friendly, with parks and cafes. However, some neighborhoods may have steep hills or lack sidewalks, making them less accessible for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Azerbaijanis

The majority ethnic group, Azerbaijani people are known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Ethnic Minorities

There are various ethnic minorities in Azerbaijan, including Lezgins and Tati, contributing to the country's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Wrestling

Azerbaijan has a rich tradition in wrestling, with many local championships and a strong presence in international competitions.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the country, with national teams and clubs followed passionately by fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Baku can be congested, particularly during rush hours, with many vehicles on the roads. Public transportation options include buses and the metro system, which are affordable and connect major areas of the city. However, taxis are also widely available and can be a convenient option for getting around.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like grilled vegetables and salads.

Halal Food

Azerbaijan is predominantly Muslim, and most restaurants serve halal food.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Azerbaijan has improved in recent years, with both public and private facilities available. Major cities like Baku have hospitals that offer a range of services, but rural areas may have limited access. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and be aware that English-speaking staff may not be readily available in all areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Azerbaijan.