Things To Do
in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, bordered by the Caspian Sea to the east, and neighboring Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran. Its capital, Baku, is known for its modern architecture, including the iconic Flame Towers, and its rich history reflected in its ancient walled city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Azerbaijan boasts a diverse landscape that ranges from mountains to deserts and is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
The country is also notable for its significant oil reserves and has been shaped by various civilizations throughout history, contributing to its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Xahiş edirəm" - Please
- "Təşəkkür edirəm" - Thank you
- "Bağışlayın" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Necəsən?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Gobustan National Park to explore ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes. Enjoy the stunning natural scenery and learn about the prehistoric inhabitants.
Head back to Baku and take a stroll down the Boulevard along the Caspian Sea. Grab lunch at a seaside café while enjoying views of the modern architecture.
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Baku. Choose from local restaurants for dinner and possibly catch a cultural performance or clubbing experience.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City (Icherisheher). Visit the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, learning about the history of this ancient place.
Wander through the narrow streets, taking in local handicraft shops and cafes. Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch at a local eatery.
Relax at a rooftop café with views of the Old City. Savor some local dishes and delight in the sunset over Baku.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous ancient sites.
- Diverse landscape ranging from mountains to the Caspian Sea coastline.
- Strategic geographical location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
- Growing economy with significant investments in oil and gas sectors.
- Tourism potential due to unique traditions and hospitality.
- Political tensions with neighboring Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.
- Issues with human rights and freedom of expression.
- Dependence on oil and gas revenues can lead to economic volatility.
- Infrastructure in some areas may be underdeveloped.
- Corruption and lack of transparency in governance.
Best Activities in Azerbaijan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of the Caucasus Mountains through various hiking trails.
Enjoy cycling through the picturesque countryside and historic sites in the city of Sheki.
Discover ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and the unique natural beauty of Gobustan National Park.
Relax on the beautiful beaches, go swimming, or engage in water sports along the Absheron Peninsula coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Azerbaijan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Azerbaijan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Baku and the Caspian Sea
Known for ancient rock carvings and scenic landscapes
Iconic modern architecture and beautiful surroundings
Stunning mountain vistas and outdoor activities
Historic walls with picturesque city views
Food in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Vegetables like grape leaves or bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, and herbs, usually served with yogurt.
Must-Try!
A hearty rice pilaf dish cooked with fragrant spices, often containing meat, dried fruits, and nuts.
Small dumplings filled with meat and served in a warm broth, often topped with yogurt and garlic sauce.
A sweet pastry filled with ground nuts and sugar, traditionally prepared during the Novruz holiday.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Azerbaijan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Baku offering an array of local produce, spices, and traditional snacks like baklava and qutab.
A popular spot for street food where you can find grilled meats, kebabs, and flavorful flatbreads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Azerbaijan, it is common to greet people with a handshake, especially in more formal settings. It is customary to greet the eldest or most senior person first in a group.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Azerbaijani culture. It is important to show deference and use appropriate language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.
Azerbaijanis are known for their hospitality. When visiting someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift or offer to help with chores as a sign of appreciation for the host's hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Azerbaijan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Azerbaijan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Azerbaijan, tipping is not a common practice, but it is appreciated in certain situations such as at upscale restaurants and hotels. A service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary. However, a small tip for exceptional service is generally welcomed.
Cash is the most widely used form of payment in Azerbaijan, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions. ATMs are available in urban centers, but may be less common in remote locations.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Azerbaijan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, colorful landscapes, and vibrant spring festivals. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.
Warm weather, long sunny days, and lively events such as music festivals and beach activities. Perfect for enjoying the Caspian Sea coast.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful foliage, and grape harvest festivals. Great for hiking, wine tasting, and visiting the scenic countryside.
Cold weather with occasional snow, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Festive markets and indoor cultural events offer a unique winter experience.
Azerbaijan at Night
Hiking in Azerbaijan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its ancient rock engravings, Gobustan also offers beautiful landscapes and trails that wind through unique geological formations.
A popular destination for outdoor activities, Shahdag features various hiking trails with stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains.
Known for its stunning lake and lush forests, Goygol National Park offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to experience its rich biodiversity.
This region boasts diverse trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
One of the highest and most remote mountain villages in Azerbaijan, Khinalug offers access to spectacular trails and breathtaking scenery.
Although it is in Georgia, this park is very close to the Azerbaijan border and offers beautiful hiking opportunities in the Caucasus region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Azerbaijan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Azerbaijan by plane.
The primary international airport in Azerbaijan, located in Baku.
Main international airport in Tbilisi, Georgia, approximately 280 km from Baku.
An international airport in Batumi, Georgia, about 400 km from Azerbaijan.
One of the largest airports in the world located in Istanbul, Turkey, about 1,300 km away.
Located in Yerevan, Armenia, which is around 350 km from Baku.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Azerbaijan, making up around 91% of the population.
The second largest ethnic group, primarily residing in the northern regions of Azerbaijan.
An ethnic group mainly found in the southern part of Azerbaijan, particularly in the Talish Mountains.
An ethnic minority in Azerbaijan, concentrated mainly in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
A small ethnic group in Azerbaijan, primarily located in Baku and surrounding areas.
An ethnic group found in northeastern Azerbaijan, particularly in the Quba region.
An Iranian ethnic group residing in parts of Azerbaijan, mainly around the southern regions.
The Soul of Azerbaijan
Discover the essence of Azerbaijan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Wrestling is one of the most popular sports in Azerbaijan, with a rich history and tradition in the country. Azerbaijani wrestlers have achieved significant success in international competitions.
Football is hugely popular in Azerbaijan, with the national league, as well as the national team, drawing significant fan support. Matches are widely watched and discussed.
Judo has gained popularity in Azerbaijan, with many athletes excelling in international championships and representing the country at various levels.
Boxing is a well-followed sport in Azerbaijan, with numerous boxers achieving recognition and success in Olympic and world competitions.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Azerbaijan, with an increasing number of teams and associations promoting the sport at the grassroots level.
Basketball enjoys a steady following in Azerbaijan, with various leagues and tournaments contributing to the sport's popularity among youth and adults alike.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, Azerbaijani cuisine does offer vegetarian options like stuffed eggplant, pomegranate salads, and herb-filled pastries. In major cities, you can find restaurants and cafes with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
Rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and yogurt-based sauces are staples in Azerbaijani cuisine, making it relatively accommodating for those requiring gluten-free options. However, travelers should always communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Azerbaijan with these cultural adventures.
