Azerbaijan has evolved into a unique and exciting travel destination. Azerbaijan is a place where the East meets the West, and it is a mix of Asian and European cultures and traditions. Historical architecture in the old city of Baku clashes with the modern design of the Flame Towers. Creating a stunning city landscape adjunct to the Pacific coastline. From lush valleys, deserts, and wetlands to the northeastern Caucasus mountain range, Azerbaijan is a treasure trove of natural wonders. With so many sites to discover, visitors should set aside at least 7 days to explore this destination to its fullest. We have created for you an Azerbaijan itinerary, 7 days in this cultural and historical wonder. 

Day 1 – Arrival in Baku & City Exploration:

Recommend time of arrival: Start your day in Baku by 8:00 AM. This will allow you enough time to enjoy a local breakfast, grab a bottle of water, and be ready to explore the city by 9:00 AM. 

Introduction to Baku: Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan and its most populated city, with a population of 2.2 million people. This vibrant city is home to a mixture of modern and ancient architecture due to its rich history and innovative landmarks. The Old City, situated near the Caspian Sea, is home to historical buildings, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs art museum, and the Maiden Tower. While near Highland Park, you will find modern wonders, such as the Flame Towers, a massive shopping center, and parliament buildings. To experience Azerbaijan to its fullest, every traveler needs a Baku itinerary. 

Day 1 Itinerary in Baku:

Old City (Icherisheher): The Old City, located in Baku, has preserved the ancient architecture, traditional charm, and historical landmarks of the Azerbaijani people. Take an hour to explore these ancient streets, visit the shops, and witness the stunning local architecture. At 10:00 AM, make your way to the famous Maiden Tower, which contains a museum, gift shop, rooftop viewpoint, and 21-meters (69 ft) deep well. 

Break for Lunch: Enjoy a traditional meal of lamb skewers, saffron-infused rice, and homemade baklava at one of the many local restaurants in the Old City of Baku. 

Flame Towers and Highland Park: Next, explore the modern infrastructure of the Flame Towers. These 3 skyscrapers designed to represent flames, were created to symbolize Azerbaijan fire worship traditions, and the beloved nickname “the land of fire”. Nearby in Highland Park, visitors can witness the Shahidlar Monument, and take a few snapshots at Baku Panoramic Viewpoint. 

Baku Boulevard: Great for an evening stroll, the Baku Boulevard promenade stretches 3.5 km along the Caspian shoreline, allowing for splendid city and ocean views, especially at sunset, where the colorful evening sky complements the sparkling city lights. Nearby shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes are available for entertainment. 

Dinner Recommendation: Located in BEGOC Plaza, near Baku Boulevard, Mari Vanna is famous for its old-fashioned Russian menu and traditional dining style. From chicken Kyiv, borscht, pelmeni, and Napoleon cake, there is a dish everyone can enjoy. 

Day 2 – Baku: Modern and Historical:

Today is the opportunity to explore Baku on a more in-depth level, which is not possible on a short 24-hour tour of Baku. This capital is home to several important historical, cultural, and natural landmarks that you won’t want to miss. 

Day 2: Where to visit in Baku?

Palace of the Shirvanshahs: Located in the Old City you will find a 15th-century medieval Palace. Inside you will find a Mausoleum, Hamam, Divan Khana, Tomb, ovdan, two mosques, a court house, an eastern gate, and the palace building. Allow yourself at least 1 to 2 hours to explore the grounds. 

Heydar Aliyev Center: Designed by modern architect Zaha Hadid, this building's innovative curved design is not only art but functions as a multifunctional hall. Art exhibits, educational and scientific competitions, and development projects are often hosted here. Check their website for current programming. 

Yanar Dag (the burning mountain): Located on the hillside of the Absheron Peninsula, 3-meter tall flames jet out of porous sandstone, as a result of natural gas formations. This stunning natural display has been burning for centuries, attracting and fascinating visitors from around the world. 

Baku Carpet Museum: Near Baku Boulevard, the carpet museum showcases Azerbaijan's cultural heritage and ancient artwork. Learn about Azerbaijan's carpet weaving history, techniques, and materials used to create this treasured handicraft. 

Dining Recommendation: End your day at one of Baku’s top restaurants, Firuze. Here you will find traditional Azerbaijani cuisines, such as firuze steak, lamb chops in pomegranate sauce, dolma, and xarcho. 

For those wishing to extend their trip to a Baku itinerary of 7 days, consider the sites coming up that you wouldn’t want to miss. 

Day 3 – Gobustan and Absheron Peninsula:

Half-day Trip to Gobustan: Approximately 1.5 hours away from Baku is Gobustan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical and cultural reserve is the location of petroglyphs or ancient rock engravings. Inside thousands of carvings from early man can be found within the rock walls and on boulders. Natural mud volcanoes are also an exciting site, which results from water vapor and methane gas rising from the Earth's crust. This site is a must-do for any Azerbaijan travel itinerary. 

On the Drive Back: While on the way back to Baku, don’t miss these key attractions in the Absheron Peninsula. 

Ateshgah Fire Temple: In Baku’s suburbs in a town called Surakhany, this religious temple has been dubbed the “Fire Temple of Baku”. Various religious groups have utilized the temple over the centuries including Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian. 

Baku Local Markets: Local markets, modern shopping centers, and walking streets can be found throughout the city, providing locals and visitors with a variety of produce, products, and services to choose from. Spend your evening exploring local markets or wander into one of the many popular modern shopping hubs, including Ganjlik Mall and Nizami St. 

Day 4 – Day Trip to Sheki:

Wake up at 6:00 AM and enjoy the scenic drive on your 3-4 hour ride to Sheki. Upon arrival, you can enjoy Sheik's top attractions. 

Sheki Khan’s Palace: The Palace of Shaki Khans was the summer home of Hussein-khan Mushtad. This historical site combines Azerbaijani, Persian, and Ottoman styles and features brightly colored stained-glass windows and exquisitely detailed paintings on the ceilings. 

Caravanserai: Caravanserai is a historical monument and present-day hotel in Sheki. A local teahouse and restaurant are currently open inside, and guests can enjoy local traditional Sheki cuisine. 

Local handicraft Shops: Near the Caravanserai, local shops selling handicrafts, rugs, dried fruit, spices, beadwork, jewelry, traditional art & clothing, and souvenirs can be found along the side streets.

Optional Lunch Recommendation: Visit the Sultan House, serving a variety of local Sheiki cuisine, including piti, a soup consisting of lamb, chickpeas, chestnuts, and fat. 

Tips for Transportation: The distance from Baku to Sheki is anywhere from 300 - 400 KM, depending on the route taken. Keep in mind that some routes may be a further distance, but due to road conditions may take less time to cross.   

Private Car: Although renting a private car allows for flexibility and is a great option for families, it is the most expensive option and less eco-friendly. A car rental costs approximately $85 to $370 USD. 

Group Tours: A group tour is preferable for solo travelers, couples, and families. Tours typically include transportation, a professional guide, site entry tickets (if specified), translation assistance, and food recommendations. The average price for a full-day tour in Sheiki (12 hours) is $95 USD per person. 

Public Transportation: Keep in mind that train service from Baku to Sheki has not resumed since COVID. This means that public transportation options are limited. The most economical option is to take a coach bus or Marshrutka van from Baku’s International Bus Terminal. The cost of tickets for either service is only $6.25 USD one way, and it takes 4 ½ to 5 ½ hours to arrive in Sheki.  

Day 5 – Gabala Adventure:

From Sheki, the drive to Gabala is only 1.5 - 2 hours, at a distance of approximately 83 km. Making Gabala a great stop after your day in Sheki.  

What to do in Gabala, Azerbaijan?

Cable Car Ride: At the Tufandang Mountain Resort, travelers can enjoy panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and lush natural landscapes. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, cycling, paragliding, and outdoor activities. In the winter, the resort offers exceptional ski slopes and amenities.

Nohur Lake: Lake Nohur is in the center of Gabala. This stunning natural lake is surrounded by lush forests, a cascading mountain range, and fresh mountain air. Nearby restaurants offer local and international fare, but visitors are welcome to enjoy a picnic and bring their food if they prefer. Ducks are often seen nearby, and paddle boats are available for rent for those who are a bit more adventurous. 

Gabala Shooting Club: Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a day at the shooting center and refine their aim. This world-class facility offers an unparalleled shooting experience with expert instructors and a gorgeous backdrop of the Caucasus mountains. A wide variety of equipment is available, allowing for a personalized and safe experience. 

Return to Baku or Stay Overnight?

After a long day exploring Gabala, the 4-hour drive to Baku is doable, but for those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Gabala offers stellar accommodations for every budget. This does mean an early start the following morning, so the real question is, are you a night owl or a morning person? For those looking to reduce from 7 days to an Azerbaijan itinerary of 5 days, stop your itinerary here.  

Day 6 – Absheron Peninsula Beaches or Relaxation:

Depending on when you arrive back in Baku, early morning or late evening, you may be ready for a relaxing escape. To experience the quieter side of Baku, check out one or more of these activities. 

Visit Baku Beaches: Due to Baku’s location along the Caspian Sea, Baku is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and pristine coastline. For a luxurious experience, the Bilgah Beach Hotel offers 5-star amenities, private beach access, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa center, and more. Relax by the pool, grab a drink, and soak in the sun at Bilgah. For those looking for only a day escape, check out Amburan Beach Club. Located 45 minutes from Baku center, Amburan Beach Club offers prime access to the Bilgah coastline. An outdoor pool, beach loungers, a restaurant, and seasonal activities are available to entertain you and your loved ones.  

Bathhouse (Hamam): Experience the tradition of Hamam’s, Azerbaijan centuries old bathhouses. Hamam’s was the original spa, a location for relaxation, socialization, and rest. Most bathhouses offer additional services, such as steam rooms, body scrubs, and massages, to relax not only your mind but your spirit. 

Cultural Escape: For those who would prefer a relaxing stroll through an art gallery, local artists, museums, and street art are a great way to relax and enjoy Azerbaijan's local art scene. The Museum of Modern Art in Baku displays over 800 pieces of work by famous Azerbaijan artists. Sculptures, paintings, drawings, and more can be experienced through open passageways. In contrast, the Azerbaijan National Museum of Art offers international fine art displays. From ancient to more modern pieces, visitors can enjoy the beauty and complexity of their artistic collection. 

Day 7 – Departure & Final Exploration:

Depending on your departure time, you may be able to squeeze in a few more activities on your last day in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

Souvenir Shopping: Before jetting off, many tourists enjoy purchasing a souvenir or two to commemorate their travels or bring them back home to loved ones. Traditionally, woven carpets, crude oil paintings, handmade bracelets, Armudu glass tea sets, silk scarves, and ceramics (Chirag) are a few of the most popular souvenirs purchased by tourists. For those looking for a unique gift, antique shops are a great place to find one-of-a-kind items. 

Stroll through the Old City: If you have time, a relaxing stroll through the Old City can be a great way to end your time in Baku. Enjoy a traditional cup of tea at a cafe, pursue the stalls, and catch up on any sites you may have missed.  

Tips for a Smooth Airport Departure:

• Before leaving your hotel, confirm you have your passport, Azerbaijan visa (if applicable), wallet, medication, luggage, and any other important items or documents. 
• Pre-booking transportation with your hotel or a taxi service can be beneficial if you have a tight turnaround time. If your pick-up time occurs during rush hour, a national holiday, or other major events, you may want to allow more time for transportation.
• Uber, taxi services, private cars, car rentals, and public transportation are all viable options for transportation. If you are booking a car rental service, confirm whether you can return the vehicle to the airport terminal.

Travel Tips and Practical Information:

Your trip to Azerbaijan wouldn’t be complete without our list of essential tips for travel in Azerbaijan. 

Transportation Tips - Getting Around Baku and Azerbaijan 

Bus Transport: The Baku International Bus Terminal offers domestic inter-city and international bus services. Travelers can easily book their tickets and check the schedule online via the Baku International Bus Terminal website. For local transportation in Baku city, BakuBus offers various routes throughout the city. Users must purchase a Baki Kart (bus card), which can be purchased at Baku Card terminals, metro stations, and the airport. Cash will not be accepted. An average bus ticket costs only 60 cents (USD). 

Trains & Metro: The metro is only available in Baku city and has two lines, red and green. To obtain access, travelers must purchase a Bakucard. Rides cost as little as 17 cents (USD), and the vast majority of the meteor is located underground. The Azerbaijan Railway, on the other hand, has major hubs in Baku, Ganja, Sumgayit, Khirdalan, and Shirvan. The rail service has 176 stations, with tickets averaging $10 USD. 

Driving Apps & Taxis: Driving apps, such as Bolt, Uber, InDriver, and Yandex, are popular and available in Baku and specific Azerbaijan cities. For riders who prefer old-fashioned taxi services, 189 TAXI and AZ-Tur. are excellent options. 

Essential Items to Pack for an Azerbaijan Trip

What do you need to bring for a trip to Azerbaijan? Don’t worry; we have you covered!

1. A valid passport and your Azerbaijan visa. Don’t forget to apply for your Azerbaijan e-visa well in advance. To ensure a smooth application process, contact service@azerbaijanevisaonline.com. 
2. If you are planning a beach holiday or a ski trip, sunscreen is your friend. The summer sun in Azerbaijan is known to be bright, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of SPF. In the winter, snow is known to reflect the rays, causing unexpected burns. 
3. As the weather changes, layers are your friend. Depending on the season, a light jacket or silk scarf can be a great way to keep warm or cover up from the sun. 
4. If you plan to visit religious sites, a head scarf (for women) and modest clothing are essential. Some sites may not allow entry unless appropriate attire is worn. 
5. Comfortable footwear is important. Many of the sites in Azerbaijan require moderate walking, which means proper footwear is a must. 

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is a great destination year-round. What time of year you would prefer to visit Azerbaijan will depend on the activities you plan to participate in and your personal preferences. Azerbaijan winters are great for outdoor winter sports activities, such as skiing, and snowboarding. While the summer months are popular with beachgoers, paragliders, and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Read also: What is the Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan?

Language Tips

Azerbaijani is the most common language spoken in Azerbaijan. A few common phrases include: 

• Salam : (salam) : Hello
• Neçəyədir? : (necheyedir) : How much does it cost?
• Çox sağ olun! : (choh sag olun) : Thank you!

Conclusion

Get excited and ready for your 7-day Azerbaijan vacation! Explore the historic Old City in Baku and marvel at the modernity of the Flame Towers while munching on juicy lamb kebabs and delicious rice pilaf. Take an excursion through Sheki and explore the natural wonders in Gabala. Your Azerbaijan itinerary is complete; you just need to get prepared.

To learn about the necessity of getting a visa to Azerbaijan for your country, you can contact us at service@azerbaijanevisaonline.com or check this information in the list of eligible countries.