Tours to Azerbaijan

Places to visit in Azerbaijan

With a long list of wonders to explore, it can be confusing to decide what to visit and what to skip. To make it easier, here’s a list of the best Azerbaijan places to visit for an unforgettable experience.

Baku

Baku is the capital city and the commercial hub of Azerbaijan. It is also home to a lot of Azerbaijan famous places, including  Flame Towers, Baku Boulevard, and Heydar Aliyev Center. Here you can also explore the Icherisheher, also known as the Old City. 

Sheki

Sheki is a picturesque town, nestled at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains. Here you can walk through the old streets of Sheki, and gaze at the marvellous architecture with stained-glass windows. This town is famous for its Sheki Khan’s Palace, which you can visit.

Ganja

This is the second-largest city in the country, and it gives you a peek into the culture and history of Azerbaijan. The city`s history dates back to the 5th or 6th century A.D.  Here you can visit the Nizami Mausoleum, Bottle House, Juma Mosque, Imamzadeh Complex, Ganja Fortress Gate, and more. 

Lahij Village

Lahij is an ancient mountain village with a population of less than 1000 people. It is known for its copper crafts and cobblestone streets. Here, you get a glimpse of the country’s rich heritage, you can see artisans still creating handmade goods through a process that is passed down through generations.

Best ways to reach Azerbaijan 

Flying is the easiest way to get to Azerbaijan. You may travel to Baku, the capital city, through the Heydar Aliyev International Airport.  Many airlines, including Azerbaijan Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines, fly into Baku regularly. You can take a direct flight from major cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, or opt  for a connecting flight, often available through Istanbul or Dubai. 

For land travel, you can take a bus or train from Georgia or Turkey to get to the border, but the way you cross the border can change. 

To travel inside the country, you can use public transportation such as the metro and buses, or apps like Yango and Bolt. If you want to travel intercity, you can use buses, shared minibuses or private taxis.

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Azerbaijan is spring which lasts from April to June, and Autumn, from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, which makes it convenient for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summers here are hot, especially in the lowlands, and winters are cold and snowy, being less ideal. Planning your trip during Spring or Autumn is the best, as you can freely explore the best places to see in Azerbaijan.

Food and Cuisines to Try in Azerbaijan 

Azerbaijan dishes are a flavourful blend of Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Mediterranean influences. Azerbaijani food is known for its aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Here are a few mouth-watering dishes you can try on your Azerbaijan trip:

• Plov : It is a fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, dried fruits, and chestnuts, and is also considered the national dish of Azerbaijan. 
• Kebab : You will find a variety of grilled meat here, including lamb skewers, chicken, and fish kebab
• Dushbara : A traditional Azerbaijani soup made with small, meat-filled dumplings
• Kutab : A traditional Azerbaijani stuffed flatbread, similar to an Indian paratha but shaped as a crescent or semi-circle. 
• Dolma : Stuffed vegetables or vine leaves filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and herbs

Shopping in Azerbaijan: What to pick?

Azerbaijan markets have almost everything on your shopping list, but something special here is their craft and traditional products. You will find shopping centres with International brands, and local bazaars filled with handmade treasures. Here are a few things to pick no matter where you shop from:

• Azerbaijani Carpets
• Azerbaijani Tea and Tea Sets
• Local Spices and Sweets
• Silk Scarves and Textiles
• Traditional Ceramics and Pottery
• Pomegranate Products

Things to know for Azerbaijan Travel 

• Go through the Visa and entry requirements and always double-check your passport validity and visa duration before traveling.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to carry some cash. The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat. 
• If staying for more than 15 days, you must register with the State Migration Service to avoid fines.
• Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists, despite this you must stay alert at crowded places. 
• Explore the best cities to visit in Azerbaijan, but do not miss out on the scenic countryside. 

Azerbaijan is a great place to visit because of its beautiful natural scenery and interesting history. No matter how long you remain here, this place will surely fascinate you with its beauty and history. The lively streets of Baku, the ancient villages, mountain serenity, the mosques, each place is sure to leave a lasting impression. 

So, as you create your Azerbaijan trip plan, make sure to include a mix of its modern marvels and  traditional places, to end with a journey that’s not just about exploring a place, but truly discovering its spirit.

FAQ’s 

What is the best time for an Azerbaijan tour?

The best time to visit Azerbaijan is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). 

Do I need a visa to travel to Azerbaijan?

Yes, an Azerbaijan tour requires a visa. 

What currency is used in Azerbaijan?

The official currency is the Azerbaijani Manat. 

Is Azerbaijan safe for tourists?

Yes, Azerbaijan is considered safe and tourist-friendly. 

What food can I try in Azerbaijan?

You can try local favorites like plov, dolma, kebabs, and qutab. 

What should I pack for my trip?

Pack light clothes for summer and warm layers for winter.