Spring
A time of blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, a country at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Baku to the serene landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains, there is much to explore beyond the capital. Experience the unique blend of modernity and tradition, as well as the diverse culinary delights that reflect the country's heritage.
- Best monthsApril to June, September to November
- AirportsBaku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD)
- TransitBaku Metro, buses, and taxis
- Power220V, Type C and F plugs
- Tipping10% in restaurants
- LanguageAzerbaijani, Russian, English
01
When to go
The best time to visit Azerbaijan is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Easiest monthsHot, coast booked outWinter: rain and cold nights
Summer
Hot and dry, ideal for beach visits and mountain escapes.
Autumn
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, great for sightseeing.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
City life
Baku
The vibrant capital city known for its modern skyline and historic Old City.
Stay in the Old City for a historic experience.
Cultural
Ganja
A city rich in history, famous for its gardens and the Nizami Mausoleum.
Explore the local parks for a relaxing day.
Heritage
Sheki
Known for its beautiful architecture and the Sheki Khan's Palace.
Visit during the summer for local festivals.
Nature
Quba
A mountainous region known for its stunning landscapes and apple orchards.
Great for hiking enthusiasts.
Artisan
Lahij
A historical village famous for its handicrafts and copperware.
Don't miss the local workshops.
Wellness
Naftalan
A unique spa town known for its therapeutic oil baths.
Plan a relaxing stay for health benefits.
Scenic
Quba
A picturesque town with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes.
Visit in autumn for stunning foliage.
Adventure
Gabala
A popular tourist destination with beautiful nature and adventure activities.
Ideal for outdoor sports lovers.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Plov
A traditional rice dish often served with lamb or chicken, found in local restaurants.
→ Try it at a family-run eatery for authenticity.
Dolma
Stuffed grape leaves or vegetables, popular in many Azerbaijani homes.
→ Look for homemade versions in local markets.
Kebabs
Grilled meat skewers, a staple in Azerbaijani cuisine, available at street stalls.
→ Enjoy them fresh off the grill.
Dushbara
Small dumplings filled with meat, often served in broth, found in local cafes.
→ Perfect for a comforting meal.
Qutab
Thin pancakes filled with various ingredients, commonly sold by street vendors.
→ Great for a quick snack.
Piti
A traditional lamb stew cooked in a clay pot, best enjoyed in local restaurants.
→ A must-try for meat lovers.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Maiden Tower
An iconic symbol of Baku, offering panoramic views of the city.
Gobustan National Park
Famous for its ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes.
Sheki Khan's Palace
A stunning example of Azerbaijani architecture with intricate stained glass.
Ganja Fortress
A historic site that showcases the rich history of Ganja.
Quba Mosque
A beautiful mosque known for its unique architecture.
Nizami Museum
A museum dedicated to the famous Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi.
Khinalug
A picturesque mountain village known for its stunning views.
Lake Goygol
A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for nature lovers.
Baku Flame Towers
A trio of skyscrapers that light up the Baku skyline at night.
Quba Qaynar Su
A natural hot spring area offering relaxation and wellness.
Shaki Caravanserai
An ancient resting place for travelers, now a historical site.
Gabala Shooting Club
A venue for shooting sports and outdoor activities.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is the main gateway to Azerbaijan. It connects to numerous international destinations.
GYDBaku Heydar Aliyev International Airport
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are available to various cities, making travel convenient within the country.
Public Transport
Baku has a reliable metro system and extensive bus network for easy city navigation.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in urban areas, with ride-hailing apps also in use.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available for those wishing to explore rural areas at their own pace.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are used, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but carry cash for smaller towns.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants.
Language
Azerbaijani is the official language, but Russian and English are commonly spoken in urban areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore the main attractions.