The Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan sits right at the crossroads of Europe and Central Asia, in the heart of the South Caucasus. For centuries, this strategic location made it a vital stop on the ancient Silk Road. The country’s history has been shaped by waves of empires: Persians, Ottomans, and Russians have all left their mark over the last thousand years, giving Azerbaijan a fascinating merge of influences. Today you’ll feel that blend everywhere, as you walk through all of the Asian-European mixed cities. Azerbaijan is a country that surprises most!
Capital: Baku
Currency: Azerbaijani Manat
Language: Azerbaijani
Best time to visit: April to June & September to October
1) baku
Baku is Azerbaijan’s capital and most notable city in the country. It’s found on the coast of the Caspian Sea, the world’s biggest lake in the world. Baku is the biggest city out of the Caucasus countries, with a population of 2.3 million. It’s known for it’s modern advancements in terms of architecture, and it’s historic core in the medieval old streets. The city of Baku actually sits below sea level, making it pretty unique when compared to the rest of the world.
Things to do:
Baku’s Old City features many landmarks you can wander between and explore. The most notable ones are Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Make sure to walk around and explore this archaic area of the city. In Baku’s modern side, you’ll see the Flame Towers and Heydar Aliyev Center, which is an architectural marvel. Baku Boulevard also stretches for miles across the Caspian Sea.
How to get there:
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) serves Baku, and serves Europe and Asia due to its convenient location between the continents.
The international train from Tbilisi is a popular overnight option, running daily.
2) sheki
Sheki is a charming little city in the northwest of the country, housing a population of around 65,000 people. It’s pretty close to the Russian border and has views of the Caucasus mountain range. It used to be an important stop on the old silk road trade route, making it an iconic place to visit to see the traditional practices and architecture of the country. It’s an authentic destination and much more relaxed when you compare it to Baku.
Things to do:
The cities top sight is Sheki Khan’s Palace, a UNESCO site famous for its traditional and beautiful style. Surrounding the palace is Sheki’s fortress. You will find yourself walking through the old town, of course, seeing all the small, local workshops where the residents sell their crafts. You really can just appreciate the beauty of the city.
How to get there:
Buses leave from Baku taking 6-7 hours.
3) yanar dagh
Yanar Dagh (Yanar Dağ), is a natural gas fire which has been burning for centuries upon centuries. The fire is fueled by a continuous gas seep, and is part of the reason the country is known as ‘Land of the Fire'.’
Where is it:
It’s located about 25km northeast of Baku, on a little hill on the Absheron Peninsula.
How to get there:
A bus from Baku is possible, or you can just organise through a guided tour.
4) ganja
Ganja is Azerbaijan’s second biggest city, and has a history stretching back over 1,500 years. The city has some great spaces for travelers and quite a few historical and cultural sites. It’s a bit further away from Baku, situated in the northeast of the country closer to Armenia.
Things to do:
There is a lot of museums to visit in Ganja, such as Nizami Mausoleum and Ganja History Museum. You can also go and visit Shah Abbas Mosque. The Ganja Bottle House is definitely a unique building to see.
How to get there:
Trains run between Ganja and Baku taking around 8 hours. Buses also serve this route too.