Azerbaijan-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Baku

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Azerbaijan Square (Sahil Bulvari). Admire the stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to the nearby Maiden Tower (Giz Galasi), a 12th-century castle with breathtaking views of the city.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a traditional Azerbaijani restaurant. Try some local dishes like plov (pilaf) or dolma.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning example of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Explore the bustling Nizami Street and its surrounding markets. Try some street food and shop for local souvenirs.
  • 9:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani dinner at a restaurant in the city center.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Azerbaijani, but Russian is widely spoken among locals.
  • Currency: Manat (AZN).
  • Weather: Baku has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Day 2: Gobustan and Absheron Peninsula

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Depart for the Gobustan National Park, located about an hour’s drive from Baku.
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the park’s stunning rock carvings, dating back over 5,000 years.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Visit the nearby Azerbaijan State Oil Company museum to learn about the country’s oil history.
  • 3:00 PM: Enjoy a scenic drive along the Absheron Peninsula, with its picturesque beaches and stunning coastal views.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Baku for dinner and some last-minute shopping.
  • 9:00 PM: End your day with a visit to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including EU member states, USA, Canada, Australia, and more, do not need a visa for Azerbaijan. Check with the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.
  • Visas can be obtained on arrival at Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

Transportation

  • Getting Around Baku: Use taxis (marshrutkas) or ride-sharing services like Yandex Taxi.
  • Renting a Car: Many car rental companies operate in Azerbaijan. Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Train and Bus Services: Regular bus and train connections to other cities in Azerbaijan, including Ganja, Quba, and more.

Safety

  • Crime Rate: Low crime rate in Baku, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur. Be cautious with your belongings.
  • Health and Medical Care: Good medical facilities available in major cities like Baku.
  • Emergency Services: Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire department assistance.

Other Tips

  • Respect Local Culture: Azerbaijan is a conservative country; dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas.
  • Learn Some Azerbaijani Phrases: Show respect by learning basic phrases like “merhaba” (hello), “salam” (goodbye), and “teşekkür ederim” (thank you).
  • Tipping: 5-10% in restaurants and bars is considered a standard tip.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty for your 2-day trip to Azerbaijan. Enjoy your travels!