Azerbaijan-6-day-itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Azerbaijan

Day 1: Arrival in Baku

Morning

  • Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport
  • Purchase a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot from the airport’s telecom shops (e.g., Azercell, Nar Mobile) to stay connected throughout your trip.
  • Take a taxi or metro (Line 1) to your hotel in Baku. A ride on the metro costs about 0.20 AZN (approximately $0.12 USD).

Afternoon

  • Visit Old Town (Icheri Sheher), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features cobblestone streets and stunning architecture.
    • Start at the Baku Maiden Tower, an ancient fortress built on a hill overlooking the city.
    • Explore the nearby Hajji Javad Mosque and Khan’s Garden.

Day 2: Baku Exploration

Morning

  • Visit Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid. It hosts various exhibitions, concerts, and events (check their website for schedules).
  • Head to the Flame Towers, a complex of three skyscrapers with a beautiful view from its surrounding area.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along Baku Boulevard (a scenic walkway by the sea), which offers breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea.
  • Visit Nizami Street for shopping and dining experiences. This street is famous for its night market, but it’s always lively during the day too.

Day 3: Baku to Gabala

Morning

  • Depart from Baku in the morning (approximately a 2-hour drive) to Gabala, known as “The Paradise on Earth” due to its beautiful landscape.
  • Visit the ancient city of Dashkasan and explore its castle.

Afternoon

  • Explore the modern town of Gabala. It has a small but well-equipped market with fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essentials.
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants serving traditional Azerbaijani dishes.

Day 4: Gabala to Sheki

Morning

  • Depart from Gabala (approximately a 3-hour drive) to Sheki, known for its stunning architecture and natural beauty.
  • Visit the Kish Fortress, an ancient medieval fortress that was once the capital of Azerbaijan.

Afternoon

  • Explore the old city of Sheki with its beautiful houses, markets, and mosques. The best time to visit is early morning or late evening when the sun’s rays create a magical atmosphere.
  • Enjoy local cuisine at one of Sheki’s restaurants.

Day 5: Sheki Exploration

Morning

  • Visit the Gala Museum, which showcases the history of Azerbaijan and the region, as well as various historical artifacts.
  • Explore the nearby market where you can find traditional products like carpets, pottery, and jewelry.

Afternoon

  • Return to your hotel for lunch. The afternoon is free for relaxation or further exploration of Sheki.

Day 6: Departure from Baku

Morning

  • Return to Baku (approximately a 3-hour drive) for your departure.
  • Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any sites you missed during the first day of your trip.

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Baku’s restaurants, reflecting on the wonderful experiences and memories from your 6-day journey through Azerbaijan.

Visa Requirements

For citizens of most countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, an electronic visa (e-visa) is required for travel to Azerbaijan. It can be obtained online before your trip. The cost varies depending on nationality, but it’s usually around $20-$30 USD.

Transportation

  • Metro: An efficient way of getting around in Baku, with two lines that cover most areas of the city.
  • Buses: Less frequent than metros but still a good option for shorter distances within cities. Make sure to have some local currency (AZN) to pay for your ticket.
  • Taxis: A convenient choice, especially at night or if you’re traveling with a group. Use reputable taxi services like Azimut Taxis.
  • Private Transfers and Tours: For groups or when you prefer private transportation, consider hiring a driver or booking a guided tour.

Safety

Azerbaijan is generally a safe country to visit. However, as in any foreign travel destination, be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings (especially in crowded areas), and avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated places at night.

Weather

The climate varies throughout the year:

  • Summer: Hot with temperatures often reaching 30°C/86°F. The heat can be intense.
  • Winter: Cold, especially from December to February when temperatures can drop below -10°C/14°F.
  • Spring and Autumn: Mild, making them the best times to visit for most people.

Additional Tips

  • Learn some basic phrases in Azerbaijani like “Marhaba” (hello), “Salam” (goodbye), and “Təşəkkür” (thank you).
  • Respect local customs, especially when visiting mosques or historical sites.
  • Don’t miss trying traditional Azerbaijani dishes like Plov (pilaf) and Dovga (yogurt soup).

Enjoy your trip to Azerbaijan!