Azerbaijan-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Baku

  • Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport
  • Transfer to hotel ( approx. $10-15 USD by taxi)
  • Check-in to your accommodation
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Old City (Icheri Sheher) and its narrow streets, mosques, and ancient architecture
  • Visit the Maiden Tower (Gyz Galasi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Baku

  • Start the day with breakfast at a local café or bakery
  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid
  • Explore the modern city of Baku and its European-style architecture
  • Walk along the seaside promenade (Bakı Sahili)
  • Visit the Azerbaijan National Museum to learn about the country’s history and culture

Day 3: Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

  • Take a day trip to Gobustan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ( approx. $20-30 USD by car)
  • Explore the ancient rock engravings and petroglyphs
  • Visit the mud volcanoes of Buzovna (free admission)
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the natural surroundings

Day 4: Qabala

  • Drive to Qabala (approx. $40-60 USD by car, or take a bus/minibus from Baku’s Main Bus Station)
  • Explore the ancient city of Qabala and its fortress
  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Park and Museum Complex
  • Enjoy hiking or horseback riding in the surrounding mountains

Day 5: Sheki

  • Drive to Sheki (approx. $60-80 USD by car, or take a bus/minibus from Qabala)
  • Explore the ancient city of Sheki and its fortress
  • Visit the Juma Mosque and the Khan’s Palace
  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine at a local restaurant

Day 6: Lagodekhi National Park

  • Drive to Lagodekhi National Park (approx. $40-60 USD by car, or take a bus/minibus from Sheki)
  • Explore the park’s scenic trails and forests
  • Visit the historic fortress of Tionet and enjoy hiking or horseback riding

Day 7: Return to Baku

  • Drive back to Baku (approx. $20-30 USD by car, or take a bus/minibus from Lagodekhi)
  • Spend the day shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
  • Depart from Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of some countries can enter Azerbaijan without a visa (e.g., Turkey, Georgia, and certain European countries)
  • Others may need to obtain an e-visa prior to arrival ( approx. $20-30 USD)
  • Check with the Azerbaijani Embassy or Consulate in your country for specific requirements

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available, but be prepared to negotiate prices
  • Buses and minibuses connect major cities and towns
  • Renting a car can be a convenient option, especially for longer trips (approx. $40-60 USD per day)

Other Tips and Essentials:

  • Azerbaijan uses the Manat (AZN) currency; exchange your money or use ATMs to get local currency
  • Traditional Azerbaijani cuisine is delicious and affordable ( approx. $5-10 USD per meal)
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites

Note: Prices mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on individual circumstances.