Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Top 55 Things to Do in Azerbaijan

Situated between the vast expanse of the Caspian Sea to the east and the craggy Caucasus Mountains to the west, Azerbaijan, often referred to as the “Land of Fire,” is a country steeped in rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Bridging the gap between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modernity, a testament to its storied past and its ambitious vision for the future.

Geographical Overview:

Azerbaijan’s varied geography, from its semiarid shores along the Caspian to its forested mountain ranges, is nothing short of impressive. The country has nine out of the world’s eleven climate zones, making it a year-round destination for travelers seeking different experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus in the north, the rolling hills and vineyards of the Ganja-Gazakh region, or the subtropical climates of its southern Lankaran region, Azerbaijan promises an array of natural wonders.

Historical and Cultural Richness:

The historical tapestry of Azerbaijan is as intricate as its landscapes are varied. The ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan bear witness to civilizations that once thrived here over 5,000 years ago. Zoroastrian temples, remnants of the Silk Road, and medieval palaces such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs in the heart of Baku speak of the various empires and cultures that left their imprint on this land.

Azerbaijan’s culture is a captivating blend of Turkic, Persian, and Caucasian influences. The country is renowned for its warm hospitality, folk traditions, and vibrant arts. Azerbaijani music, particularly Mugham, is a soulful expression of the nation’s spirit, while its dance forms like the Yalli and Lezginka are energetic portrayals of its zest for life. The art of carpet weaving, recognized by UNESCO, is another testament to Azerbaijan’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.

Modern Metropolis and Infrastructure:

Baku, the capital, is a fascinating juxtaposition of the old and new. The walled city of Icherisheher, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys and historic buildings, while just a few blocks away, the iconic Flame Towers light up the skyline, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s rapid modernization. Baku also serves as a testament to Azerbaijan’s oil wealth, with its grand boulevards and architectural marvels.

Over the years, Azerbaijan has heavily invested in infrastructure to promote tourism. From state-of-the-art airports to modern roadways and high-speed train services, getting around the country is convenient and efficient.

Culinary Delights:

Azerbaijan’s culinary scene is an uncharted treasure trove of flavors. Plov, the nation’s signature saffron-scented rice dish; rich, aromatic stews; and kebabs are staples. Don’t forget to indulge in sweets like baklava and shekerbura, especially during the Novruz Bayram, the traditional New Year festival. Azerbaijan’s tea culture is also noteworthy, often served in a pear-shaped glass and accompanied by a selection of preserves and sweets.

In essence, Azerbaijan offers an enthralling mix of ancient history, diverse landscapes, and modern innovation. Whether you’re an avid historian, a nature lover, or a city wanderer, this country beckons with promises of unforgettable experiences. As you delve deeper into this guide, you’ll uncover the myriad gems that await in this Land of Fire. Welcome to Azerbaijan – a journey of discovery, heritage, and warmth.

Azerbaijan Country Guide: A Brief History Of Azerbaijan For Visitors

Azerbaijan’s rich tapestry of history stretches back millennia, encompassing tales of early civilizations, mighty empires, and its modern resurgence. For visitors seeking to unravel this enigma of time, a journey through Azerbaijan’s past is an exploration of both the familiar and the exotic.

Ancient Beginnings:

• Gobustan Rock Art: Located just outside Baku, the Gobustan State Historical and Artistic Reserve boasts rock carvings that date back to the Stone Age. These petroglyphs offer a window into the beliefs, rituals, and daily lives of prehistoric inhabitants.
• Maiden Tower: Situated in the heart of Baku’s old city, the Maiden Tower’s origins remain a mystery. Some believe it to be a Zoroastrian temple, while others argue it was a watchtower or an astronomical observatory.

Classical Period:

• Medes and Persians: In the first millennium BCE, the Medes established control, later supplanted by the Persian Achaemenid Empire. This Persian influence left a deep imprint on the region’s culture and language.
• Alexander the Great: By the late 4th century BCE, Alexander the Great’s expeditions brought the region under Hellenistic influence, although this was relatively short-lived.

Medieval Era:

• Islamic Conquest: The 7th century AD marked the introduction of Islam to the region, following the Arab conquest. This period also saw the evolution of Azerbaijani as a distinct language.
• Seljuks and Mongols: The Seljuk Turks dominated during the 11th and 12th centuries, only to be overtaken by the Mongol invasions of the 13th century. Each empire left its cultural and architectural footprint.

Early Modern Period:

• Safavid Dynasty: By the 16th century, the Safavids, who originated from Ardabil in Azerbaijan, established a powerful Persian empire. Under Shah Ismail I, Shiite Islam became the state religion, a legacy that endures in modern-day Azerbaijan.
• Russian Influence: By the 19th century, following wars with Persia, Russia annexed large parts of Azerbaijan. This began a long period of Russian rule, with a brief interlude of independence in 1918-1920, when the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was established. However, it was short-lived as Bolshevik forces soon took control.

Soviet Era and Independence:

• Soviet Rule: From 1920, Azerbaijan became a Soviet Socialist Republic. The Soviet era saw significant modernization, urbanization, and Russification. Azerbaijani culture, however, managed to retain its unique identity.
• Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: As the USSR began to disintegrate, tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region escalated into a full-blown conflict, leading to significant casualties and displacement on both sides.
• Independence: In 1991, as the Soviet Union collapsed, Azerbaijan proclaimed its independence. Despite initial economic and political challenges, the nation embarked on a journey of reform, leveraging its vast oil and gas reserves.

Modern Azerbaijan:

The 21st century has witnessed Azerbaijan’s rapid development, driven by energy exports. The nation has made significant strides in infrastructure development, foreign relations, and cultural promotion. Baku, with its juxtaposition of historical monuments and futuristic architecture, encapsulates this blend of old and new.

Azerbaijan’s history is a tale of resilience, adaptability, and a confluence of diverse cultures and empires. For visitors, each corner of this land, from ancient rock art to the bustling streets of Baku, tells a chapter of a story that has been millennia in the making. Delving into this history enriches the travel experience, offering a profound understanding of a nation and its proud people.

source: Grace Media Travel on YouTube

Azerbaijan Top Attractions: Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

An oil-rich former republic of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan has had a smoother go of things over the past 20 years or so compared to their compatriots.  Though part of that time has been marred by a war that has seen part of the country separated as an exclave via a conflict with Armenia, and another region (Nagorno-Karabakh) has expressed a desire to separate from Azerbaijan (if you choose to go here, get stamps from the authorities on a separate piece of paper, as having evidence of visiting here will bar you from Azerbaijan for life), it has largely been a time of ascendance for this tiny nation in the Caucasus region of Europe/Asia.

Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, has been decorated with a variety of new, post-modern architectural gems, while European influences over the years has left this country with a tolerant interpretation of Islam, which is practiced as a religion by 95% of the population.

As such, one needn’t be intimidated by this cultural foible when visiting this eclectic nation, which boasts an incredibly warm and friendly people who will make your visit to Azerbaijan one to remember!

Currency: Azerbaijani Manat

Languages: Azerbaijani, Russian, Lezgin

The first place you should check out after arriving in the capital of Baku is the Maiden Tower.  This tower was constructed in the 12^th century, and according to local legend, it either owes the origin of its name to a women who flung herself to her death after being jailed by her brother to escape the shame of it all, or the fact that this tower has never been taken by an offensive operation conducted by a foreign military. What isn’t in dispute is the fact that it offers enviable views of the Old City of Baku, and that it is a national symbol of Azerbaijan, as it is prominently featured on the currency of this country.

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Azerbaijan

The second place you should grace your presence with prior to leaving Baku should be the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, which is located in close proximity to the Maiden Tower. This site is known for its exquisite architecture, which many locals argue its origins, be it an actual palace where a ruler once held sway, or a mausoleum, where the bodies of former leaders were buried with the intention of being remembered by future generations.

Once you are ready to leave Baku, the first place that you should visit in your explorations should be Gobustan National Park, which features many points of interest of manmade and natural origin.  What has gotten this park listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site is the fact that it has many rock art engravings from prehistoric times that display the hunting traditions of those days, as well as the animals and plants that existed in the days before recorded history.

While they exist in many places throughout Azerbaijan, Gobustan National Park is probably the best place in the country to observe the Mud Volcanoes that exist in abundance in this nation. With respect to this geological formation, there are 350 mud volcanoes here, out of 800 that exist in the world.  They are formed by geothermic activity that heats watery deposits of earth above it, resulting in a feature that erupts pockets of mud as a result of the activity that goes on beneath it.

Those looking for a taste of rural Azerbaijan as opposed to the petro-boosted urban life of Baku can find it in Khinalug. This village was previously difficult to reach, but due to a recent visit by the Azerbaijani president, much of the route has been paved, making it easy for those seeking a taste of life in the high alpine country of this nation to sample it. Here, one can get in touch with the best natural assets that Azerbaijan has to offer, with many caves and waterfalls located close by within hiking distance.

Lastly, Lake Goygol is a stunning sight for those that love the scenery that nature provides, as it is a pristine body of water that was formed by an earthquake that occurred almost 1000 years ago. The beauty of this lake is so profound that it has served as inspiration for books, poems and songs over the years, and as such, it is a popular tourist attraction for locals during the summer months.

What To Eat in Azerbaijan

Being located in relative proximity to Central Asia, Plov has become a significant part of the culinary landscape in Azerbaijan. It has been adopted here with such a great fervour, that 40 different kinds of this rice-based dish have emerged over the ages.  The best known of these has been Sabzi Qovurma plov, or mutton plov, which is created by cooking rice in a heavily seasoned broth with sheep meat.

Known as the national soup of Azerbaijan, Piti is created by cleaving mutton meat from the bone and cooking it with various vegetables to synthesise a broth that delights the taste buds of locals and tourists alike.

Lastly, Qutab is a pancake that is cooked with thinly prepared dough that is often filled with pumpkin, lamb, cheese and spinach.  It is a savoury treat that is enjoyed throughout the nation, from the gritty streets of Baku, to the humble villages of its hinterland.

source: CoolVision on YouTube

Top 55 Things To Do in Azerbaijan For Visitors

Azerbaijan, with its blend of ancient traditions and contemporary flair, offers a plethora of experiences. Here’s a curated list of 55 things to ensure a memorable journey:

Baku and its Environs:

1. Flame Towers: Visit these iconic skyscrapers for a panoramic view of Baku.
2. Icherisheher: Wander through Baku’s Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring mosques, caravanserais, and bathhouses.
3. Maiden Tower: Delve into the history and legends of this ancient structure.
4. Gobustan National Park: Marvel at ancient rock art and witness the intriguing mud volcanoes.
5. Ateshgah Fire Temple: Located in Surakhani, this temple once attracted Zoroastrian pilgrims.
6. Yanar Dag: See this naturally occurring eternal flame, fueled by underground gas.
7. Taza Pir Mosque: Admire the stunning architecture of this religious site.
8. Baku Boulevard: Stroll along the Caspian seafront, enjoying gardens, mini-venice, and the Baku Ferris Wheel.
9. Carpet Museum: Discover the intricate art of Azerbaijani carpet weaving.
10. Modern Art Museum: Immerse yourself in Azerbaijan’s contemporary art scene.

Around the Caucasus Mountains:

11. Khinalug: Visit one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth.
12. Guba: Explore this scenic town known for apple orchards and lush landscapes.
13. Shahdag Mountain Resort: Ideal for skiing in winter and trekking in summer.
14. Laza Waterfalls: Experience the beauty of cascading water amidst majestic mountains.
15. Sheki: Tour this picturesque town with its historic caravanserai, Khan’s palace, and local handicrafts.

Ganja and Western Azerbaijan:

16. Nizami Mausoleum: Pay homage at the tomb of the great poet, Nizami Ganjavi.
17. Javad Khan Street: Enjoy local shopping, historic buildings, and cafes.
18. Lake Goygol: Revel in the tranquil beauty of this alpine lake.
19. Naftalan: Experience therapeutic oil baths, a unique Azerbaijani spa treatment.
20. Toganaqo’s Mosque: Admire the blend of Azerbaijani and European architectural styles.

The Lankaran and Astara Region:

21. Lankaran Fortress: Explore this 18th-century fortress in the heart of Lankaran.
22. Hirkan National Park: Trek through dense forests, home to the endangered Caucasian leopard.
23. Ismayilli: Wander through this quaint town, enjoying local wines and cuisine.
24. Lahij: Visit this ancient coppersmiths’ village and buy handcrafted items.

Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic:

25. Ashabi-Kahf Cave: Relive the legend of the ‘Seven Sleepers’ of Islamic lore.
26. Momina Khatun Mausoleum: Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this 12th-century mausoleum.
27. Salt Mountain: Experience therapeutic sessions in underground salt caves.
28. Ilandag Mountain: For trekking enthusiasts, this mountain offers unparalleled views.

Cultural Experiences:

29. Mugham Music: Experience this traditional melodic art form at local venues.
30. Novruz Bayram: Join the festivities of the Azerbaijani New Year, with bonfires, sweets, and traditional games.
31. Cuisine: Savor plov, kebabs, qutabs, dolma, and local wines.
32. Carpet Weaving Workshops: Engage in hands-on learning of this ancient craft.
33. Dance Performances: Witness traditional dances like Yalli and Lezginka.

Outdoor Adventures:

34. Caspian Beaches: Bask in the sun at Bilgah or the private beaches in the Absheron peninsula.
35. Gabala: Enjoy the Tufandag Mountain Resort, shooting club, and adventure parks.
36. Ganja River Tour: Kayak or canoe down the Ganja river, absorbing the scenic beauty.
37. Hiking: Explore trails in the Caucasus Mountains, Gobustan’s rocky landscapes, or the lush Talysh Mountains.
38. Horse Riding: Experience the Azerbaijani countryside on horseback.

Historical Explorations:

39. Agdam: Though a ghost town due to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, its ruins tell a poignant story.
40. Diri Baba Mausoleum: Located in Maraza, this two-story mausoleum is shrouded in legends.
41. Sheki Khan’s Palace: A testament to Azerbaijan’s craftsmanship with its intricate stained glass.
42. Gala Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum Complex: Explore relics from the Bronze Age to the medieval period.

Relax and Rejuvenate:

43. Naftalan Spas: Known for their therapeutic crude oil baths.
44. Duzdag Salt Mine: Asthma patients visit for its therapeutic underground chambers.
45. Ismayilli Thermal Springs: Relax in these natural springs surrounded by serene nature.

Shopping and Souvenirs:

46. Teze Bazaar: Baku’s lively market with spices, dried fruits, caviar, and more.
47. Local Crafts: Shop for copperware, carpets, textiles, and pottery in regional markets.
48. Sheki Halva: Don’t miss this local sweet delicacy.

Ecological Wonders:

49. Shirvan National Park: Home to the Goitered gazelle and diverse bird species.
50. Goyazan Mountain: A lone mountain in the plains, revered by locals.
51. Ag-Gol National Park: A paradise for bird watchers.
52. Caspian Seal Watching: At the Caspian Sea, get a glimpse of this endangered species.

Nightlife and Entertainment:

53. Baku’s Nightclubs: Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife at popular clubs.
54. State Philharmonic Hall: Enjoy classical concerts in this grand venue.
55. Fountain Square: Evening walks, dining, and people-watching.

Azerbaijan is a land of contrasts, and its myriad attractions reflect its diverse cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Whether you’re an adventurer, a historian, a nature lover, or a foodie, Azerbaijan promises experiences that linger long after the journey ends.

source: Mark Wiens on YouTube

What To Eat and Drink in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry, woven together with threads of history, diverse geographies, and rich cultures. Whether you are meandering through bustling bazaars, cozy teahouses, or elegant restaurants, you’ll encounter a symphony of flavors and aromas that tell tales of Silk Road traders, nomadic tribes, and age-old family traditions.

Main Dishes:

• Plov (Pilaf): This iconic dish comprises saffron-infused rice topped with various ingredients. The most famous is “Shirin Plov” with dried fruits, meat, and chestnuts.
• Kebabs: Skewered and grilled meats, including lamb (shish kebab) and minced meat varieties (lyulya kebab).
• Dolma: Grape or cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of minced meat, rice, and herbs. Summer versions use vegetables like tomatoes or eggplants as wrappers.
• Qutab: Thin, crescent-shaped pastries filled with spinach, meat, or pumpkin, fried and served with yogurt or sumac.
• Dushbara: Delicate dumplings filled with lamb or beef, served in a broth, often seasoned with vinegar and garlic.

Bread and Pastries:

• Tandir Bread (Tendir Choreyi): Fluffy, round bread baked in a clay oven, known as a tandir.
• Shekerbura: A sweet pastry filled with nuts and sugar, traditionally made for the Novruz festival.
• Pakhlava: Layered pastry with nuts and honey, resembling baklava but with distinct regional variations.

Soups and Stews:

• Piti: A hearty soup made from mutton, chickpeas, and chestnuts, cooked in a clay pot.
• Khamrashi: A rich soup with hand-rolled noodles, meat, and vegetables.
• Kufta Bozbash: A lamb meatball soup infused with saffron and seasoned with dried plum.

Dairy and Cheese:

• Ayran: A salty yogurt drink, often served chilled during summer.
• Gaval Dash: Creamy, tangy yogurt that can be spread on bread.
• White Cheese: Often compared to feta, it’s used in salads and sandwiches.

Vegetables and Salads:

• Turshi: A medley of pickled vegetables ranging from cucumbers and cabbage to aubergines and green tomatoes.
• Choban Salati: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and seasoned with sumac and olive oil.

Sweets and Desserts:

• Halva: A dense, sweet confection made from flour, sugar, and nuts.
• Tutmaq: A dessert soup made from berries and wheat balls, often flavored with saffron.
• Shor Gogal: A savory-sweet pastry seasoned with turmeric and fennel seeds.

Drinks:

• Azerbaijani Tea (Chay): Often served in pear-shaped glasses called “armudu”, this tea is a symbol of hospitality. Accompanied by jams, honey, or sweet pastries.
• Sherbet: A traditional sweet drink made from fruits, flowers, or herbs. Popular versions include pomegranate, lemon, rose, and saffron.
• Azerbaijani Wines: The wine-making tradition goes back millennia, with indigenous grape varieties offering unique flavors. Ganja, Tovuz, and Ismayilli are notable wine-producing regions.
• Aran: A non-alcoholic pomegranate drink, full of antioxidants.
• Vodka and Rakı: Popular alcoholic beverages often consumed during feasts or gatherings.

Azerbaijani cuisine mirrors the nation’s spirit: warm, hospitable, and infused with a mosaic of influences. Every dish, be it a humble bread or an elaborate pilaf, encapsulates stories of the land, its people, and their unwavering love for food. When in Azerbaijan, to truly savor its essence, one must embark on this culinary journey, making stops at rustic eateries, bustling markets, and grand feasts, always leaving with memories of flavors that linger and tales that enchant.

Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Azerbaijan, often dubbed the ‘Land of Fire,’ is more than just a destination—it’s a journey into the heart of the ancient and the contemporary, the familiar and the mysterious. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan boasts a unique fusion of cultures, traditions, and landscapes that beckon the discerning traveler to immerse in its wonders.

A Mélange of Cultures:

Azerbaijan’s strategic location on the ancient Silk Road has made it a melting pot of civilizations, best reflected in its urban architecture, festivals, and culinary scenes. In the winding alleys of Baku’s Icherisheher or the bustling markets of Ganja and Sheki, one can sense the whispers of Persian poets, the footsteps of Silk Road traders, and the echoes of Turkic warriors. This confluence of history makes Azerbaijan not just a trip, but a time travel.

Diverse Landscapes:

From the fiery mud volcanoes of Gobustan to the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, the dense forests of Hirkan to the shores of the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan offers a geographical kaleidoscope. Nature enthusiasts can find solace in the serene landscapes of Lake Goygol or feel the adrenaline rush while skiing in Shahdag.

Gastronomic Delights:

Azerbaijani cuisine is a testament to its rich history and varied geography. The plethora of dishes, from the fragrant plovs and succulent kebabs to the delicate pastries and aromatic teas, tells tales of culinary exchanges on ancient trade routes. The food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a sensory journey that narrates stories of the land and its people.

Hospitality at Its Finest:

One of Azerbaijan’s enduring charms lies in the warmth of its people. Their unwavering commitment to hospitality is deeply rooted in ancient customs. Be it the tea ceremonies symbolizing friendship or the Novruz celebrations showcasing communal spirit; the Azerbaijani way of life reveres guests and celebrates togetherness.

Contemporary Verve:

While Azerbaijan honors its past, it doesn’t shy away from the future. The skyline of Baku, dominated by the futuristic Flame Towers or the Zaha Hadid-designed Heydar Aliyev Center, stands as a testament to the nation’s progressive vision.

Safety and Ease:

Traveling through Azerbaijan is a breeze. Modern infrastructure, efficient public transport, and a range of accommodation options ensure a comfortable stay. The country also ranks high on safety indexes, ensuring peace of mind for solo and group travelers alike.

An Artist’s Haven:

With its diverse traditions, Azerbaijan has cultivated rich arts, from the soulful Mugham music and spirited national dances to the intricate carpet weaving and vibrant miniature paintings. The country offers an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and those keen on hands-on workshops.

Conclusion:

Azerbaijan is a symphony of the old and the new, the tranquil and the exhilarating. It’s a destination that calls not just for exploration but for deep immersion. Every mountain trail, every historical monument, every bustling bazaar, and every shared meal adds a note to this symphony, leaving the traveler with a melody that resonates long after the journey is over. As you depart from this land, you take with you not just memories but stories, not just experiences but connections, making Azerbaijan not just a visited country but a lived experience. Whether you’re a historian, an adventurer, a foodie, or an artist, Azerbaijan awaits with open arms and tales untold.

Whispers from the Land of Fire

In the heart where East and West entwine, Lies a land, both ancient and divine. Azerbaijan, the flame’s eternal home, Calls to travelers, beckons them to roam.

Majestic mountains touch the azure sky, While Caspian waves kiss shores with gentle sigh. Gobustan’s rocks, tales of ages old, In Mugham’s notes, sagas are retold.

Baku’s Flame Towers dance in night’s embrace, Guarding tales of Icherisheher’s grace. Through winding lanes, where histories blend, Echoes of poets, whose verses never end.

Caravans rested, Silk Road’s trusted friend, In bustling bazaars, where colors ascend. From Sheki’s khans to Ganja’s verdant spree, Every corner hums a melody free.

Tantalizing tastes, a feast so profound, Plov and kebabs, flavors unbound. With each fragrant tea, in armudu poured, Stories of kinship, forever stored.

So come, O traveler, to this land of fire, Where dreams soar high, and spirits never tire. A journey through time, where every stone sings, Of Azerbaijan, and the magic it brings.