Azerbaijan Travel Guide

Continent: Europe and Asia
Region: Eastern Europe, Western Asia
$ 3,090 onwards View Packages

Azerbaijan Travel Packages

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Azerbaijan Travel Essentials

Ideal Duration:
4-6 days for exploring Baku and nearby regions like Gobustan; a week or longer for exploring the countryside and other cities.

Best Time: April - June, September - October Read More

Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Visa Policy for Indians:
eVisa available

Visa Policy for Other Nationals:
eVisa or Visa on Arrival for many countries

Getting In Azerbaijan:
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku Read More

Getting Around Azerbaijan:
Metro, buses, taxis, rental cars Read More

Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $10-20
Mid-range: $30-50

Accommodation Cost (per night in USD):
Dorm bed: $10-20
Budget: $30-60
Mid-range: $80-120
Luxury: $150 and above

"The Land of Fire"

Azerbaijan Tourism

Azerbaijan, often referred to as "The Land of Fire," due to its ancient Zoroastrian roots, is located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Bordered by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Iran to the south, and Georgia, Armenia, and Turkey to the west, Azerbaijan occupies a strategic position in the South Caucasus region.

Baku, the capital and largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its futuristic skyline, historic Old City (Icherisheher), and vibrant cultural scene. The Old City is a testament to the rich Azeri heritage where you can visit many historical monuments like Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah Palace. The modern architectures of Baku such as Flame Towers and Heydar Aliyev Centre are a sight to behold. This coastal city has multiple opportunities for entertainment and recreational activities. You can take a Funicular ride to one of the highest points in the city, to enjoy the best panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and Baku's skyline.

Beyond Baku, Azerbaijan boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged mountains of the Greater Caucasus in the north to the arid plains of the Absheron Peninsula in the south. The country is also home to the UNESCO-listed Gobustan National Park, known for its ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes, as well as the picturesque mountain villages of Sheki, Lahij, and Khinalug. Shahdag and Gabala are particularly popular winter destinations, offering ski resorts and winter sports facilities amidst the stunning scenery of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. 

From the beloved national dish, plov, a fragrant rice creation, to the artful dolma, stuffed vegetables, and perfectly grilled kebabs, Azerbaijani cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors. The country is known for its silk textile and carpet weaving techniques, making them popular choices for souvenir shopping. Whether exploring the historic streets of Baku or trekking in the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan offers something to captivate everyone.

Must Know Before You Travel to Azerbaijan

  • Climate: Azerbaijan experiences a range of climates, from hot summers to cold winters, so pack accordingly.
  • Registration for longer stay: If you are planning to stay in Azerbaijan for over 15 days, you need to register with the State Migration Service with a place of residence. Failing to do so can result in heavy fines or deportation.
  • Export rules: Obtain proper permits before buying antiques or cultural artifacts as it's illegal to export them without an official certificate and receipt of purchase. Export rules apply to religious objects, carpets, artworks, and caviar hence, check with local authorities before exporting them. One can carry only up to 125 grams of caviar once per calendar month outside of the territory of the Azerbaijan Republic.
  • Social norms: Same-sex relations, although legal, are not widely accepted by the people, and public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially in more conservative areas.
  • Pets: If traveling with pets, obtain a veterinarian health certificate which was issued less than ten days before departure. This applies to cats, dogs, and most species of birds, except pigeons which are banned from entry.
  • Transport: Baku has a metro system that requires a rechargeable travel card called BakiCart (Baku Card) for payments. You can use minibusses called marshrutkas while traveling inter-city.
  • Permits: You need permits to travel to many protected areas or border regions including the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
  • Border crossing: It is not possible to travel directly to Armenia from Azerbaijan due to the ongoing conflict between both countries, hence you will be required to travel via a neutral neighboring country.

Best time to visit Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Azerbaijan is during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. Spring, welcomes mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, creating perfect conditions for exploring Azerbaijan's diverse landscapes and historical sites. A... (Read More)

Top places to visit in Azerbaijan by month

Holidify's opinion on Travel to Azerbaijan

What's Great about Travelling to Azerbaijan?

Blend of modernity and tradition, historic architecture, and the Caspian Sea.

What's Not So Great about Travelling to Azerbaijan?

Limited Freedom, Language Barrier, Limited Tourism Infrastructure

Who should Travel to Azerbaijan?

Cultural Enthusiasts. Architecture Lovers. History Buffs. Off-the-beaten-path Explorers.

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Exchanging money in Azerbaijan

Exchanging money in Azerbaijan is a straightforward process and can be done at several banks and exchange offices. The country's currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN), and it's advisable to exchange currency at authorized exchange points and banks only to avoid any potential scams and frauds. In Baku, you can find several branches of banks like Kapital Bank and International Bank of Azerbaijan where you can get your currency exchanged. Check the exchange rates beforehand as they can often vary from bank to bank. ATMs are also widely available throughout the country, providing convenient access to cash.

Transport in Azerbaijan

Transport in Azerbaijan offers various options for navigating the country efficiently. The most common modes of transportation include buses, minibusses (known as marshrutkas), taxis, and the metro system in Baku. Buses and minibusses operate on scheduled routes and are widely used for both short and long-distance travel between cities and towns. Taxis are readily available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or booked through mobile apps like Bolt. Car rental is a viable option for those looking for flexibility and independence. However, if choosing to self-drive it is important to notice that the road conditions in smaller cities can be rugged, and since Baku is also known as the city of winds due to the pounding dry winds, driving can be tough.

Shopping in Azerbaijan

Shopping in Azerbaijan offers a vibrant and diverse experience, blending traditional markets with modern shopping centers. You can explore local bazaars, where vendors sell a variety of goods including spices, handcrafts, traditional clothes, ceramics, and souvenirs. Handcrafted carpets, known for their intricate designs and rich colors, are particularly sought after. Modern shopping destinations like the Ganjlik Mall or Nizami Street in Baku offer a range of international and local brands, as well as dining and entertainment options.

Nightlife in Azerbaijan

Nightlife in Azerbaijan offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and culture. In Baku, you can explore a range of bars and nightclubs with a few of them giving panoramic views of the cityscape. Azerbaijan also offers captivating night tours during which you can explore the city's landmarks and attractions in a whole new light. In Baku, guided night tours take travelers on illuminated walks through the city's historic Old Town, where they can admire the beautifully lit medieval architecture and learn about the area's rich history and culture.

Festivals of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, each highlighting different aspects of its rich heritage. One of the most significant is Novruz, a celebration of spring and the Persian New Year. Azerbaijan also holds multiple music festivals throughout the year such as Baku International Jazz Festival and Gabala International Music Festival. In Quba, locals and visitors gather for the Apple Festival, showcasing the region's harvests through tastings and cultural displays. These festivals provide insight into Azerbaijani culture and traditions, offering memorable experiences.

Hygiene in Azerbaijan

Hygiene standards in Azerbaijan are generally good, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Restaurants, hotels, and public facilities typically maintain clean and sanitary conditions, adhering to international hygiene standards. Tap water in major cities like Baku is generally safe to drink, although it is advisable to stick to bottled water as the quality and standard are not constant.

Food in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani cuisine reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary traditions, blending influences from the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Caucasus region. Characterized by an abundance of fresh herbs, spices, and flavorful ingredients, Azerbaijani food offers a delicious array of dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From hearty meat kebabs and savory rice pilafs to aromatic stews and delicate pastries, Azerbaijani cuisine is as diverse as the landscapes that shape the country. Some iconic dishes include plov (pilaf), dolma, kebabs, and baklava.

Photos of Azerbaijan

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FAQs on Azerbaijan

Where is Azerbaijan located?

Azerbaijan is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, bordered by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west, and Iran to the south.

What is Azerbaijan famous for?

Azerbaijan is famous for its rich cultural heritage, ancient historical sites, vibrant oil industry, and the unique mud volcanoes. The capital city, Baku, is known for its modern architecture, including the Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Center. Additionally, Azerbaijan is celebrated for its traditional carpets, cuisine, and the marvellous architectures in Baku.
 

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