Azerbaijan is a beautiful country in the Caucasus region, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. Growing up in neighboring Iran, I was immersed in the rich tapestry of Azerbaijan’s culture and history, a fascination that ignited my desire to explore the country. And so, with great anticipation, I finally traveled to Azerbaijan and explored the country.
Azerbaijan, with a population of more than 10 million, may not be known to many international tourists. Still, it is truly a great destination for nature lovers, history and culture lovers, and foodies. The people here are friendly and hospitable. Azerbaijan is truly a hidden gem that deserves its place on every traveler’s bucket list. Furthermore, visiting Azerbaijan is very easy for most nationalities thanks to the new e-Visa system.
If you’re planning a trip to Azerbaijan and looking for tourist places in Azerbaijan, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I share the 12 best places to visit in Azerbaijan and the best things to do in the country.
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Best tourist places in Azerbaijan
1. Tourist Places In Azerbaijan BAKU
You’ve played Azerbaijan, and guess what? Your adventure begins here in the capital, Baku. Baku is a truly unique and lively city and is well worth spending a few days here. As you walk through Baku, you will notice a stark contrast between the contemporary skyline and the echoes of its ancient past. The iconic Flame Towers, a testament to Azerbaijan’s oil-rich history, rise against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City, a living testament to Baku’s historical roots.
Baku Boulevard, also known as “National Park”, is a popular strolling spot for locals and tourists alike. The parade, which stretches for several kilometers, features beautiful gardens and fountains that offer stunning views of the Caspian Sea. For the best panoramic views of the city, you can head to Highland Park, right next to the famous Flame Towers.
Three flame towers in Baku
Baku is also home to some of the most notable modern architectural buildings, including the Heydar Aliyev Center and the Crystal Hall, home of the Eurovision Song Contest 2012. These buildings reflect the city’s ambitions to become a global center of culture and architecture. Baku can be your base for day trips to other parts of Azerbaijan.
Where to stay in Baku
Radisson Hotel Baku, located in the heart of the city’s business and entertainment center, is one of the best places to stay in Baku. This 4-star hotel is a stone’s throw from the Caspian Sea.Located less than 1 km from the Maiden’s Tower, Molokan Inn Hotel is another great place to stay in Baku. This elegant 4-star hotel offers airport transfers. Merchant Baku is a beautiful hotel in the center of Baku. This elegant 4-star hotel offers allergy-free rooms and a gym.
2. Best Tourist Places In Azerbaijan ICHERI SHEHER
The city of Achiri, known as the ancient city of Baku, is a must-see when visiting Azerbaijan. Dating back to the 12th century, it offers insight into Baku’s rich cultural heritage. Evidence of Arab, Persian, Ottoman and Russian influence can be seen here. Acheri city in Azerbaijan
Acheri city, the old city of Baku
One of the main attractions here is the Shirvan Shah Palace, called the “Pearl” of Azerbaijan architecture. It is a 15th century complex that served as the residence of the governors of Shirwan, the rulers of Shirwan. Another attraction here is the Maiden’s Tower, the oldest and most mysterious structure in the old town of Baku. It is believed that it was built in the 12th century, although the exact date of its construction and purpose is unknown. There are many traditional restaurants in the old town, which means that you can try traditional food here.
3. Tourist Places In Baku QOBUSTAN
Rock art from Gobistan in Azerbaijan
Qubustan is a unique and charming region in central Azerbaijan, which has significant global value. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times and is known for its collection of rock art engravings, some of which are 40,000 years old. These intricate carvings offer a window into the lives and beliefs of the people who once lived in the region and offer a unique insight into the history of Azerbaijan and the world at large.These small, rocky hills reflect the entire history of the region from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages.Gobustan is only an hour’s drive from Baku, making it an excursion of a perfect day.
4. Tourist Spots In Azerbaijan MUD VOLCANOES
Many people who visit Azerbaijan may not know that the country has the largest number of mud volcanoes in the world. There are around 400 mud volcanoes spread throughout the country.
A mud volcano is a type of volcano that erupts a mixture of water, mud, and gas instead of molten rock. The mud from these volcanoes is made up of a mixture of clay, silt and other minerals, giving the surface a unique appearance.The mud from these volcanoes is believed to have healing properties and many people visit the area to experience mud baths.
Mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan
The most popular mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan are located near Gobistan, not far from Baku. This means you can visit both places in a single day trip from Baku. You can hire a taxi or join a group tour of Mud Volcano and Gobustan.
5. Tourist Places In Baku Azerbaijan YANARDAG
Yanardag, which translates as “burning mountain”, is one of the best natural places in Azerbaijan. This place is nothing short of extraordinary, this mountain is always on fire due to gas deposits beneath the surface of the sandstone.
A mountain on fire in Yanardag, Azerbaijan
This amazing phenomenon does not depend on human participation and occurs continuously day and night in any weather conditions. Locals call it the Eternal Flame and many believed it was a sacred mountain and became a pilgrimage site. Although the exact history of Yanardag is still shrouded in mystery, a local legend has it that a shepherd accidentally set a fire there and the hill has been burning ever since.
6. Tourist Attractions In Azerbaijan ATESHGAH
One of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan is Atishgah, often called the “Fire Temple of Baku.” The temple is a special place on the Absheron peninsula, where fire and faith have mixed for centuries.
A place of fire known as the Baku Fire Temple.
Fire rituals originated here a long time ago, back in the 10th century, with the natural gas fireplaces of the peninsula. The temple we see now was built between the 17th and 18th centuries. The structure resembles a caravanserai, similar to the ancient inns where travelers stayed.
People still wonder if this temple was built for Zoroastrian or Hindu worship. It is like a mix of both in its design. Some experts believe that it was originally for Zoroastrians, but later became a place of worship for Hindus.
In 1969, intensive use of natural gas in the area extinguished the fire. But today the flames are contained thanks to Baku’s central gas supply.
In 1975, the temple was converted into a museum. Then, in 1998, the temple received special recognition as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
You can visit Yarandag and Atishgah on a day trip. One of the easiest ways to visit both is to take a private Burning Mountain and Zoroastrian Temple tour from Baku.
7. DIRI BABA, A MAUSOLEUM OF A SUFI SAINT
Tomb of a Sufi saint in Deir Baba, Azerbaijan
Deir Baba Shrine is a hidden gem located in Maraza, Azerbaijan. It was built in the 15th century. Inside, this is where Sheikh Muhammad, also known as Deir Baba, is buried.
According to some legends, Sheikh Muhammad had miraculous powers and was known for his ability to heal the sick. Some believe that his body has been preserved without any decomposition. And some believe that he was an angel and never died.
8. Tourist Places In Azerbaijan GABALA
In northern Azerbaijan lies Gabala, the former capital of Caucasian Albania, surrounded by the country’s highest peaks. It is a great place to visit in both summer and winter.
Gabala is one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan.
One of the best ways to explore the area is to take the cable car that takes you to an altitude of 1920 meters. During the summer you can enjoy the magnificent view of this area. But in winter, the place turns into a snowy paradise, perfect for skiing and having fun in the snow.
Where to stay in Gabala
Qafqaz Riverside Hotel is a 5-star family resort in Gabala offering two restaurants and a spa.
Trigon Villa Family is one of the best places to stay in Gabala and offers a private pool. This 4 bedroom villa is perfect for families or groups of friends.
9. Tourist Spots In Azerbaijan NOHUR LAKE
Just 3 kilometers from the city of Gabala is Lake Nohar, one of the most popular destinations in Azerbaijan. This lake is surrounded by green mountains. It is one of the highest lakes in Azerbaijan, 700 meters above sea level in the middle of three mountains.
Nohar Lake in Azerbaijan
Despite its height, it can be easily reached by car. Some They believe that Nohar was built after World War II to provide water to surrounding villages. But some other stories say that this lake appeared after an earthquake in the country.
There are hotels and restaurants around the lake, making it a great place to relax and unwind. You can’t swim in the lake, but you can rent a boat or go fishing.
Where to stay in Lake Nohar
Chanot Mahal Gabala is luxurious and unique.