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Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan: A Complete Travel Guide

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan: A Complete Travel Guide

02.05.2025
Beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and a wide variety of activities abound in Azerbaijan, a nation where the old Silk Road meets the modern.  It accommodates a wide range of tourists by including everything from quaint mountain towns and ski resorts to bustling metropolises and spas.  This book features the top 10 places to visit in Azerbaijan, along with travel advice, restaurant suggestions, and shopping insights, making it ideal for a variety of trip types, including family vacations, winter getaways, and cultural escapes.

Embark on a journey of discovery with Best Value Tourism Dubai as your reliable companion.

1. Baku – The Sparkling Capital of the Caspian

The capital of Azerbaijan, Baku, is a remarkable blend of modern and old buildings.  There are state-of-the-art commercial centers and the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher) that are within walking distance of each other.  Baku is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Azerbaijan with kids since it caters to history buffs, foodies, and families with a wide range of interests.

Things to do in Baku: Explore Flame Towers, the Heydar Aliyev Center, enjoy the Caspian Sea promenade and more.

What to eat in Baku? Relish the savory “Qutab” — a stuffed flatbread filled with greens or meat and other specialties.

Where to Shop in Baku? Nizami Street for branded stores, Taza Bazaar for local crafts and spices.

What is the best time to visit Baku? To enjoy mild, pleasant weather, try April through June or September through early November.

Travel Tip: One inexpensive and convenient way to move around Baku is to take the metro.

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2. Gabala – The Nature and Adventure Retreat

Surrounded by the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Gabala is a year-round attraction.  Among the best places to visit in Azerbaijan with family and adventurers, Gabala is known for its picturesque lakes, verdant forests, and outdoor attractions.  It is ideal for families and those who enjoy nature because of its cultural attractions, amusement parks, and resorts.

Things to do in Gabala: Ride the Tufandag cable car, visit Gabaland, or hike through Yeddi Gozel Waterfall.

What to eat in Gabala? Try “Piti” — a slow-cooked lamb stew in clay pots.

Where to Shop in Gabala? The Gabala City Mall is a great place to buy carpets, pottery, jewelry, and regional delicacies and snacks.

What is the best time to visit Gabala? Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October).

Travel Tip: Tufandag resort operates ski lifts even in summer — for panoramic views.

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3. Sheki – A Tapestry of Culture and History

One of the most picturesque destinations in Azerbaijan is Sheki, which is located on the mountainous Caucasus Mountains.  A trip to Sheki will take you back in time to the country's historical caravanserais, beautiful shebeke stained glass windows, and artisan culture.  Those interested in history, architecture, or just want a peaceful getaway with their family should definitely make a stop there.

Things to do in Sheki: Tour Sheki Khan's Palace, explore the ancient Albanian church, and stroll through cobbled alleys.

What to eat in Sheki? Try the one-of-a-kind "Sheki Halva" dessert, which combines rice flour and nuts.

Where to Shop in Sheki? Carpet, Jewelry, and other souvenirs at the Sheki Bazaar and Dukan

What is the best time to visit Sheki? May to October, when the weather is dry and ideal for sightseeing.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; the old town can be best explored on foot.


4. Gobustan - See Ancient Rock Carvings

The ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and lunar landscapes of Gobustan have made it a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated about one hour outside of Baku, it is a top destination in Azerbaijan for geologists and history buffs.

Things to do in Gobustan: Discover the Gobustan Museum's interactive exhibits, wander through volcanic landscapes, and investigate ancient petroglyphs.

What to eat in Gobustan? In roadside cafes, you can try the local kebabs or qutab, which are stuffed flatbread.

Where to shop in Gobustan? Replicas of rock art and other Gobustan-themed goods are common in Baku souvenir shops.

What is the best time to visit Gobustan? Late spring (May) and early autumn (September).

Travel Tip: Many paths are hilly and rocky, so be sure to wear strong shoes.


5. Shahdag – The Winter Adventure Paradise

One of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan in December is to go to Shahdag, which is also the country's favorite winter resort.  Shahdag is a resort that never closes. In the winter, guests may enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snow safaris. In the summer, guests can go mountain biking or ziplining.

Things to do in Shahdag: Go skiing, tubing, ziplining, or on an off-road snow excursion.

What to eat in Shahdag? Warm up with grilled meats and rich Azerbaijani soups.

Where to shop in Shahdag? Resort boutiques for ski gear and winter souvenirs.

What is the best time to visit Shahdag? December to March for snow activities; May to September for summer adventures.

Travel Tip: Book ski lessons early as slots fill up quickly during peak season.

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6. Naftalan – The Healing Spa Town

The healing oil baths at Naftalan set it apart as a unique wellness destination.  Visitors can enjoy a unique medical tourism experience while they recuperate, unwind, and get treatment. Apt for recuperation-seeking couples and elderly tourists.

Things to do in Naftalan: Unwind at a spa resort or try the world-famous oil bath treatment

What to eat in Naftalan? Enjoy rustic Azerbaijani stews and fresh bread.

Where to shop in Naftalan? Pharmacies and wellness centers with oil-based skincare.

What is the best time to visit Naftalan? For pleasant weather and complete spa treatments, visit between March and October.

Travel Tip: if you have any kind of skin concern, talk to your doctor before trying the oil bath treatment.


7. Absheron Peninsula - Baku's Historic Backyard

Beaches, historical oil sites, and ancient fire temples can be found on the Absheron Peninsula. It is perfect for discovering the spiritual and industrial heritage of Azerbaijan and is a wonderful day-trip zone from Baku.

Things to do in Absheron: Check out the beaches at Shikhov and Bilgah, as well as the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag, also known as the burning mountain.

What to eat in Absheron? Try some dushbara, an Azerbaijani dumpling soup, and some fish dishes.

Where to shop in Absheron? Check out Baku’s local markets for Absheron-grown fruits, nuts, and handmade crafts.

What is the best time to visit Absheron? For mild weather and fewer tourists, try visiting between March and June, or from September to November.

Travel Tip: Ateshgah and Yanar Dag are two sites that can be efficiently visited in a half day if you combine them.


8. Oghuz 

Hidden away in northern Azerbaijan, this charming mountain town. Its tranquil environment, waterfalls, and dense woods make it famous.  Though less touristy than close by Gabala, it is wonderful for those seeking genuine town life, nature, and tranquility.

Things to do in Oghuz: Hike along forest paths, see traditional mountain communities, and enjoy the Oghuz Waterfall.

What to eat in Oghuz : Local delicacies like piti (meat stew) and delicious bread complement one another.

Where to shop in Oghuz? Village markets include handcrafted wooden products, dry snacks, and honey produced from honeybees.

What is the best time to visit Oghuz? Come in late spring (May–June) or fall (September–October) if you desire pleasant weather and stunning vistas.

Travel Tip: Stay at a hostel or eco-lodge if you like to meet kind people and home-cooked cuisine.

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9. Khinaliq – The Timeless Mountain Village

Standing at an elevation of more than 2,000 meters, Khinaliq can be considered one of the world's oldest continually inhabited locations.  With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and abundance of hiking options, it is a popular destination for culture vultures and nature lovers visiting Azerbaijan.

Things to do in Khinaliq: Explore stone houses, hike alpine trails, and photograph the Caucasus peaks.

What to eat in Khinaliq? Try local cheese, mountain herbs, and handmade bread.

Where to shop in Khinaliq Azerbaijan? Local homes selling handcrafted garments and woolen goods.

What is the best time to visit Khinaliq? June to September, as roads may be impassable in winter.

Travel Tip: It is advised to have a 4x4 car due to the potentially hazardous mountain routes.

10. Nabran – The Seaside Family Escape

Nabran is a tranquil seaside town on the shores of the Caspian Sea.  Among the top Azerbaijani destinations for families, it boasts a combination of natural attractions, water parks, and beach resorts.  Ideal for family holidays in the summer.

Things to do in Nabran: Enjoy water sports activities like kayaking, windsurfing or relax on the beaches

What to eat in Nabran? Feast on grilled Caspian fish and seafood platters.

Where to shop in Nabran? Local Markets for carpets, pottery, and traditional clothing

What is the Best time to visit Nabran? Enjoy sunny beach weather from June to August.

Travel Tip: Choose a family resort with a kids’ club for added relaxation.

Conclusion

Here is a list of the top 10 destinations in Azerbaijan that offer a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and nature, whether you're looking to relax in the spas of Naftalan, ski in Shahdag, or immerse yourself in the cultural riches of Sheki.  Take a solo adventure around this fascinating nation or see the kid-friendly sites.

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