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The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Azerbaijan

If you’re planning a trip to Azerbaijan and want a balanced itinerary that mixes culture, history, and some outdoor exploration, I’ve got you covered. Azerbaijan is a unique country where the influences of the Middle East, Europe, and Asia collide. Over five days, you’ll explore this blend of old and new, enjoy the lively cities, get to know the country’s past, and experience the natural beauty in the countryside. This is a flexible itinerary, so you won’t feel rushed!

Day 1: Baku – Explore Azerbaijan’s Capital

Morning: Old City (Icherisheher)

Start your day early and dive into Baku’s Old City, Icherisheher. This UNESCO-listed site is a maze of narrow streets and ancient buildings. Visit the 12th-century Maiden Tower, one of Baku’s most iconic landmarks. You can climb to the top for a great view of the city.

Next, explore the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Built in the 15th century, this complex feels like a journey back in time. Be sure to check out the mosque and mausoleum within the complex too.

Afternoon: Baku Boulevard & Flame Towers

After lunch, take a walk along Baku Boulevard. This waterfront promenade gives you a perfect mix of old and modern Baku. Enjoy the views of the Caspian Sea and the modern architecture in the distance.

In the late afternoon, make your way to the Flame Towers, Baku’s most modern symbol. You can’t miss these impressive skyscrapers. Stick around until sunset—the towers light up beautifully, showcasing an LED display that’s hard to ignore.

Evening: Modern Art Museum & Dinner

If you have some extra time and love contemporary art, pay a visit to the Modern Art Museum. It’s home to works by many local artists, and the exhibits are a mix of Soviet-era and current pieces.

End your day with dinner in one of Baku’s many fine restaurants. I recommend trying local Azerbaijani dishes like plov (a rice dish with meat and spices) or dushbara (small meat dumplings). The Caspian sea’s fresh fish is also a great option.

Day 2: Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

Morning: Gobustan National Park

Get ready for a day trip to Gobustan National Park, which is about an hour from Baku. It’s famous for its ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs, some of which are over 12,000 years old. Learn about the early human settlers and past civilizations through these stunning pieces of art.

There’s also a charming small museum at the entrance that gives a quick overview of what you’re about to see. Be sure to take some time here before heading out to the carvings.

Afternoon: Mud Volcanoes

After finishing up in Gobustan, take a short detour to another unique attraction: the mud volcanoes. Azerbaijan is home to the largest number of mud volcanoes in the world, and seeing these bubbling landscapes is quite the experience.

While these aren’t active volcanoes, they resemble slow-flowing muddy geysers. You’ll probably get a bit dirty, but it’s a fun and rare experience. It’s an offbeat thing to do—that’s for sure!

Evening: Back to Baku

Return to Baku in the late afternoon. You might be tired from the day’s adventures, so consider having a relaxed evening. Why not grab dinner in Baku’s Nizami Street area, which is full of local cafes and restaurants? It’s a lively spot for people-watching too.

Day 3: Sheki – Historical Town in the Mountains

Morning: Journey to Sheki

Today, you’ll head out to Sheki, a beautiful town about five hours from Baku. The road trip itself is pleasant, and you can enjoy the changing landscapes as you drive towards the mountains. If you prefer not to drive, there are buses or private transfers available.

Afternoon: Sheki Khan’s Palace & Local Crafts

In Sheki, spend your afternoon exploring the town’s star attraction: the Sheki Khan’s Palace. The palace was built in the 18th century with intricate designs, colorful windows, and detailed frescoes. The vibrant stained-glass windows are a must-see.

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Afterward, take a stroll through the handicraft markets. As you walk around the streets, you’ll find small shops selling scarves, pottery, and traditional silk items. Don’t be shy to engage with local artisans.

Evening: Try Sheki’s Famous Halva

Before leaving Sheki, make sure you try Sheki Halva, a local sweet made from nuts and layers of thin dough. It’s one of the things you can only taste authentically here, so head into a traditional sweet shop and pick up some for dessert.

Day 4: Lahij & Mountaintop Villages

Morning: Drive to Lahij

Say goodbye to Sheki and head towards another rural gem: Lahij. It’s a small village in the mountains, about two hours away. The drive itself is scenic, passing through the forested hills of the Greater Caucasus mountains.

Lahij is famous for its cobbled streets, old Persian-influenced architecture, and artisan copper workshops. This is a great place to enjoy walking around. The town has a peaceful vibe, and it’s a window into rural Azerbaijani life.

Afternoon: Copper Workshops & Carpets

Spend your afternoon visiting the copper workshops for which Lahij is known. You can watch artisans working on copper pots and intricate designs like they’ve done for centuries. Browse through their works and pick up a souvenir if you like.

You can also visit the carpet shops in town. Carpet weaving is a significant part of Azerbaijani culture, and Lahij has some beautifully crafted pieces. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a fascinating trade to observe.

Evening: Relax in the Mountains

Spend the evening enjoying the mountain views. If you’re staying in a guesthouse here, many offer delicious home-cooked Azerbaijani meals. Sitting down for a meal of dolma (stuffed vine leaves) or saj (meat cooked with vegetables on a flat pan) while surrounded by mountains is the perfect way to end the day.

Day 5: Ganja – History and Wine

Morning: Ganja’s Monuments & Javad Khan Street

On your last day, I recommend visiting Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second-largest city, located about three hours from Baku. Start your exploration at the Javad Khan Street, bustling with local cafes and cultural spots.

Head to Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum, honoring the country’s most famous poet. This historical site is peaceful and sets up a calm moment of reflection. The mausoleum is surrounded by lush gardens, making it a good spot for a morning walk.

Afternoon: Ganja’s Wine Tradition

Azerbaijan is not only rich in history; it’s also known for its wine. In the afternoon, dive into the wine culture of the region. Ganja has a long-standing tradition, and there are several wineries where you can do tastings and tours. Azerbaijan’s wine is a bit of an underdog, so it’s definitely worth a taste.

Evening: Head Back to Baku

After spending the afternoon exploring Ganja, head back to Baku. It’s roughly a three-hour drive, and if you time it well, you’ll be back in time for a last dinner in the capital. Wrap up with a relaxed night enjoying Baku by night.

Conclusion

Azerbaijan is a surprisingly diverse country that deserves a spot on your travel list. This five-day itinerary lets you experience its modern cities, rich history, and scenic countryside without feeling rushed. Plus, the food is fantastic! Wherever you go in Azerbaijan, you’re in for a unique adventure that showcases the memorable beauty of the Caucasus and the warmth of its people.

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