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The Ultimate Azerbaijan Travel Guide: From Mountains to Sea

Tucked away in the South Caucasus region, Azerbaijan is a fascinating country that often flies under the radar of travelers. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Azerbaijan is an ideal destination for broke backpackers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. From the ancient walled city of Baku to the majestic mountains of Qabala, and from the scenic shores of the Caspian Sea to the rustic villages of the countryside, Azerbaijan has something to offer every kind of traveler.

How to get there:

From Georgia:

  • Take a marshrutka (minivan) or bus from Tbilisi to the Georgian-Azerbaijani border (approx. 4-5 hours, $10-15)
  • Cross the border on foot and take another marshrutka or bus to Baku (approx. 5-6 hours, $15-20)

From Armenia:

  • Note: Due to political tensions, the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan is closed. However, you can take a detour through Georgia.

From Russia:

  • Take a bus or train from Moscow to the Russian-Azerbaijani border (approx. 24-30 hours, $50-70)
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to Baku (approx. 5-6 hours, $20-30)

From Turkey:

  • Take a bus from Istanbul to the Turkish-Azerbaijani border (approx. 24-30 hours, $30-50)
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to Baku (approx. 5-6 hours, $20-30)

From Iran:

  • Take a bus from Tehran to the Iranian-Azerbaijani border (approx. 20-25 hours, $25-40)
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to Baku (approx. 5-6 hours, $20-30)

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
  • Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor activities
  • Festivals like Novruz (Persian New Year) and Baku Jazz Festival take place during this time

Summer (June to August)

  • Hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F)
  • Best time for beach activities and swimming in the Caspian Sea
  • Festivals like Baku Summer Festival and Gabala International Music Festival take place during this time

Autumn (September to November)

  • Comfortable temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
  • Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor activities
  • Festivals like Baku Autumn Festival and Sheki International Music Festival take place during this time

Winter (December to February)

  • Cold, with temperatures often below 0°C (32°F)
  • Best time for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains
  • Festivals like Baku Winter Festival and Qabala Winter Festival take place during this time

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)

  • Consider visiting during the shoulder season for milder weather and smaller crowds
  • Prices for accommodations and tourist services might be lower during this time

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Baku (Old Town, Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah’s Palace)
  • Day 2: Baku (Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku Boulevard, Fountain Square)
  • Day 3: Qobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes

1-Week Itinerary

  • Day 1-2: Baku (explore the city and its surroundings)
  • Day 3: Qobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes
  • Day 4: Shamakhi and Lahij (historic towns in the foothills of the Caucasus)
  • Day 5: Gabala ( ancient city, Nij Castle, and the Caucasus Mountains)
  • Day 6-7: Sheki (historic town in the northwest, Khan’s Palace, and Albanian Church)

2-Week Itinerary

  • Day 1-3: Baku (explore the city and its surroundings)
  • Day 4-5: Qobustan National Park, Mud Volcanoes, and Shamakhi
  • Day 6-7: Lahij and Gabala (historic towns and natural beauty)
  • Day 8-9: Sheki (historic town and natural beauty)
  • Day 10-11: Lankaran (southern region, Lankaran Fortress, and beach)
  • Day 12-14: Return to Baku, explore any missed sights

1-Month Itinerary

  • Week 1: Baku and surrounding regions (Qobustan, Shamakhi, Lahij)
  • Week 2: Gabala, Sheki, and the northwest
  • Week 3: Lankaran, Astara, and the southern region
  • Week 4: Return to Baku, explore any missed sights, and take day trips to nearby towns

Transportation:

Buses:

  • Operate in cities and between towns
  • Affordable (approx. 0.20-1 AZN / $0.12-$0.60 USD)
  • Less frequent than marshrutkas

Marshrutkas:

  • Minivans that operate on fixed routes
  • Frequent departures (every 10-30 minutes)
  • Affordable (approx. 1-3 AZN / $0.60-$1.80 USD)
  • Can be crowded, but a great way to meet locals

Taxis:

  • Widely available, but more expensive (approx. 10-20 AZN / $6-$12 USD)
  • Can be negotiated, especially for longer trips

Hitchhiking:

  • Popular in rural areas, especially for shorter distances
  • Use the thumb-up gesture or wave at passing cars
  • Be prepared for long waits and potential language barriers
  • Always negotiate the destination and price before getting in

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Azerbaijani phrases to help with communication
  • Have small bills and coins ready for transportation costs
  • Be prepared for crowded and potentially chaotic transportation
  • Consider downloading ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Yandex

Top things to do:

Free Attractions:

  1. Explore Baku’s Old Town (İçəri Şəhər)
  2. Visit the Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası)
  3. Walk along the Baku Boulevard (Dənizkənarı Bulvarı)
  4. Discover the street art in Baku’s alleys
  5. Hike to the top of Yanardag (Burning Mountain)
  6. Visit the Bibi-Heybat Mosque
  7. Explore the Absheron Peninsula
  8. Visit the Ateshgah of Baku (Fire Temple)
  9. Explore the Baku Ferris Wheel
  10. Walk through the Baku Botanical Garden

Budget-Friendly Attractions:

  1. Qobustan National Park (entry fee: 5 AZN / $3 USD)
  2. Mud Volcanoes (entry fee: 2 AZN / $1.20 USD)
  3. Shamakhi and Lahij historic towns (entry fee: 2-5 AZN / $1.20-$3 USD)
  4. Gabala’s ancient city and Nij Castle (entry fee: 5-10 AZN / $3-$6 USD)
  5. Sheki’s Khan’s Palace and Albanian Church (entry fee: 5-10 AZN / $3-$6 USD)
  6. Lankaran’s historic center and fortress (entry fee: 2-5 AZN / $1.20-$3 USD)
  7. Naftalan’s oil fields and mud baths (entry fee: 5-10 AZN / $3-$6 USD)
  8. Ganja’s historic center and Nizami Mausoleum (entry fee: 2-5 AZN / $1.20-$3 USD)
  9. Mingechevir’s ancient fortress and archaeological site (entry fee: 2-5 AZN / $1.20-$3 USD)
  10. Qabala’s ancient city and fortress (entry fee: 5-10 AZN / $3-$6 USD)

Natural Wonders:

  1. Caspian Sea beaches
  2. Caucasus Mountains hiking trails
  3. Qabala’s scenic forests and waterfalls
  4. Sheki’s surrounding mountains and valleys
  5. Lankaran’s coastal wetlands and birdwatching
  6. Gabala’s scenic lakes and forests
  7. Shamakhi’s scenic vineyards and wineries
  8. Lahij’s scenic mountains and waterfalls
  9. Qobustan’s scenic desert landscapes
  10. Absheron’s scenic coastal cliffs and beaches

Historic Sites:

  1. Baku’s ancient walled city
  2. Ganja’s historic center and Nizami Mausoleum
  3. Mingechevir’s ancient fortress and archaeological site
  4. Qabala’s ancient city and fortress
  5. Sheki’s Khan’s Palace and historic center
  6. Lankaran’s historic center and fortress
  7. Shamakhi’s historic center and mosque
  8. Lahij’s historic center and mosque
  9. Qobustan’s ancient petroglyphs and museum
  10. Naftalan’s historic oil fields and museum

Other Attractions:

  1. Baku’s Heydar Aliyev Center
  2. Qobustan’s petroglyphs and museum
  3. Gabala’s cable car and panoramic views
  4. Sheki’s local markets and bazaars
  5. Lankaran’s tea plantations and factories
  6. Ganja’s local markets and bazaars
  7. Mingechevir’s local markets and bazaars
  8. Qabala’s local markets and bazaars
  9. Shamakhi’s wineries and vineyards
  10. Lahij’s scenic hiking trails and waterfalls

Food:

Azerbaijani cuisine is a delicious blend of Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors, with a focus on fresh herbs, spices, and locally-sourced ingredients. From hearty meat dishes to refreshing desserts, Azerbaijan’s food scene is a true reflection of its cultural heritage.

Must-Try Dishes:

  1. Plov: A classic Azerbaijani rice dish cooked with meat, herbs, and spices.
  2. Kebabs: Skewers of marinated meat (usually lamb or beef) grilled to perfection.
  3. Dolma: Stuffed vegetables or fruits with a mix of rice, meat, and spices.
  4. Qutab: Thin pancakes filled with herbs, meat, or cheese.
  5. Pakhlava: A sweet pastry made with layers of dough, nuts, and honey.

Local Ingredients:

  1. Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, cilantro, and basil are used liberally in Azerbaijani cooking.
  2. Spices: Cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika add depth to many dishes.
  3. Meat: Lamb, beef, and chicken are staples, often cooked with onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
  4. Fruits: Apples, pears, and grapes are used in desserts and as toppings for savory dishes.
  5. Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts are common in baked goods and desserts.

Beverages:

  1. Tea: A strong, sweet black tea is the national beverage.
  2. Coffee: Strong and rich, often served with sugar and cardamom.
  3. Ayran: A yogurt-based drink perfect for hot summer days.
  4. Sharbat: A sweet, fruity drink made with fruit juice and sugar.

Dining Etiquette:

  1. Hospitality: Food is a symbol of hospitality in Azerbaijani culture.
  2. Respect: Wait for the host to invite you to sit and start eating.
  3. Use Your Hands: It’s common to eat with your hands, especially when eating kebabs or qutab.

Accommodations:

Baku Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Baku Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
    • Sahil Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
    • Old Town Hostel (6 AZN / $3.60 USD per night)
    • Party Hostel Baku (8 AZN / $4.80 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Old Town Guesthouse (10 AZN / $6 USD per night)
    • Baku Guesthouse (15 AZN / $9 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Baku Homestay (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)

Shamakhi Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Shamakhi Hostel (3 AZN / $2 USD per night)
    • Shamakhi Party Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Shamakhi Guesthouse (8 AZN / $5 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Shamakhi Homestay (3 AZN / $2 USD per night)

Gabala Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Gabala Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
    • Gabala Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Gabala Guesthouse (10 AZN / $6 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Gabala Homestay (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)

Sheki Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Sheki Hostel (3 AZN / $2 USD per night)
    • Sheki Party Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Sheki Guesthouse (8 AZN / $5 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Sheki Homestay (3 AZN / $2 USD per night)

Lankaran Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Lankaran Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
    • Lankaran Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Lankaran Guesthouse (10 AZN / $6 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Lankaran Homestay (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)

Ganja Region:

  1. Hostels:
    • Ganja Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
    • Ganja Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)
  2. Guesthouses:
    • Ganja Guesthouse (10 AZN / $6 USD per night)
  3. Homestays:
    • Ganja Homestay (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)

Party Hostels:

  • Party Hostel Baku (8 AZN / $4.80 USD per night)
  • Shamakhi Party Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
  • Gabala Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)
  • Sheki Party Hostel (5 AZN / $3 USD per night)
  • Lankaran Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)
  • Ganja Party Hostel (7 AZN / $4.20 USD per night)

Tips:

  1. Book in advance: Especially during peak travel seasons.
  2. Negotiate prices: Especially for longer stays.
  3. Consider homestays: For a unique cultural experience.
  4. Look for deals: Online or through local tourism offices.

Nightlife:

Azerbaijan’s nightlife scene is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern entertainment. From trendy bars to pulsating clubs, and lively party areas, there’s something for every taste and style.

Baku’s Nightlife:

  1. Nizami Street: The heart of Baku’s nightlife, lined with bars, clubs, and lounges.
  2. Old Town: Historic pubs and bars, offering a cozy atmosphere.
  3. Baku Boulevard: Seafront bars and clubs, perfect for sunset views.
  4. Yeni Bulvar: Upscale bars and clubs, popular with locals and expats.
  5. Fountain Square: Vibrant area with bars, clubs, and live music.
  6. Icherisheher: Historic neighborhood with traditional bars and pubs.

Top Bars:

  1. The Ritz-Carlton’s O2 Bar: Luxurious cocktails and live music.
  2. Four Seasons’ Bar: Elegant atmosphere and extensive wine list.
  3. Baku Bar: Traditional Azerbaijani music and local drinks.
  4. Finnegan’s Irish Pub: Cozy pub with live sports and beer.
  5. The Red Lion Pub: British-style pub with live music and beer.
  6. Mugam Club: Traditional Azerbaijani music and dance performances.

Top Clubs:

  1. Enerji Club: High-energy clubbing experience.
  2. Otto Club: Trendy club with live DJs and performances.
  3. Club 36: Exclusive club with VIP areas and top DJs.
  4. Muse Club: Underground club with alternative music.
  5. Gravity Club: High-end club with live performances.
  6. Buta Club: Upscale club with live music and DJs.

Party Areas:

  1. Baku’s Beachside: Summer parties and beach clubs.
  2. Shamakhi’s Wine Region: Wine tastings and vineyard parties.
  3. Gabala’s Mountains: Outdoor festivals and nature parties.
  4. Lankaran’s Beach: Summer parties and beach clubs.
  5. Sheki’s Historic Center: Cultural events and traditional performances.

Tips:

  1. Dress Code: Smart casual to formal, depending on the venue.
  2. Language: Azerbaijani, Russian, and English spoken.
  3. Currency: AZN (Azerbaijani Manat) accepted, credit cards too.
  4. Safety: Generally safe, but be aware of pickpocketing.

Backpacking Azerbaijan costs:

Daily Budget Breakdown:

  • Accommodation: $7-10.00
  • Food: $5-10
  • Transportation: $2-5
  • Attractions: $2.50-5
  • Miscellaneous: $2.50-5
  • Total: $19-30.50 per day

Weekly Budget Breakdown:

Total: $133.50-248.50 per week

Accommodation: $49-73.50

Food: $35-70

Transportation: $14-35

Attractions: $17.50-35

Miscellaneous: $17.50-35

Conclusion:

Rich in ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Azerbaijan was truly unforgettable for this impoverished backpacker. Great cultural heritage, outstanding architecture, and exquisite dishes turn this Caucasian gem into a definite must-visit for every tight-budget traveler.
Whereas I initially thought Azerbaijan was going to be this expensive country, it turned out with its hostels, affordable to a yummy street food culture. Embracing the local way of life, bargaining, and venturing into less touristy areas made the discovery of how Azerbaijan can be explored even on the tightest budget possible.
With daily expenses averaging around $10-20, Azerbaijan is that one backpacker’s paradise where the dollars can go into overtime. From the vibrating streets of Baku to the ruins of Ganca, every single second spent in Azerbaijan was testimony to the fact that so much more lay in store for the budget traveler.
So, if you are ready for an adventure which is a bit off the beaten path and want to experience the warm hospitality of the Caucasus region, take out your bag, grab your sense of adventure, and head out to Azerbaijan. Your wallet and your sense of wonder will appreciate it.

Happy travels to Azerbaijan!