12 Most Beautiful Places in Azerbaijan to Visit (#6 is UNREAL!)

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I had no idea what to expect from Azerbaijan, but this country totally surprised me. Between Baku’s spaceship-like buildings and the green mountains dotted with ancient villages, it felt like stepping into several different worlds at once.

From the stunning Old City walls to the crazy mud volcanoes scattered across the countryside, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Azerbaijan that made my jaw drop. Trust me, this country is way cooler than anyone talks about!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Azerbaijan

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Azerbaijani adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Baku for just $425 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like Bravo, Araz, and Bazarstore. Local markets are even better – you’ll find fresh produce, local bread, and traditional dishes at great prices. Most restaurants offer business lunch deals (günorta yeməyi) for 8-12 AZN ($5-7) including soup and main course.
• Transport: I recommend getting a BakuCard for the metro system if you’re staying in the capital – it’s much cheaper than buying single tickets. For getting around the city, the purple London-style cabs are affordable and operate on meters. Within Baku, buses are incredibly cheap with most rides costing less than $0.50, while intercity buses and trains offer great value for exploring beyond the capital.

Azerbaijan is one of the Caucasus region’s most affordable destinations. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this fascinating country at an even better value. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Azerbaijan:

1. Gobustan National Park

• 📍 Location: Just southwest of Baku, Azerbaijan
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏺, geology lovers 🌋, offbeat explorers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing ancient petroglyphs, walking among mud volcanoes, hearing the sound of Gaval Dash
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and clear skies 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Baku “Black Mountain” Guest House – Cozy, locally run lodge

Gobustan National Park is where Azerbaijan’s past comes to life on stone. The UNESCO-listed site is famous for its petroglyphs, which date back more than 15,000 years. You’ll see carvings of dancers, hunters, and animals that reveal how ancient people once lived and celebrated life here.

Beyond the carvings, the landscape feels otherworldly. Cracked earth stretches toward low hills, and the bubbling mud volcanoes nearby add a surreal twist. It’s easy to combine both areas in a half-day trip from Baku, especially if you’re into geology or off-the-grid sightseeing.

Don’t miss the Gaval Dash, a natural rock that produces a tambourine-like sound when tapped. Local legends surround it, adding to the mystery. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning history, or getting a little muddy, Gobustan is one of those places that sticks with you long after you’ve left.

2. Sheki

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Azerbaijan, near the Greater Caucasus Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: Culture lovers 🕌, architecture fans 🪟, Silk Road history buffs 🐫
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Sheki Khan’s Palace, exploring the Sheki Bazaar, touring the ancient Albanian church in Kish
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny days and vibrant bazaars ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sheki Palace Hotel – Elegant hillside hotel near Old Town with traditional design and garden views

Sheki is a solid pick if you want a mix of mountain scenery and cultural experiences without big crowds. It’s small, walkable, and full of character. Most people come for the Sheki Khan’s Palace, and it really is worth seeing, especially for the colorful stained glass and carved woodwork.

The town has a great local market scene. You’ll find Sheki halva, which is a super sweet layered dessert locals love. The bazaar also sells everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs, so it’s easy to grab a snack and a gift in one stop.

If you’ve got time, head to nearby Kish village to check out one of the region’s oldest churches. It’s quiet and feels way off the radar. Overall, Sheki is an easy place to relax and learn more about Azerbaijan’s history without needing a full itinerary.

3. Khinalug

• 📍 Location: Quba District, Greater Caucasus Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain hikers 🥾, photographers 📸, culture nerds 🧠
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking through surrounding valleys, exploring the ancient village, chatting with locals over tea
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear skies and accessible mountain roads 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ecomama in Xınalıq – A friendly guesthouse just inside the village

Khinalug is one of the highest and oldest mountain villages in the world, and getting there is half the adventure. The drive from Quba takes you up winding roads with nonstop views, so plan extra time to pull over for photos. A 4×4 is helpful, especially after rain.

The village itself is simple but beautiful. Stone houses stack up the hillside, and it feels like you’re stepping into a different world. People here speak a unique language and still follow old traditions. Most locals are friendly and open to conversation if you’re curious and respectful.

It’s best to stay overnight if you want to enjoy the mountains without rushing. There are a few guesthouses with warm meals and strong tea, which hits different when you’re above the clouds. Make sure to pack layers as it gets chilly even in summer.

4. Lahij

• 📍 Location: Ismayilli District, Southern Caucasus Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: Craft lovers 🔨, history fans 🏺, quiet wanderers 🚶‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching copper artisans at work, shopping in traditional workshops, walking the cobbled streets
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for pleasant weather and open workshops 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lahij Guest House – Cozy family-run inn with mountain views and handmade decor

Lahij is a small mountain town known for its copperwork and peaceful setting. It’s the kind of place where people still hammer out pots and pans by hand in open workshops. You can see artisans working right along the main cobbled street, and many of them are happy to chat or show you around.

There aren’t many tourist crowds here, which makes it a great spot if you just want to slow down. Grab some local snacks, wander through the stone alleys, and browse the craft shops for souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced.

Keep in mind that Lahij sits at a higher elevation, so bring a light jacket, especially in the evenings. Also, public transport is limited, so it’s easier if you have a driver or rental car. It’s a quiet but rewarding detour from the usual Azerbaijan itinerary.

5. Besh Barmag

• 📍 Location: Siyazan District, Northeastern Azerbaijan
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, mythology lovers 📚, scenic photographers 📷
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the rocky trails, watching bird migrations, hearing local legends from guides
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for cool hikes and clear views 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Qalaalti Hotel & Spa – Relaxing resort with spa, pools, and dining

Besh Barmag, also called the Five Finger Mountain, is one of those places that feels spiritual the moment you arrive. Its sharp rocky peak stands alone, rising from the landscape like something out of a fantasy novel. The site holds deep religious and cultural significance for locals.

The climb isn’t too technical, but it’s steep enough to get your legs working. On the way up, you’ll find small shrines and spots where people have left offerings. From the top, the views stretch toward the Caspian Sea on one side and rolling hills on the other.

Birdwatchers also come here during migration season. Thousands of birds pass through this area, making it a top spot for spotting rare species. If you want something that’s both scenic and meaningful, this is an easy detour off the main highway.

6. Ganja

• 📍 Location: Western Azerbaijan, near the Kura River
• 🏆 Best For: City explorers 🏙️, literature fans 📖, foodies 🍢
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Nizami Mausoleum, walking down Javad Khan Street, tasting Ganja-style kebabs
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for good weather and local festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ramada Plaza Ganja – Modern hotel with pool, gym, and great access to city landmarks

Ganja doesn’t always make the front page of travel guides, but once you arrive, it completely surprises you. The streets feel clean and calm, the architecture is full of character, and the atmosphere blends tradition with a youthful energy. For a mid-size city, it packs a lot in.

The Nizami Mausoleum honors one of Azerbaijan’s most respected poets, and the surrounding gardens are a peaceful stop. Downtown, Javad Khan Street is where things come alive—lined with fountains, cafés, and people-watching spots. Local markets are full of energy and color, especially around the food stalls.

What really makes Ganja feel special is how it balances old and new. You’ll spot historical landmarks steps away from creative sculptures or murals. Grab a Ganja-style kebab, take a seat by the fountains, and let the city show off a little. This one definitely earns its place on the list.

7. Baku’s Flame Towers

• 📍 Location: Baku, Azerbaijan
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🏙️, night photographers 🌃, modern city travelers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the towers at night, visiting the rooftop bar at Fairmont, walking along Baku Boulevard
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for warm nights and outdoor views 🌇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fairmont Baku Flame Towers – Upscale hotel inside one of the towers with panoramic Caspian views

Baku’s Flame Towers are hard to miss. These three curved skyscrapers light up the city skyline and can be seen from nearly anywhere in town. At night, they glow with animations of fire, the Azerbaijani flag, and flowing lights that change constantly. The effect is hypnotic and makes for amazing photos.

Each tower serves a different purpose. One is a hotel, the others are for apartments and offices. You don’t have to stay inside to enjoy the view, but if you do, the Fairmont has one of the best rooftop spots in the city. It’s a great place for sunset or evening drinks with a view.

The towers are also close to Baku Boulevard, which is perfect for a long walk by the Caspian Sea. Whether you’re into city vibes or just want a cool night scene, the Flame Towers are worth checking out.

8. The Palace of the Shirvanshahs

• 📍 Location: Icherisheher (Old City), Baku
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, cultural travelers 🧳, ancient architecture fans 🧱
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the palace courtyard, visiting the royal tombs, exploring nearby Maiden Tower
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for mild weather and fewer crowds 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Old Street Boutique Hotel – Cozy stay just steps from the palace with local charm and terrace views

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs sits right in the heart of Baku’s Old City, surrounded by fortress walls and winding alleys. Built in the 15th century, this complex includes a mosque, tombs, a bathhouse, and the main palace, all tied together with quiet courtyards and carved stonework.

The site feels surprisingly calm for a capital city. Most of the rooms are open for exploration, and the signage gives helpful context without overwhelming you. It’s easy to walk through in about an hour, but history buffs might want extra time to take it all in.

Pair your visit with a stroll through Icherisheher to see carpet shops, small museums, and the iconic Maiden Tower. The whole area is walkable, and the palace works well as a starting point for exploring the rest of Baku’s historical core. Bring water as there’s not much shade inside the complex.

9. Quba

• 📍 Location: Quba District, Northeastern Azerbaijan
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌳, cultural explorers 🕌, fruit fans 🍎
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through Quba’s main bazaar, visiting the Quba Mosque, exploring apple orchards during harvest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to October for apple season and colorful scenery 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Shahdag Hotel Quba – Comfortable hillside stay near the center with garden views and fresh air

Quba feels like a proper escape from the busy city life. It’s known for apple orchards and mountain views, but there’s also history tucked into its quiet streets. The Quba Mosque and the city’s memorial to Jewish heritage both show how diverse this town has always been.

The central bazaar is worth checking out, especially if you’re into trying local snacks or chatting with vendors. It’s small, but full of color and character. Fall is the best time to visit because that’s when the apple harvest kicks in, and the area smells amazing.

Getting to nearby spots like Khinalug is easiest from Quba, so this town makes a great base for further exploration. It’s a laid-back place where you can slow your pace, eat fresh produce, and catch your breath between mountain adventures.

10. Icheri Sheher

• 📍 Location: Old City, Baku, Azerbaijan
• 🏆 Best For: History walkers 🏰, casual shoppers 👜, local culture fans 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Maiden Tower, browsing artisan shops, visiting local cafés inside the city walls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for spring weather and open-air cafés 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel – Charming guesthouse inside the Old City with warm service and traditional touches

Icheri Sheher, or the Old City of Baku, is a maze of cobbled lanes and sandstone walls that feels like stepping into another era. This is where you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, but also modern touches like small art galleries and cozy cafés.

What makes this area stand out is how walkable and compact it is. You can easily explore it in a few hours, popping into carpet shops or watching craftsmen work. The vibe shifts from quiet mornings to lively afternoons as both locals and tourists fill the streets.

For a better experience, aim to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded and cooler. Staying inside the Old City means you’ll be steps away from most major sites, so it’s a good choice if you want to explore without relying on transport.

• Read next: Best UNESCO Heritage Sites to Visit

11. Absheron National Park

• 📍 Location: Absheron Peninsula, southeast of Baku
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🦌, beach walkers 🏖️, quiet nature trips 🌾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting gazelles and flamingos, hiking along the Caspian coast, catching sunset over the semi-desert
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and active wildlife 🐦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hillmond Hotel Baku – Comfortable city stay with easy access to the park and public transport options

Absheron National Park gives you a peaceful contrast to the buzz of Baku. It’s only about an hour from the city, but once you’re inside, it feels like another world. The open landscapes, dry air, and coastal views offer a different kind of beauty compared to Azerbaijan’s greener regions.

Wildlife is a big reason to visit. If you come early, you’ll likely see gazelles roaming the scrublands or flamingos feeding near the water. The walking trails are easy to follow and don’t require much gear, just bring water and sun protection.

This is not a park with facilities or cafes, so pack your own snacks and make it a half-day trip. It’s best for travelers who enjoy slow, quiet nature time and want to see a side of Azerbaijan that many people skip.

12. Garasu Volcano

• 📍 Location: Gobustan Region, near the Caspian Sea
• 🏆 Best For: Geology fans 🌋, offbeat travelers 🧭, adventurous day trippers 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching mud bubble and erupt, taking drone shots, exploring nearby mud volcano fields
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for dry weather and clear skies ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sun City Hotel & Spa Naftalan – Wellness-focused hotel with oil spa treatments and easy access to the volcano

Garasu Volcano offers one of the weirdest and coolest landscapes in the country. Instead of lava and fire, it erupts cold mud. The ground bubbles, pops, and sometimes shoots thick gray sludge into the air. It’s messy, a little smelly, and completely fascinating.

There’s no ticket booth, entrance sign, or safety railings. It’s basically a raw, open environment. You can walk right up to the edge of the cones and feel the heat from some of the vents. The area is quiet too, so it’s easy to take photos or fly a drone without distractions.

Getting there requires a bit of effort. Most travelers hire a guide or driver from Baku or combine it with a visit to Gobustan National Park. If you’re looking to explore something totally off the usual tourist trail, Garasu will definitely deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Azerbaijan

Looking to better your understanding of the most picturesque locations in Azerbaijan? Below, you’ll find frequently asked questions regarding the finest attractions and activities that Azerbaijan has to offer.

What is the most beautiful place in Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan boasts a myriad of stunning locations, making it tough to pick just one. However, many travelers love the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape for its ancient carvings and mesmerizing mud volcanoes. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often highlighted as one of the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan.

What is Azerbaijan famous for?

Azerbaijan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and its significant position as the Land of Fire. Baku, its capital, seamlessly fuses modernity with ancient history. Notably, the nation is home to some of the world’s oldest oil fields and the Azerbaijan beauty extends from its fiery mud volcanoes to its charming old towns and Caspian Sea coastline.

Is Azerbaijan a good place for tourists?

Yes, Azerbaijan is an increasingly popular destination for tourists and offers a unique blend of ancient history, modern architecture, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. Here are some reasons why Azerbaijan is a good place for tourists:

1. Cultural Blend: Azerbaijan is located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. This has resulted in a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and influences here.
2. Baku: The capital city boasts impressive modern architecture, such as the Flame Towers, alongside the ancient and UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher) with its historic palaces, mosques, and the Maiden Tower.
3. Gobustan National Park: Home to ancient rock carvings that date back to the Stone Age.
4. Mud Volcanoes: Azerbaijan has over half of the world’s mud volcanoes, offering a unique natural spectacle.
5. Naftalan: Known for its therapeutic oil baths. These have been a form of treatment for various ailments for over a thousand years.
6. Cuisine: Azerbaijani food is a delightful mix of flavors. Some popular dishes include plov (rice pilaf), kebabs, and dolma (stuffed vine leaves).
7. Natural Beauty: From the shores of the Caspian Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, the country offers diverse landscapes for nature lovers.
8. Hospitality: Azerbaijani people are known for their warmth and hospitality, often welcoming visitors with open arms.
9. Safety: Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of crime.
10. Affordability: Compared to many Western European destinations, Azerbaijan can offer good value for money.

Where are the prettiest places in Azerbaijan to experience nature?

Beyond its urban centers, Azerbaijan’s lush national parks, vast lakes, and majestic mountain ranges stand out. Places like the Absheron National Park and the Caucasus Mountains offer pristine natural experiences for those eager to immerse themselves in Azerbaijan’s natural beauty.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known Azerbaijan destinations?

Certainly! While major sites get much of the limelight, areas like Lahij, an ancient mountain village known for its coppersmiths, and the quiet beaches near Lankaran offer quieter retreats away from typical tourist routes.

Is Azerbaijan a beautiful country?

Absolutely! Azerbaijan is a country of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a beautiful destination in many ways:

1. Varied Landscapes: From the shores of the Caspian Sea to the soaring peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan offers a range of natural beauty. The country boasts dense forests, vast plains, and even mud volcanoes.
2. Historical Sites: The ancient city of Baku, with its UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher), offers a glimpse into the past with its historic palaces, mosques, and the iconic Maiden Tower. The Gobustan National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to ancient rock carvings that date back to the Stone Age.
3. Modern Architecture: Baku’s skyline brims with modern architectural wonders. This includes the Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Center, and the Baku Crystal Hall, juxtaposing the old with the new.
4. Natural Phenomena: Azerbaijan is home to over half of the world’s mud volcanoes. These bubbling and occasionally erupting mud mounds create a unique and otherworldly landscape.
5. Lush Valleys: Areas like the Khinalug and Lahij are in the mountains and offer picturesque views of valleys, rivers, and traditional villages.
6. Rich Culture: The vibrant culture is reflected in the country’s music, dance, and art. Traditional events, festivals, and the warm hospitality of the Azerbaijani people add to the country’s charm.

Why is it called the ‘Land of Fire’?

Azerbaijan’s moniker, ‘Land of Fire’, hails from its Zoroastrian history. The natural gas-fueled flames that can be witnessed in places like the Yanar Dag. It continuously burns due to natural gas emissions from beneath.

Which are the most beautiful cities in Azerbaijan worth exploring?

While Baku is the most well-known, cities like Ganja, with its mix of old and modern architecture, and Sheki, known for its palaces and rich history, are must-visit destinations for anyone keen on discovering the diverse urban landscapes of Azerbaijan.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Azerbaijan

In the vast tapestry of global destinations, Azerbaijan shines as a unique gem, where ancient landscapes whisper tales of millennia, and modernity dances gracefully with tradition. Its moniker, the ‘Land of Fire,’ aptly encapsulates its fiery spirit and the warmth of its people. From the ethereal beauty of Gobustan’s rock art to the bustling vibrancy of Baku, there’s an indomitable spirit that flows through this nation.

Every corner, every city, and every stunning location in Azerbaijan promises an adventure, a story, and a memory. A journey through this captivating land isn’t just about the places you visit; it’s about the stories you gather, the flavors you savor, and the friendships you forge. With so many beautiful places in Azerbaijan waiting to be explored, the country beckons travelers with open arms, offering an experience that lingers in the heart long after the journey concludes.