Azerbaijan 4 Day Itinerary

Azerbaijan 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Baku City Tour

Morning

  • Start the day at Maiden Tower (Giz Galasi), a historic fortress with stunning views of the city.
  • Visit the nearby Shirvanshah’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the Shirvanshahs.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Old City (İçəri Şər), a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings, including the Juma Mosque.
  • Wander through the bustling Baku Boulevard, a waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine at one of the many local restaurants in the Old City.
  • Take a stroll along the boulevard to see the city lights up at night.

Day 2: Baku’s Modern Side

Morning

  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid, featuring exhibitions and cultural events.
  • Stop by the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing works by local and international artists.

Afternoon

  • Explore the upscale Port Baku Mall, with its luxurious shops and restaurants.
  • Relax at one of Baku’s many parks, such as Philharmonic Garden or Winter Park.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a modern restaurant in the city center.
  • Take a night tour to see the city’s impressive light installations.

Day 3: Gobustan and Absheron Peninsula

Morning

  • Visit Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and stunning landscapes. ( approx. 1-hour drive from Baku)
  • Explore the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a historic mosque with beautiful architecture.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Absheron Peninsula, known for its picturesque beaches and scenic views.
  • Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum in Mardakan, showcasing traditional Azerbaijani carpets and crafts.

Evening

  • Return to Baku and enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the boulevard or explore the city’s nightlife.

Day 4: Gabala and Wine Tasting

Morning

  • Drive to Gabala (approx. 3-hour drive from Baku), a historic town nestled in the Greater Caucasus Mountains.
  • Visit the Gabala Archaeological Center, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations.

Afternoon

  • Explore the scenic Gabala Valley, with its picturesque villages and stunning mountain vistas.
  • Visit a local winery, such as Gabalinski Winery, for wine tasting and tour.

Evening

  • Return to Baku in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival. Check with the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: Taxi apps (e.g., Bolt, Uber) are widely available in Baku. For longer trips, consider hiring a private car and driver or using public transportation.
  • Currency: The Azerbaijani manat (AZN) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Language: Azerbaijani (Turkic language) is the official language, but many locals speak Russian, English, and other languages.
  • Culture: Azerbaijan is a secular country with a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Additional Tips

  • Try traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, such as plov, kebabs, and dolma.
  • Haggling is common in local markets and bazaars.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including heat and rain.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or rural areas.

Enjoy your trip to Azerbaijan!