Azerbaijan Travel Guide

Last Updated on 12 December 2025 by Johan

Azerbaijan lies in the South Caucasus, where Europe meets Asia. It borders Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west, and Iran to the south. To the east, the country opens onto the Caspian Sea. Its geography ranges from the Greater Caucasus Mountains to fertile plains and semi‑desert landscapes, making it a land of contrasts.

Explanation of the name: Azerbaijan

The name Azerbaijan is linked to Atropates, a Persian satrap whose land was called Atropatene in antiquity. Over centuries the name evolved into Azerbaijan, meaning “Land of the Eternal Fire.” This refers to the natural gas flames that burn on the Absheron Peninsula. The symbolism gave rise to the modern nickname “Land of Fire,” which remains central to the country’s identity. In Azerbaijani the nation is called Azərbaycan, reflecting both Persian roots and Turkic linguistic heritage.

History: Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has one of the oldest continuous histories in the Caucasus. Archaeological finds in the Azykh and Taghlar caves show human presence dating back 300,000–400,000 years. The discovery of the lower jaw of “Azykhantrop” confirms that the region was part of early human settlement. By the late 4th millennium BC, tribal communities had already formed the first political units in the territory. During antiquity, Azerbaijan was part of the Median and later the Achaemenid empires, which introduced administrative systems and Zoroastrian traditions. After Alexander the Great’s conquest, the land came under the Seleucid Empire, followed by the Parthians and Sassanids. Christianity spread during the Sassanid period, and by the 4th century the kingdom of Caucasian Albania had adopted the faith.

In the 7th century, Arab armies conquered the region, bringing Islam, which gradually replaced Christianity as the dominant religion. Turkic tribes migrated into the area during the 11th century, and Azerbaijan became part of the Seljuk Empire. Later, the territory was contested between the Mongols, Persians, and Ottomans. Despite foreign rule, Azerbaijani culture developed through literature, music, and architecture. In the 16th century, the Safavid dynasty established Shi’a Islam as the state religion, a legacy that remains central today. By the 18th century, several khanates emerged, including Baku, Sheki, and Ganja, each with semi‑independent rulers. These khanates were gradually absorbed into the Russian Empire in the early 19th century after wars with Persia.

The 20th century brought dramatic change. In 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was declared, becoming the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world. It introduced universal suffrage, including voting rights for women, ahead of many European nations. However, the republic lasted only two years before Soviet forces occupied the territory in 1920. Azerbaijan became part of the USSR, where industrialisation transformed Baku into a major oil centre. During Soviet rule, cultural expression was restricted, yet Azerbaijani literature and music continued to flourish. In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan regained independence. Since then, it has developed as a republic with 66 districts and Baku as its capital. The country has faced challenges, including the Nagorno‑Karabakh conflict, but continues to balance its ancient traditions with modern development.

Tourist information: Azerbaijan

Baku blends modern architecture with historic sites. The Old City, or Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Narrow streets, caravanserais, and mosques reveal centuries of history. The district is the oldest part of Baku and remains a living neighbourhood. The Heydar Aliyev Centre, designed by Zaha Hadid, is a striking example of contemporary architecture. Its flowing curves symbolise modern Azerbaijan. Inside are exhibitions on culture, history, and science. Baku Boulevard stretches along the Caspian Sea. It offers promenades, cafes, and cultural venues. The Carpet Museum, shaped like a rolled carpet, is located here.

Gobustan National Park lies southwest of Baku. It is famous for ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes. Over 6,000 petroglyphs depict hunting scenes, dances, and rituals. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage area and offers insight into prehistoric life. On the Absheron Peninsula, Ateshgah Fire Temple was once used by Zoroastrians. The eternal flames were fed by natural gas vents. Today the site is a museum with inscriptions in Persian and Sanskrit. Yanar Dag, known as the “Burning Mountain,” is a hillside where flames blaze continuously due to underground gas. Unlike Ateshgah, this fire is natural and has burned for centuries. It is best viewed at night when the flames glow against the dark sky.

Sheki lies in the north and is known for its Khan’s Palace. Built in 1762, the palace is famous for shebeke stained glass windows assembled without glue or nails. Frescoes inside depict hunting and floral motifs. The palace is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture. In Ganja, the Nizami Mausoleum honours the 12th‑century poet Nizami Ganjavi. The cylindrical monument is surrounded by gardens. It is a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts and a symbol of Ganja’s cultural heritage. In Nakhchivan, the Momine Khatun Mausoleum was built in the 12th century by architect Ajami Nakhchivani. Its intricate brickwork and Kufic inscriptions make it one of the finest examples of medieval Islamic architecture in Azerbaijan. Nearby, Ashabi‑Kahf Cave is linked to Islamic legend about the Seven Sleepers. Pilgrims visit the site, which is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The cave offers panoramic views and spiritual significance.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy Baku Zoo and the city’s amusement parks. The Miniature Book Museum fascinates children with tiny volumes. In Gabala, the Tufandag Mountain Resort offers skiing and cable cars. At Lake Goygol children can explore nature trails and picnic areas. Winter resorts such as Shahdag provide ski lessons for beginners.

Culinary destinations

Azerbaijani cuisine reflects Turkic, Persian, and Mediterranean influences. Plov, or pilaf, is the national dish with saffron rice and meat. Dolma, vine leaves stuffed with lamb and rice, is widely served. Kebabs such as lyulya kebab are popular. Piti, a lamb stew cooked in clay pots, is a speciality of Sheki. Dovga, a yoghurt soup with herbs, is refreshing in summer. Sweets include pakhlava and shekerbura. Pomegranates, apricots, and saffron are key local products. Wine regions such as Gabala and Ganja produce varieties like Madrasa and Bayan Shira.

Cycling and walking routes

The Laza to Kuzun trail in Gusar passes waterfalls and alpine scenery. The Qalayxudat to Qrız route follows shepherd paths above the Qudyalçay Canyon. Road cycling routes around Baku include loops from Bibi Heybat Mosque. Bikemap lists over 1,800 cycling routes across the country. Outdooractive highlights panoramic hikes in Quba and Lerik. The Shahdag Mountain Resort provides marked trails and winter sports.

Seasonal activities and events

Azerbaijan hosts many festivals and exhibitions in 2026. The Baku Energy Forum will take place in June. Caspian Agro and InterFood exhibitions are scheduled for May. Concerts by Etibar Asadli and Göksel are planned in Baku. The Janoska Ensemble will perform in Qabala in February. National holidays include Novruz in March, Victory Day on 8 November, Independence Day on 28 May, and Restoration of Independence Day on 18 October.

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