Once a golden gateway from Europe to the Orient, Azerbaijan boasts a rich merchant history and a medieval city that still stands tall.
Centuries have passed since Azerbaijan was a transit point along the infamous merchant’s silk road, but the historic centre still remains. The Old City of Baku dates back to the 12th century and sits conspicuously within the modern-day cosmopolitan. Hidden sites among the Caucasus Mountains reveal an area of flowing forest and alien volcanoes. With its Muslim heritage and Soviet past, Azerbaijan comes to life as a truly foreign place.
Azerbaijan travel highlights
Witness an ancient city in Baku
History lovers have a feast at this old quarter of Baku. It includes the faded stone Shemakha Gate, the dome-styled Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the engrossing narrative of the Maiden tower.
Tour the Absheron Peninsula
Discover a Persian temple devoted to fire worship and a ‘burning mountain’ known as Yanar Dag.
Journey towards the Caucasus Mountains
Travel through an incredible landscape of arid plains and lush vegetation. Along the way you’ll find a bizarre mud volcano and many more religious and cultural sites.
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Articles on Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan holiday information
Azerbaijan facts
Local culture of Azerbaijan
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan festival calendar
Food & drink in Azerbaijan
Further reading
Azerbaijan travel FAQs
The following countries need a visa to travel in Azerbaijan:
- Australia: Yes- in advance
- Belgium: Yes- in advance
- Canada: Yes- in advance
- Germany: Yes- in advance
- Ireland: Yes- in advance
- Netherlands: Yes- in advance
- New Zealand: Yes- in advance
- South Africa: Yes- in advance
- Switzerland: Yes- in advance
- United Kingdom: Yes- in advance
- United States: Yes- in advance
Most countries require visas to visit Azerbaijan except for a few former Soviet Union members like Russia. To obtain a visa for Azerbaijan, you’ll require an invitation letter from a travel agency or a contact in the country. Costs vary depending on the country, and visa can’t be obtained at the border or airport.
Tipping is expected at most restaurants and should be 5-10% of the bill. For other services like porters and taxis, give an extra 5-10 manats depending on the weight of the bag or the length of the journey.
Tipping is expected at most restaurants and should be 5-10% of the bill. For other services like porters and taxis, give an extra 5-10 manats depending on the weight of the bag or the length of the journey.
Mobile service is available in most urban centres and towns, but coverage may be patchy outside of these areas. Be sure to activate global roaming if you wish to use your phone in Azerbaijan.
Western flush toilets are common in Baku, but outside of the city you’ll find only squat and pit toilets. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always available so be sure to carry some with you.
- 1.5 litre bottle of water = .60 AZN
- Bottle of local beer = 2.5 AZN
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant = 8 AZN
- Meal at a mid-range restaurant = 40 AZN
It is not advised to drink tap water anywhere in Azerbaijan. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
It is not advised to drink tap water anywhere in Azerbaijan. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
Azerbaijan is a cash economy and few locations accept credit cards. Arrange to carry cash with you safely using concealed pockets or pouches.
ATMs are abundant in the capital but they may not be internationally connected. The few ATMs that do exist in these rural areas an small towns may be empty of cash or not working properly. Prepare to arrange alternative payment methods in Azerbaijan.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Azerbaijan/public-holidays