AZERBAIJAN — Detailed travel guide
Key practical notes
- E-visa (ASAN e-visa) is the standard route for most nationalities; apply at least 3 working days in advance. evisa.gov.az
- Typical transfer: Baku → Gobustan ≈ 1–1.5 hrs (64 km) by car/bus.
Morning: Arrive Heydar Aliyev Intl Airport → taxi/transfer to hotel (30–45 min). Check-in.
12:00–15:00: Light lunch, then Icherisheher (Old City) — Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah’s Palace. (Allow 2–3 hrs).
15:30–17:00: Walk Baku Boulevard (Caspian Sea promenade), visit Carpet Museum.
Evening: Dinner in Nizami / Fountain Square. Night stroll to see Flame Towers lit up.
Transport: Taxi or rideshare (affordable).
Tip: Carry local cash for small shops; many places accept cards.
07:30: Breakfast → join a half-day guided tour or private car to Gobustan (petroglyphs) — 1–1.5 hrs.
11:30: Continue to nearby mud volcanoes (short drive).
14:00: Return toward Baku; stop at Ateshgah (Fire Temple) and Yanardag (Burning Mountain) at sunset if time permits.
Evening: Return to Baku (~19:00).
Costs: Shared tour ~ $30–60; private car more.
Tip: Mud volcano sites are dusty — bring a hat and sunscreen.
09:00–12:00: Visit Heydar Aliyev Center (architectural highlight).
13:00: Lunch, then visit Baku Museum of Miniature Books or Modern Art.
16:00: Shopping at Nizami Street; tea at a local teahouse.
Evening: Optional Caspian Sea sunset boat ride or cultural show.
Option A — Gabala: Drive 3.5–4 hrs one-way; cable car at Tufandag, Nohur Lake stop.
Option B — Shahdag: Mountain activities (winter: skiing; summer: zipline/ATV). Many tours include hotel pick-up early (07:00).
Return: Late evening.
Tip: If you prefer less travel, book an overnight in Gabala.
Morning: Final stroll, local market for souvenirs.
Afternoon: Transfer to airport.
Practical: Allow 3 hrs before international flights for check-in & immigration.