Baku, the Capital
Start in Baku, a fast-changing city on the Caspian Sea that blends old and new like nowhere else. At its heart is the walled old city, Icherisheher (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), home to the enigmatic Maiden Tower and the elegant Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Around it rise modern icons: the swooping, Zaha Hadid-designed Heydar Aliyev Center, the three Flame Towers on the skyline, and the breezy Seaside Boulevard along the bay.
Fire and Ancient Rock
The country’s fiery reputation is easy to see for yourself. On the Absheron Peninsula near Baku, the Ateshgah “Fire Temple” and the ever-burning hillside of Yanar Dag are the classic sights. Nearby, the Gobustan reserve preserves thousands of prehistoric rock carvings alongside its strange bubbling mud volcanoes.
Beyond the Capital
The rest of the country rewards those who venture out. The old silk-road town of Sheki, with its dazzling Khan’s Palace, sits in green foothills; Ganja is the historic second city; and the highland villages of Guba, Lahij and the far north offer mountain scenery, carpets and mineral springs.
FAQ
What is Azerbaijan known for?
Its “Land of Fire” nickname, the fast-modernising capital Baku, its old walled cities and rock art, and its warm hospitality and rich carpet-weaving tradition.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal; Baku summers are hot and the mountains are best in the warmer months.
What is the main airport?
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku is the country’s main gateway.