A country of contrasts, where tradition intertwines with the modern and where the urban meets the rural. Azerbaijan is one of the most fascinating countries on earth, and there are several excellent reasons for this. The former Soviet republic has recently experienced a sudden boom, which is reflected in the high-tech capital of Baku, but on the other hand, due to its primitiveness and undiscovered nature, it is still closely connected to uninhabited nature.
Azerbaijan earned the name "Land of Fire", mainly due to unusual natural phenomena. From the mud volcanoes that can be admired near Gobustno to the fire mountain, the hill of eternal fire Yanardag. The incredible peaks of the Caucasus Mountains and numerous national parks that offer excellent opportunities for hiking add to this. It is also extremely interesting to wander around the capital, Baku, which, with the help of oil money, is more modern than many European cities. This is the exact opposite of the rural countryside that makes up most of the country. But it is worth discovering both sides of Azerbaijan.
When to Azerbaijan?
The best season to visit Azerbaijan is between April and June and September and October. This will help you avoid summer heat and cold winters. Entering the Persian New Year (Novruz Bayrami), which you can take part in every March, is a very special experience.
Photo: Unsplash/Murad RzaWhat should I see in Azerbaijan?
To begin with, take a few days to explore Baku, especially the old city, which in itself is quite different from the modern skyscrapers that rise into the sky. Stroll along the boulevard along the shores of the Caspian Sea and discover Baku's Parisian-style alleys, along with its many parks and squares.
In contrast to the metropolitan center are the Soviet blocks that border the city and bear witness to the history of the country under the supremacy of the Soviet Union. In order to get to know the amazing nature of Azerbaijan better, it is not necessary to go far from the city. You can only drive to the Absheron Peninsula, where you will be in the national park Gobustan you can admire the mud volcanoes, but when you visit in the evening Yanar Dag. There, with the help of natural gas, a fire is lit every evening, which is a fascinating natural phenomenon.
Photo: Unsplash/Rafa MekhralievTraces of the former Silk Road that wound through Azerbaijan can be found all over the country. From copper mines to roadside rest stops called caravanserai. In Sheki, you can admire the summer palace under UNESCO protection, with miniature paintings and beautifully glazed windows. Sheki Khan's Palace was built way back in 1797 and was once the residence of the khans, and not far away is the Winter Palace. Lovers of local crafts will be impressed by carpet makers in Guba, and hikers will find a series of hiking trails with fantastic views. Due to the more pleasant temperatures in this part of the country, hiking is one of the main attractions of Guba.
Many travelers visit the Tenghi Canyon, but you can also stop in Krasnaya Svoboda, the only Jewish town outside of Israel inhabited by "mountain Jews". You can decide for independent hiking adventures or you can choose one of the agencies qualified for this. After discovering the exciting nature and cities, take some time to lie on the beaches in the area Absheron. This part is popular with Baku residents who have set up a weekend retreat here to escape the summer heat of the city. The most popular beaches along the Caspian Sea are Mardakan and Buzovna.
Photo: Unsplash/Iltun HuseynliHow to explore Azerbaijan?
If you are traveling on a budget, you should rely on public transport. Buses and minibuses connect all major cities according to a given schedule, and smaller buses called marshrutky travel when a sufficient number of passengers have gathered. You can buy train tickets up to ten days before departure, and you can also choose between sleeping compartments. Maximum access to natural gems and remote villages is provided by a car that you can easily rent in Baku. You can also discover the country by bicycle, the most popular route being Tbilisi-Baku.
How much is a plane ticket to Azerbaijan?
Lufthansa takes you to the beautiful country in Transcaucasia right from Brnik. For a plane ticket, you will pay anything from 165 euros, while in the spring the prices are around 200 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Orkhan FarmanliCovid-19 restrictions in Azerbaijan
Passengers must present a certificate of vaccination or illness upon arrival. Also, everyone must present a certificate of a negative PCR test result, which must not be older than 72 hours before entering the country. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Azerbaijan
Art Club
A short walk away from the Shirvanshahs Palace is the Art Club hotel, which offers allergy-friendly rooms and a large common area for socializing. All elegantly furnished rooms boast air conditioning, as well as bathrobes and slippers. A buffet or continental breakfast is served every morning.
Centric Baku Boutique Hotel
A boutique hotel is located just a stone's throw away from Trg vodnjakov, which offers modernly furnished rooms with a beautiful view of the city. Some are also equipped with a balcony, and all boast a TV and amenities for a more comfortable stay, such as a bathrobe. You start your morning at the hotel with a continental breakfast.
