7 Days Azerbaijan Travel Itinerary With Must-See Stops

Azerbaijan offers a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant culture with breathtaking landscapes, making it the perfect destination for a 7 days Azerbaijan travel itinerary. This itinerary zeroes in on the must-see spots—from the buzzing energy of Baku the lively capital to the tranquil charm of mountain villages.

Getting Ready for Your 7 Days in Azerbaijan Travel Itinerary: A Handy Little Guide

Before you set off for Azerbaijan, double-check that your visa is good to go if you happen to need one. The sweet spot for visiting tends to be between April and June or from September to October, when the weather usually plays nice and feels pretty comfortable. The local currency is the Azerbaijani manat, so it’s handy to have some on you. Picking up a few basic Azerbaijani or Russian phrases can really smooth things over, and it’s always a good call to be respectful of local customs. When you’re piecing together your travel plans, think about your options—taxis and domestic flights are both worth considering. Pack clothes you can layer because the weather likes to keep you on your toes.

1. Keep an eye on Azerbaijan's weather and plan your trip for spring or autumn as those seasons usually offer the most pleasant conditions.
2. Book your international flights to Baku well in advance to get better deals and avoid last-minute scheduling problems.
3. Secure your accommodations in popular spots like Baku and Sheki so you have a comfortable place to stay after a day of exploring.
4. Figure out your local transport options whether it is renting a car or taking intercity buses to move between destinations easily.
5. Pack smart by bringing layers. Think warm gear for mountain adventures and lighter clothes for walking around the city.
6. Get a local SIM card after you arrive or order one ahead of time. It is the easiest way to stay connected without frustration.
7. Learn a few Azerbaijani or Russian phrases. A little effort can go a long way in opening doors and creating genuine connections.

Day 1 Discover Baku The Lively Capital That Never Misses a Beat

Kick off your adventure in Baku, where history meets sleek modern architecture in a charming way. Spend your first day wandering through the Old City, known locally as Icherisheher. Soak in the sight of the gleaming Flame Towers that light up the skyline and enjoy a leisurely stroll along Baku Boulevard by the tranquil Caspian Sea. Your taste buds will thank you when you dive into traditional Azerbaijani dishes at cozy welcoming cafes. As the sun sets, Baku's nightlife blossoms with vibrant energy.

• Explore the famous Maiden Tower, an ancient fortress that gifts you with sweeping views of the city—truly a spot where history meets the skyline.
• Tour the Palace of the Shirvanshahs to admire a stunning example of medieval Azerbaijani architecture that somehow feels both grand and intimate.
• Head over to the Flame Towers viewpoint for impressive city vistas, especially when the sun dips low and paints the sky—a sight that never gets old.
• Stroll around Fountain Square to soak up the local vibe and catch some lively street performances that add a dash of charm to your day.
• Grab a bite at neighborhood cafes where traditional dishes like plov and kebabs serve up authentic flavors that might just make you consider a second helping.

The iconic Flame Towers dominate Baku's skyline alongside the serene Caspian Sea waterfront

Day 2 Diving into Gobustan National Park and the Quirky Mud Volcanoes

On your second day set out about 65 km southwest of Baku to Gobustan National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient petroglyphs dating back roughly 40,000 years. While you are there, don’t miss the nearby mud volcanoes — a quirky and rare geological marvel you won’t find in just any backyard.

• Explore the vast petroglyph sites that vividly bring early human life and rituals to the forefront, almost like stepping back in time.
• Witness the bubbling mud volcanoes, a quirky and rare natural wonder that you will mostly only find in this neck of the woods.
• Take in the sweeping, jaw-dropping views of the nearby semi-desert mountains alongside the shimmering Caspian Sea—it's a sight that sticks with you.
• Swing by the Gobustan visitor center, where hands-on exhibits and fascinating archaeological insights make history feel surprisingly alive.

Day 3 and 4 Sheki Diving into History, Culture, and Timeless Architecture

Head northwest to Sheki, a charming little town nestled in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. It’s famous for its breathtaking historic buildings and rich cultural heritage that feels alive around every corner. Take a couple of days to soak in the atmosphere at Sheki Khan’s Palace. Wander through bustling bazaars and peek into artisan workshops where local silk is still spun and woven by hand. It’s a real treat to see craftsmanship up close.

• Take a leisurely stroll through the Sheki Khan’s Palace and marvel at its stunning stained-glass windows and detailed frescoes that tell a story.
• Stop by the ancient Caravanserai, a key pit stop along the legendary Silk Road where travelers once found rest and refuge.
• Pop into local silk workshops to see artisans practicing age-old fabric-making techniques—there’s something special about witnessing tradition come to life.
• Wander around the ruins of the Albanian Church, which whisper tales of the region's rich religious heritage.
• Taste Sheki’s famous pakhlava, a dessert so beloved it’s practically a local celebrity best enjoyed at neighborhood spots.

Day 5 Lahij Village Genuine Mountain Experience Like No Other

On day five make your way to Lahij, a charming mountain village tucked away in the Ismailli region. Known for its cobbled streets and time-honored copper craftsmanship, Lahij offers a heartfelt glimpse into traditional Azerbaijani rural life. Wander through the bustling workshops, explore scenic hiking trails and indulge in some delicious mountain dishes.

• Step back in time and explore centuries-old copper workshops where skilled artisans still craft metal by hand and weave tradition into every piece.
• Lace up your boots and join guided hikes along nearby mountain trails that reward you with jaw-dropping views.
• Meander through bustling local markets full of handmade souvenirs and traditional treasures that tell their own stories.
• Savor authentic mountain dishes like gutabs paired with freshly brewed herb teas, all served with warm hospitality at cozy family-run restaurants.

Day 6 Ganja Azerbaijan's Second Largest City Where History Meets Heart

On day six, dive into the historic charm of Ganja, a city bursting with rich cultural landmarks and buzzing public spaces. Don’t miss the Nizami Mausoleum, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Persian poet or the quirky Bottle House that truly lets creativity run wild. When you need a breather, the city’s wide leafy parks offer the perfect spot to kick back and soak it all in.

• Pay a thoughtful visit to the ornate mausoleum of the poet Nizami Ganjavi, a spot that invites quiet reflection.
• Marvel at the creatively designed Bottle House built from thousands of glass bottles. It is a feast for the eyes and a neat reminder of inventive spirit.
• Dive into history at Ganja Fortress, a site that shows the city’s once pivotal strategic role.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the bustling local markets alive with fresh produce and handmade crafts. Every corner tells a little story.

Day 7 Wrapping Up the Adventure and Savoring Those Last Glimpses of Baku

Wrap up your weeklong journey back in Baku leaving day seven wide open for anything you might have missed along the way. Use this extra time to sneak in some last-minute shopping at the bustling bazaars, catch the mesmerizing natural gas fire flickering at Yanar Dag.

• Discover Taza Bazaar, a lively spot where you can pick up fresh local produce and aromatic spices as well as charming traditional keepsakes that tell a story.
• Swing by Yanar Dag, also known as Burning Mountain, to witness natural flames that never seem to quit. It is a fiery spectacle you will not forget.
• Unwind with a leisurely evening stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade while soaking in the shimmering city lights and the gentle sea breeze. It’s the kind of moment that recharges your soul.

Relaxing final evening along the scenic Caspian Sea promenade in Baku

Handy Tips for Traveling Around Azerbaijan

When planning your 7 days Azerbaijan travel itinerary, it’s a good idea to play it safe by respecting local customs like dressing modestly when heading to religious sites. Tipping isn’t set in stone but is definitely appreciated—around 10% in restaurants usually does the trick. Public transport including metros and buses is surprisingly affordable and reliable in the main cities so you can get around without much hassle. It’s smart to keep local emergency numbers handy just in case life throws a curveball.

• Dress modestly when visiting mosques and religious sites to show respect. It goes a long way and keeps you in good stead.
• It’s common to leave a tip of about 10% at restaurants to show you appreciate good service. A little gratitude never hurts.
• Take full advantage of Baku’s metro system for quick and budget-friendly travel around the city because it can save you time and headaches.
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy including local police and your embassy just in case. You never know when you might need them.
• Use basic Azerbaijani greetings like Salam (Hello) to break the ice and connect with locals. A friendly word often opens more doors than you’d think.