9 day itinerary for Azerbaijan

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Baku

Welcome to Azerbaijan! On your first day, explore the vibrant capital city of Baku. Start by visiting the UNESCO-listed Old City, known as Icherisheher. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit landmarks like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. In the evening, head to the Baku Boulevard, a beautiful promenade along the Caspian Sea, and enjoy the stunning views.

Day 2: Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

Today, take a day trip to Gobustan National Park, located just outside of Baku. Explore the ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. Afterward, visit the nearby mud volcanoes, a unique natural phenomenon. You can even take a mud bath if you're feeling adventurous!

Day 3: Absheron Peninsula

Embark on a journey to the Absheron Peninsula, known for its historical and natural attractions. Start by visiting the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a fascinating Hindu temple that was once a place of worship for Zoroastrians. Then, head to Yanar Dag, the "Burning Mountain," where natural gas has been burning continuously for centuries. End the day with a relaxing visit to the Mardakan Castle, a medieval fortress with panoramic views.

Day 4: Sheki

Today, take a scenic drive to the charming town of Sheki, located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. Explore the Sheki Khan's Palace, a stunning example of medieval Islamic architecture, and visit the Sheki Caravanserai, an ancient inn that once served as a stopover for Silk Road traders. Don't forget to try the local specialty, Sheki halva!

Day 5: Lahij and Gabala

Embark on a day trip to the picturesque village of Lahij, known for its traditional crafts and cobblestone streets. Explore the workshops of local artisans and learn about their traditional metalwork and carpet weaving techniques. Afterward, continue to Gabala, a resort town surrounded by beautiful mountains. Visit the Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex and enjoy activities like skiing, zip-lining, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Day 6: Quba and Qusar

Head to the northeastern part of Azerbaijan and visit the town of Quba. Explore the historic Quba Khanate Fortress and the Juma Mosque, known for its beautiful architecture. Then, continue to Qusar, a mountainous region known for its stunning landscapes. Take a hike in the nearby forests or visit the picturesque Laza village.

Day 7: Shamakhi and Ismayilli

Today, visit the historical city of Shamakhi, once the capital of the Shirvanshahs. Explore the Juma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Azerbaijan, and the Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum, a complex of seven tombs. Afterward, continue to Ismayilli, a region known for its natural beauty. Visit the Lahij Waterfall and enjoy a picnic in the scenic countryside.

Day 8: Guba and Khinaliq

Embark on a day trip to Guba, a city surrounded by the stunning Greater Caucasus Mountains. Visit the Guba Genocide Memorial Complex, dedicated to the victims of the Armenian massacres in 1918. Then, continue to the remote village of Khinaliq, located at an altitude of 2,350 meters. Explore the traditional stone houses and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains.

Day 9: Return to Baku and Departure

On your last day, return to Baku and spend some time exploring any attractions you may have missed during your first visit. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a modern architectural masterpiece, or explore the vibrant shopping and dining scene in the city. In the evening, bid farewell to Azerbaijan and depart for your next adventure.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can always customize it based on your preferences and interests. Enjoy your solo trip to Azerbaijan!