10 BEST Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. From the cosmopolitan city of Baku to the remote mountain villages of Khinaliq and Lahij, Azerbaijan offers a diverse range of attractions for tourists. 

Visitors can explore ancient fortresses, admire beautiful architecture, hike through scenic mountains, and discover some of the world's oldest rock art. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 must-visit destinations in Azerbaijan that showcase the country's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

1. Old City of Baku

The Old City of Baku, also known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the world, with a history dating back to the 7th century.

Highlights of the Old City

• The iconic Maiden Tower, which dates back to the 12th century and is shrouded in mystery and legend.
• The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a magnificent complex of royal buildings and courtyards that served as the seat of the Shirvanshah dynasty in the 15th century.
• The Juma Mosque, a 12th-century mosque with a stunning interior adorned with intricate brickwork and mosaics.

Exploring the Old City

Visitors can wander the narrow streets and alleyways of the Old City, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the historic architecture. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops selling traditional Azerbaijani handicrafts and souvenirs.

Overall, the Old City of Baku is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.

2. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre is a modern architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan. Designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, it is one of the most impressive cultural centers in the world.

Features of the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre

• The building's striking white curves and undulating rooflines make it an instantly recognizable landmark in Baku's skyline.
• The interior of the center is just as impressive, with sweeping spaces and dramatic lighting that create a sense of drama and excitement.
• The center hosts a wide range of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and performances.

Exploring the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre

Visitors can explore the center's many exhibition spaces, which showcase a range of art, design, and cultural artifacts. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants on site, as well as a gift shop selling a range of souvenirs and books.

Overall, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary architecture and culture.

3. Flame Towers in Baku

The Flame Towers are a trio of skyscrapers located in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. They are a modern architectural marvel and a symbol of the city's rapid development and progress.

Highlights of the Flame Towers

• The towers are clad in LED screens that display a mesmerizing light show every evening, earning them the nickname "Flaming Towers".
• The tallest tower, standing at 190 meters, houses a luxury hotel, while the other two towers are residential and office spaces.
• The towers offer stunning views of the city, especially at night when they are illuminated with fiery colors.

Exploring the Flame Towers

Visitors can admire the towers from various viewpoints around the city, but the best experience is to stay at the hotel or visit one of the restaurants or bars located inside the towers. The Flame Towers are also visible from many points in the city, creating a dramatic skyline that is unique to Baku.

Overall, the Flame Towers are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Baku, and a testament to the city's modernity and innovation.

4. Maiden Tower in Baku

The Maiden Tower is an iconic landmark located in the Old City of Baku, Azerbaijan. Here are some key facts about this fascinating tower:

• The Maiden Tower dates back to the 12th century and stands at a height of 29 meters.
• The tower is shrouded in legend and mystery, with many tales surrounding its purpose and construction.
• Visitors can climb to the top of the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of the Old City and the Caspian Sea.
• Inside the tower, there is a museum with exhibits on the history and culture of Baku.

Overall, the Maiden Tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and architecture.

5. Fountain Square in Baku

Fountain Square is a lively public plaza located in the heart of Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is one of the most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Highlights of Fountain Square

• The numerous fountains, which are lit up at night and provide a beautiful backdrop for photos.
• The abundance of street performers and musicians, who add to the festive atmosphere.
• The surrounding architecture, which includes a mix of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers.

Exploring Fountain Square

Visitors can stroll around the plaza, take a seat on one of the benches, and people-watch while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques to souvenir stalls.

Overall, Fountain Square is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity in Baku, and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city's energy and excitement.

6. Highland Park in Baku

Highland Park, also known as Dənizkənarı Milli Parkı, is a popular public park located on a hill overlooking the Caspian Sea in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Highlights of Highland Park

• Stunning panoramic views of Baku's skyline and the Caspian Sea.
• A variety of walking paths, green spaces, and picnic areas.
• The Azerbaijan Flag Square, home to one of the world's largest flags.
• A funicular railway that takes visitors up and down the hillside.

Exploring Highland Park

Visitors can spend hours exploring the park's many attractions, from taking in the views to enjoying a picnic with friends and family. The park is particularly popular in the evening when the city's skyline is illuminated.

Overall, Highland Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors and take in some of the best views that Baku has to offer.

7. Gobustan Rock Art in Azerbaijan

The Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Azerbaijan. This site consists of more than 6,000 rock engravings, or petroglyphs, that date back to the Neolithic period.

Highlights of Gobustan Rock Art

• The rock engravings depict a wide variety of scenes, including hunting, dancing, and religious rituals.
• Some of the engravings are over 12,000 years old, making them some of the oldest examples of rock art in the world.
• The Gobustan Museum houses many artifacts and exhibits related to the site's history and cultural significance.

Exploring Gobustan Rock Art

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site to learn about its history and significance. The area surrounding the rock art is also home to unique flora and fauna, including mud volcanoes and endemic plant species.

Overall, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history and culture of Azerbaijan.

8. Martyrs' Lane in Baku

Martyrs' Lane, also known as Shehidler Khiyabani, is a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Soviet crackdown in Azerbaijan in 1990 and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Highlights of Martyrs' Lane

• The memorial's central monument, which features an eternal flame and a list of the names of those who lost their lives in the conflict.
• The picturesque views of Baku Bay and the city skyline from the hilltop location of the memorial.
• The numerous gravestones and tombs of those who gave their lives for their country, many of which are adorned with flowers and other offerings.

Exploring Martyrs' Lane

Visitors can pay their respects to the fallen by walking along the rows of graves and taking in the solemn atmosphere of the memorial. There are also several small museums and exhibitions located nearby that offer further insight into the history and significance of the site.

Overall, Martyrs' Lane is a powerful and moving tribute to those who sacrificed everything for their country and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Azerbaijani history and culture.

9. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum in Baku

The Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum is located in the heart of Baku and is dedicated to the country's rich carpet weaving traditions.

Highlights of the Museum

• The collection of over 14,000 carpets and textile items, dating back to the 17th century.
• The stunning modern architecture of the museum building, which resembles a rolled-up carpet.
• The interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that provide a fascinating insight into the history and techniques of carpet weaving.

Exploring the Museum

Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn more about the exhibits and the cultural significance of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan. There are also workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional weaving techniques.

Overall, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in textiles, art, and culture.

10. Baku Boulevard along the Caspian Sea

Baku Boulevard is a 3.5-kilometer promenade that runs along the Caspian Sea in the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of attractions and activities.

Highlights of Baku Boulevard

• The iconic Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Azerbaijani carpets and textiles.
• The Baku Eye Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
• The Baku Crystal Hall, a concert venue that has hosted numerous international music events.
• The Little Venice area, which features a network of canals and bridges reminiscent of Venice, Italy.

Activities on Baku Boulevard

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the boulevard, taking in the beautiful views of the sea and the city skyline. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and shops offering local cuisine and souvenirs. In the evenings, the boulevard comes alive with music, performances, and other entertainment.

Overall, Baku Boulevard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant energy and beauty of Baku, Azerbaijan.