The combination of traditional history and present-day culture, along with scenic views, awaits visitors planning a trip to Azerbaijan. The country delivers distinctive moments that are bound to take one by surprise. Azerbaijan presents the most beautiful blend of contemporary architectural marvels across Baku, with the timeless charm of mountain villages. The country never fails to mesmerise its visitors because it displays various cultural facets that range from natural sights to historical heritage and traditions that date back centuries. This guide will explore the most thrilling and memorable things to do in Azerbaijan that are absolutely perfect for tourists who are new to the country, as well as the experienced ones who are always on the lookout for something special!
20 BestThings to Do in Azerbaijan
The country presents diverse attractions that range from the futuristic cityscape of Baku to pristine rural areas, matching its diverse geographical features. The following list presents the top 20 things to do in Azerbaijan that you absolutely cannot afford to miss out on:
1. Visit the Flame Towers in Baku
Azerbaijan's striking Flame Towers illuminate the Baku cityscape with their LED façade and skyscraper-like architecture. The three curved towers symbolise fire—a fire emblem that stems from Azerbaijani tradition. Guests can experience city views from surrounding parks or restaurants on rooftops. The towers are equipped with a hotel, an office building and upscale apartments, but visitors come to see the evening visual show. It's one of the country's most photogenic, jaw-dropping monuments and one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan.
- Location: Baku
- Highlights: Light displays, cityscape views, night shots
Suggested Read: Why Baku is Famous for a Trip
2. Visit the Gobustan Rock Art Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gobustan is a fascinating outdoor museum that features over 6,000 prehistoric rock carvings. The petroglyphs depict ancient hunting scenes, dancing women and ancient musical instruments. The site features mud volcanoes and strange geological formations. It's a glimpse into Azerbaijan's ancient history, ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The on-site museum provides background information on the carvings so the experience is educational and visually stunning.
- Location: Around 64 km southwest of Baku
- Entry Fee: About AZN 10
- Best for: History enthusiasts, archaeology lovers
3. Explore Baku Old City (Icherisheher)
The Old City, or Icherisheher, with its walled historic centre, is the ancient heart of Baku and visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan. Cobbled streets give way to mosques, caravanserais and quaint tea houses. The Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs are a must-see here. The area is an immersive promenade through Azerbaijani culture, with ancient shops selling souvenirs and carpets. Amidst the skyscrapers encircling the Old City, it retains a unique medieval spirit, a UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
- Location: Central Baku
- Highlights: Maiden Tower, Palace of Shirvanshahs, souvenir shopping
Suggested Read: Baku Backpacking Experience: A Budget Traveller's Dream
4. Relax at Lake Goygol
Lake Goygol in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains is Azerbaijan's most lovely spot. Its blue water is crystal clear and reflects the surrounding wooded hills and it's perfect for photographs, picnics and reflection. The area is a national park so you know you'll find pristine nature and tranquillity. Spring and summer are the optimal times to go, with leaves and nice weather. It's a quiet escape from urban life. Exploring this lake is definitely one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan.
- Location: Ganja vicinity
- Activities: Nature walks, picnics, photography
5. Take a dip at the Naftalan Oil Baths
Azerbaijani Naftalan oil baths are unique and renowned for their healing qualities. Taking a dip at these is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan. The heavy, black oil is said to cure skin, arthritis and other conditions. Tourists travel far and wide to soak in the healing oil at speciality resorts. While the idea may raise an eyebrow, the practice is a long-standing one that has been around as long as localised tradition. Clean, modern facilities provide a safe and hygienic experience, marrying wellness with cultural intrigue.
- Location: Naftalan city
- Most appropriate for: Spa travellers, medical tourism
6. Enjoy Winter Sports in Shahdag
Shahdag Mountain Resort is Azerbaijan's premier winter sports resort. From skiing and snowboarding to zip-lining and snowmobiling, this place has some of the best things to do in Azerbaijan and thus, thrill is never far away here. In the Greater Caucasus, the resort features state-of-the-art facilities, luxury hotels and novice ski schools. Summer offers mountain bike and hiking trails as well. Shahdag is perfect for travellers who wish to combine Alpine beauty with Azerbaijani hospitality in a one-of-a-kind, off-the-map destination.
- Location: Qusar region
- Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing
Suggested Read: The Best Time to Visit Baku: A Traveller's Guide
7. Stroll Along Baku Boulevard
Baku Boulevard runs along the Caspian Sea and is the city's go-to public space. The wide promenade features landscaped parks, restaurants, carnival rides and the trendy Baku Eye Ferris wheel. It's where to meet at night for families, couples and runners enjoying the sea air. Street performers and sellers add to the vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and some of the best things to do in Azerbaijan include watching the sunset from here, or sitting and observing people go by.
- Location: Baku
- Highlights: Caspian views, Baku Eye, park zones
8. Visit Sheki Khan's Palace
Sheki is a charming mountain town renowned for its history and traditional architecture. The Sheki Khan Palace is the jewel, with exquisite stained-glass windows, hand-painted frescoes and carved wood. Built in the 18th century, it served as the summer palace of the local dynasty. The town itself offers cobbled streets, craft workshops and local sweets like halva. Sheki is a cultural gem that transports you to another era.
- Location: Sheki
- Entry Charge: About AZN 5
- Best for: Architecture and art lovers
9. Visit the Burning Mountain – Yanar Dag
Yanar Dag, or "Burning Mountain," is an eternal natural gas flame that burns on the side of a hill in the Absheron Peninsula. Fire bursts forth from the earth as a consequence of subsurface gas deposits, creating a stunning spectacle, most visible in the evening. It's not only a geological marvel but also a tip of the hat to Azerbaijan's nickname, the "Land of Fire." Visitors can walk along the observation platform and learn about its significance at the nearby museum, these being some of the best things to do in Azerbaijan.
- Location: 25 km from Baku
- Entry Charge: Approximately AZN 5
- Best time to visit: Evening
10. Shop at Taza Bazaar
To have a true taste of the local culture, you need to experience Taza Bazaar in Baku since it is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan. It is a lively market lined with fresh fruits, vegetables, dry fruits, nuts, spices and local delicacies such as caviar and saffron. Vendors provide samples so it is a culinary tour of Azerbaijani cuisine. Besides the grocery, there are household products, clothing and souvenirs. It's a good spot to bump shoulders with the locals and catch the feel of Baku's day-to-day life.
- Location: Baku
- Highlights: Cultural exposure, food tasting, indigenous products
11. Experience Modern Art at YARAT Contemporary Art Space
YARAT is one of the country's top modern art centres, showcasing the work of local and foreign artists. It is situated in a refurbished navy building by the Caspian Sea and features changing exhibitions, film showings, workshops and lectures. It fosters creativity and innovation and is specifically geared towards up-and-coming artists of the Caucasus region. If contemporary art and alternative cultural activity are your thing, YARAT is a welcome respite from the city's historical monuments.
- Location: Baku
- Entry: Free
- Best for: Modern art enthusiasts
Suggested Read: Top Places to Visit in Baku: Must-See Attractions
12. Admire the Heydar Aliyev Centre
Perhaps the most famous landmark in Baku is the Heydar Aliyev Centre, a contemporary architectural masterpiece by Zaha Hadid. Its sinuous, alien appearance contains a museum, exhibit spaces and an auditorium. Within Azerbaijani culture, history, fashion, and art are on exhibit. Curves and landscaping have turned the landmark into a favourite with architecture buffs as well as selfie-takers. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan and is as rewarding on the cultural front as it is visually stunning.
- Location: Baku
- Admission Charge: Approximately AZN 15
- Best For: Architecture enthusiasts, culture enthusiasts
13. Stop by the Ateshgah Fire Temple
In Surakhani, outside Baku, the Ateshgah Fire Temple is a religious and historic landmark that previously had eternal flames that were fueled by natural gas. Constructed in the 17th century by Hindu and Zoroastrian communities, the temple complex was a centre of pilgrimage and worship. Now a museum, it represents religious tolerance and multiculturalism that have long characterised Azerbaijan's identity. Tourists can stroll through the temple complex and learn about fire rituals and ancient trade routes.
- Location: Surakhani, Baku
- Admission Fee: About AZN 4
- Highlights: History of Zoroastrians, fire altar, spiritual understanding
14. Walk along the Caspian Sea Boulevard
Locally referred to as the Baku Boulevard, this seaside promenade on the Caspian Sea is ideal for a walk or a windy bike ride. Palm trees, fountains, cafes and amusement parks line the boulevard and you can get a good view of the Flame Towers and Baku skyline. Within reach are also cultural centres such as the Carpet Museum and Mini-Venice. The evening here is romantic with locals socialising and street musicians playing.
- Location: Central Baku
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset
- Highlights: Views, leisure, local vibe
15. Take a Scenic Funicular Ride in Baku
The Baku Funicular offers a short but breathtaking trip from Neftchilar Avenue to Martyrs' Lane, one of the city's highest points. This short but memorable trip offers panoramic views of Baku's skyline and the Caspian Sea. You can also visit the Flame Towers, the Eternal Flame memorial and gardens at the top. It's a good mix of convenience and scenery all in one.
- Duration of ride: 2 minutes
- Ticket Price: AZN 1
- Best For: Cityscapes and photography
16. Explore the Xinaliq Mountain Village
Concealed deep within the Greater Caucasus mountain chain, Xinaliq is a high and remote village in Europe. Renowned for its unique language, tradition and stone buildings, the ancient village offers tourists a glimpse of Azerbaijan's mountain culture. The journey to Xinaliq is an experience in itself, with winding roads and stunning mountain vistas. It's perfect for cultural travellers and photographers.
- Location: Quba District
- Best for: Cultural immersion, mountain scenery
17. Explore the Carpet Museum in Baku
Rolled up into a carpet form, the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum is a piece of cultural and architectural treasure along Seaside Boulevard in Baku. Inside, you'll find an incredible collection of traditional Azerbaijani rugs and flatweaves, each one filled with unique patterns and stories. The museum not only showcases handicrafts but also educates visitors on the symbolic meaning behind the design of each piece. It's a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
- Admission charge: around AZN 7
- Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
18. Walk through Khan's Garden in Ganja
In Azerbaijan's second-largest city, Khan's Garden is a popular park known for its green surroundings and ancient memorials. The garden features fountains, statues and covered pathways ideal for a casual walk. It's a wonderful spot to relax while getting a feel of Ganja's relaxed life and city vibe.
- Location: Ganja city centre
- Ideal for: Walking, community environment
19. Visit the Ruins of Chirag Gala
Sited on a mountain spur above the Caspian Sea, the 5th-century Chirag Gala is a fortress that offers stunning vistas of the plains below. The moderately challenging walk to the ruins is well worth it for fans of history and adventure. The medieval watchtower was a critical fortification in the defence of the Shirvan territory.
- Location: Shabran district
- Best for: Hiking, learning about history
20. Taste Wine in Shamakhi
Shamakhi is one of the oldest wine-producing areas of the country, where vineyards stretch back centuries. A wine tour there is one of the best things to do in Azerbaijan and it would typically involve a stroll through picturesque vineyards, a visit to local cellars and a guided wine tasting of Azerbaijani wines. The area is famous for red and white wines and the spectacular landscape is the cherry on the cake.
- Best Wineries: Meysari Winery, Savalan ASPI
- Best for: Scenic drives, wine enthusiasts
Azerbaijan is an absolute mosaic of experiences. This is exactly where ancient traditions as well as utter modernity come together and blend in seamlessly. Every single traveller finds their rhythm here, may it be while they are wandering through the cobbled streets of Sheki or wholeheartedly admiring the beauty of architecture in Baku. There are great things to do in Azerbaijan for adventure seekers, culture lovers, as well as wellness travellers. These handpicked activities and attractions are just the tip of the iceberg since the beautiful city of Azerbaijan has many more hidden gems that are eagerly waiting to be discovered. Pack your bags, plan a trip and add this country to your travel list to let it surprise you at every single turn.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the top things to do in Azerbaijan?
Some of the best Azerbaijan things to do include visiting Baku’s Old City, hiking in the Caucasus Mountains as well as exploring mud volcanoes. The country offers a great mix of nature, history and modern culture.
2. Is Azerbaijan a good destination for adventure activities?
Yes of course; especially for hiking, paragliding along with off-road trips in the mountains. The diverse landscape is the most ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Can I explore Azerbaijan in a week?
Yes, you can; a week is enough to see key places like Baku, Gobustan, Sheki and Lahij. You can enjoy the best things to do in Azerbaijan and a very good balance of city life as well as nature.
4. Are there any cultural experiences worth trying in Azerbaijan?
Well, absolutely- watch a mugham music performance, try a traditional hammam along with sample local dishes like plov and dolma. Visiting craft villages like Lahij is also a must.
5. What is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities in Azerbaijan?
Spring and autumn are absolutely ideal. They offer pleasant weather for trekking, sightseeing and nature tours. Summers can be quite hot, especially in Baku.
6. Is Azerbaijan suitable for family travel?
Yes it is. Azerbaijan is safe and very welcoming overall. It has family-friendly attractions like the Flame Towers light show, cable cars and historical museums. Children especially enjoy the mud volcanoes and interactive exhibits.
