Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Azerbaijan Itinerary: Baku, Gobustan & Sheki (Feb 24–Mar 2, 2026)

Viewed by 82 travelers
Day 1 · Tue, Feb 24
Baku

Arrival and Old City exploration

11:30 AM:

Begin with a light Azerbaijani brunch at Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) near Fountain Square, sampling qutab and aromatic black tea to recharge after arrival.

12:30 PM:

Stroll toward the Old City and take a guided walk through the narrow lanes, pausing at Maiden Tower for panoramic views and a brief history of Baku's skyline.

1:15 PM:

Visit the nearby Palace of the Shirvanshahs, exploring the ornate halls and courtyards with a local guide who can explain the medieval architecture.

2:00 PM:

Stop for a late morning/early lunch tasting local specialties at Firuze Restaurant, trying plov or kebabs while resting before more sightseeing.

2:30 PM:

Wander down the seaside promenade toward Baku Boulevard (National Park), pause at the waterfront for photos and enjoy the fresh Caspian breeze while spotting modern sculptures.

3:15 PM:

Hop on the small Ferris wheel at Little Venice for a gentle ride and a different perspective of the boulevard and Flame Towers in the distance.

4:00 PM:

Drop into Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature to see manuscripts and mosaics, then sip coffee at the museum café while digesting the city's literary heritage.

4:45 PM:

Take a short taxi to Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and admire traditional rugs and their intricate patterns; don't miss the building's boat-shaped exterior and the rooftop views.

5:30 PM:

Return toward Fountain Square for an early evening snack at Paul Bakery & Restaurant, sampling local sweets or a light pastry with tea.

6:15 PM:

Relax at Upland Park (Dagustu Park) for sunset views over the city and Flame Towers; it's an ideal spot to watch Baku transition into evening lights.

7:00 PM:

Finish the afternoon with dinner at Mugam Club (or similar live-music venue) to enjoy traditional Azerbaijani music alongside a menu of mezze and grilled dishes.

7:45 PM:

Walk from Upland Park down toward the waterfront, stopping for night photos of the illuminated Flame Towers and the glowing skyline as the city lights come alive.

8:15 PM:

Dine at Teref Lounge & Restaurant on the boulevard for modern Azerbaijani plates and cocktails while enjoying views of the Caspian Sea.

9:30 PM:

Attend a short set or folk performance at Mugam Club (if not already seated for dinner) to experience live traditional music in an intimate setting.

10:30 PM:

Take a relaxed after-dinner stroll along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the Ferris wheel area, enjoying the cool air and city reflections on the water.

11:00 PM:

Stop for a late-night dessert or tea at Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) or a nearby café to wind down, sampling baklava or a sweet pakhlava before returning to your hotel.

Day 2 · Wed, Feb 25
Baku

Modern Baku: Flame Towers, Port and Museums

8:00 AM:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Café Baku near Fountain Square, sampling fresh borek and strong Azerbaijani coffee to fuel a busy morning of modern-city sights.

9:00 AM:

Head up to the observation platform at Flame Towers for sweeping morning views of Baku and the Caspian Sea, then take photos of the towers' glass facades reflecting the daylight.

9:45 AM:

Walk or take a short taxi to Upland Park (Dagustu Park) for a quieter vantage point and panoramic shots of the city skyline and Flame Towers from a different angle.

10:30 AM:

Visit the striking Heydar Aliyev Center to admire Zaha Hadid's architecture and explore the rotating contemporary exhibitions inside; finish with a coffee at the center's café.

11:30 AM:

Stroll down to Baku Boulevard (National Park) and board the terminal to take a short boat ride from the promenade for seaside views and a fresh perspective on the modern port area.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Chinar on the boulevard, savoring modern Azerbaijani cuisine and fresh seafood while enjoying views of the Caspian Sea.

1:30 PM:

Explore the maritime exhibits at Baku Port Marina and walk the docks to see yachts and the industrial waterfront, pausing for photos of the skyline from the pier.

2:15 PM:

Visit the contemporary collections at Museum of Modern Art to see Azerbaijani and regional works, then relax with tea at the museum's small café.

3:15 PM:

Step into Nizami Cinema Center or a local gallery in the Port area for a short film screening or rotating exhibition if available, experiencing Baku's film and art scene.

4:00 PM:

Take a coffee and pastry break at Paul Bakery & Restaurant near the boulevard, using the time to rest and plan the late afternoon route.

4:30 PM:

Walk through the landscaped squares toward Little Venice and hire a small gondola or take photos along the canals, enjoying a quieter pocket of the waterfront.

5:15 PM:

Ride the modern cable car or take photos near Baku Ferris Wheel area to catch golden-hour views of the Flame Towers reflecting in the Caspian, then head back toward the city center.

6:00 PM:

Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails on the rooftop terrace at Sky Grill Baku, watching the city lights emerge and the Flame Towers begin their evening display.

7:00 PM:

Dine at Sumakh for a modern take on Azerbaijani cuisine, sampling seasonal meze and a flavorful pilaf in an elegant, contemporary setting.

8:30 PM:

Catch a live performance or concert at Baku Philharmonic Hall (check the program in advance), experiencing classical or local music in a historic venue.

10:00 PM:

Head to Enerji Club or Pasifico Lounge for late-night drinks and a lively atmosphere if you feel like dancing or enjoying a DJ set.

11:30 PM:

Take a peaceful moonlit walk along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the lighthouse area, pausing to admire reflections on the Caspian before returning to your hotel.

Day 3 · Thu, Feb 26
Gobustan National Park

Day trip to Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

6:30 AM:

Depart Baku with your guide in a comfortable vehicle and head south toward Gobustan National Park, enjoying early-morning countryside views and a short coffee stop at Mərdəkan Service Point if needed.

8:00 AM:

Arrive at the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape and join a guided walk to see the ancient petroglyph panels, learning about the prehistoric carvings and local archaeology.

9:00 AM:

Visit the on-site Gobustan Museum to view artifacts and contextual exhibits that explain the significance of the rock art and ancient nomadic life in the region.

9:45 AM:

Drive a short distance to the area of Gobustan mud volcanoes and explore the lunar-like terrain; watch bubbling mud cones and take dramatic photos of the steam and mineral formations.

10:30 AM:

Stop for a mid-morning snack or tea at a local roadside cafe such as Qobustan Teahouse, sampling Azerbaijani pastries and chatting with locals about regional traditions.

11:15 AM:

Return to the vehicle and make a brief detour to the viewpoint near Diri Baba Mausoleum (if time allows en route) for panoramic coastal and steppe vistas before heading back toward Baku.

12:00 PM:

Begin the drive back to Baku with a planned lunch stop at Xirdalan Restaurant near the highway, enjoying hearty Azerbaijani dishes and reflecting on the morning's discoveries.

12:45 PM:

Continue the drive back toward Baku and stop for a relaxed lunchtime set at Xirdalan Restaurant if you didn't finish earlier, sampling local stews and fresh salads while stretching your legs.

1:30 PM:

On the return route, pull over for photos and a short walk at the scenic Baku-Absheron coastal viewpoint, enjoying windswept steppe and Caspian Sea panoramas.

2:15 PM:

Arrive back in Baku and head to Azerbaijan National Museum of History for a brief visit to connect Gobustan's prehistoric finds with the broader national story; focus on highlights to keep the afternoon light.

3:00 PM:

Take a coffee break at Mado Café on Nizami Street, sampling Azerbaijani tea or a sweet pastry while people-watching and planning the rest of the day.

3:30 PM:

Wander through the nearby lanes to discover local handicrafts at Taza Bazaar (or small artisan stalls), picking up souvenirs such as carpets, ceramics, or local spices.

4:15 PM:

Visit Atashgah (the Fire Temple) if open and nearby, learning about Zoroastrian influences and the region's cultural layers; otherwise enjoy a guided exterior tour and photos.

5:00 PM:

Return toward the waterfront for a gentle stroll along Baku Boulevard (National Park), taking in late-afternoon sea air and watching local life unfold along the promenade.

5:45 PM:

Pause for early-evening refreshments at Chinar on the boulevard, ordering light meze and a refreshing Ayran while you relax before tonight's dinner plans.

6:30 PM:

Enjoy an aperitif on the terrace at Sky Grill Baku, watching the Flame Towers begin their light show while savoring small plates and a view of the Caspian.

7:15 PM:

Dine at Firuze Restaurant near Fountain Square to sample regional specialties like lamb plov and dolma in a warm, traditional setting.

8:30 PM:

Attend a short folk-music performance at Mugam Club to experience live Azerbaijani mugham and traditional instruments in an intimate venue.

9:30 PM:

Take a moonlit walk along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the Ferris wheel area, enjoying the illuminated skyline and cool seaside air.

10:00 PM:

Stop for dessert and tea at Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) or a nearby café, sampling pakhlava or baklava while reflecting on the day's landscapes and rock art.

11:00 PM:

Return to your hotel for a nightcap at the lobby bar or a brief rest, preparing for tomorrow's onward travel to Sheki with fresh energy.

Day 4 · Fri, Feb 27
Sheki (via Shamakhi)

Sheki-bound: Scenic drive and historic caravanserais

6:30 AM:

Depart Baku in a comfortable vehicle and enjoy coffee and pastries from Mərdəkan Service Point as you head west, watching the Absheron plain slip by while the group settles in for the scenic drive.

8:00 AM:

Stop in Shamakhi for a short walk around the town center and visit a local tea house such as Shamakhi Tea House to stretch your legs and sample regional black tea with sweet pastries.

8:45 AM:

Explore the exterior and surrounds of Juma Mosque (Shamakhi), taking in the mosque's historic façade and the nearby cemetery with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

9:30 AM:

Continue the drive through the Siazan-Sheki route, pausing at a roadside viewpoint for photos of the Caucasus foothills and the patchwork of winter fields; enjoy a quick snack from local vendor stalls if available.

10:30 AM:

Arrive at the fortified merchant stop of Musa qalasi (Caravanserai) on the outskirts of Sheki for a guided exploration of the architecture and a short history talk about Silk Road traders in the region.

11:15 AM:

Head into central Sheki and visit Sheki Khans' Palace (exterior views first) and then enjoy a light mid-morning tasting of local sweets and halva at Karvansaray Café, sampling Sheki halva and freshly brewed Azerbaijani tea.

11:45 AM:

Take a gentle stroll through the shaded lanes toward Sheki Bazaar, browsing local stalls for dried fruits, nuts, and handmade souvenirs while chatting with stallholders about regional specialties.

12:15 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Giz Galasi Restaurant, sampling local lamb kebab and a plate of Sheki-style salads while taking in views of the town's tiled roofs.

1:00 PM:

Visit the interior of Sheki Khans' Palace to admire the stunning stained-glass windows (shebeke), frescoes, and intricate wooden carvings with a local guide explaining palace history.

2:00 PM:

Head to Sheki Caravanserai (Karvansaray) for a deeper look inside the merchants' lodgings, then browse the attached workshops where artisans make copperware and embroidered textiles.

2:45 PM:

Take a short walk to Sheki Bread Museum (or a traditional village bakery) to watch bread being baked in a tandir and taste freshly baked churek with a cup of hot tea.

3:30 PM:

Drive or take a taxi to the nearby village of Kish to see the ancient Albanian church ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley; explore the small local museum if open.

4:15 PM:

Return toward Sheki and stop at Karvansaray Café for afternoon tea and a slice of Sheki halva while relaxing and chatting with local vendors about regional crafts.

5:00 PM:

Wander the quieter lanes near Sheki Bazaar to pick up souvenirs-hand-painted ceramics, dried fruits, and local honey-while practicing friendly bargaining with stallholders.

5:45 PM:

Climb to a small hilltop viewpoint near town for sunset photos of the Sheki Khans' Palace and surrounding Caucasus foothills, enjoying the golden light on timbered roofs.

6:30 PM:

Dine at Chay Evi (Tea House) Sheki, sharing a warming plate of piti (stew) and fresh flatbread while listening to stories from the proprietor about local culinary traditions.

8:00 PM:

Conclude the afternoon with a relaxed stroll back to your guesthouse, stopping for a final cup of tea at Bazarçay Café and soaking up the evening atmosphere of Sheki's historic center.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed aperitif on the terrace of Giz Galasi Restaurant overlooking the tiled roofs; sample a local mulberry cordial or glass of Azerbaijani wine while watching lights come on across town.

9:15 PM:

Catch a short live-music set or a storytelling night at Chay Evi (Tea House) Sheki if available, sipping fragrant tea and tasting small plates of local cheese and preserves.

10:00 PM:

Take a moonlit walk through the quiet lanes around Sheki Bazaar, pausing to admire the illuminated façades and perhaps buy a small sweet or packet of roasted nuts from a late vendor.

10:30 PM:

Warm up with a cup of tea and a slice of Sheki halva at Karvansaray Café, sharing conversation with locals and reflecting on the day's sights in a cozy, traditional setting.

11:00 PM:

Return to your guesthouse and, if you like, request a small late snack of fresh churek and ayran from the host; otherwise settle in for an early night to rest before tomorrow's explorations.

Day 5 · Sat, Feb 28
Sheki

Sheki: Khan’s Palace and local crafts

7:30 AM:

Start the morning with a hearty breakfast at Giz Galasi Restaurant or your guesthouse, sampling fresh churek, local cheeses and a strong cup of Azerbaijani tea to fuel a day of exploration.

8:15 AM:

Walk to Sheki Khans' Palace just after opening to enjoy the stained-glass shebeke and frescoes in quieter light; join a short guided tour to learn about the palace's history and craftsmanship.

9:15 AM:

Head across to the nearby Sheki Caravanserai (Karvansaray) to explore merchants' rooms and chat with artisans in the attached workshops about copperware and textile traditions.

10:00 AM:

Visit a local workshop to watch a live demonstration of shebeke (stained-glass lattice) making or traditional embroidery, and pick up a small handcrafted souvenir while speaking with the maker.

10:45 AM:

Stop for a mid-morning tea break at Karvansaray Café, tasting Sheki halva and savory pastries while relaxing and photographing the courtyard atmosphere.

11:15 AM:

Stroll to Sheki Bazaar to browse stalls for dried fruits, local honey and spices; practice friendly bargaining and sample local sweets offered by vendors.

11:45 AM:

Take a short walk to the Sheki Bread Museum or a traditional village bakery to observe tandir baking and taste freshly baked churek paired with a glass of ayran before lunch.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Giz Galasi Restaurant (if you didn't earlier) or try Halva House for local specialties; savor piti or grilled lamb with fresh salads and a cup of Azerbaijani tea.

1:30 PM:

Take a short taxi to the nearby village of Kish to visit the ancient Albanian church ruins and small museum, wandering the stone lanes and enjoying panoramic valley views.

2:30 PM:

Return to Sheki and attend a hands-on workshop at Sheki Silk Studio to learn about traditional silk weaving and try a basic weaving or dyeing demonstration with a local artisan.

3:15 PM:

Walk to Sheki Bazaar for a deeper browse of spice stalls, dried fruits and honey; sample local cheeses and pick up packets of saffron or candied fruits as gifts.

4:00 PM:

Stop for a late-afternoon coffee and Sheki halva at Karvansaray Café, sitting in the courtyard while watching artisans and traders go about their day.

4:45 PM:

Visit a local copper workshop near the bazaar to see craftsmen hammer and engrave copperware, and purchase a small handcrafted tray or cup directly from the maker.

5:30 PM:

Climb to the hilltop viewpoint overlooking town for golden-hour photos of Sheki Khans' Palace and the tiled roofs, then stroll down through quiet lanes as the light softens.

6:15 PM:

Have an early evening tasting at Chay Evi (Tea House) Sheki, sampling regional preserves, local cheeses and a warming cup of tea while listening to stories about Sheki's food traditions.

7:00 PM:

Dine at Giz Galasi Restaurant's terrace (or Bazarçay Café if you prefer cozy vibes), ordering a hearty plate of piti or kebabs and a glass of local mulberry juice or wine.

8:15 PM:

Conclude the afternoon with a relaxed stroll through the softly lit lanes around Sheki Bazaar, stopping for a final cup of tea and a slice of halva at Karvansaray Café before returning to your guesthouse.

8:45 PM:

Join a cozy tasting session at Bazarçay Café, sampling local cheeses, preserves and a steaming pot of Azerbaijani tea while chatting with the owner about Sheki's culinary traditions.

9:30 PM:

Attend an intimate folk-music performance or storytelling night at Chay Evi (Tea House) Sheki if available, enjoying live mugham or regional ballads alongside small plates of nuts and sweets.

10:15 PM:

Take a moonlit stroll through the lanes around Sheki Bazaar, pausing to admire illuminated shopfronts and to pick up a final packet of candied fruits or a small spice blend from a late vendor.

10:45 PM:

Warm up with a late cup of tea and a slice of halva at Karvansaray Café, sitting in the courtyard and reflecting on the day's crafts and palace visits with fellow travelers or locals.

11:15 PM:

Return to your guesthouse and, if you're still peckish, request a simple late snack of fresh churek and ayran from the host; otherwise enjoy a restful night preparing for tomorrow's journey.

Day 6 · Sun, Mar 1
Baku

Return to Baku with afternoon free time

7:30 AM:

Arrive back in Baku (if travelling early) and enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Café Baku, sampling borek and strong Azerbaijani coffee while planning your free afternoon.

8:30 AM:

Take a gentle morning stroll along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the waterfront, stopping at the cafés by the promenade for sea air and photos of the skyline.

9:15 AM:

Visit the nearby Azerbaijan Carpet Museum to admire traditional rugs and learn about weaving techniques in a compact, well-curated visit.

10:15 AM:

Head to Upland Park (Dagustu Park) for panoramic morning views of the city and the Flame Towers, then descend toward the Old City for a quieter perspective before lunch.

11:00 AM:

Drop into Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature or a small gallery on Nizami Street to see manuscripts or contemporary pieces and enjoy a mid-morning tea at a nearby café like Paul Bakery & Restaurant.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Chinar on the boulevard, sampling modern Azerbaijani dishes and fresh seafood while taking in Caspian views and planning the afternoon.

1:00 PM:

Wander through the contemporary displays at the Museum of Modern Art, pausing for a coffee at the museum café and spotting works by regional artists.

2:00 PM:

Take a short taxi to the striking Heydar Aliyev Center to admire the architecture up close and explore rotating exhibitions or design-focused installations inside.

3:15 PM:

Return toward the waterfront and rent a small electric boat from the Baku Boulevard (National Park) terminal for a relaxed 30-45 minute cruise to see the skyline from the water.

4:15 PM:

Pause for a mid-afternoon treat at Paul Bakery & Restaurant or Mado Café, enjoying pastries and tea while people-watching on Nizami Street.

5:00 PM:

Stroll through the creative lanes near Little Venice, popping into a local gallery or artisan shop to browse contemporary crafts and prints by Azerbaijani makers.

5:45 PM:

Climb or take a short taxi to Upland Park (Dagustu Park) to secure a prime spot for sunset views over the Flame Towers and the Caspian, sipping a soft drink from a nearby kiosk.

6:30 PM:

Enjoy pre-dinner drinks and small plates on the terrace at Sky Grill Baku, watching the Flame Towers begin their evening light display while sampling a local mulberry cocktail or mocktail.

7:15 PM:

Dine at Sumakh for a refined, modern interpretation of Azerbaijani cuisine-order a selection of meze followed by a saffron-infused plov or grilled fish to taste contemporary local flavors.

8:45 PM:

Attend a performance at Baku Jazz Center or check listings for live music at Mugam Club to experience local musicians playing jazz or traditional mugham in a lively, intimate setting.

10:00 PM:

Take a moonlit walk along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the Ferris wheel, enjoying reflections on the Caspian and stopping for a late tea or dessert at Çay Bagi (Tea Garden).

11:00 PM:

If you prefer a late-night cocktail, head to Enerji Club or the rooftop bar at Fairmont Baku for a nightcap and panoramic views of the illuminated city before returning to your hotel.

Day 7 · Mon, Mar 2
Baku

Departure day and final city strolls

7:30 AM:

Begin with a relaxed breakfast at Café Baku, sampling borek and strong Azerbaijani coffee while you plan a gentle final morning of strolls and last-minute shopping.

8:15 AM:

Take a peaceful walk through Fountain Square, enjoying the morning light and popping into a boutique such as Baku Bookstore or nearby artisan shops for any final souvenirs.

9:00 AM:

Wander into the quieter lanes of the Old City (Icherisheher) for a slow-paced exploration, pausing at a courtyard café like Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) for a second cup of tea and people-watching.

9:45 AM:

Visit the small galleries along Nizami Street-stop at Art Club Gallery to browse contemporary Azerbaijani prints and pick up one last local artwork to pack in your luggage.

10:15 AM:

Walk down to Baku Boulevard (National Park) for a final seaside stroll; if time allows, take a short 20-minute electric boat ride from the terminal for a calm view of the skyline before departure.

11:00 AM:

Return toward your hotel via Azerbaijan Carpet Museum's shop to consider lightweight carpet samples or small woven souvenirs, then gather your bags and check out at a comfortable pace.

12:00 PM:

Enjoy a light lunch at Chinar on the boulevard, sampling fresh seafood or a seasonal salad while soaking up Caspian views before final errands.

1:00 PM:

Pop into the shop at the Heydar Aliyev Center to pick up design-forward souvenirs, then step outside to photograph the building's flowing architecture from different angles.

2:00 PM:

Visit the compact but rich Azerbaijan State Museum of Art for a focused hour among Azerbaijani and regional paintings, finishing with coffee at the museum café.

3:00 PM:

Take a short taxi to Nizami Street for last-minute shopping at boutique stores and stop at Paul Bakery & Restaurant for a pastry and a final cup of tea while people-watching.

4:00 PM:

Walk a relaxed stretch along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the Ferris wheel area for final skyline photos and to breathe in the sea air before returning to the hotel.

5:00 PM:

Have an early aperitif or light snack at Sky Grill Baku rooftop (if time allows) for panoramic views of the city and Flame Towers as you reflect on your trip.

6:00 PM:

Return to your hotel to collect luggage, confirm transfer times, and enjoy a final cup of tea at the hotel lounge or Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) nearby if you're still lingering in the area.

6:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed pre-dinner drink on the terrace of Sky Grill Baku, taking in panoramic views of the Flame Towers lighting up while reflecting on highlights from your trip.

7:15 PM:

Dine at Chinar on the boulevard for a memorable farewell meal-order a selection of meze and a seafood dish while savouring the Caspian view and attentive service.

8:30 PM:

Take an easy post-dinner promenade along Baku Boulevard (National Park) toward the Ferris wheel, enjoying the evening air and stopping for photos of the illuminated shoreline.

9:15 PM:

Pop into Çay Bagi (Tea Garden) for a final cup of tea or a light dessert such as pakhlava, soaking up the relaxed café atmosphere and reflecting on your week in Azerbaijan.

10:00 PM:

If you prefer a lively send-off, head to Enerji Club or a nearby rooftop bar for a nightcap and views of the city lights; otherwise enjoy a quiet final stroll around Fountain Square.

11:00 PM:

Return to your hotel to collect luggage and confirm your transfer details; take a final moment in the lobby or at the hotel bar for a calming drink before your departure.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version