6-Day Itinerary in Azerbaijan

Thursday December 28: Baku

Start your trip in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. In the morning, explore the historic Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets, ancient buildings, and iconic Maiden Tower. In the afternoon, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a modern architectural masterpiece. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Flame Towers in the evening.

• Old City: Cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Heydar Aliyev Center: Cost - 10 AZN, Time spent - 2 hours
• Flame Towers: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Friday December 29: Gabala

On the second day, head to Gabala, a picturesque city surrounded by the Caucasus Mountains. In the morning, visit the Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex. Take a cable car ride to the mountain peak for breathtaking views and enjoy various outdoor activities. In the afternoon, explore the ancient ruins of Gabala Archaeological Center. Spend the evening strolling around Nizami Street and trying local cuisine.

• Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex: Cost - 40 AZN, Time spent - 4 hours
• Gabala Archaeological Center: Cost - 5 AZN, Time spent - 2 hours
• Nizami Street: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday December 30: Sheki

On the third day, travel to Sheki, a charming city known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. In the morning, visit Sheki Khan's Palace, a magnificent 18th-century palace. Explore the Sheki Bazaar to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Sheki Fortress in the evening.

• Sheki Khan's Palace: Cost - 5 AZN, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sheki Bazaar: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sheki Fortress: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday December 31: Gobustan

On New Year's Eve, venture to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs. In the morning, explore the rock art and learn about Azerbaijan's prehistoric past. In the afternoon, visit the Mud Volcanoes, unique natural formations. Spend the evening celebrating New Year's Eve in Baku with fireworks and festivities.

• Gobustan National Park: Cost - 15 AZN, Time spent - 3 hours
• Mud Volcanoes: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• New Year's Eve in Baku: Cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Monday January 1: Absheron

Start the new year by exploring the Absheron Peninsula. In the morning, visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple, an ancient religious site. Explore the Yanar Dag, a natural eternal flame burning on a hillside. In the afternoon, relax at the Mardakan Beach. Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani meal in the evening.

• Ateshgah Fire Temple: Cost - 10 AZN, Time spent - 2 hours
• Yanar Dag: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Mardakan Beach: Cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours

Tuesday January 2: Guba

On the final day, visit the scenic town of Guba. In the morning, explore the Juma Mosque and witness its unique architecture. Visit the Guba Genocide Memorial Complex to learn about the tragic events of 1918. In the afternoon, hike to the breathtaking Khinalig Village, located high in the mountains. Enjoy the tranquility of nature before returning to Baku in the evening.

• Juma Mosque: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Guba Genocide Memorial Complex: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Khinalig Village: Cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Azerbaijan, don't miss the chance to visit the scenic village of Lahij, known for its traditional crafts. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Goygol National Park and indulge in local delicacies at the Lahic Cuisine Restaurant in Baku. Also, consider taking a day trip to the picturesque town of Shaki to visit the Palace of Shaki Khans and taste the famous Shaki Piti.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.