Baku - Tbilisi 7-day Adventure

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Baku

Welcome to Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan! Start your day by exploring the UNESCO-listed Old City, known as Icherisheher. In the morning, wander through its narrow alleyways, marvel at the majestic Maiden Tower, and visit the impressive Palace of the Shirvanshahs. In the afternoon, head to the iconic Flame Towers for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, savor delicious Azerbaijani cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Old City (Icherisheher): Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Flame Towers: Estimated Cost - Free (observation deck may have a fee), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Local restaurant: Estimated Cost - $20-30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Avaliya and enjoy their delicious selection of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
• For lunch, try Salam Baku where you can indulge in traditional Azerbaijani dishes such as plov and dolma. Average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
• For dinner, visit Lalezar Restaurant and indulge in their exquisite selection of authentic Azerbaijan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 35 AZN per person.

Saturday, December 23: Baku City Tour

Embark on a comprehensive city tour of Baku. Start your morning by visiting the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the modern boulevard known as the Seaside National Park, offering scenic views of the Caspian Sea. As the evening approaches, visit the Carpet Museum to discover the rich artistry of Azerbaijani carpets.

• Heydar Aliyev Center: Estimated Cost - Free (entrance fee for exhibitions), Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Seaside National Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Carpet Museum: Estimated Cost - $5-10, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday, December 24: Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Embark on a day trip to Gobustan National Park, known for its ancient rock carvings and fascinating geological formations. In the morning, explore the open-air museum to learn about the region's prehistoric history. Afterward, venture into the peculiar landscape of the Mud Volcanoes, where you can witness mud eruptions. Enjoy a picnic amidst this unique natural phenomenon.

• Gobustan National Park: Estimated Cost - $10-15, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Mud Volcanoes: Estimated Cost - $5-10 for transportation, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Picnic lunch: Estimated Cost - $10-15, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday, December 25: A Journey to Sheki

Today, catch a morning flight to Sheki, a charming town nestled in the mountains of Azerbaijan. In the morning, visit the Palace of Shaki Khans, known for its exquisite architectural design. In the afternoon, explore the quaint streets of the Old City and browse through the local souvenir shops. In the evening, indulge in Sheki's famous sweet treats, such as pakhlava and halva.

• Palace of Shaki Khans: Estimated Cost - $5-10, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Old City: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Sampling local sweets: Estimated Cost - $5-10, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Discover Tbilisi

Travel from Sheki to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, by public or private transportation. Once in Tbilisi, start your day by exploring the historic district of Abanotubani, famous for its sulfur baths and colorful architecture. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride up to the Narikala Fortress for breathtaking views of the city. End the day by strolling along Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's main thoroughfare.

• Abanotubani (Sulfur Baths): Estimated Cost - Free (bath admission may have a fee), Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Narikala Fortress: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Rustaveli Avenue: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Explore Mtskheta & Wine Tasting

Take a day trip to Mtskheta, a historic town located just outside of Tbilisi. In the morning, visit the Jvari Monastery, perched on a hill with captivating views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, explore the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, experience traditional Georgian wine-making with a wine tasting tour at a local winery.

• Jvari Monastery: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Wine tasting tour: Estimated Cost - $15-20, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Farewell to Tbilisi

Spend your last day in Tbilisi indulging in the local cuisine and exploring hidden gems. Visit the Dezerter Bazaar, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local snacks. In the afternoon, discover the hidden waterfall of Legvazhma, tucked away in the outskirts of Tbilisi. As the sun sets, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant.

• Dezerter Bazaar: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Legvazhma Waterfall: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Farewell dinner: Estimated Cost - $20-30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Baku and Tbilisi, be sure to visit Khinalig Village, a remote mountain settlement near Baku known for its picturesque views and unique culture. In Tbilisi, don't miss out on the Dry Bridge Flea Market, where you can find a variety of antiques and Soviet memorabilia. Additionally, try visiting a local chaikhana (tea house) to experience the traditional tea-drinking culture of Azerbaijan and Georgia.

For hotel and flight prices, check out this link.