Enjoy One Week In Azerbaijan Packed With Culture And Adventure

With National Geographic calling Azerbaijan “Europe’s most surprising travel destination,” there’s no better time to plan your journey. We've planned a week-long itinerary for you.

In a significant revelation for wanderlust-stricken Indians, Skyscanner's 2025 travel trends report has placed Azerbaijan among the top destinations to visit. This “Land of Fire” has steadily risen to fame, offering the allure of Europe without the complications of a Schengen visa.

With round-trip flights from India starting as low as ₹20,000 and a wealth of budget-friendly yet luxurious experiences, Azerbaijan is poised to be the go-to choice for Indian travellers looking for a unique international escape. Adding to its appeal, Azerbaijan Tourism has introduced new cultural and sustainable travel showcases to captivate visitors.

The Azerbaijani capital, Baku, promises a European cityscape blended with the charm of the East. New developments, like collaborations with platforms such as AZAL and Rising Sun Films to enhance travel experiences, ensure visitors enjoy their stay to the fullest.

Why Plan For Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, all wrapped in an affordable package. From the buzzing streets of Baku to the serene mountains of Sheki, it offers an unforgettable experience. For Indian travellers seeking a European-style vacation without the visa hassle or steep costs, Azerbaijan is the destination that checks all the boxes.

Here's an ideal one-week itinerary to explore the country’s historical treasures, breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights.

Day 1: Arrival in Baku

Morning:Land at Heydar Aliyev International Airport and check into a hotel in Baku’s city centre.

Afternoon:Begin with a visit to the Heydar Aliyev Centre, an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid. It's an emblem of modern Azerbaijan and hosts cultural exhibitions.

Evening:Stroll along the Baku Boulevard, enjoy the Caspian Sea breeze, and dine at a local restaurant serving Azerbaijani plov and kebabs.

Day 2: Baku Old City & Flame Towers

Morning:Explore Icherisheher (Old City), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Maiden Tower for panoramic views, Shirvanshahs' Palace (a 15th-century architectural gem).

Afternoon:Enjoy lunch at a café in the Old City and shop for Azerbaijani carpets and pottery.

Evening:Head to the Flame Towers, where the city skyline comes alive with vibrant LED displays.

Day 3: Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

Morning:Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park, famous for its ancient petroglyphs and unique mud volcanoes.

Afternoon:Visit Yanardag (Burning Mountain), which is a natural gas fire burning for millennia, and the Ateshgah Fire Temple.

Evening:Return to Baku for dinner and a night of jazz at the Baku Jazz Club.

Day 4: Guba and Qechresh Forest

Morning:Drive to Guba, a serene town surrounded by mountains and apple orchards.

Afternoon:Visit the Afurdzhi Waterfall and explore local carpet-weaving workshops.

Evening:Stay overnight in a mountain resort, enjoying a cozy meal of traditional Azerbaijani fare.

Day 5: Gabala - Adventure Awaits

Morning:Travel to Gabala, known for outdoor adventures. Enjoy cable car rides at Tufandag Mountain Resort. Go zip-lining or horse riding in the lush surroundings.

Afternoon: Visit the serene Nohur Lake for a tranquil boat ride.

Evening:Savour a lakeside barbecue dinner.

Day 6: Sheki - A Cultural Delight

Morning:Head to Sheki, a historic Silk Road town. Explore the Sheki Khan’s Palace, famous for its intricate stained-glass work. Wander through the Sheki Caravanserai (a hub for Silk Road traders).

Afternoon:Relish Sheki halva, a regional dessert.

Evening:Stay in a boutique hotel and enjoy the calm of Sheki.

Day 7: Return to Baku

Morning:Drive back to Baku. Stop at Taza Bazaar to buy spices, dried fruits, and souvenirs.

Afternoon:Visit Baku Crystal Hall, a modern venue for concerts and events.

Evening:Fly back to India with unforgettable memories.

Top Unmissable Attractions

• Caspian Sea:Go for a sunset cruise.
• Mud Volcanoes:Home to almost half of the world’s mud volcanoes.
• Gobustan Rock Art:Explore carvings dating back thousands of years.
• Baku Eye:Enjoy a Ferris wheel ride overlooking the city.

A Brief History Of The Land

Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this ancient land has been a cultural melting pot for millennia, influenced by the Silk Road, Persian empires, and Russian expansion.

The roots of Azerbaijan’s history can be traced back to the Bronze Age, with the region's early inhabitants practicing fire worship—a tradition tied to the country’s rich reserves of natural gas and oil. Over the centuries, Azerbaijan came under the influence of various empires, including the Medes, Achaemenids, and Sassanids, shaping its identity as a cultural and trading hub.

Today, Azerbaijan stands at the crossroads of its past and future, blending ancient traditions with modern ambitions. Its capital, Baku, epitomizes this duality with its medieval Old City sitting alongside futuristic skyscrapers like the Flame Towers. The country has emerged as a cultural and economic powerhouse in the Caucasus region.