top 10 things to do in Azerbaijan

#1

Kickstart your day of sightseeing with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in the cobbled streets of Baku’s Old City. Indulge in egg-based dishes such as pomidor chigirtma, a delicious fusion of scrambled eggs and cooked tomatoes, enjoyed with piping hot tandoor-baked bread, sweet honey, farmer’s cheeses and creams, yoghurts, and copious amounts of tea – a magical mix made even better by the company of family and friends.

#2

Surrounded by lush Caucasian countryside in the north-west, Azerbaijan’s latest UNESCO World Heritage site is waiting to be discovered! Spend an afternoon quietly wandering Silk Road-inspired streets, admiring Sheki’s signature gabled-roof architecture and intricate brickwork, reflecting this city’s past as a major trade and crafts hub. Call in at mosques and museums, caravanserais and palaces, and sample a type of baklava unique to this part of the Caucasus.

#3

Long before the Arab conquest brought Islam to Azerbaijan from the 7th century, Christianity was widespread throughout Azerbaijan and remained robust in certain areas throughout the Middle Ages. Even today, the village of Nij is home to an ancient Christian people called the Udis who gather every Sunday at a charmingly restored 17th-century church. Visiting the many ancient churches scattered around the countryside is a great way to discover Azerbaijan’s history and heritage.

#4

Approximately one hour’s drive from Ganja is Naftalan – a resort town famous for its healing oil which for centuries has been used here to cure all sorts of ailments. Treatment typically involves taking daily baths of crude oil for at least a week at one of the town’s many wellness centres.

#5

Shrouded in myth and legend and populated by a myriad of multicultural peoples, the spectacular Caucasus Mountains have attracted intrepid travellers and explorers for centuries. Azerbaijan is blessed with a glorious mountainous stretch spanning the entire north of the country which is dotted with timeless mountain villages linked by an emerging network of hiking trails.

#6

Over the last decade Baku’s skyline has been transformed by some spectacular modern architectural masterpieces. The crown jewel is the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Centre, but the Flame Towers, Carpet Museum and others are equally innovative and inspiring.

#7

Azerbaijan has over 500 km of Caspian Sea coastline. You’ll find scenic views from north to south and plenty of sun-soaked beaches just a 30-minute drive from Baku. There, each summer the golden sands of the Absheron Peninsula come alive with luxury resorts and water parks, local fish restaurants and scenic beaches.

#8

Home to nine of the world’s 11 climate zones, Azerbaijan’s natural diversity is likely to surprise and delight. A great way to experience it is by visiting some of the country’s 9 national parks that protect rare fauna and flora in important wilderness zones.

#9

Boasting beautiful terroirs and saline soils, Azerbaijan’s wine industry is undergoing a major revival. Stunning flavours are being produced from foreign and native grapes at a growing number of wineries in diverse corners of the country, and several chic wine bars are bringing European style to the rapidly developing Azerbaijani capital.

#10

Tea is synonymous with hospitality in Azerbaijan where tradition dictates that a guest should not be allowed to leave a home without being offered it. Azerbaijani tea ceremonies have evolved over centuries to have their own rites and rituals. It is served in a special pear-shaped glass with lemon and sugar, and often a tray of delicious honey, jams and sweets. This is an experience you can have anywhere in the country, from upmarket hotels to quiet village teahouses.