Great Azerbaijan Discovery with Jewish Legacy - 13 days (AZ-06)

Arrive in Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan. Upon arrival, meet your driver at the airport for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy your evening in Baku. Overnight in Baku. (Dinner)

Start your day discovering the captivating city of Baku, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. Begin with a guided tour that highlights the city’s most remarkable sights, from grand monuments to cutting-edge architectural marvels. Visit Upland Park, the highest vantage point in Baku, offering breathtaking views of the city and its sparkling bay. Step back in time with a visit to Icheri Sheher, Baku’s Old City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircled by ancient walls, this historic area was once the entire city until the 19th-century oil boom. Within its compact 22 hectares lie treasures such as the Shirvanshah’s Palace, the iconic Maiden Tower, and the historic Karavansaray, a former haven for traders. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, home to about 1,300 families, and soak in the timeless ambiance of this “city within a city.” Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through Fountains Square, a lively hub perfect for relaxation or shopping. Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Embark on an exciting day uncovering some of Azerbaijan’s most remarkable natural and cultural sites. Begin at Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient petroglyphs. These rock engravings, over 40,000 years old, offer a captivating glimpse into the lives and traditions of prehistoric communities. Wander through this open-air museum and admire intricate depictions of hunting, rituals, and daily life.

Continue to Azerbaijan’s famed mud volcanoes, a geological marvel that defines the region. Home to nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes, this unique landscape features bubbling craters and oozing mudflows that are both intriguing to observe and renowned for their therapeutic qualities.

In the afternoon, visit Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that has burned ceaselessly for centuries. Often called the "eternal flame," this fascinating phenomenon, with its glowing hillside, symbolizes Azerbaijan’s heritage as the "Land of Fire." The dramatic flames create an unforgettable spectacle. Return to Baku in the evening for a restful night at your hotel. Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 152 km / 95 ml.

Delve into Azerbaijan’s rich history and mystical heritage with a day filled with exploration. Begin at the Gala Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum Complex, an open-air museum offering a fascinating window into the lives of the country’s ancient communities. Discover reconstructed homes, ancient tools, and artifacts that bring Azerbaijan’s early rural traditions to life.

Continue your journey to Ateshgah, the Fire Temple of Baku, a remarkable symbol of Azerbaijan’s historical connection to fire worship. This unique pentagonal temple, revered by Zoroastrians and later Hindus, features a central altar where natural gas flames once burned continuously. Stroll through its chambers and courtyards while uncovering the site’s deep spiritual and cultural importance.

End the day with a visit to Ramana Castle, a majestic 12th-century fortress standing atop a rocky hill. This historic structure, once a key defensive outpost, now offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Walk along its ancient walls and imagine the history etched into its stones. Return to Baku in the evening to unwind at your hotel. Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 80 km / 50 ml.

Experience the vibrant modernity of Baku, where contemporary design meets a rich historical tapestry. Begin your day with a peaceful stroll along Baku Boulevard, a scenic walkway along the Caspian Sea. Revel in the refreshing sea breeze as you explore this lively area filled with charming cafes, verdant parks, and cultural landmarks. Next, visit the iconic Flame Towers, soaring symbols of Baku’s innovative spirit and architectural evolution. Continue your journey at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, a treasure trove celebrating the country’s legendary carpet-weaving heritage. Admire exquisite textiles and intricately designed carpets that tell stories of Azerbaijan’s artistic traditions.

Head to the Heydar Aliyev Centre, a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid. Its flowing, futuristic form houses exhibitions that celebrate the legacy of Heydar Aliyev and showcase cutting-edge design and culture. Conclude your day at Park Boulevard Mall, a stylish destination for shopping and relaxation by the sea. Enjoy some free time browsing stores, sipping coffee at a chic café, or simply taking in the vibrant ambiance. Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Set off on a scenic journey to Gabala, taking in the stunning landscapes of Azerbaijan’s countryside. Along the way, stop in Shamakhi, a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Visit the ancient Juma Mosque, dating back to the 8th century, and marvel at its elegant architecture and serene surroundings. Explore the Shamakhi Mausoleum, a tranquil resting place of historical significance, set amidst picturesque scenery. Known for its lush vineyards and orchards, the region offers a serene and idyllic backdrop.

Continue your journey to Lahich, a quaint mountain village celebrated for its masterful copperware craftsmanship. Stroll through the cobbled streets and visit local workshops where skilled artisans create intricate copper items, perfect as unique keepsakes.

End the day in Gabala, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. Relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this scenic destination. Overnight in Gabala. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 250 km / 156 ml.

Begin your day in the charming town of Gabala, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Explore its tranquil natural beauty, from verdant forests to peaceful lakes, and take in the picturesque landscapes that make Gabala a haven of serenity. Dive into the town’s cultural heritage by visiting its bustling markets and traditional craft workshops, where local artisans showcase their skills.

Continue your journey towards Sheki, stopping en route at Kish, a delightful village home to the ancient Albanian Church of Kish. This historically significant church, dating back to the 1st century AD, offers a window into the region’s early Christian history and stands as a testament to Azerbaijan’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Arrive in Sheki, a town known for its rich history and stunning surroundings. Spend the evening unwinding in this charming destination. Overnight in Sheki. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 88 km / 55 ml.

Start your day in the historic town of Sheki, celebrated for its cultural richness and picturesque surroundings. Explore the Sheki Khan’s Summer Palace, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture adorned with intricate frescoes, colorful stained glass, and exquisite tilework. Set amidst lush gardens, the palace provides a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the Sheki Khanate, offering stunning balcony views of the surrounding landscapes. After immersing yourself in Sheki’s heritage, travel onward to Ganja. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in this vibrant city. Overnight in Ganja. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 145 km / 91 ml.

Begin your day in Ganja, Azerbaijan’s vibrant second-largest city, steeped in history and culture. Explore the Shah Abbas Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and the medieval caravanserai, once a bustling stop for Silk Road travelers. Visit the Museum of Miniature Books, housing an extraordinary collection of tiny literary treasures, and the Bottle House, a whimsical landmark crafted from glass bottles. Pay tribute to the revered Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi at his mausoleum, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the local bazaar.

Continue to Goygol and the charming village of Xanlar, originally founded in 1819 as Helenendorf by German winemakers. Discover its unique blend of Azerbaijani and German heritage, showcased in quaint German-style architecture and the old church-turned-museum. Wander the peaceful, tree-lined streets, and delve into the region’s Bronze Age history and the legacy of its German settlers, highlighted by exhibits at the local museum.

Return to Baku and visit the magnificent Bibi Heybat Mosque. This iconic religious site captivates with its elegant design and deep cultural significance, serving as a spiritual and architectural highlight of the city. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 380 km / 238 ml.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, set out for Guba, the northern capital of Azerbaijan. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Jewish Settlement across the Kudyal River, home to Red Town, the largest Mountain Jewish community in the former Soviet Union. Red Town, or Krasnaya Sloboda, stands as a rare and vibrant example of an entirely Jewish settlement outside Israel and the United States, preserving the traditions of a centuries-old shtetl. The Mountain Jews, who have lived in the Caucasus for generations, practice a distinctive form of Judaism enriched with mysticism and speak Judeo-Tat, a Persian-based language. The settlement dates back to the 18th century when Jews fleeing the destruction of their Persian communities found refuge in Azerbaijan. Under the protection of Huseyn Ali Akhan, they established Red Town in 1731, creating a thriving, culturally rich community that endures to this day.

Later, delve into Guba’s renowned carpet-making tradition with a visit to a local carpet shop. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant designs that reflect the region's deep-rooted artistry. End your day with an overnight stay in Guba. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 174 km / 109 ml.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive to Khinalig, a remote mountain village nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters in the northern region of Azerbaijan. Known as one of the highest mountain villages in the Caucasus, Khinalig is a remarkable cultural and historical destination, part of a state historical, architectural, and ethnographic reserve. Its well-preserved traditional way of life and unique architecture have earned it the nickname "open-air museum."

Khinalig is home to a distinct language and culture that attracts ethnologists from around the world, eager to learn more about the village's rich heritage. The warm hospitality of the locals and the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains make it a captivating place to visit. Situated in the mountains of Gizil Gaya, Shahdag, Tufandag, and Khinalig, on the left bank of the Gudialchay River, the village is directly opposite Tufandag mountain. According to local legend, the ruins of an ancient settlement destroyed by a massive earthquake over 1,000 years ago are located on Tufandag, with the survivors of the catastrophe believed to have founded Khinalig. After exploring this fascinating village, return to Guba for the evening. Overnight in Guba. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 122 km / 76 ml.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out from your rooms and begin the scenic drive back to Baku. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You can relax or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 174 km / 109 ml.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)