Highlights of Azerbaijan - 6 days (AZ-01)

Upon arrival at the international airport of Baku you’ll be met by our representative for your transfer to the hotel. After check in there’ll be free time. You’ll overnight in Baku. (Dinner)

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Baku, starting with a sightseeing tour to experience the city's monumental, historical, and architectural landmarks. We’ll visit Upland Park, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Baku and its bay, from where the city's beauty unfolds before us. Following that, we’ll descend to the Old City, known as Icheri Sheher. Once the entire city of Baku until the 19th century, this compact area of just 22 hectares is home to some of the city’s most iconic sights. Among these are the Shirvanshahs' Palace, the Maiden Tower, and the Karavansaray, which once served as a resting place for traveling merchants. Despite its size, Icheri Sheher still houses around 1,300 families, making it a living piece of history amidst the modern city. The narrow, charming streets make for a perfect evening stroll, leading to the lively Fountains Square. We return to our hotel for the night in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today, after breakfast, our guide will meet you for your included excursion to Gobustan. Gobustan National Park, located in East Azerbaijan, is a stunning archaeological reserve that borders the southern slopes of the Caucasus, the Pirsaat River, the Harami and Mishov Mountains, and the Caspian Sea. This culturally important landscape is home to over 6,000 petroglyphs dating back to the 18th century BC, showcasing scenes of ancient human activities such as mountain goat hunts, maritime imagery, ceremonial dances, and domestic life. The archaeological site also features caves and remnants of early human settlements, offering an incredible glimpse into the past.

After exploring the petroglyphs, we will visit the nearby mud volcanoes, one of Azerbaijan’s most unique natural wonders. These volcanoes, known for their therapeutic mud and fascinating geological formations, are a must-see attraction in the Gobustan region.

On our way back to Baku, we will make a stop at Yanar Dag, the "Burning Mountain," where flames up to three meters high rise from the hillside due to natural gas seepage. This extraordinary phenomenon is one of the reasons Azerbaijan is known as the "Land of Fire." Overnight in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 152 km / 95 ml.

Begin your day by immersing yourself in Azerbaijan's rich history and culture, exploring significant ancient sites and unique landmarks around Baku. Your first stop is Gala, an open-air museum on the Absheron Peninsula. Here, you will discover the life of ancient Azerbaijan through exhibits featuring traditional houses, tools, pottery, and artifacts dating back to the 3rd century BC. Wander through recreated dwellings and gain insights into the customs and lifestyles of early settlers in the region.

Next, continue to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Azerbaijan's "Land of Fire" identity. This 17th-century temple, built by Zoroastrian and Hindu communities, is centered around a natural gas vent that has fueled eternal flames for centuries. Explore the temple complex and learn about its religious significance and history as a sacred site.

For lunch, enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani meal at a local restaurant on the Absheron Peninsula. Savor authentic dishes such as kebabs, plov (rice pilaf), and fresh salads. Afterward, head to the Ramana Fortress, a medieval structure built during the reign of the Shirvanshahs. This stone fortress offers fascinating insights into the region's defensive architecture and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Return to Baku in the evening for an overnight stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 80 km / 50 miles.

Today, we will explore the dynamic, modern side of Baku, uncovering the landmarks that reflect its transformation into a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Our journey begins with a leisurely walk along Baku Boulevard, the scenic waterfront promenade stretching along the Caspian Sea. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city’s stunning skyline, highlighted by the iconic Flame Towers. These impressive skyscrapers stand as symbols of modern Azerbaijan, their LED displays lighting up the night with captivating patterns. Next, we’ll visit the Carpet Museum, a striking structure designed to resemble a rolled carpet. Inside, you’ll find an exceptional collection of Azerbaijani carpets, each a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Our tour continues to the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, designed by the celebrated architect Zaha Hadid. This architectural masterpiece, with its flowing, wave-like curves, hosts a variety of exhibitions and cultural events, showcasing Azerbaijan’s forward-thinking vision. For a taste of Baku’s contemporary lifestyle, we’ll visit two of the city’s bustling shopping hubs: Mall 28th May and Park Boulevard. Both are located along the waterfront and offer a mix of retail, cafes, and entertainment options, providing a perfect opportunity to experience Baku’s cosmopolitan flair. We will return to our hotel for the night in Baku. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast you’ll transfer to the airport for departure. (Breakfast)