Azerbaijan 101: 10 Places You Can’t Miss (Tried & Tested!)

Alright, so if you're even thinking about visiting Azerbaijan or just scrolling through travel inspo, let me introduce you to 10 places you absolutely cannot skip while you're there. This is not your regular guidebook version—I’m giving you the real-deal, traveler-to-traveler lowdown. Pack your comfy shoes, power up your camera, and let's dive in!

1. Icherisheher (Old City) - Baku's Beating Heart

This place is like walking through a living postcard. Cobblestone streets, ancient walls, cute cafés, and souvenir shops that’ll tempt your wallet? Check, check, check. It's like Old Delhi but cleaner, prettier, and honestly—more aesthetic.

Must Do: Climb up the Maiden Tower for panoramic views. Just beware: the stairs are not your best friend if you're in heels (don’t ask how I know that).

Pro Tip: Visit around sunset for the golden hour glow—it makes everything magical.

2. Gobustan Rock Art - Stone Age Stories on the Rocks

This UNESCO site is super cool if ancient doodles on rocks are your thing (or even if they're not). It’s a mix of prehistoric carvings and Martian-looking landscapes.

Vibe Check: Very National Geographic, but with better weather.

Don't Miss: The mud volcanoes nearby (more on that below!). Also, wear sneakers—the terrain’s not made for glam.

3. Gabala/Qabala - Nature’s Peaceful Pause Button

Mountains, forests, lakes, cable cars, and cute cottages—Gabala is the calm your chaotic trip needs.

Perfect For: A day trip or a night stay if you want a break from city chaos. Also, great for fam jams and honeymooners.

Pro Tip: Try the Nohur Lake boat ride or just chill by the water with hot tea and snacks (life = sorted).

To be honest, we packed sweaters and jackets, but upon reaching the top, the weather was pleasant and there was no snow, as the tour guide mentioned.

4. Candy Cane Mountains - Yes, They’re Real!

Straight-up Instagram gold. These striped hills are pastel perfection, and yes, they look like candy canes IRL.

Getting There: You’ll need a guide or driver—they’re kinda offbeat but SO worth it.

Tip: Early morning or evening light makes the colours pop for photos.

But for us, it was scheduled in the daylight during peak sun.

5. Mud Volcanoes - Nature’s Spa Meets Chaos

Imagine volcanoes, but instead of lava, they’re bubbling with mud. Azerbaijan has the most mud volcanoes in the world (random flex but we love it).

What to Expect: Bumpy rides, wind, mud splashes, and a lot of fun. Wear old clothes and carry tissues (trust me).

Bonus: It’s FREE to enter, but the 4x4 ride might cost you.

6. Heydar Aliyev Center - Architectural Goals

This building looks like it came from the future. Wavy, white, and totally iconic—it's one of Baku’s most photographed spots.

Inside: Art exhibits and cultural displays (worth a quick walk-through).

Outside: Endless photo ops. Just... don’t lie on the grass (I got yelled at 😅).

7. Ateshgah Fire Temple - Where Fire is Worshipped

This is fire in its literal form. The ancient fire-worshipping Zoroastrian temple is super cool to see, especially if you’re into history.

Vibe: Calm, mystical, and surreal when the flames are dancing.

Pro Tip: Go with a guide or do a quick read before you enter—it’s more fascinating when you know the backstory.

8. Mini Venice - Tiny Gondolas, Big Feels

Tucked inside Baku Boulevard, this little man-made canal system gives total Venice vibes (minus the crowd and pigeons).

Why Go: It’s cute, different, and makes for great couple/family photos. And honestly? It’s just fun.

Pro Tip: Pair this with a sunset walk on Baku Boulevard—super scenic!

9. Yanardag (Burning Mountain) - Fire That Never Sleeps

Yes, more fire! This hillside has been burning for decades due to natural gas leaks, and it's weirdly mesmerizing.

Visit At Night: The flames look way cooler after dark (like nature’s own bonfire).

Tip: Don’t expect a huge mountain—it’s more like a fiery slope. Still cool though!

10. Flame Towers - Baku’s Iconic Skyline

You’ve seen them in every Baku skyline shot—those three glass towers that light up like actual flames at night.

Best View: From the Upland Park at night. The skyline + the Caspian Sea + the towers = chef’s kiss.

Photo Tip: Wide lens, tripod, and patience for that perfect long exposure.

Final Thoughts:

Azerbaijan is an underrated gem of a destination with just the right mix of history, modern glam, and natural beauty. From candy-coloured mountains to muddy chaos, fire temples to futuristic towers, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

Also, there's this 11th place you should definitely book without a doubt: Shahdag, famous for its cable car and stunning view from the top, as well as the roller coaster ride. To learn more about this 11th wonder, head to Day 4 of this blog.

So if it’s not already on your

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