5 Days Tour Through History, Faith, and Folklore in the Caucasus

Baku , Azerbaijan

5 Days Tour Through History, Faith, and Folklore in the Caucasus

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About this experience

Whether you’re drawn by history, handicrafts, cuisine, or the great outdoors, this 5 days itinerary provides a perfect introduction to the diverse cultural landscape of northwestern Azerbaijan. This itinerary offers a rich blend of natural beauty, ancient craftsmanship, architectural marvels, and authentic Azerbaijani hospitality. Start your adventure in Shamakhi, exploring the iconic Juma Mosque and serene landscapes. Visit Lahij, a charming mountain village famous for its cobbled streets, copperware artisans, and traditional Caucasian architecture. Continue to Gabala, a picturesque region nestled in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus, offering lush forests, lakes, and the popular Tufandag Mountain Resort. Explore Sheki, a UNESCO-listed town renowned for its exquisite Khan’s Palace, historic caravanserais, and local crafts at the ABAD Center. Conclude your tour in Qakh, a hidden gem boasting a mix of Albanian, Georgian, and Azerbaijani cultural heritage.

Available options

Included Entry Tickets

Sedan car, Minivan<br/>Pickup included

Excluded Entry Tickets

Sedan car, Minivan, Mini bus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bio Garden Sheki (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

24/7 in situ and remote assistance

Comfortable transportation

Sheki Khan Palace (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Kish Albanian Church (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Pick-up from your hotel, and drop-off back to your hotel

Diribaba Mauseloum (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Sheki Museum of History and Local Lore (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Cable Car ride 2x lines in Tufandag Mountain Resort (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

English speaking tour guide

Nohurlake boat riding (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Sumug-gala Castle (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Lahic Village Museum (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We only provide 2 price option here. First is guide and driver, second is guide, driver and entrance fees. But the accommodation and meals are for the guests to separately choose. We can only assist the guests about the hotel booking. Travelers are asked to read Inclusions section carefully as we offer two price options with Included Entry Tickets and Excluded Entry Tickets.

Meeting point

We can pick up the guests from the hotel or appoint 2 main meeting points and take the guests from Qosha Qala Qapisi (Double Gates) which is the main entrance for the Old City.

About Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it's known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient Maiden Tower and the iconic Flame Towers.

Top Attractions

Maiden Tower

A 12th-century monument that is a symbol of Baku. Its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (5 AZN)

Flame Towers

Three futuristic skyscrapers that are landmarks of modern Baku. The towers are designed to resemble flames, a reference to Baku's ancient history as a center of the fire-worshipping Zoroastrian religion.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to view from outside

Old City (Icheri Sheher)

The historic core of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, attractions within have varying costs

Baku Boulevard

A scenic park along the Caspian Sea with walking paths, cafes, and entertainment options.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, activities have varying costs

Heydar Aliyev Center

A stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. The center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and conferences.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (depends on the event)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and vegetables. It's often served at special occasions and is considered a national dish.

Main course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Dushbara

Tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and served in a broth. It's a popular street food in Baku.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Piti

A traditional soup made with lamb, chickpeas, and noodles, served in a clay pot.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Dolma

Grapes leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

Appetizer Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gobustan National Park Exploring mud volcanoes Visiting the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory Strolling along Baku Boulevard Enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse Relaxing at a local hammam (bathhouse) Exploring the Old City Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Baku with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are moderate, and the city hosts several festivals during these months.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Azerbaijani
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Baku is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Heydar Aliyev International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Baku Railway Station

By bus

Baku International Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bina Taxi, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City (Icheri Sheher) Nizami District Khatai District

Day trips

Gobustan National Park

60 km from Baku • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and a unique desert landscape. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.

Lankaran

220 km from Baku • Full day or overnight

A city in southern Azerbaijan known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and the nearby Hirkan National Park. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Shamakhi

120 km from Baku • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient Juma Mosque, the Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleums, and the nearby Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. It's a great place for history lovers and those interested in astronomy.

Festivals

Baku International Jazz Festival • October Baku International Film Festival (BAFTA) • October Novruz Bayrami • March 20-21 (or around the spring equinox)

Pro tips

Visit the Flame Fountain in Baku Boulevard, a unique attraction where natural gas flames continuously burn from a stone fountain
Try traditional Azerbaijani tea in a local teahouse, such as Sazaghan Teahouse or Chaykhana #1
Explore the Old City on foot, taking in the narrow streets, historic sites, and local markets
Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid