Explore Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan
Explore Azerbaijan's ancient palaces, mountain villages and mud volcanoes on this immersive 10-day journey through Baku, Gabala and Sheki.
Discover the fascinating contrasts of Azerbaijan on this comprehensive 10-day tour, beginning and ending in the vibrant capital, Baku. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old City, marvelling at the legendary Maiden Tower, the Shirvanshahs' Palace and the atmospheric Juma Mosque, before strolling along the Caspian seafront at Baku Boulevard and Fountain Square. Beyond the capital, the journey heads into the Caucasus foothills, travelling via the historic Friday Mosque in Shamakhi to reach Gabala, where a cable car ride reveals sweeping mountain views and a visit to the Yeddi Gozel waterfall showcases the region's natural beauty. Continuing to the enchanting town of Sheki, guests explore the magnificent 15th-century Sheki Khans' Palace, the historic Kervansaray Hotel, and the ancient Kish Albanian Church, before returning to Baku. From there, excursions extend to Gobustan's remarkable rock carvings and otherworldly mud volcanoes, the eternal flames of Yanardagh, and the sacred Ateshgah fire temple, revered by Zoroastrians and Hindus alike. Free time is built in for shopping at local malls and souqs, while thrill-seekers can head to the Shahdag Ski Resort for a day in the mountains. With comfortable 4-star accommodation in Baku, characterful hotels in Gabala and Sheki, English-speaking guides throughout, and a blend of included meals and excursions, this itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction to Azerbaijan's history, culture and landscapes — perfect for travellers seeking variety, comfort and genuine discovery.
Where You Stay
Properties are indicative — you will stay at these hotels or similar of the same standard.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
On arrival in Baku you are met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure before meeting in the hotel lobby at 19:00 for a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Explore the Hillside Park for panoramic bay views before entering the Old City via the Baku Fortress gates. Tour the Maiden Tower, Multani Caravanserai, Haji Banu Hamam, Juma Mosque, and the medieval Shirvanshahs' Palace. After lunch, visit Fountain Square and Baku Boulevard, concluding with dinner at a local restaurant.
Travel to the Caucasus Mountains, stopping at the Friday Mosque in Shamakhi. Once in Gabala, enjoy a local lunch before visiting the Yeddi Gozel waterfall and the Gabala Archaeological site. Take the cable car up Mount Tufandag for mountain views, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Travel to the historic town of Sheki to visit the magnificent 15th-century Sheki Khans Palace. Explore the traditional Kervansaray and the ancient Kish Albanian Church. Enjoy a local lunch and dinner as part of your tour through this fascinating medieval architectural centre.
Depart for Baku with a stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival and check-in, enjoy free time for refreshment or shopping in the city before meeting for an evening dinner at a local restaurant.
Travel to Gobustan to explore the museum and archaeological site. Take a local vehicle off-road to witness the mud volcanoes, then visit the burning mountain of Yanardagh and the Ateshgah fire temple. Enjoy lunch and dinner at local restaurants throughout the day.
Enjoy a dedicated shopping tour today. Depending on group preferences, you are taken to various shopping malls or local souqs to browse for gifts and traditional items. Lunch and dinner are taken at your own leisure to provide flexibility during your free time.
Depart early for the Shahdag Ski Resort to enjoy a full day of skiing, sliding, and various snow activities. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to Baku in the late afternoon, with the evening free for dinner at your own arrangement.
Travel to the fire temple of Ateshgah to explore its historic significance, then witness the natural phenomena of Yanardagh, the burning mountain. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before spending the afternoon at leisure to explore the city. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate your final night in Azerbaijan
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your private transfer to the airport for your onward flight
Hotels shown are indicative — you will stay at these properties or similar of the same standard.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- 9 nights at Baku Hotel, Gabala Hotel or Sheki Hotel or similar
- Half board, full board and bed & breakfast basis as per programme
- English-speaking national guide throughout
- Entrance fees to Shirvanshahs' Palace, Maiden Tower, Sheki Khans' Palace, Kish Church, Ateshgah, Gobustan, Yanardagh & cable car ride
- 0.5 litre bottle of water per person per day
- Based on 2 adults sharing
Excluded
- Return international flights
- Visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Lunch and dinner on day 7
- Dinner on day 8
- Photo charges
- Tips
- Ski resort equipment and activity costs
- Any costs not specifically listed under What's Included
Gallery
Images on this page are for illustrative purposes only and may not show the exact hotel, room, view or location included in your holiday. Your written quote and booking confirmation set out exactly what is included. Read our imagery notice
Dates & Pricing
This holiday is tailored to your dates and preferences. Enquire and our specialists will prepare a personalised quote for you.
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