Azerbaijan is a fascinating mix of East meets West charm, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern luxury. Baku, the capital, wows visitors with its futuristic skyline and UNESCO-listed Old City, while the countryside offers everything from fiery mountains (thanks to its natural gas vents) to serene Caspian Sea beaches. If you’re looking for a destination with rich culture, unique landscapes, and affordability, Azerbaijan should be high on your list.
As a tourist, your main airport will be Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku. There are also smaller airports in Ganja (KVD) and Nakhchivan (NAJ), but most international flights land in Baku. Major airlines like Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways offer connections from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. You can find the best flight deals on Skyscanner or Kayak.
Azerbaijan is safe for tourists, with low violent crime. However, petty theft happens in crowded areas like Baku’s Old City to keep valuables secure. The country has strict laws, so avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Also, while Azerbaijan is Muslim majority, it’s very secular with no strict dress codes, but modest clothing is respectful outside Baku’s city center.
The best time to visit Azerbaijan is April-May or September-October for mild weather. Summers (Jun-Aug) can hit 35°C (95°F), while winters are chilly but manageable.
I visited in October, and the weather was perfect: warm days and cool evenings.
Azerbaijan is a budget-friendly destination, with hostels from $18/night and meals for $6-12. For budget travel, use Bolt taxis and the metro to save money.
Pro Tip: Cash is still king in smaller towns, so carry some manat.
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