Sightseeing in Azerbaijan
Including Gobustan National Park and Icherisheher (Old City). On the map.
The vibe
Azerbaijan’s streets weave ancient Silk Road relics with Soviet‑era architecture, creating a layered sense of history. The best time to explore is spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Visitors find the main heritage sites bustling, yet wandering through quieter neighborhoods feels easy.
Gobustan National Park
Baku
AlixSaz / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Gobustan is an archaeological treasure trove famous for its thousands of prehistoric petroglyphs and unique mud volcanoes. This desert landscape provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient inhabitants dating back to the Upper Paleolithic.
Access. Best reached via a day trip from Baku by private car or guided tour, typically taking about 1.5 hours.
Notes. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is rocky and uneven; visiting in the spring or autumn is recommended to avoid extreme heat.
Icherisheher (Old City), Baku
Sabail Raion
Ludvig14 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The historic core of Baku, Icherisheher is a UNESCO World Heritage site enclosed by ancient defensive walls. It is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, historic mosques, and the iconic Maiden Tower, offering a deep dive into the medieval history of the Absheron Peninsula.
Access. Located in the heart of Baku, it is easily accessible by foot, metro, or taxi from anywhere in the city center.
Notes. The area is pedestrian-friendly; some sites like the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs require entry tickets.