Baku & Gabala Tour

Today, your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you on a tour of Baku’s rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders. First, admire the Heydar Aliyev Center, a proud work of Zaha Hadid (1950-2016), the first woman to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize. She was hailed as the “Queen of the Curve” for her designs full of fluidity. This snow-white building stands elegantly in the city center, resembling a wave swaying in the sea breeze. Opposite it, you can see Baku Convention Center, whose dark gray metallic style showcases the diversity of Baku’s architecture. 

Next, head to the Flame Towers, three flame-shaped skyscrapers. Located at the plate boundary, Azerbaijan possesses abundant oil and natural gas resources due to its special geological structure. Naturally formed eternal flames have been a constant presence here for centuries. The flame motif, symbolizing freedom and independence, is not only used in architectural design, but also appears on the national emblem. After that, be prepared to take a cable car to Highland Park for a brand-new perspective to overlook these stunning buildings and enjoy the captivating coastal scenery of the Bay of Baku. 

Later, learn about Azerbaijan’s hand-woven carpet skills dating back to the 5th century BC at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, before we explore Baku’s canal network known as Mini Venice, and stroll along Baku Boulevard on the Caspian Sea coastline. Then, when we step into the bustling Nizami Street, you might think you’re in a European town because of the style of buildings here. However, since Azerbaijan is a Muslim country, you might find yourself walking on European-style streets while listening to Muslim music.

★ Journey through Time & Culture in Baku Old City

Follow your guide to explore Baku’s history in Baku Old City. Passing through the archway is like stepping back from modern Baku to the Middle Ages. We’ll ascend to Shirvanshah’s Palace, built at the highest point to allow Shirvanshah rulers to oversee the harbor. Within the magnificent palace complex, you can see the exquisite reception hall, harem, and bathhouses of the 15th century. Its sophisticated water system even allows you to experience the water temperature used by royalty at that time. Leaving the palace, we’ll encounter Maiden Tower at a corner of the city wall. Despite its beautiful name, it was once a defensive tower for people to throw burning oil torches to repel enemies. Finally, at the Miniature Books Museum, you can see tiny paper books from around the world, including a 17th-century Quran.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard (5 stars) or similar

Early in this morning, your guide and driver will be waiting at your hotel, and we’ll leave behind the bustle of Baku to explore the Caucasus Mountains. After a two-hour drive, we’ll first arrive at the Jummah Mosque in Shamakhi. During the 8th to 15th centuries AD, the city’s golden age, it was not only the capital of the powerful Kingdom of Shirvan but also a crucial stop on the Silk Road, where Eastern silk and porcelain met Western wool. However, due to its location on a geological fault, Shamakhi has suffered greatly from earthquakes over the past centuries, leading to the change of the political center. Yet, the people of Shamakhi have always managed to rebuild their homes from the ruins. And Jummah Mosque, which has been rebuilt more than a dozen times, silently witnesses the city’s resilience.

Then, we’ll continue driving for another hour to Gabala, nestled at the foot of the Caucasus, known as the “Switzerland of Azerbaijan.” First, follow your guide to venture to Yeddi Gozal Waterfall, seven falls hidden in the dense forest, and climb the steps carved onto the rock to get a close-up view. As you ascend, the air will become more humid and the steps more slippery, so please stay close to your guide and watch your step. Along the way, we’ll pass local teahouses where you can sample a cup of Azerbaijani black tea at your own expense.

Afterward, let’s go to Nohur Lake, a large reservoir built during the Soviet era, with clear water that still supplies the surrounding areas. You can stroll along the lakeside, enjoying the lush greenery and melodious birdsong. Experience the tranquil atmosphere, take photos, or simply relax by the lake. Next, you’ll experience an exciting Tufandag Mountain Resort cable car ride, climbing 2,000 meters (6,561 ft.) to enjoy panoramic views of the valleys and mountains.

After you enjoy the picturesque scenery and take the cable car downhill, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in Baku, a journey of about 3.5 hours.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard (5 stars) or similar

Today marks the end of your trip. Your driver will escort you to Baku Airport, and help you handle your luggage and find the correct check-in counter. Hope you have had a good time with us! Wish you a smooth trip onwards!

► Flight Tips: 
Azerbaijan has direct flights to major European capitals and hub cities, but no direct flights to the US. Convenient layovers include Istanbul, Turkey, and Dubai, UAE. Flights transiting through Istanbul are recommended, as the flight time from Baku is only 3 hours and flights are frequent.

If you want to spend a few more days in Azerbaijan to see the mesmerizing mud volcanoes of Gobustan or explore the ancient sites of Zoroastrianism, please feel free to contact us for personalized itineraries.

Meals: Breakfast