Azerbaijan is ruling all travel itineraries and for all the right reasons. This fascinating country, where Europe meets Asia and everything is full of drama, is actually Google’s most searched destination in 2024! What can you see here? Fire-breathing mountains? check. Cities that feel like they were taken from a sci-fi movie? Absolutely. Ancient history that will blow your mind? without a doubt. So pack your bags and bookmark the most beautiful places in Azerbaijan for your New Year holidays.
Sheki Khan’s Palace
Sheki Khan’s palace is full of colour, with stained glass windows that will leave your camera begging for mercy. And let’s not forget the food – Shakey’s Halwa (a sticky, nutty dessert) is basically a hug in sugar form.
Gobustan National Park
Gobustan National Park is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site in Azerbaijan, famous for its ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes and archaeological wonders. However the most interesting feature of this park is its bubbling mud volcanoes and musical stones that hum in the air creating an otherworldly landscape.
Flame Towers of Baku
Baku’s Flame Towers are iconic symbols of Azerbaijan’s modernity, lighting up the skyline with their sleek, flame-shaped design and mesmerizing LED displays. These tall skyscrapers stand as a tribute to the country’s “Land of Fire” heritage while demonstrating the country’s future ambitions. By day, they shine across the city’s landscape, and at night, they transform into a light show visible from across the city.
Lankaran
Crashing waves, brewing tea, and a lighthouse that’s as quirky as your travel plans. Welcome to Lankaran, a city nestled between the Caspian Sea and the lush Talysh Mountains, where citrus groves and tea plantations meet sandy beaches. Whether you’re enjoying the sunshine or sipping a cup of local wine, Lankaran will make you feel all kinds of zen.
Goygol Lake
Lake Goygol is like Switzerland’s cooler cousin. Located inside the Goygol National Park, this lake is a favorite of the locals, with its waters so clear you can probably take a flawless mirror selfie from its surface. Pack a picnic, take a hike and explore the dense forests around the lake. Bonus: It’s much cheaper than the Alps.
Nakhchivan
One of the country’s most sought-after destinations, this exclave is filled with stunning tombs, legendary caves and surreal landscapes. And the best place to experience the tranquility of Nakhchivan’s countryside is at one of the most excellent picnic spots – Batabat Lake. It’s off the beaten track but worth the trip!
ganja
Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second largest city, is a treasure trove of history, culture and attractions. From the Nizami Tomb honoring the country’s greatest poet to the unique Bottle House made from 50,000 glass bottles, Ganja blends heritage with creativity. You can also explore the Imamzadeh complex with its striking blue domes, and enjoy the region’s finest wines paired with local dishes like piti.
Quba
Cuba is your snowy sanctuary. Think beautiful wooden chalets, the majestic Caucasus Mountains and nearby Khinalug – an ancient village that looks like a Game of Thrones set (without the dragons). Whether you’re skiing or simply sipping hot cocoa by the fire, Cuba is pure frosty magic.
