Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
From $3,200
Interests
Destinations

Get a taste of Azerbaijan’s enigmatic capital, Baku, and its surrounds on this quick four-day itinerary. A city of contracts, see its famed medieval walled old city, with its ancient sites the Palace of Shirvanshahs and the Maiden Tower, as well as it’s ultra-modern iconic architecture including the Flame Towers and the Zaha Hadid-designed Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. Also take day-trips outside of Baku to nearby attractions including the fascinating Ateshgah Fire Temple, Yanar Dag, and Gobustan State Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Inner City: One of Azerbaijan’s UNESCO Heritage Sites, the Inner City is the historical core of Baku and is a must-see for any traveler to the country.
  • Mud Volcanoes and Petroglyphs: Not far from Baku is Gobustan State Reserve, a national park worth visiting for its fascinating barren landscape of mud volcanoes and ancient rock paintings. 
  • Eternal Fire: Nicknamed the ‘Land of Fire’, Azerbaijan has been known for its close relationship with fire. See the Zoroastrian Fire Temple where pilgrims historically came to worship Azerbaijan’s mystical ever-burning flames, as well as a still-burning hillside. 

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Baku

Arrive in Baku, the capital and commercial hub of Azerbaijan which sits in the east with a coastline built along the Caspian Sea. You will be met by your guide and driver and taken to your hotel via private luxury transfer. Check in and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel
  • Hospitality: Four Season’s signature hospitality and personal service makes the brand one of the world’s premier luxury hospitality companies, and its Baku property well exemplifies this ethos, making a stay here all the more memorable.
  • Location: The waterfront property is well situated just steps away from the boardwalk, Inner city, and other points of interest in the city, making it convenient for guests to easily explore the city as well as enjoy views of the Caspian Sea from their rooms.
  • Design: As its architect’s vision, the Four Seasons Baku is ‘a magnificent classical building clad in cream-toned limestone from the local mountains, topped by a copper roof.’ The elegant French Beaux-Arts style and neutral color palette befits a top luxury hotel in a capital city anywhere.
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Four Seasons Baku Preferred Hotel
About

The Fairmont Baku is a luxury hotel housed inside the Flame Towers, the most iconic modern landmark in all of Azerbaijan. It boasts 299 contemporary rooms, 19 served apartments and an array of Fairmont Gold options.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

The international Hilton brand brings its signature hospitality to Baku at its address in the business district, just steps away from the boardwalk and its scenic coastline lined with restaurants, museums, and nightlife. Room categories range from deluxe rooms and suites to executive and accessible.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

The JW Marriott sits along Baku Boulevard with convenient access to Port Baku Mall, Fountain Square, and Shirvanshakh Palace all nearby. Guests have a selection of rooms, executive rooms, and suites to choose from, starting with the smartly-dressed Deluxe Room at 42 sqm featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city or Caspian Sea, fully-stocked minibar, modern amenities, and spacious marble bathroom with large tub and separate shower.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

The Merchant Baku is one of the top boutique luxury hotels in the city, housed inside a 19th-century building that was once the headquarters of the Caspian Shipping Company. There are 63 rooms and suites, each stylishly dressed in Art Deco and Art Nouveau furnishings with plush bedding, elegant lighting, recessed ceiling, and modern amenities.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Baku

Your exploration of Azerbaijan begins with a walking tour through Baku’s medieval walled Inner City, Icheri Cheher. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this well-preserved old city is still a vibrant, living city that tells the history of Baku’s development over the past nine centuries within its narrow cobblestoned alleyways, historic caravanserais, hammams, mosques and hidden courtyards. The most ancient monument is the Maiden Tower, the symbol of the city which dates back as early as the 7th-6th centuries BC.  Another must-see is Shirvanshah’s Palace, located at the highest point in the city, and  described by UNESCO as “one of the pearls of Azerbaijan’s architecture.” Then, visit Gobustan Historical Reserve. The expansive archaeological park is an lunar desert-scape pock-marked with boulders, man-made caves, and mud volcanoes. The collection of rock carvings date back over 40,000 years to the ice age and depict scenes of prehistoric life such as tribal dances and hunting. Also within the area is another sight to behold - the mud volcano, a natural phenomenon where gases below the surface expel mud to the surface. There are only about 850 mud volcanoes in the world, with 300 of them found in Azerbaijan alone. Return to Baku for the evening.

Baku
Baku

Day 3

Baku

This morning, head out to the Absheron Peninsula to visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a pilgrimage site dedicated to its ‘eternal flame’. This area is known for its burning natural gas outlets which has long attracted Zoroastrian fire worshippers since its construction in the 17-18th centuries. Not far away is Yanar Dag, which translates to Fire Mountain. Also known for its eternal flame, it is a hill with natural gas burning on its slope. Return to Baku and stop by the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an iconic Baku landmark designed by star-chitect Zaha Hadid. The complex encompasses an auditorium, museum, exhibition halls, and offices. Spend the rest of the afternoon how you wish. For traditional culture, try out a hammam, chat with locals at a teahouse, and browse for textiles and carpets. For a more modern take, Baku fosters a thriving creative scene that see art galleries featuring avant-garde local artists and street art works, boutiques, concept stores, theaters, and cutting-edge international sports arenas. Don’t miss a stroll along Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade along the coastline of the Caspian Sea.  

Day 4

Departure

On your last day, spend your morning at leisure. When ready, a private car will take you to the airport for your flight onward. 

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–3

Four Seasons Baku
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Baku

The most luxurious property in the capital and all of Azerbaijan, The Four Seasons Baku is housed in an elegant beaux-arts-style building along the waterfront, just steps away from the treasured Inner City and Flame Towers. Each bright spacious room is dressed in an ornate Parisian-based style with a muted color palette, moulded walls, and richly upholstered salon armchairs and gilded frames. Rooms start at 48 sqm and feature a king or two twin beds, city or sea view, fully-stocked mini bar, complimentary WiFi, a French balconette or full balcony, and spacious marble bathroom with double vanities, mirror embedded television, and deep soaking tub with separate rain shower. Suites offer extra stay with separating sleeping and living areas, while lavish presidential suites also come with dining room, pantry, private gym, separate study, and multiple balconies. The light-filled Zafferano restaurant serves breakfast and central Italian specialties for lunch and dinner under its vaulted ceilings or enjoyed on the terrace. Afternoon tea is served at Piazza’s airy salon, while evening time whiskey and cigars are on order at Bentley’s club-style lounge. Jaleh Spa is located on the 9th floor and offers a comprehensive menu of treatments, massages, and salon services. There is also an indoor pool and fitness room. Baku International Airport is approximately 30-40 minutes by car.
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Fairmont Baku at the Flame Towers

Fairmont Baku at the Flame Towers

The Fairmont Baku is a luxury hotel housed inside the Flame Towers, the most iconic modern landmark in all of Azerbaijan. It boasts 299 contemporary rooms, 19 served apartments and an array of Fairmont Gold options. Rooms start at a spacious 50 sqm/538 sq ft and feature modern top amenities including a Nespresso Machine, fully stocked mini-bar, complimentary high-speed WiFI, and bathrooms with rain shower, separate soaking tub, and exclusive Le Labo Rose 31 toiletries. Luxuriously appointed suites offer more space for bedding, seating, study, and dining, and sweeping views of the Caspian sea. Fairmont Gold guests are granted exclusive amenities and services including private concierge and Gold Lounge access to complimentary breakfast. Le Bistro is the all-day dining restaurant located on the lobby level, offering guests a casual setting to enjoy a rotating seasonal menu of Mediterranean cuisine. For sweets, pastries, sandwiches with coffee and tea, the Balcon Café has an array of light bites to enjoy with its balcony view. Sunset and postprandial drinks can be sipped with panoramic evening views of the city and background of vinyl music at Bar19, located on the 19th floor. The SPA at Fairmont Baku is spread over two floors with defined areas for relaxation and activity. The unique Sky Garden has a large sun deck for sunbathing, while the poolside sauna offers views of the Caspian Sea. The Flame Towers is near the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and promenade, and Baku International Airport is approximately 40 minutes’ drive away.
Hilton Baku

Hilton Baku

The international Hilton brand brings its signature hospitality to Baku at its address in the business district, just steps away from the boardwalk and its scenic coastline lined with restaurants, museums, and nightlife. Room categories range from deluxe rooms and suites to executive and accessible. Entry-level rooms start at 30sqm and feature classic Hilton furnishings and decor, modern amenities, king or twin beds, a soaking tub, and floor to ceiling windows with views of the Caspian Sea. Suites and executive rooms come with Executive benefits such as a private check-in area and exclusive access to the Executive Lounge located on the 17th floor which offers complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails, and complimentary WiFI. Casual all-day dining is offered at Cilantro restaurant where flavors from across the globe mingle on the same menu. For an elegant dinner, guests and locals head to Sky Grill on the 24th floor for fresh seafood and steaks paired with panoramic views over the Caspian Sea. Evening drinks and canapés can be had at the chic 360 Bar or enjoyed anytime at the Sugar Lounge. For pampering and relaxation, the signature eforea spa has five treatment rooms, private steam rooms, sauna, Turkish Hammam, whirlpool, an 18-meter indoor pool, and fitness center with yoga room. Baku International Airport is approximately 30-minutes away.
JW Marriott Absheron

JW Marriott Absheron

The JW Marriott sits along Baku Boulevard with convenient access to Port Baku Mall, Fountain Square, and Shirvanshakh Palace all nearby. Guests have a selection of rooms, executive rooms, and suites to choose from, starting with the smartly-dressed Deluxe Room at 42 sqm featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city or Caspian Sea, fully-stocked minibar, modern amenities, and spacious marble bathroom with large tub and separate shower. Executive rooms and suites offer more space as well as special amenities and services including access to the lounge where complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails are served. Likewise, the multi-bedroom family accommodations include special amenities for children. There are three restaurants to choose from: ZEST is a casual all-day restaurant serving Mediterranean and local cuisine; Fireworks Urban Kitchen specializes in popular steakhouse favorites, from seafood to burgers and cuts of prime beef; OroNero is a stylish fine dining venue with an Italian menu. Razzmatazz Cocktail Bar and Lounge offers a selection of drinks and handmade cocktails, while the Tea Lounge is a tranquil space to enjoy freshly baked pastries with tea. The Absheron Spa, located on the 21st floor, has five treatment rooms, steam room, Finnish sauna, indoor swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness center - all with views of the city and sea. Baku International Airport is a 25-minute drive away.
The Merchant Baku

The Merchant Baku

The Merchant Baku is one of the top boutique luxury hotels in the city, housed inside a 19th-century building that was once the headquarters of the Caspian Shipping Company. There are 63 rooms and suites, each stylishly dressed in Art Deco and Art Nouveau furnishings with plush bedding, elegant lighting, recessed ceiling, and modern amenities. The 16 suites offer more space as well as a balcony with sitting space to enjoy the city views. There are also specially designated rooms with disability access. The all-day restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a selection of modernized Azerbaijani and continental dishes for lunch and dinner. The bar is staffed with expert bartenders versed in classic and specialty drinks which guests may enjoy alfresco on the terrace with light bites during the summer. Guests seeking to keep up their fitness regime may utilize the fitness room which features state of the art machines and free weights. The Merchant conveniently is located in the heart of the city’s historic district, just steps away from the landmark Maiden Tower and just a couple streets over from Baku Boulevard. Baku International Airport is approximately 35 minutes’ drive to the hotel.

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Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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Fire Walk with Me

Author
Peter Elia
A melting pot for cultures, notably element-worshipping Zoroastrians, Azerbaijan offers heritage and beauty as well as some of the best hiking in the Caucasus.
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