INSIGHTFUL AZERBAIJAN

Day 1: Arrival in Baku

• Heydar Aliyev Center: Begin your journey in Baku by visiting the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid. Explore the exhibitions showcasing Azerbaijan's history and culture.
• Baku Boulevard: Stroll along Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea. Enjoy the views, parks, and cafes.
• Flame Towers: Visit the Flame Towers, iconic skyscrapers that light up in the evening with a mesmerizing display. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

Day 2: Baku Sightseeing

• Old City (Icherisheher): Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City, including the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Wander through the narrow streets and discover historical sites and charming architecture.
• Carpet Museum: Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, which houses an extensive collection of traditional Azerbaijani carpets and textiles.
• Fountain Square: Relax at Fountain Square, a vibrant area with shops, cafes, and fountains. It's a great spot to people-watch and enjoy the local atmosphere.
• Nizami Street: Explore Nizami Street, a bustling pedestrian shopping street filled with boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment.

Day 3: Day Trip to Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

• Gobustan National Park: Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age.
• Mud Volcanoes: Visit the nearby Mud Volcanoes, a unique geological phenomenon where mud and gas erupt from the ground. It's a surreal and fascinating landscape.

Day 4: Baku to Sheki

• Travel to Sheki: Depart from Baku and head to Sheki, a charming town in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
• Sheki Khan's Palace: Visit the Sheki Khan's Palace, a beautiful 18th-century palace known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate decorations.
• Caravanserai: Explore the Sheki Caravanserai, a historic inn that once served as a stop for Silk Road travelers. It's now a museum and hotel.

Day 5: Sheki and Surroundings

• Kish Village: Take a short trip to Kish, a nearby village famous for its ancient Albanian church. The church is one of the oldest Christian sites in the Caucasus region.
• Sheki Bazaar: Explore the local bazaar in Sheki, where you can shop for traditional crafts, sweets, and souvenirs.
• Relaxation: Spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Sheki.

Day 6: Sheki to Gabala

• Travel to Gabala: Depart from Sheki and head to Gabala, a picturesque town known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
• Nohur Lake: Visit Nohur Lake, a serene spot surrounded by mountains. You can enjoy boating or simply relax by the water.
• Tufandag Mountain Resort: Take a cable car ride at Tufandag Mountain Resort for breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Day 7: Gabala to Baku

• Seven Beauties Waterfall: Visit the Seven Beauties Waterfall, a beautiful cascade located in a scenic forested area.
• Back to Baku: Return to Baku and check into your hotel. Spend the evening exploring any remaining sights or relaxing.

Day 8: Departure from Baku

• Last-Minute Shopping: Spend your final morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any attractions you may have missed.
• Departure: Check out from your hotel and head to Heydar Aliyev International Airport for your onward journey.

This itinerary provides a rich and insightful experience of Azerbaijan, showcasing its vibrant capital, historical towns, and stunning natural landscapes.