Is Azerbaijan Good for Tourists? Why Azerbaijan is Worth Visiting More Than You May Have Thought

Is Azerbaijan worth visiting? Tucked between Europe and Asia, this lesser-known gem often flies under the radar of travelers. Yet those who make the journey are rewarded with a country full of surprises, where futuristic skylines meet ancient traditions and dramatic landscapes lie just beyond bustling city streets.

Azerbaijan is not a destination you stumble upon by accident, and that is exactly what makes it so special. Whether you are drawn by its culture, nature, or food, this is a place that challenges expectations and offers experiences you will not find anywhere else.

In this guide we're going to unfold what the country of Azerbaijan holds inside, and why it's a destination worth adding to your bucket list.

Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting? A Brief Intro

Before answering your question "is Azerbaijan worth visiting?" we want to tell you a bit about what traveling around the country is like.

How is Azerbaijan as a Tourist Destination?

Azerbaijan is such an interesting tourist destination, because it's not often thought of for traditional travelers. It's not in the heart of Europe, but is actually one of the most eastern European countries. It's also a Muslim country, making it different than its Caucasus neighbors Georgia and Armenia.

While Azerbaijan doesn't see a ton of tourists each year, it actually is pretty well set up for tourism, especially in the capital. There are plenty of tours from Baku to the quieter areas of the country, and you can appreciate beautiful nature, delicious food, and authentic cultural activities.

Baku is typically the base for most travelers, but we did a road trip around Azerbaijan and were really happy with our experience. 

Is it Worth it to Go to Azerbaijan?

In our opinion, it is absolutely worth visiting Azerbaijan! We loved it so much that we've gathered 15 different reasons to visit Azerbaijan as a tourist. Keep reading and you'll see why we believe it is one of the most underrated countries out there.

Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons Azerbaijan Should Be Added to Your Bucket List

So is Azerbaijan worth visiting? Let's dive into all of the reasons we love this country, and why we know you'll love it too!

The Country of Azerbaijan is Easy to Get to

Azerbaijan is surprisingly well connected, making it much easier to visit than many travelers expect. It's part of Europe, but also nearby the Middle East and western Asia making it perfectly positioned to connect the East and West.

Direct flights link Baku with major hubs across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and there are plenty of affordable connections from Istanbul, Dubai, and Moscow. For regional travelers, land border crossings are also possible from Georgia and Russia, though most visitors opt for flying into Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

We've written a full guide for how to get to Azerbaijan, so you can see all of the options and just how simple it is.

Visas in Azerbaijan are Affordable & Easy to Obtain

One of the biggest travel headaches can be visas, but Azerbaijan keeps the process simple. 

Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa online, which usually takes only a few days to process and costs around $25 USD.

This straightforward system means you can plan a trip without complicated paperwork, making it a strong “yes” when asking yourself, is Azerbaijan worth visiting?

Azerbaijan Has Other-Worldly Landscapes

From the colorful Candy Cane Mountains to the bubbling mud volcanoes of Gobustan, Azerbaijan feels like stepping onto another planet. It's home to the largest number of mud volcanoes on Earth, and one of the few countries that has rainbow mountains and pink lakes.

The diversity of its geography is striking, with deserts, lush valleys, alpine peaks, and the Caspian coastline all within a few hours’ drive. Travelers looking for something different will be amazed at how much variety one country can offer.

It's a Country Great for Both Mountain and Beach Lovers

Adventure seekers and relaxation chasers alike will find something to love here. The Caucasus Mountains are perfect for hiking, skiing, and exploring charming alpine villages, while the Caspian Sea offers sandy stretches and seaside resorts. 

Few countries can offer rugged outdoor adventure with sunny beach escapes within a short distance, and Azerbaijan gets the pleasure of offering both.

The Cities are the Perfect Blend of Old & New

Wandering through Azerbaijan’s cities is like flipping between centuries. In Baku, futuristic skyscrapers rise above ancient stone walls, while cobblestone alleys of the Old City (Icherisheher) lead you to cozy tea houses and centuries-old mosques. 

Cities like Ganja will have charming historical sites next to extravagant modern monuments like Heydar Aliyev.

This seamless blend of old and new is one of the country’s most fascinating qualities and truly was one of the most intriguing parts of enjoying Azerbaijan's cities.

Azerbaijan is Really Safe

Safety is often a top concern for travelers, and Azerbaijan consistently feels calm and secure. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is extremely rare, even in large cities like Baku. 

Whether you are walking through a busy market or exploring rural villages, the country has a welcoming and safe atmosphere that put you at ease.

Law in Azerbaijan Isn't Governed by Religion 

Although Azerbaijan is a majority-Muslim country, it is proudly secular. Laws are not dictated by religion, and visitors will notice a relaxed atmosphere where traditional culture mixes freely with modern lifestyles. 

This secular approach makes travel easy for people from all backgrounds and allows for a more open and inclusive experience.

Traveling to Azerbaijan as a woman was easy - I never felt like I needed to dress in a certain way (with the exception of religious sites), and there isn't this feeling that men feel superior, or that women are oppressed. The modern approach is what makes Azerbaijan stick out as being an open and comfortable country to travel in.

The People of Azerbaijan are Super Kind & Welcoming

Hospitality is at the heart of Azerbaijani culture. Locals are known for going out of their way to help visitors, whether by offering directions, sharing a meal, or simply showing genuine curiosity about where you’re from.

The warmth of the people there truly made our trip stand out from other countries, and is one of the reasons that Azerbaijan has become one of our favorite countries.

The moment we arrived we were invited by a local for a meal, and throughout the week we ended up at various social events, and one even where a girl gave me one of her rings! We also were invited for breakfast with another girl we met at a farmers market, making several life-long friends in this warm and welcoming country.

Azerbaijan Has Great Food

Foodies will have plenty to celebrate here. Azerbaijani cuisine blends influences from the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Caucasus, creating rich and flavorful dishes that are generous in size and flavor.

From aromatic plov (rice pilaf) to juicy kebabs and sweet baklava, every meal we had in Azerbaijan was incredible. Pair it with local tea or wine, and you’ll quickly see why food alone makes Azerbaijan worth visiting.

Baku is Awesome for Nightlife

The capital of Azerbaijan is truly so different than the rest of the country, and is where all the action happens socially.

When the sun sets, Baku comes alive. The city’s nightlife scene ranges from trendy rooftop bars with Caspian views to exclusive nightclubs. Clubs, live music venues, and cultural performances mean there is something for everyone when it comes to nightlife, whether you’re looking to dance the night away or sip cocktails in style.

Looking for a fun challenge? There is one nightclub in Baku called FOMO, which is famous for being incredibly tricky to get into!

Azerbaijan is a Really Affordable Destination

For budget-conscious travelers, Azerbaijan offers excellent value. Accommodation, food, and transportation are far cheaper than in Western Europe, yet the quality often feels just as high. Whether you’re backpacking on a budget or seeking mid-range comfort, your money goes a long way here.

It's Easy to Get Around Azerbaijan

Despite its variety of landscapes, Azerbaijan is relatively compact, making it easy to travel between regions. Buses and affordable private drivers connect cities and towns, while renting a car is a fun way to do a road trip in Azerbaijan.

This accessibility means you can see mountains, beaches, and cities all in a single trip without feeling rushed.

Don't want to do a massive trip on your own? From the capital you can reach practically everywhere on a day trip, and tours from Baku are also incredibly affordable, meaning you can easily see the whole country without spending a lot.

You Can Experience all Four Seasons in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts, and its climate reflects that. Skiers can enjoy snowy slopes in winter, while summer offers warm days on the Caspian coast. Spring brings colorful wildflowers, and autumn is ideal for wine harvests, colorful leafs, and cooler hiking conditions. 

Whatever time you visit, there is always something unique to enjoy in Azerbaijan making a great destination year-round.

The Country is a Photographer's Dream

Azerbaijan’s landscapes and architecture create endless opportunities for stunning photos. Whether you're looking for vibrant mosques, colorful mountains, flame-lit hillsides, or futuristic cityscapes, there are so many incredible photo spots in Azerbaijan to capture.

Not only is the country stunning, but taking pictures is easy since places aren't overrun with tourists at every turn.

We had such a great time photographing Azerbaijan, and it's one of those destinations that will instantly improve your Instagram feed, or simply leave you with incredible memories to look back on. 

Azerbaijan Still Flies Under the Radar

Despite all it has to offer, Azerbaijan remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. This means you can explore UNESCO sites without crowds, enjoy authentic cultural experiences, and feel like you’ve stumbled upon hidden gems constantly. 

For travelers seeking something fresh and less commercialized, Azerbaijan is one of the best-kept secrets in travel.

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Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting? FAQ Answered

Now you know all of our personal reasons to visit Azerbaijan. Still wondering "is Azerbaijan worth visiting" for you though? Here are some frequently asked questions we found across the web, and answers so that you have even more info for deciding.

Is Azerbaijan Worth Visiting? Final Thoughts & What's Next

Azerbaijanis a fascinating country, and we really can't believe it's not more popular! With amazing food, landscapes, and people it's truly a wonder that more travelers aren't flocking there. 

We suspect it'll be one of the up-and-coming destinations for tourism in the next few years, so get there before everyone else does first!

What's Next?

Now that you know all about what makes Azerbaijan special, you'll probably want to know more details about traveling around the country.

Here are a few other travel guides we have about Azerbaijan:

 How to Visit Azerbaijan

 The Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

 Renting a Car in Azerbaijan

 Azerbaijan Road Trip

 The Naftalan Oil Baths Experience

 Gobustan Mud Volcanoes

 Goygol National Park

 Best Things to Do in Baku

 The Best Photo Spots in Azerbaijan

We're going to also be having new articles each Thursday as well, so stay tuned!

So what do you think - is Azerbaijan worth visiting? We were truly surprised in the best way with this country, and we're sure you're going to love it just as much as we did.

Want to learn more traveling in Azerbaijan? We have quite a few other Azerbaijan Travel Guides for you, as well as more coming up every week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you can stay up to date with our most recent content, and for special discounts on our shop.

Ready to start planning an unforgettable trip to Azerbaijan? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers customized travel planning services, so that you can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy an amazing trip. Take a peak at a few of our travel planning packages we offer, or email us today to learn more!

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