Step into a prehistoric time capsule at Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 60 km from Baku. Over 6,000 rock carvings — some dating back 40,000 years — depict hunters, dancers, boats, and animals. The landscape is equally surreal: over 300 active mud volcanoes, the highest concentration on Earth, bubble and hiss like alien cauldrons.

Enter the UNESCO-listed Icherisheher — a living museum surrounded by 12th-century fortress walls. This 22-hectare labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, caravanserais, and hammams has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. It’s where East meets West in perfect harmony.

The world’s largest inland body of water defines Azerbaijan’s 825 km coastline. From Baku’s urban beaches to wild dunes of Absheron, this is where oil rigs shimmer beside luxury resorts and ancient fishing villages.

Baku’s skyline is dominated by the Flame Towers — three glass skyscrapers (182m, 160m, 160m) shaped like flickering flames. Completed in 2012, they symbolize Azerbaijan’s eternal fire and oil wealth. At night, 10,000 LED lights create a mesmerizing fire show visible from across the city.

At 2,350m above sea level, Khinalug is Europe’s highest inhabited village. Its 2,000 residents speak a unique language found nowhere else. Stone houses with turf roofs cascade down the mountainside like a scene from a fairy tale.

Nestled in the Caucasus foothills, Sheki is Azerbaijan’s most beautiful town. Famous for its 18th-century Khan’s Palace, stained-glass shebeke windows, and legendary halva, it’s a Silk Road gem frozen in time.

Known as the “Switzerland of Azerbaijan,” Gabala offers year-round adventure. Ski in winter, paraglide in summer, and explore ancient ruins in between. The Tufandag resort rivals European Alps.

Housed in a carpet-roll-shaped building on Baku Boulevard, this museum holds 14,000 carpets — the world’s largest collection. It’s a celebration of Azerbaijan’s most iconic art form.

A UNESCO Creative City, Lahij is famous for its copper craftsmen. For 1,500 years, families have hammered intricate designs into pots, trays, and samovars using techniques unchanged since medieval times.

This northern town near the Caspian was a key defense point for centuries. The Khudat Fortress ruins offer panoramic views, while the beach is perfect for quiet sunsets.

Seven cascading waterfalls hidden in dense forest. Locals believe the water has healing properties. The 2-hour hike is moderate and rewarding.