Set on the coast of the Caspian Sea, Baku, Azerbaijan's capital, is the largest city in Caucasus and offers a prime location on the border of east and west. A beautiful mix of old and new, Baku is an architecturally fascinating city, where awe-inspiring glass and steel skyscrapers tower above Soviet-era buildings and the UNESCO-listed, cobblestoned Old City, which dates back to the 12th century. Visitors to Baku can indulge in the city's ancient and contemporary delights, strolling along the leafy Baku Boulevard, one of Europe's longest promenades, visiting the many museums, or dining at the luxurious rooftop restaurants, all offering spectacular views of Baku at night. A trip to nearby Fire Mountain, where a natural gas fire blazes continuously on the hillside, is also highly recommended.
Also known as Nucha of Sheki, Shaki is a city in northern Azerbaijan on the lush green slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. This lively city is known for its warm and welcoming locals, its bustling central market and its array of cosy, inviting tea houses. As Shaki is set on the famous Old Silk Road, the city features a number of fine examples of Islamic architecture. These include: the Palace of the Khans, renowned for its 500-centuries-old trees; the Caravansary, constructed by the Sheki Khans to house caravans as they passed through on the Silk Road; and Juma Mosque, decorated with some impressive geometric designs. The town also boasts a number of excellent Museums and galleries such as the Haydar Aliyev Museum, dedicated to independent Azerbaijan’s first president, and the Sheki Government Painting Gallery, showcasing a collection of artworks by various Sheki artists and students.
Located in northern Azerbaijan, the city of Qabala is the ancient capital of Caucasian Albania. Set in the middle of the old Silk Road, Qabala offers visitors a wealth of historical attractions, as well as ample opportunity to see ancient ruins and archaeological sites. From the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus mountain range to the Alazan-Haftaran valley and the impressive Mount Bazarduzu, it is Qabala's mountainous landscape and beautiful fauna that attract thousands of visitors throughout the year. Must-see attractions include the beautiful seven-tiered Yeddi Gozel Waterfall; Gabaland Amusement Park, complete with an ice skating rink and an outdoor theatre stage; and the Tufandag Ski Complex, widely considered Azerbaijan's best ski resort.
As previously described
