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.
Straddling the Mtkvari River at the foot of the Trialeti mountain range is the sprawling city of Tbilisi, an ancient bohemian gem set in the centre of eastern Georgia. This vibrant capital enchants visitors with its architectural tapestry of medieval walls, castle ruins, art nouveau venues, traditional pastel houses with wooden balconies, Neoclassical buildings, centuries-old churches and Soviet Modernist architecture. Not to be missed are the major tourist hubs of Rustaveli Avenue, Aghmashenebeli Avenue, Dry Bridge, and Old Tbilisi, known for their historic landmarks, contemporary museums, flea markets, vibrant arts and culture, trendy bars and clubs, and delectable cuisine.
Situated in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of northeastern Georgia, the small town of Stepantsminda is set in the Khevi province. Magnificent mountains encircle this charming town, which provides an excellent base from which to explore the incredibly scenic snow-dusted Caucasus Mountains. Highlights include: hiking to the Gergeti Glacier, rafting in the Snotskali River, kayaking in the Tergi River, and visiting the waterfalls in Gveleti and Arsha-Pansheti. Visitors can also soak up the incredibly scenic views, visit the famous hilltop silhouette of Tsminda Sameba Church and explore the towering snowy peak of Mt Kazbek. Don’t miss a visit to the enthralling Dariali Gorge and view the Dariali Monastery. Other popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.
Situated in the Lori Province of Armenia, the village of Dzoraget rests near the confluence of the Debed, Pambak and Dzoraget Rivers. The village boasts a rich cultural heritage, ancient ruins and modern luxury. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area. The Avan Dzoraget Hotel is known for its opulent luxury and old world romantic feel. The village is set against a spectacularly scenic mountain backdrop and home to some of Armenia's most beautiful monasteries. Visitors can look forward to exploring the labyrinthine streets lined with intricate architecture, enjoy a fishing excursion and visit the Tumanian House Museum in the village of Dsegh. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the Unesco Heritage sites scattered in the region such as the Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries.
Covered by vast swathes of the exuberant forest within Dilijan National Park, Dilijan is a forested spa town and tranquil retreat for numerous artists, composers, writers and cinematographers drawn to the region's matchless beauty. Nature lovers are magnetized to the mineral springs, clear lakes, and spellbinding highland sceneries that envelope the 'Switzerland of Armenia'. Travellers can admire the quaint homes with carved wooden balconies, traditional buildings, shops, souvenir stalls and workshops for local artisans that line Sharambeyan Street, a beautiful avenue in "Old Dilijan". The complex also features the Dilijan Historic Museum, a replica of a 19th-century Dilijan home, complete with period furniture and decoration. Other notable landmarks include the Geological Museum and Art Gallery, the Haghartsin Monastery, the Goshavank Monastery and the Dilijan's Amphitheater. Don't miss the opportunity to sample hearty traditional Armenian cuisine in one of Dilijan's trendy cafes and restaurants.
Recognised as one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Yerevan is the country's vibrant capital and the centre of Armenian culture. Here, history meets modernity, and there's something for everyone, including an assortment of parks, galleries, museums, and endless dining and entertainment options. The Matenadaran is a museum, repository of manuscripts, and a research institute filled with centuries-old texts on philosophy, art and history. The mysterious 17th-century old quarter of Kond is a must-see as one of Yerevan's oldest districts featuring Persian, Ottoman and Soviet architecture. The incredible History Museum boasts spectacular displays of ancient items like four-wheeled wooden chariots, bronze sculptures, symbolic artworks and weapons. The iconic, multi-level Cafesjian Centre for the Arts presents a must-see for lovers of the contemporary, housing five exhibition halls, two garden galleries and a gorgeous surrounding park.
