Since Azerbaijan is at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the country is combines the best things of both cultures. It has been a known tourist spot since the 1980s, but the tourism industry was affected by the fall of the Soviet Union and a conflict with Armenia. It slowly recovered in the 2000s, and Azerbaijan receives tourists from all over the world now. The Travel found ten reasons for the growing popularity of this tourist destination.
Reason 1. It’s A Land Of Fire
Azerbaijan has long been called the "Land of Fire". The nation is rich in gas and oil, so the moniker checks out. One of its most popular attractions is Yanar Dag, meaning the Burning Mountain. This natural gas fire has been blazing for many years, attracting tourists from around the world. Another must-see is the Ateshgah, also known as the ‘Fire Temple,’ a religious site related to Zoroastrianism and Hinduism.
Reason 2. Beautiful Baku
Baku looks expensive yet welcoming. It is home to many stunning modern and ancient spots, attracting tourists of varying tastes. Its charming Old City (İçeri Şeher) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower. Meandering along these attractions will take tourists back in time. The city is also dotted with shopping areas, parks, and entertainment districts. And two years ago, an exemplary public beach "Shikhovo" was opened here.
Reason 3. Architectural Wonders
Baku has an interesting mixture of architectural styles, from the Old City to its port. Here one can see ancient Islamic structures, towering buildings that exude modernity, like the Flame Towers, structures designed during the Russian Imperial and Soviet eras, like the Palace of Seyid Mirbabayev and Gulustan Palace. Its theaters, museums, libraries, and other public buildings do not want to be overlooked, too.
Reason 4. The Mud Volcanoes
Other must-visit attractions in Azerbaijan are its mud volcanoes. The country has the most mud volcanoes in the world, stunning locals and tourists.There are over 400 mud volcanoes in the country, with Boyuk Kanizadag and Toraghai among the largest on the planet. According to NASA, the structure of these natural wonders are similar to that of upland Mars.
Reason 5. The Food Is Good
Azerbaijan is a big fan of beef, mutton, and fish. Joining a culinary tour in Baku or beyond is an adventure for the tummy. From breakfast to midnight snacks, there’s something for everyone in Azerbaijan. In the morning, tourists can have a thin dough called gutab, a stuffed chicken called Levengi for lunch, piti soup for dinner, and sweet halva for dessert.
Reason 6. It Has An Oil Resort
There’s a resort dedicated to bathing in crude oil. The oil of the Naftalan resort has unique healing properties. Naftalan oil is also used for skin treatments, ideal for those who don’t want to dip in it. This oil bath is perfect for tourists who want to try something new.
Reason 7. Home To World Heritage Sites
Aside from the splendid Old City, Azerbaijan has two other World Heritage Sites: the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape and the city of Sheki. The former is located in the Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve, an area filled with archeological wonders. There are more than 6,000 rock engravings in the destination, depicting animals and human activities that date back thousands of years ago.
Reason 8. It Has A Silk Road-City
Azerbaijan is an important part of the ancient trading network called the Silk Road. The center of Sheki is praised for its well-preserved traditional homes and merchant houses influenced by its ancient architectural traditions. The city center's highlight is the Khan Palace, which was an important Silk Road trading center.
Reason 9. Breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea
The Caspian Sea is the world’s largest inland body of water. Thanks to its water that’s not as salty as the sea, this lake is a favorite swimming spot and a paradise for sun-worshippers. The Caspian shores are dotted with beach resorts that offer water sports. For the clean sea, tourists should visit the pristine Zagulba beach, while Mardakan is ideal for sunset viewing.
Reason 10. It Has Nine Climatic Zones
The country has nine of the world’s 11 climate zones. As such, nature lovers will enjoy checking out its many landscapes: from the breezy Caucasus to the subtropical areas south.
Wherever tourists go, Azerbaijan is welcoming through and through.
