Azerbaijan is among the lesser-known tourist destinations in the world, nestled between Asia and Europe. Also known as the “land of fire”, this naturally beautiful country is perfect for all kinds of travellers. Whether you are a nature-lover, adventure enthusiast, or a beach lover, Azerbaijan has something for everyone.
From adventurous gateways like Shahdag to scenic landscapes in Gabala, architectural attractions in Gobustan and historical places like Sheki, Azerbaijan is a country of diversity. However, seasonal variations may affect tourist activities. Hence, it is advisable to know the best season to visit Azerbaijan to make the most of your vacation!
Let us find out the best time to go to Azerbaijan so you can make the most of your trip.
Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan
The best time to travel to Azerbaijan is during the peak season (June to August). The climate leans more toward hot and humid, perfect for beach lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities.
That said, you can also visit the country at other times of the year. The best time for you to visit Azerbaijan may be different depending on the type of activities you wish to engage in or the type of traveller you are – adventure seeker, nature lover, beach enthusiast, etc.
Peak Season (June to August)
The summer months are the peak tourist season in Azerbaijan, as the climate is much more suitable for outdoor activities and exploration. The temperatures fluctuate between 18-32℃ (June to August), making the weather hot and humid. The coastal cities and mountains have cooler temperatures than the other areas, making it the best season to visit Azerbaijan.
What Can You Expect? | ● Hot and humid ● Plenty of tourist crowd ● Popular festivals include the Baku International Jazz Festival, Khuramabad Festival, and International Mugham Festival. ● High costs for flight and accommodation. |
Things to Do | ● Outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting historical sites, going to national parks, etc. ● Visit the mud volcanoes ● Cherish the tea culture ● Indulge in watersports, boat rides, etc., at the Caspian Sea. ● Enjoy the Jazz Festival |
Places to Visit | Sheki, Church of Kish, Khinalug, Ateshgah Temple, Baku, Qabala, Flame Towers, Highland Park Fountain Square, etc. |
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
The Spring and Autumn months are the shoulder seasons in Azerbaijan with some tourist footfall. The spring season is also the best time to visit Azerbaijan due to the ideal weather conditions.
What Can You Expect? | ● Pleasant weather ● Plenty of outdoor activities to explore ● Fewer tourists ● Cheap accommodations and flight tickets ● Baku International Jazz Festival and Pomegranate Festival |
Things to Do | Horse riding, exploring the countryside, |
Places to Visit | Sheki, Quba, Khinalaug, Kish, Qubustan, Fire Temple, and Absheron Peninsula. |
Low Season (November-December, January-March)
As winter starts to set in, the temperatures in many parts of Azerbaijan start to dip considerably. The temperature is between 5℃ to -5℃. The mountainous regions, such as the Caucasus and Talysh, experience very low temperatures.
While the tourist footfall is the lowest during the winters, it is the best time to go to Azerbaijan for snow adventures such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
What Can You Expect? | ● Cold to chilly temperatures and weather ● Very less tourist crowd ● Budget-friendly deals on flights and hotels |
Things to Do | ● Snow adventures in the mountains include snowboarding, skiing, etc. ● Participate in New Year festivities ● Ice skating in the mountains |
Places to Visit | ● Sahdag Snow Resort
Tufandag ● City of Ganja ● Baku |
Best Months to Visit Azerbaijan – Month-by-Month Travel Guide
January
January is the core of winters in Azerbaijan, with temperatures fluctuating between 1 ℃ to 7 ℃ in different parts of the country. Some places, such as the mountains, are covered in snow, while the coastal areas have a milder climate. It is the low season in Azerbaijan, with few tourists visiting the country.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan ● Ganja is for history and culture lovers ● Lankaran – a city on the Caspian Sea coast. ● Shahdag Mountain Resort and Tufandag Mountain Resort | ● Engage in winter sports like snowboarding, snow tubing and skiing. ● Indulge in some therapeutic spa and wellness facilities. ● Witness the cultural activities and local traditions ● Go paragliding or ziplining |
February
The climate in Azerbaijan in February is chilly and cold, with temperatures between 1℃ to 6℃. You will find chilly weather in the mountains while the Caspian Sea experiences milder temperatures. It is the best time to visit Azerbaijan if you want to escape the crowd during the peak season.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Lake Goygol ● Baku ● Caucasus Mountains ● Lankaran ● Khachmaz | ● Enjoy indoor attractions in Baku such as Heyder Alivey Cultural Centre ● Explore the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum ● Go for snow sports such as snowboarding, snow tubing, etc. ● Enjoy delicious meals at Khachmaz. |
March
As the country welcomes spring after the end of winter, you will witness a mixed climate during March. The average temperatures vary between 3℃ to 10℃, which makes the climate enjoyable. Though the mountains are cooler, the outdoors is a great place to indulge in fun activities across the country.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Baku, the ancient city ● Yanardag, Absheron Peninsula ● Shamakhi, the city of culture and history | ● International World of Maghum Festival ● Hiking ● Visit the National Parks ● Enjoy the Novruz celebrations |
April
During this month, the temperature starts rising in Azerbaijan. The average temperature is between 8℃ to 17℃. The flowers and trees bloom, and it is considered the best month to visit Azerbaijan. The time is perfect to enjoy the pleasant climate and indulge in a variety of activities.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Baku ● Sheki’s Old Town ● Khinalug ● Mingachevir | ● Visit famous churches ● Try the famous dish Qutub ● Indulge in oil treatments ● Discover interesting facts at museums in Mingachevir |
May
Spring is blooming during the month of May, making it a favourable time to visit the country. The season is highly favourable to engage in outdoor activities and discover the hidden gems of Azerbaijan.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Gobustan National Park ● Azerbaijan Carpet Museum ● Astara ● Caspian Sea | ● Hiking ● Exploring the outdoor attractions ● Visiting historical monuments |
June
June is the beginning of the summer season in Azerbaijan, with the weather turning hot and humid. For those who despise the cold winter months, this is the best season to visit Azerbaijan for beaches and engage in other outdoor activities as the temperature hovers around 18℃ to 27℃.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Ateshgah Fire Temple ● Gobustan National Park ● Mud Volcanoes | ● Baku International Jazz Festival ● Mountain Tours ● Relax on beaches |
July
Summer is at its peak during July, as the temperature rises up to 30℃. However, this is also the most lively time in the country for those who want to explore the outdoors, engage in adventure activities and enjoy nature’s landscapes.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Visit the Bilagh Beach in Baku ● Sheki ● Quba | ● Exploring the beaches ● Hiking in the Caucasus mountains ● Attend festivals such as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix |
August
While summers continue in Azerbaijan, it is still a good time to visit the mountainous regions as they experience cooler temperatures. The average temperatures are between 21 ℃ to 30 ℃. Being one of the peak months for tourism, the flight and hotel costs are likely to be high.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Go for day trips to Gobustan ● Mud volcanoes ● Flame Towers in Baku ● Palace of the Shrivanshahs ● Heyder Alivey Centre ● Baku Boulevard | ● Boat tours ● Beach activities ● Exploring the Old City, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site ● Explore the ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs in Gobustan |
September
September in Azerbaijan is warm during the day, cooler at night, and experiences minimum rainfall. It is an ideal time of the year to witness beautiful landscapes and explore the outdoor sites. Temperatures during September are 18℃ to 26℃, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors in Azerbaijan.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Explore the Highland Park ● Visit Baku to enjoy a pleasant weather ● Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape ● Burning Mountain ● Gabala | ● Baku International Jazz Festival ● Pomegranate Festival ● Indulge in the delectable cuisine ● Relax on the beaches |
October
October is the autumn season in Azerbaijan, and the weather is perfect for tourists to enjoy a pleasant time outdoors and indoors. Little precipitation may occur in October around the mountain areas. The temperature in this month is very pleasant for sightseeing, between 12℃ to 19℃.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Baku ● Shahdag ● Gabala ● Lankaran ● Gosha Gala Tower | ● Explore historical sites such as Shirvanshah Palace and Azkhy Cave. ● Enjoy the beautiful foliage. ● Discover history in Gobustan. ● Witness stunning landscapes in Khinalug ● Witness the vibrant colours of nature in Goygol National Park |
November
November is the beginning of winter in Azerbaijan. It is the time when the temperatures are low in the mountainous regions, making it the best month to visit Azerbaijan to indulge in adventurous snow sports. The temperatures may range from 8℃ to 14℃. It is a low season in Azerbaijan with very few tourists, which makes the hotels and flight costs very reasonable.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Abesheron National Park ● Caucasus Mountains ● Ski resorts such as Sahdag and Tufandag ● Baku, the capital ● Quba ● Shamakhi ● Naftalan | ● Explore the natural beauty in Quba ● Enjoy snow adventures in the mountains ● Visit the Ski resorts for a top-notch ski experience ● Paragliding in Zaqatala or Gusar ● Quad biking in the Caucasus Mountains |
December
December in Azerbaijan witnesses cooler temperatures, snowfall and occasional rainfalls. The temperatures range between 3℃ to 9℃. The entire country turns magical as it is covered in snow, making way for snow adventures. Besides, the New Year and Christmas celebrations add life to the country’s atmosphere.
Places to Visit |
Things to Do |
● Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan ● Ganja ● Sheki, the oldest and culturally rich cities ● Lankaran ● Khachmaz | ● Skiing in the Caucasus Mountains ● Zip lining on the snow-covered mountains ● Quad biking ● Snowtubing |
The Importance of Buying Travel Insurance to Visit Azerbaijan?
Travelling to international destinations brings along a lot of thrill and excitement. You also need to note travel medical insurance is a mandatory requirement when applying for an Azerbaijan Visa.
Therefore, we highly recommend insuring your trip with International travel insurance. Our plans offer extensive coverage while you explore Azerbaijan with premiums starting from ₹306*, so you can make the most of your vacation.
Moreover, at Reliance General Insurance, we also offer a
full refund on your travel insurance costs if your visa is cancelled or rejected. So, if you are looking for an affordable travel insurance plan for your trip, we have got you covered!
Wrapping Up
Azerbaijan has a rich and vibrant culture and history. Exploring this beautiful nation is an experience of a lifetime, but to make the most of the trip, one must be aware of the best time to travel to Azerbaijan.
Though the summer season is the hottest, it is also peak tourist season. The winter months of November to March see the least tourist footfall. However, it is the best season to visit Azerbaijan to indulge in adventurous snow activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Indians require a visa to enter Azerbaijan?
Yes, Indians require a visa to visit Azerbaijan. However, a visa can be obtained through the electronic portal, which is a convenient and feasible option.
What is the best time to visit Azerbaijan from India?
The best time to visit Azerbaijan depends on what type of traveller you are. If you love snow sports and winters, then November to March is a suitable time. However, if you love hot and humid climates and wish to explore the outdoors, consider visiting the country in the summer season.
Which is the famous food of Azerbaijan?
Some of Azerbaijan's famous dishes include plov, Lavangi, Dushbara, Kebabs, Piti, Bozbash and Pakhlava.
Disclaimers:
*T&C Apply. For more details on risk factors, terms conditions, brochure, and exclusions, please read the policy wording and CIS carefully before concluding a sale.
Product & Sum Insured: T&C Apply. Details mentioned here are for Reliance Travel Care Policy, UIN: RELTIOP08002V010708.
Sum Insured: The mentioned Sum insured amount is applicable only under Reliance Travel Care Policy – Individual – Platinum Plan.
Total loss of checked baggage: Maximum amount payable per checked-in baggage in case more than one bag has been checked in, is 50% (100% for only one checked-in baggage) of applicable sum insured and per item in baggage maximum 10%.
Premium - Asia & International: The premium mentioned is excluding taxes for a medical sum insured of $25,000 for an Individual of 20 years on an Asia trip of 4 days. This is applicable for Asia plan only.