7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Baku

As a digital nomad living in Baku, you have the unique opportunity to explore a blend of East and West, ancient and modern, all while enjoying the comforts of a cosmopolitan city. But when the weekend rolls around, the urge to escape the city's hustle and bustle can be strong. Fortunately, Baku is a gateway to numerous fascinating getaways, ranging from the popular to the path less traveled. Here are seven destinations that offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment, all within reach for a weekend escape.

Gobustan National Park

Just an hour's drive from Baku, Gobustan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and unique geological formations. Visitors can explore more than 6,000 petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age, offering a glimpse into the lives of early humans. The park's museum provides insightful context before you walk the trails among the carvings and volcanic landscape.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Gobustan National Park is by car or taxi, which takes about an hour from Baku.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to witness the bubbling mud volcanoes, a rare natural phenomenon that's both eerie and fascinating.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations in the park itself, you can stay in Baku or at guesthouses in nearby villages for a local experience.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the park's scenery, or dine at local restaurants in the surrounding villages, where you can try traditional Azerbaijani dishes.

Sheki

Sheki is a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Known for its rich history, silk production, and stunning architecture, such as the Sheki Khan's Palace with its magnificent stained glass windows. The town is also home to charming cobblestone streets and a bustling bazaar where you can find local handicrafts and sweets like Sheki halva.

How to Get There: Sheki is about a 4.5-hour drive from Baku. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a train for a scenic journey through the Azerbaijani countryside.

Travel Tip: Visit the Caravanserai, an ancient roadside inn where Silk Road travelers once rested, which has been restored and can now be experienced firsthand.

Where to Stay: Sheki offers several boutique hotels and guesthouses, such as Sheki Saray Hotel or the Sheki Caravanserai Hotel for a historical stay.

Where to Eat: Try the Shebeke Cafe for local cuisine in a traditional setting, and don't miss out on the famous Sheki halva, a sweet multi-layered pastry.

Lahij

Lahij is a secluded mountain village known for its cobbled streets, copper craftsmanship, and traditional architecture. This ancient village is a living museum, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities, and the tranquil atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing weekend.

How to Get There: Lahij is approximately a 3-hour drive from Baku. The mountain roads can be challenging, so consider hiring a local driver or joining a tour.

Travel Tip: Visit the local workshops to see the copper-smithing techniques that Lahij is famous for, and perhaps commission a custom piece as a unique souvenir.

Where to Stay: Stay in one of the village's guesthouses, such as Lahij Guesthouse, to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Where to Eat: Enjoy traditional dishes at a local homestay or guesthouse, where you can experience authentic Azerbaijani hospitality.

Quba

Quba is a scenic town surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate. The town is also a gateway to the Qechresh forest, known for its dense trees and wooden cottages. Nearby, the village of Khinalug sits at an altitude of over 2,000 meters and offers breathtaking views and a peek into ancient traditions.

How to Get There: Quba is about a 2.5-hour drive from Baku. Regular buses also run between Baku and Quba.

Travel Tip: Take a day trip to Khinalug to experience one of the highest and most ancient settlements in the Caucasus.

Where to Stay: Quba Palace Hotel offers luxury accommodations with stunning views, while the Rixos Quba Azerbaijan is known for its golf course.

Where to Eat: Try the Quba Xan Restaurant for traditional Azerbaijani meals and a taste of the local Quba bread.

Ismayilli

Ismayilli is a lesser-known destination that offers a peaceful retreat amidst rolling hills and vineyards. This region is perfect for those interested in wine tourism, as it's home to several wineries where you can taste local varieties. The area is also rich in cultural diversity, with both Azerbaijani and Lezgin villages to explore.

How to Get There: The drive to Ismayilli takes about 2.5 hours from Baku. Renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring the region's wineries and villages.

Travel Tip: Visit the Ivanovka village, a collective farm settlement that still operates in the traditional Soviet style, offering a unique historical perspective.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Ismayilli Guest House or the Shirvan Hotel & Spa for a comfortable visit.

Where to Eat: Enjoy local cuisine at the wineries or visit the restaurants in Ismayilli town for a variety of dining options.

Naftalan

Naftalan is a city famous for its unique therapeutic oil, which is used in medicinal treatments and spa therapies. This unusual destination offers a chance to experience oil baths and learn about the health benefits attributed to Naftalan oil. The city also has parks and museums, providing a quiet and rejuvenating weekend getaway.

How to Get There: Naftalan is about a 4-hour drive from Baku. Buses and trains also service the route, but a car will give you more flexibility to explore the area.

Travel Tip: Book a treatment at one of the sanatoriums to experience the healing properties of Naftalan oil firsthand.

Where to Stay: The Naftalan Hotel by Rixos offers luxurious accommodations and spa services featuring the famous oil treatments.

Where to Eat: Dining options are available within the resort hotels, where you can enjoy both local and international cuisine.

Candy Cane Mountains

The Candy Cane Mountains, located near the town of Khizi, are a geological wonder with colorful striations that resemble candy canes. This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking for a unique landscape. The area is relatively undeveloped, offering a chance to enjoy the natural beauty in solitude.

How to Get There: The Candy Cane Mountains are about a 2-hour drive from Baku. It's best to rent a car or hire a taxi for the day to reach this remote location.

Travel Tip: Visit during the late afternoon to capture the best light for photography, as the setting sun highlights the colors of the mountains.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in the immediate area, so consider staying in Baku or nearby towns and making it a day trip.

Where to Eat: Bring snacks and water for your visit, as there are no dining facilities near the mountains. For a more substantial meal, stop by restaurants in Khizi or along the road back to Baku.

Whether you're looking for historical sites, natural beauty, or unique experiences, these weekend getaways from Baku offer something for every digital nomad seeking to enrich their stay in Azerbaijan.