If you’re itching to go somewhere different — somewhere that mixes ancient history, futuristic cities, mountain villages, and even mud volcanoes — you should seriously consider Azerbaijan. It's one of those countries you don’t hear about often, but once you see it with your own eyes, you’ll wonder why it’s not on every travel bucket list.

The best part? Azerbaijan makes it super easy to visit, especially if you’re eligible for an Azerbaijan eVisa. No need to deal with embassies or paperwork headaches. Just hop online, Apply Azerbaijan eVisa, and you’re good to go.

Azerbaijan eVisa Types

Azerbaijan’s eVisa system is designed to be fast, simple, and tourist-friendly. The whole process happens online, and most travelers get their visa approved in just a few days (or even within hours if you choose the urgent option). But not all eVisas are created equal — and that’s where understanding the Azerbaijan Visa Types and Purpose of Visa really matters. Depending on why you’re visiting — whether it’s for tourism, business, or a cultural event — there’s a specific eVisa that fits your purpose.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Tourist eVisa (Most Common)

Why you'd need it: Vacation, sightseeing, visiting friends or family
How long you can stay: Up to 30 days
Valid for: Single entry within 90 days from the date it's issued
Processing time: 3 business days (standard) or as fast as 3 hours (urgent)

This is the visa most people apply for — perfect for leisure travelers who want to explore Baku, Sheki, Gobustan, and beyond.

2. Business eVisa

Why you'd need it: Meetings, conferences, short-term work-related trips
Stay duration: Up to 30 days
Requirement: Usually needs an invitation or letter from a company

This one’s for travelers attending events or handling business affairs — but not for long-term work or employment.

3. Humanitarian eVisa

Why you'd need it: Volunteer work, aid missions, or other humanitarian efforts
Stay duration: Around 30 days, depending on the case
Requirement: Documents from a registered organization or host

Not common for regular tourists, but good to know if you’re visiting as part of an NGO or aid group.

4. Medical Treatment eVisa

Why you'd need it: Getting a procedure or treatment in Azerbaijan
Stay duration: Up to 30 days
Requirement: Confirmation from a hospital or clinic

More niche, but an option for people traveling for health purposes.

5. Cultural/Sports Event eVisa

Why you'd need it: If you're attending or participating in a festival, exhibition, or competition
Stay duration: Up to 30 days
Requirement: Proof of event registration or official invitation

Great for performers, athletes, or fans traveling for specific events.

 

Top Tourist Attractions in Azerbaijan

1. Baku — The City That Blends Old & New

Your adventure will probably start in Baku, and trust me, it’s an awesome place to begin. The capital is where medieval history meets glossy skyscrapers and ultra-modern design.

  • Old City (Icherisheher): Think cobbled streets, tiny shops, historic mosques, and the legendary Maiden Tower.

  • Flame Towers: Shaped like flames and lit up beautifully at night.

  • Heydar Aliyev Center: A futuristic building by Zaha Hadid that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi film.

  • Baku Boulevard: Perfect for evening strolls by the Caspian Sea.

Baku is full of surprises — a city that feels both ancient and brand new.

2. Gobustan — Rock Carvings and Mud Volcanoes

Just an hour outside Baku is Gobustan, where you’ll find ancient petroglyphs and some of the strangest natural landscapes around.

  • Rock Art: Over 6,000 carvings etched into stone — some more than 40,000 years old.

  • Mud Volcanoes: Azerbaijan has more than half of the world’s mud volcanoes, and watching them bubble is oddly satisfying.

If you're into history, geology, or just cool weird stuff, this is your spot.

3. Sheki — Mountain Charm and Old-School Elegance

Set against the Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is all about tradition, beauty, and taking it slow.

  • Sheki Khan’s Palace: This colorful building is an explosion of stained glass, wood carvings, and delicate murals.

  • Caravanserais: Former Silk Road inns turned cozy hotels and shops.

  • Sheki halva: A local dessert that’s worth the trip alone.

It’s one of those towns where time seems to move a little slower — in the best way.

4. Lahij — A Mountain Village for Makers

If you’re a fan of artisan crafts and off-the-grid spots, Lahij is for you.

  • Cobblestone alleys, stone houses, and gorgeous mountain views.

  • Watch coppersmiths, woodworkers, and rug weavers do their thing.

  • Buy unique, handmade souvenirs straight from the source.

It feels like walking through a living museum — one with very good tea.

5. Ganja — Quirky, Cool, and Full of History

Ganja is Azerbaijan’s second-largest city, and while it's often skipped by tourists, it shouldn't be.

  • Bottle House: A two-story house built entirely out of glass bottles. No joke.

  • Mausoleum of Nizami: A poetic tribute to one of the country’s literary legends.

  • Parks and public squares: Perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

It’s got a youthful vibe but plenty of historical layers too.

6. Naftalan — Azerbaijan’s Wildest Spa Town

Yes, this place is known for oil baths — and yes, that’s exactly what it sounds like.

  • The oil used is totally unique to this area and believed to have healing properties.

  • You don’t have to be sick to try it — it’s a quirky travel experience you won’t forget.

Even if you just go for the story, it’s worth a detour.

7. Lankaran & The Caspian Coast — Beach, Tea, and Forests


If you want to wind down with some nature and fresh air, head south to Lankaran.

  • Chill on the beach, explore Hirkan National Park, and tour local tea plantations.

  • Eat fresh seafood and enjoy a slower pace of life by the coast.

Perfect for the last leg of your trip.

Final Thoughts

Azerbaijan is a country of contrasts — ancient and modern, quiet and buzzing, rugged and refined. Whether you’re into mountain towns, high-rise skylines, cultural gems, or unique natural wonders, you’ll find it here.