Baku: 2-Day Azerbaijan Tour with Option to Cross to Georgia

Thinking about exploring Azerbaijan beyond Baku? This 2-day tour offers an excellent way to see some of the country’s most fascinating sights—mountains, ancient villages, lakes, and historic landmarks—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Plus, if you’re keen to extend your journey, there’s a chance to cross into Georgia, making it a flexible and culturally rich experience.

We love that this tour balances cultural highlights with scenic nature, giving travelers a taste of both history and landscape. The itinerary includes visits to iconic sites like the Sheki Khans Palace and the Diri Baba Mausoleum, combined with peaceful walks around lakes and through traditional villages. The option to cross into Georgia adds an ambitious, adventure-ready element for those wanting to expand their trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include accommodation in Sheki, nor meals, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, the border crossing is only available for citizens of eligible third countries, which could be a consideration if you’re planning a broader regional trip.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love a mix of history, culture, and scenery, and who appreciate the convenience of guided logistics. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a desire for an authentic Azerbaijani adventure.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 7 Tours & Experiences In Baku.

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Key Points

Cultural and scenic highlights packed into a 2-day itinerary.
Expert guides speak English and Russian, making navigation and explanations clear.
Flexible border crossing option to Georgia for eligible travelers.
All main entry fees and transfers included, with hotel pickup in Baku.
Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to walking and uneven surfaces.
Accommodation in Sheki is not included but can be arranged with assistance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day Azerbaijan Tour: A Balancing Act Between Culture and Nature

This tour combines Azerbaijan’s historical depth with its beautiful landscapes. From the moment you leave Baku, you’re stepping into a world where mountains meet ancient towns, and every stop offers something special. We’ll walk through each part of the itinerary, highlighting what makes it worthwhile—and what to expect.

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Day 1: From Baku to Sheki via Historic Towns and Scenic Mountain Routes

Shamakhi: The Heart of Old Azerbaijan

Your journey begins early in the morning, leaving Baku behind as you head toward Shamakhi, a city with roots stretching back centuries. The highlight here is the Shamakhi Juma Mosque, the oldest in the Caucasus, an impressive structure with a history that echoes through its stones. The guide might share stories about Shamakhi’s centuries of seismic activity and resilience.

Close by is the Diri Baba Mausoleum, carved into a rocky cliff. This site sparks curiosity with its mysterious origins and the stories surrounding its construction. If you enjoy history with a side of mystery, this stop won’t disappoint. Guests have noted it’s a “really unique site” that feels like a step back in time.

Ismayilli and Lahij: Forests, Crafts, and Mountain Charm

After exploring Shamakhi, the journey continues through Ismayilli, a lush forested region. The drive provides picturesque views of Azerbaijan’s mountain landscape, perfect for those who love scenery. Crossing a suspension bridge here is a fun highlight, a quick adrenaline shot amid nature.

Next is Lahij, a mountain village renowned for its cobbled streets and traditional handicraft workshops. Walking through Lahij, you’ll see artisans crafting copperware, carpets, and jewelry—a real opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs directly from the makers. Reviewers emphasize Lahij’s charm, calling it a “living museum of Azerbaijani crafts,” which offers a tangible connection to local culture.

Gabala and Nohur Lake: Peaceful Nature and Optional Adventure

From Lahij, the tour heads to Gabala, a town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. A peaceful walk around Nohur Lake lets you breathe in the fresh mountain air, surrounded by forested peaks. Many find the lake’s calm waters and surrounding mountains deeply relaxing, ideal for a quick escape from busier city life.

For those interested in panoramic views, there’s the Tufandag Mountain Resort, where an optional cable car ride offers spectacular vistas—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. Reviewers mention that the cable car can be quite a highlight if the weather is clear.

Sheki: The Cultural Jewel

Arriving in Sheki in the evening, you’ll stay overnight in a local hotel or a traditional caravanserai-style inn. The city is the crown jewel of this tour—full of historic sites and charming streets. Many travelers say Sheki’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind and soak up Azerbaijani hospitality.

Day 2: From Sheki to Kish and Beyond—A Cultural Showcase and Optional Border Cross

Sheki’s Architectural and Cultural Gems

The day kicks off with a guided tour of Sheki, focusing on the Sheki Khans Palace—a masterpiece of stained glass and detailed carvings. The intricate interior details are often highlighted as a major attraction, with visitors noting it’s a “visual feast” and a window into Azerbaijani aristocratic history.

Next is the Sheki Caravanserai, part of the Silk Road heritage, where you can imagine merchants from centuries past trading silk, spices, and stories. The tour provides context on Azerbaijan’s role as a crossroads of cultures, which adds an enriching layer to your visit.

Kish and the Albanian Church

A short drive takes you to Kish village, where the Albanian Church sits as one of the oldest Christian temples in the Caucasus. It’s an intriguing site for history buffs and anyone interested in Azerbaijan’s religious diversity.

Crossing into Georgia: An Optional Extension

In the afternoon, travelers have two choices: return to Baku or continue toward the Azerbaijan-Georgia border at Balakan or Lagodekhi. For eligible third-country nationals, crossing the border is a convenient way to reach Tbilisi in just about two hours. This flexibility makes the tour attractive for those planning a broader regional trip.

Reviewers mention that the border crossing is straightforward for eligible travelers—an added benefit if you’re heading into Georgia or planning to explore Tbilisi.

Transport, Guides, and Value for Money

The tour provides transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort during the long drives. With guides fluent in English and Russian, explanations are clear, and cultural insights are plentiful. The inclusion of entry fees to main attractions saves you from extra costs, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Baku adds to the convenience.

At $170 per person, the price reflects a well-organized experience that combines major sights and scenic drives without the stress of solo planning. Keep in mind, meals and accommodation in Sheki aren’t included, so packing a picnic or booking a hotel in advance is advisable.

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What Reviewers Say

One traveler noted, “The guide was very knowledgeable, and the day was perfectly paced,” emphasizing the value of the guided aspect. Others appreciated the small group size (usually around 10-15 people), which fosters a more personal experience.

Some reviews mention that the Tufandag cable car was a highlight, with the panoramic views earning special praise. Conversely, a few travelers pointed out that the border crossing isn’t suitable for everyone—only third-country nationals—and recommended checking visa requirements ahead of time.

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Practical Tips

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially in Lahij and Sheki’s historic streets.
Bring passport or ID card for border crossing, and check visa requirements if crossing into Georgia.
The tour operates from Baku, with flexible cancelation policies—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To maximize your experience, consider booking accommodation in Sheki ahead, as the tour does not include overnight stays.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Azerbaijani adventure offers a solid mix of culture, history, and nature. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive taste of Azerbaijan without the hassle of organizing each sight. The inclusion of scenic drives, historic sites, and optional border crossing makes it suitable for those with a sense of curiosity and adventure.

If you’re short on time but eager to see a broad swathe of Azerbaijan’s highlights, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in craft traditions, historic sites, and stunning mountain views—plus, anyone eager to add Georgia to their travel itinerary.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience. The focus remains on cultural and scenic exploration, making it a practical choice for curious, adventurous, and flexible travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the itinerary involves walking and some uneven surfaces, older children and teenagers comfortable with walking and sightseeing should enjoy it.

Do I need a visa for Azerbaijan?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. For eligible third-country nationals, crossing into Georgia is an optional extension, but check your visa status before booking.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or dine at local cafes during the stops.

Can I customize the border crossing?
The border crossing is optional and only available for eligible travelers. It’s best to confirm your eligibility with the tour provider in advance.

Will I have free time at each stop?
Yes, stops like Lahij and Sheki include free exploration time, allowing you to wander, shop, or relax.

What is the group size?
The tour is typically conducted with small groups, around 10-15 people, which helps create a more intimate experience.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the transportation is air-conditioned, providing comfort during the long drives.

Do I need to bring my own guide?
All guides are provided as part of the tour, speaking English and Russian.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate walking is involved, especially in historic areas and scenic walks; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour offers a rewarding glance at Azerbaijan’s cultural soul and scenic beauty, all bundled into a manageable two-day experience. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or a curious traveler, it’s a chance to see a side of Azerbaijan that many visitors miss—plus, the option to extend into Georgia keeps the adventure open-ended.