Trip to Azerbaijan. January 2022

Azerbaijan, the nation and former Soviet republic, is bounded by the Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains, which span Asia and Europe. Its capital, Baku, is famed for its medieval walled Inner City. Within the Inner City lies the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a royal retreat dating to the 15th century, and the centuries-old stone Maiden Tower, which dominates the city skyline.
Cosmopolitan and at times chaotic, Baku has a bit of everything. On the western shores of the Caspian Sea, Baku is the largest city in Caucasus and it's developing at a rapid pace.
Explore the old, the new and everything in between - and learn a bit about Azeri culture and cuisine along the way.
Top things to see and do
Learn about Azeri rug-making on a guided tour of the Carpet Museum.
Catch a show at the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre - or simply admire the building's stunning facade.
Wander through the old walled city (Içeri Seher) and get lost in the magnificent maze of narrow alleyways.
Step back through the ages at the Azerbaijan History Museum and be awed by the building's extravagant interior.
Take an afternoon stroll along Baku Boulevard, followed by a spot of twilight shopping at Fountain Square.
Treat yourself to some sweet nut pie (shekerbura) - one of Azerbaijan's many culinary delights.