This is relatively short, but intensive Azerbaijan tour to the depth of this land. You will start the trip in the capital city Baku, then continue to the ancient city of Shamakhi where different historical monuments are located. Later you will pay a visit to Lagich, a town of artisans. The next day, you will have excursions to the ancient Christian church of Azerbaijan, the Sheki khans’ palace, medieval fortress, historical museum and many other places of Sheki. You will spend the last day in Ganja and visit numerous architectural monuments of various epochs and then return back to Baku. Thus, in such a short time, you will be able to learn both, the culture and history of Azerbaijan, and feel the heartbeat of this land of fire.

Tour itinerary:

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Day 1: Baku – Shamakhi (Shamakha) – Lagich – Sheki

In the morning, depart Baku and drive to Sheki. On the way, stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum in the village of Maraza. Continue to Shamakhi to visit the historical Juma Mosque, which was restored in 2013. Visit Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum, the Shirvan Shah's family graveyard. Weather permitting, drive through Girdimanchay River Canyon to visit Lagich, the 5th century, quaint corner high in Caucasus mountains with its rich history and beautiful architecture. Lagich is an ancient village with charming cobbled sidewalks famous for numerous traditional handicraft workshops (jewelry, copperware, wool carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools). Continue driving to Sheki, the pleasant and easily walkable medieval town set in a lush mountainous area. Sheki is especially known for its local style sweet baklava. Arrival in Sheki, overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Sheki – Mingechevir – Ganja

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the colorful Sheki Bazaar. Here, you can find virtually everything you may want to eat: local fruits and berries, spices, freshly-baked bread, honey, cheeses, and Sheki sweets. Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans, which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops and caravanserai. Depart Sheki and head to Ganja town (160 km, 2-3 hours). One the way, visit Mingachevir town. Have a short drive around the city; pass by riverside, city center, and beautiful water reservoir. Continue driving to Ganja. Check-in to hotel on arrival. Start city tour in Ganja with visiting Shakh Abbas Mosque with two minarets, the mausoleum of the last khan of Ganja Javad Khan, and Chokek Hamam (medieval bathes). Continue sightseeing tour walking by Central Square, Sardar Baghi Park, Alexander Nevski Christian Orthodox Church and Christian Temple Agvan Kilsasi. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Ganja – Goygol Lake – Goygol – Baku

After breakfast, drive to Goygol National Park. Visit Goygol Lake, one of the most scenic mountain lakes in Azerbaijan. Enjoy free time for walking, photos, and enjoying the natural surroundings. Continue to Goygol (formerly Helenendorf), a small town with German heritage. Have a short walk through the historic streets. In the afternoon, head back to Baku. Drop off at your hotel. End of the tour.

Price includes:

All transfers (1-2 pax by sedan, 3-4 pax by Mercedes Vito or similar, 5-10 pax by Mercedes Sprinter passenger van);
Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
Sightseeing tour program with local guide;
Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
Mineral water.