Explore Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan: A 2-Day Adventure Itinerary

Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan

2 days

Garabaghlar Mausoleum
Panoramic shot of river Aras
Ilandagh mountain
Open-air museum
Alinja castle

About Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan

Discover the historic charm of Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan, an autonomous republic brimming with ancient architecture and natural beauty. Explore the 12th-century Momine Khatun Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture, or visit the Ashabi-Kahf Cave, a site of pilgrimage with fascinating legends. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of Duzdag Physiotherapy Center, a unique health resort inside a salt mine. Take a scenic drive through the Alinja Castle, perched on a mountain with panoramic views. Indulge in local cuisine, famous for its rich flavors and unique preparation methods. Nakhchivan, with its blend of history, culture, and nature, offers an unforgettable travel experience.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historical Landmarks of Nakhchivan

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the ancient fortress of Alinja, also known as the 'Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan'. This 12th-century fortress offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch in a local restaurant. Try the local delicacy, Piti, a mutton soup cooked in a clay pot.

Afternoon

Visit the Mausoleum of Momine Khatun, an architectural masterpiece of the 12th century. The monument is adorned with intricate geometric patterns and Kufic inscriptions.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try a variety of Azerbaijani dishes, including kebabs and pilaf.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the Heydar Aliyev Park, a beautifully landscaped area with fountains, statues, and a panoramic view of the city.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Ashabi-Kahf Cave, a site of great religious and historical significance. The cave is believed to be the dwelling place of the Seven Sleepers mentioned in the Quran.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try Azerbaijani dishes like dolma and qutab.

Afternoon

Explore the Khan Palace, a 18th century architectural gem. The palace complex includes a mosque, bathhouse, and a beautiful garden.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Don't miss out on trying the local dessert, Shekerbura, a sweet pastry filled with nuts.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Nakhchivan State Puppet Theatre, a unique cultural experience. Watch a traditional Azerbaijani puppet show, a perfect end to your trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Mausoleum of Momine Khatun

1
Mausoleum of Momine Khatun

The Mausoleum of Momine Khatun is an iconic 12th-century monument in Nakhchivan. It was built in honor of Momine Khatun, the wife of the ruler of the Eldiguzids. The mausoleum is known for its intricate geometric designs and Kufic inscriptions.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Heydar Aliyev Park

2
Heydar Aliyev Park

Heydar Aliyev Park is a beautiful green space in Nakhchivan, named after the third President of Azerbaijan. The park is well-maintained and features a statue of Heydar Aliyev, as well as several architectural structures. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Attractions
Parks
Ashabi-Kahf Cave

3
Ashabi-Kahf Cave

A site of significant religious and historical importance, believed to be the location where the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus took refuge.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Khan Palace

4
Khan Palace

Khan Palace, also known as Nakhchivan Khans' Palace, is a historical museum that was once the residence of the Khans of Nakhchivan. The palace features a unique blend of architectural styles and houses a collection of historical artifacts.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Nakhchivan State Puppet Theatre

5
Nakhchivan State Puppet Theatre

Nakhchivan State Puppet Theatre is a popular entertainment venue in Nakhchivan. It hosts a variety of puppet shows that are enjoyed by both children and adults. The theatre is known for its creative performances and engaging storytelling.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Alinja Fortress

6
Alinja Fortress

A historical fortress located on top of a mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is also known as 'the Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan' due to its location and architecture.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Dolma

Dolma

A traditional Azerbaijani dish made from minced meat, rice, and various spices, all wrapped in grape leaves. It is a must-try in Nakhchivan.

Piti

A popular soup in Nakhchivan made from mutton and vegetables. It is usually served in a clay pot.

Kebab

Kebab

A well-known dish in Nakhchivan, made from skewered and grilled pieces of meat, usually served with flatbread and vegetables.

Qutab

A thin, crispy pancake filled with various ingredients such as spinach, cheese, or meat. It's a popular street food in Nakhchivan.

Dushbara

Dushbara

A traditional Azerbaijani soup made with tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and spices. It's a common dish in Nakhchivan.

Shirin Plov

A sweet version of pilaf made with rice, dried fruits, and nuts. It's a festive dish in Nakhchivan.

Kufta Bozbash

A hearty soup made with large meatballs, potatoes, and chickpeas. It's a popular comfort food in Nakhchivan.

Chigirtma

Chigirtma

A dish made from fried aubergines, peppers, and tomatoes, usually served with meat. It's a common meal in Nakhchivan.

Shashlik

Shashlik

A type of kebab made from marinated cubes of meat, usually cooked on a skewer over a fire. It's a popular dish in Nakhchivan.

Choban Salati

A traditional Azerbaijani salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs. It's a common side dish in Nakhchivan.

Ayran

Ayran

A traditional Azerbaijani drink made from yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt. It's a popular refreshing drink in Nakhchivan.

Sharbat

A sweet drink made from fruits or flower petals, sugar, and water. It's a popular traditional drink in Nakhchivan.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan is during the spring months of April to June, and the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the region's rich history and culture. The summer months can be quite hot, while winters can be cold and snowy, which might not be ideal for all tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

Day off for World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year's Holiday

January 20

Sat

Martyrs’ Day

January 22

Mon

Day off for Martyrs’ Day

March 8

Fri

Women's Day

March 20

Wed

Nowruz

March 21

Thu

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 22

Fri

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 23

Sat

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 24

Sun

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

April 10

Wed

Ramadan holiday

April 11

Thu

Ramadan holiday

May 9

Thu

Victory Day over Fascism

May 28

Tue

Republic Day

June 15

Sat

Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People

June 17

Mon

Feast of the Sacrifice

June 17

Mon

Day off for Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People

June 18

Tue

Feast of the Sacrifice Holiday

June 26

Wed

Azerbaijan Armed Forces Day

November 8

Fri

Victory Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan

November 9

Sat

State Flag Day of Azerbaijan

November 11

Mon

Day off for State Flag Day of Azerbaijan

December 31

Tue

World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Nakhchivan International Airport is the main gateway to the region. There are regular flights from Baku, Istanbul, and other major cities.

Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Nakhchivan. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city center.

Taxis are widely available in Nakhchivan. They are a quick and affordable way to get around the city and to nearby attractions.

There is a public bus system in Nakhchivan. It's a cost-effective way to travel, but it may not be as convenient as other options.

Nakhchivan has a railway station with connections to other parts of Azerbaijan. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel, but it can be slower than other methods.

While ridesharing services like Uber are not currently available in Nakhchivan, local taxi services function in a similar manner and are readily available.

Bicycles can be rented in Nakhchivan. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, but be aware that some areas have steep hills.

Many of Nakhchivan's attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to experience the local culture and scenery.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency AZN

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 03; Fire: 01; Police: 02

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan as a first time visitor

1

Nakhchivan is an autonomous republic of Azerbaijan, so it has its own government and regulations.

2

The official language is Azerbaijani, but Russian and English are also spoken by some locals.

3

The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). It's recommended to have some local currency on hand as not all places accept credit cards.

4

Nakhchivan has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from 86°F (30°C) in summer to 23°F (-5°C) in winter.

5

It's a predominantly Muslim region, so it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

6

The region is known for its healthy lifestyle and longevity of its residents, attributed to its clean air, mineral waters, and organic food.

7

Nakhchivan is not a typical tourist destination, so don't expect many tourist facilities. However, locals are generally friendly and helpful.

8

Public transportation is limited, so it's best to hire a car or use taxis for getting around.

9

The region is safe for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions like not displaying wealth openly and avoiding deserted areas at night.

10

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

11

The region is known for its salt caves, which are believed to have healing properties. You may want to visit one of these for a unique experience.

12

Nakhchivan is a great place for hiking and nature lovers, with its beautiful landscapes and mountains.

13

The region has a rich history and culture, with many archaeological sites and ancient monuments.

14

The local cuisine is a mix of Turkish and Iranian influences. Don't miss trying the local dishes like dolma, plov, and kebabs.

15

Nakhchivan is not a shopping destination, but you can find local handicrafts, carpets, and organic food products in the local markets.

16

The region is known for its carpet weaving tradition. You may want to visit a carpet workshop to see the process and buy a handmade carpet.

17

The region has a strict alcohol policy due to its Muslim majority. Drinking alcohol in public places is not allowed.

18

Nakhchivan is in the Azerbaijan Standard Time zone (AZT), which is 4 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+4).

19

The region has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

20

Nakhchivan has its own airport, Nakhchivan International Airport, with flights connecting to Baku and Istanbul.

Basic Azerbaijani to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Salam

sah-lam

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Xudahafiz

khoo-dah-hah-feez

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Zəhmət olmasa

zeh-met ol-ma-sa

Making a request

Thank you

Təşəkkür edirəm

te-she-kur edir-em

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Bəli

be-li

Agreeing or confirming

No

Xeyr

khe-yr

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Üzr istəyirəm

uzr is-te-yi-rem

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Başa düşmürəm

ba-sha doosh-moo-rem

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Siz ingilis dili danışa bilirsiniz?

siz ingilis dili danisha bilirsiniz?

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Tualet haradadır?

tualet hara-da-dir?

Looking for the bathroom

I need help

Mənə kömək lazımdır

me-ne ko-mek la-zyim-dir

When you need assistance

Call the police

Polisi çağırın

polisi cha-gi-rin

In case of an emergency

I am lost

Mən itmişəm

men it-mi-shem

When you are lost

How much does this cost?

Bu neçədir?

bu ne-che-dir?

When you want to know the price of something

Where is...?

... haradadır?

... hara-da-dir?

When you are looking for a specific place

I would like...

Mən ... istəyirəm

men ... is-te-yi-rem

When you want something

Water

Su

su

When you want water

Food

Yemək

ye-mek

When you want food

Good morning

Sabahınız xeyir

sa-ba-hi-niz khei-r

Greeting in the morning

Good night

Gecəniz xeyir

ge-je-niz khei-r

Greeting in the night

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket (for cooler evenings)

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications (if any)

  • First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Visa (if required)

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact list

  • Local currency

  • Credit/debit cards

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for organization

  • Umbrella or raincoat (in case of rain)

Weather Conditions

Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan is known for its semi-arid climate, which means it experiences hot summers and cold winters. When planning your trip, it's important to consider these seasonal variations to ensure you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C). It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun. Stay hydrated and try to avoid outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures dropping to around 23°F (-5°C). If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. The winter can also bring occasional snowfall, so waterproof shoes or boots would be a good idea. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to Nakhchivan, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Also, keep in mind that the city is located at a high altitude, which can affect weather conditions and how your body reacts to them. Lastly, don't forget to pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and always carry a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings, even in the summer.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

7° / -5°

January is the coldest month in Nakhchivan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring historical sites.

February

9° / -3°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots.

March

15° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

April

22° / 6°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.

May

27° / 11°

May offers warm temperatures, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with local festivals and events.

June

33° / 15°

June is the start of summer with high temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and outdoor activities.

July

37° / 19°

July is the hottest month in Nakhchivan, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees. It's a good time for swimming and other water activities.

August

36° / 18°

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to drop slightly. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and want to avoid the peak tourist season.

September

31° / 13°

September sees the beginning of autumn, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

October

22° / 8°

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.

November

15° / 3°

November offers cool temperatures, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with local festivals and events.

December

9° / -1°

December is the start of winter with low temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy cold weather and indoor activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan is an autonomous republic, meaning it has its own government separate from the main government of Azerbaijan?

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