Azerbaijan is a center of international tourism. A few millennia ago the Great Silk Road ran here. Currently, Azerbaijan is a country with a rich history, diverse architecture and original cuisine. Every year it attracts tourists from Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and other countries.
The capital of Azerbaijan is Baku. It is the largest city in the republic and the most popular for tourism: in recent years, several million foreigners have visited it. Russians make up the majority of tourists traveling to the republic (according to statistics, about a quarter of the total).
Three main modes of transport can be reached from Azerbaijan to Russia: a plane, a train, and a car. Most direct flights are Baku-Moscow and Baku-St. Petersburg flights. Residents of other cities will have to make one or more transfers.
Buses also travel from Baku to St. Petersburg and Moscow, but this is a long and tiring way to travel, especially in the summer. Not many people decide to spend almost 2 days on a trip. Therefore, the bus is not as popular as, for example, an airplane.
By plane
As a transport, most people choose a plane. This is the fastest way to get to the right city. So, depending on the chosen airline, the flight Moscow-Baku takes about 3 hours, and the price of tickets starts at 13,500 rubles.
By train
There is a dry border between Russia and Azerbaijan, therefore those who for some reason cannot fly by plane or like comfortable leisurely trips often prefer a train. In this case, the Baku-Moscow route will take a little more than two days, and a place in the reserved seat will cost 6-7 thousand.
By car
Many consider this travel method to be one of the most convenient. It’s also very interesting. After all, you can stop at any place you like, relax and continue your journey at a convenient time.
The distance from Baku to Moscow is 2317.5 km. With an average price of gasoline, the trip will cost 7-8 thousand, not counting the cost of food and renting rooms in hostels and roadside hotels, in which you will need to stay on vacation.
The time difference between Baku and Moscow is only +1 hour, so the adaptation of the body to new conditions will pass quickly, and upon returning home you will not have to restore your usual daily routine for a long time.
Popular Attractions
Ateshgah - one of the unique attractions described in all guidebooks. Built by the Hindu community, it is the only surviving temple of Zorastrians. Entrance fee is 2 manat ($ 4).
Little Venice - a place that fully matches its name. Here, for 3 manat ($ 5), you can take a boat trip on water canals past small picturesque islands.
Icherisheher Fortress (Old Town) mainly consists of a complex of mosques that were built in different historical eras. There is also a market square and caravanserais. Admission is free, but you can only walk around the Old Town on foot. For the sake of order on the streets, only locals and workers have passes for using vehicles.
In addition to excursions to historical places, while traveling in Azerbaijan, you must always take time to the local national cuisine and try kebab, pilaf, baklava, Turkish delight. These dishes are known not only in Azerbaijan, but only here they are prepared according to all the rules, in clay dishes and with sauce made from pomegranate juice or sour milk. For the preparation of desserts, sugar from cane and beets is used.
Baku is a city with its own special unique flavor. Historic buildings, markets and the Old Town are adjacent to skyscrapers, oil rigs and expensive hotels. Such a trip guarantees unforgettable emotions and vivid impressions.