Azerbaijan through the seasons

Reasons to visit all year round

From skiing in winter to autumn festivals, witnessing Novruz in spring and feeling the Caspian vibe in summer, there are great reasons to visit Azerbaijan throughout the year. Here’s a quick guide to what to expect in every season.

Winter

These winter months are the perfect time for a Christmas trip or New Year’s celebrations. From the beginning of December, festive cheer takes over Baku’s Fountains Square. While snow is a rarity in Baku, big Christmas trees and markets help to get everyone in the Christmas mood. For those who love a chilly mountain top, we could not recommend the ski resorts of Shahdag and Tufandag enough. Snow sports enthusiasts are welcome from December through to the end of March, and you can take your pick from the variety of hotels at each resort to suit how you want to usher the festive season in: snuggled up with your family, or on a romantic adventure with your loved one. 

Spring

Spring in Azerbaijan is a special time as this is when nature awakens after its winter hibernation. What’s more, this is when we celebrate our favourite Azerbaijani holiday – Novruz – a festival of spring and the coming of the new year. All Azerbaijanis take part in this traditional holiday with their customs and rituals that provide the perfect opportunity to witness Azerbaijani culture and traditions at their finest. You’ll be welcome not just to watch but also take part in celebrations! Occupying the small gap between spring and summer, May is an ideal time to get out and explore Azerbaijan’s many historical monuments and natural beauties. Visit places like the Goygol and Maralgol lakes near Ganja and the ancient cities of Sheki and Gabala which will all delight you with their beauty. The Hirkan National Park is a great option for the ecotourists among you and especially beautiful at this time of year. 

Summer

The period between early June and late August is Azerbaijan’s hottest and sunniest time. Summertime in Baku is the perfect medicine for those who crave respite from a long cold winter, especially if you paint your trip with the exciting colours of sunsets on the Absheron. Baku’s peninsula is lined with long beaches with all you need for a great summer holiday. Resorts have been built with excellent recreational facilities catering exclusively to your comfort. What’s more, this is a great time to tuck into Azerbaijani food and wine and to hunt for cultural and natural treasures in the countryside. Summertime is also the time for events and festivals. Experience big events like the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Summer International Music Festival or discover small folk festivals like the Nomadic Culture Festival in Gadabay – a great place to try traditional food and chat to local people!

Autumn

With cooler temperatures but still plenty of sunshine, this is a great season for long mountain walks, visiting national parks and enjoying exclusive spa breaks. Autumn in Baku is perfect for wandering around the city, but you can still venture from here far into the Caucasus Mountains. This is also the time of the annual grape harvest so why not pop into vineyards in Gabala, Ismayilli, Shamakhi or Goygol? Besides trying all the delicious local wines, you might also be invited to take part in picking the grapes. November is a great month for slowly taking in the beautiful colours of the Caucasus. Wrap up warm and venture out to scenic forests and lakes.