Azerbaijan Airlines will commence the direct flight between Baku and Geneva starting September 30th, 2023. This new connection marks a significant milestone for Azerbaijan's tourism industry, as it opens up access to a major European market and boosts the country's position as a top travel destination.
The direct flight between Baku and Geneva will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The flight duration is approximately 5 hours. Tickets for the Baku-Geneva route can be purchased directly through Azerbaijan Airline's official website: www.azal.az, as well as from travel agencies, and online booking platforms. The airline aims to provide passengers with a hassle-free travel experience and enhance connectivity between the two capitals.
Azerbaijan offers a broad spectrum of attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Old City of Baku, the Caucasus Mountains, the Caspian Sea, and the traces of the ancient Silk Road. The needs of today's travellers are met by the availability of a wide range of modern amenities, such as world-class hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres. A great week in Baku, with its versatile architecture and top-notch restaurants, can be complemented with exceptional experiences in the regions. Travellers can discover the legacy of the legendary Silk Road in Sheki and the small mountain village of Basgal, known for preserving the tradition of making the exquisite Azerbaijani silk headscarf - kelaghayi. For the true nomadic experience, one should follow the direction taking them to the UNESCO-listed village of Khinalig, located 2,220 metres above sea level in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Newly cultivated hiking routes, passing through the lush nature to the mountain villages, lead every traveller to the astonishing views.
Sustainable tourism is a cornerstone of Azerbaijan Tourism Board's (ATB) strategy, aligning with the preferences of modern travellers while safeguarding Azerbaijan's resources. An excellent example is Slow Food Travel (SFT), a sustainable tourism initiative in Azerbaijan, developed through an EU-funded partnership between ATB and Slow Food International. SFT celebrates and preserves traditional cooking methods and endangered products. Within SFT, tourists can immerse themselves in authentic Azerbaijani gastronomy and daily life along the north-western route, meeting approximately 60 local producers. Travellers can opt for unique accommodations on local farms to gain hands-on experiences. The country also boasts a viticulture industry, which has received recognition from the Council of Europe and the European Institute of Cultural Routes. Local bars and restaurants serve all sorts of Azerbaijani wine, but they are going to taste even better when served on the top of the vineyards in the regions, paired with local delicacies.
At the moment, citizens of more than 100 countries can travel to Azerbaijan. Citizens of Austria can apply for an e-VISA through evisa.gov.az at least three days before their planned arrival date, or receive an urgent visa within 3 to 5 hours. The visa will be valid for 90 days, during which Austrian travellers can visit Azerbaijan for up to 30 days.
