Quba Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Quba, Azerbaijan with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Quba

Nestled in Northeastern Azerbaijan, Quba is a beautiful city that sits in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. The city boasts of a unique mixture of medieval architecture, mountainous landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. The city is also home to a diverse population, which includes Azerbaijani, Georgian, and Jewish communities. The beautiful countryside, delicious cuisine, and the hospitable locals make Quba a place worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Quba

If you are planning a trip to Quba, there are several places that you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Quba is rich in history, and there are several cultural attractions that reflect the city’s beautiful past.

  • Quba City Museum: The Quba City Museum is a must-visit attraction that showcases the city’s vibrant cultural heritage. The museum has a diverse collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments.

  • Tomb of the Seven Brothers: This historic attraction is located in the village of Cheshty, a short distance from Quba. The tomb is dedicated to seven brothers who were martyred for their faith in the 8th century.

  • Red Settlement: This Jewish settlement is located on the outskirts of Quba, and it is a testimony to the city’s multicultural heritage. The settlement is home to several synagogues that reflect the community’s unique traditions.

Natural Attractions of Quba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Quba is home to several natural attractions that offer opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

  • Qachrash Forest Reserve: This beautiful forest reserve is located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, and it is home to several endangered plant and animal species. Visitors can go hiking, picnicking, and camping in this beautiful reserve.

  • Mount Shahdagh: At over 4,200 meters above sea level, mount Shahdagh is one of the highest peaks in Azerbaijan. The mountain is located on the border between Azerbaijan and Russia, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quba

If you are a fan of outdoor adventures, Quba has several hiking and biking routes that you can explore.

  • Shahdag National Park: This beautiful park is located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, and it is home to several hiking and biking trails. The park has diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rivers.

  • Juma Mosque to Qechresh: This scenic hiking trail takes you from the historic Juma Mosque in Quba to the beautiful village of Qechresh. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful forests and mountainous landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Quba: Activities and Tours

If you are looking for exciting things to do in Quba, there are several activities and tours that you can embark on.

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Quba, and there are several stables in the city that offer horseback riding tours. These tours take visitors through beautiful countryside, including forests and meadows.

  • Skiing in Shahdag: Shahdag is home to one of Azerbaijan’s best ski resorts. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in this beautiful resort.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quba

If you are planning to spend a week in Quba, here is a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Quba City Museum and the Tomb of the Seven Brothers
2 Visit the Red Settlement and go hiking in Qachrash Forest Reserve
3 Take a tour of the Juma Mosque and go horseback riding
4 Take a day trip to the village of Griz
5 Explore the city of Qusar and go skiing in Shahdag
6 Visit the village of Khinaliq and go for a scenic drive
7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine in Quba city

Food and Drink Scene of Quba

No trip to Quba is complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine. The city is known for its rich gastronomic culture, which is influenced by its multicultural heritage.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Qutab: Qutab is a local dish that is made from thin dough filled with minced meat, cheese, or vegetables. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream.

  • Plov: Plov is a traditional Azerbaijani dish that consists of rice, lamb, and saffron. It is often garnished with nuts and served with a side of yoghurt.

Local Beverages

  • Chai: Azerbaijani tea, or Chai, is a strong black tea that is served in small glasses. It is often served with sugar or jam.

  • Ayran: Ayran is a refreshing yoghurt drink that is popular in Azerbaijan. It is made from yoghurt, water, and salt, and it is often served with meals.

Where to Stay in Quba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quba has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

  • Quba Palace Hotel: This luxurious 5-star hotel is located on the outskirts of Quba City. The hotel boasts of several amenities, including swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa.

  • Quba Paradise Resort: This beautiful resort is located in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The resort has several amenities, including a restaurant and a swimming pool.

What to Buy in Quba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some of the best options:

  • Rugs: Quba is famous for its handmade rugs, which feature intricate designs and vibrant colors.

  • Gutab: Gutab is a local pastry that is filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It is often packaged for travelers to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Quba

Quba is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and it is essential to understand the local customs and traditions when visiting the city. The locals are warm and friendly, and they enjoy hosting visitors in their homes.

Best Time to Visit Quba

The best time to visit Quba is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. The city is also bustling with festivals and cultural events during this time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quba

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

  • Drink tap water.

  • Visit remote areas alone without a guide.

Safety and Health

Safety in Quba

Quba is generally a safe city, and visitors can move around freely without any safety concerns. However, it is essential to be careful when visiting remote areas, especially at night.

Health in Quba

Visitors to Quba should ensure that they have received all the required vaccinations before traveling. It is also essential to carry mosquito repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Quba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Quba

  • Ganja International Airport: This airport is located about 200 km from Quba, and it offers domestic and international flights.

  • Heydar Aliyev International Airport: This airport is located about 150 km from Quba, and it offers international flights.

Bus Stations Near Quba

  • Quba Central Bus Station: This bus station is located in the heart of Quba, and it offers several bus routes to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Private Car hire: Visitors can hire private cars to travel to Quba from nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Quba

Quba is a small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by using public transportation. Taxis and buses are readily available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Quba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have explored Quba and are looking for nearby destinations to visit, here are some options:

  • Guba: The city of Guba is located about 35 km from Quba, and it is home to several cultural and natural attractions, including the Khinalug Village and the Narimanov Park.

  • Shamakhi: The city of Shamakhi is located about 90 km from Quba, and it is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Juma Mosque and the Gulistan Fortress.

Conclusion

Quba is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. You can explore the city’s rich heritage by visiting its museums, historical sites, and cultural events. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking and biking routes and the beautiful natural attractions. Don’t forget to sample the local cuisine and bring back some souvenirs that reflect the city’s multicultural heritage.

Sakina Khanum Mosque Sakina Khanum Mosque