From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip Itinerary
The From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip is an 8-day journey that takes travelers from Baku in Azerbaijan to Tehran in Iran. Along the way, you will explore a variety of landscapes, from the Gobustan National Park, to the rolling hills of Ardabil, to the historic city of Zanjan. This road trip covers a distance of approximately 1216km and is best taken in the spring or summer.
You will encounter a number of UNESCO Heritage sites along the way, like the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, the Mausoleums of Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil and the historic city of Zanjan. The roads are generally in good condition, although some sections can be narrow and winding. It is important to also be aware that you will need to cross a border along this route.
This From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip is suitable for all levels of drivers and offers an unbeatable experience. With careful planning, it can also be done on a budget. Get ready for an unforgettable journey full of memories and adventure!
8
number of days
1,450 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Baku
Distance 1,450 km
Driving time 17.8 h
Pace: fast
435.1 kWh
Airports
GYD
,
ZXT
[detailsContainer]
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city with a mix of ancient and modern architecture. It is the perfect starting point for the "From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip" due to its convenient location between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. The city is filled with interesting sights, from the Old City with its palaces and mosques to the modern Flame Towers and Crystal Hall. For those who are interested in history, the Museum of History of Azerbaijan is a must-see.
For travelers who are flying into Baku, the Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is the closest and largest international airport, which provides car rentals. This is the ideal option for those who want to start their road trip with a car, since the city is easily navigable by car.
Apart from sightseeing, Baku also has plenty of places for entertainment, from modern clubs to traditional tea houses. For those who love nature, there are numerous parks and gardens, and for those who love the sea, the Caspian beaches are just a few minutes away.
Baku is the perfect starting point for the "From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip" as it offers a unique mix of ancient and modern architecture, as well as plenty of places for entertainment. With its convenient location and Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) providing car rentals, Baku is the ideal starting point for a road trip through the Caucasus and Persia.
1
Baku
- Gobustan
Distance 60 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
18.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a memorable road trip from Baku to Gobustan! The 60 km journey takes less than 1 hour, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. Start off your journey at the Maiden Tower in Baku, a 12th century monument and symbol of the city. Then, make your way to the Gobustan National Park, the home of ancient petroglyphs depicting human and animal figures. Here, you can explore the rocky hills and mud volcanoes, and take in the breathtaking views. Don't miss the Ateshgah Fire Temple, an ancient Zoroastrian temple believed to be one of the first places of fire worship. Finally, take a break at the Gobustan Reservoir, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush green forests. As you continue your journey, keep an eye out for other historical sites along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Gobustan - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
2
Gobustan
- Astara
Distance 226 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
67.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Gobustan to Astara and explore the hidden gems of Azerbaijan. This 226 km journey takes about three hours, and you will be welcomed by a beautiful landscape of sandstone hills, historical sites, and picturesque villages along the way.
Start your road trip in Gobustan, and visit the ancient petroglyphs located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't forget to take some unforgettable pictures to capture the beauty of the place. As you drive further, you will come across the beautiful city of Lankaran, where you can explore the historical sites and enjoy the local cuisines. You can also take a detour to the Hirkan National Park to admire the stunning wildlife and breathtaking views.
Towards the end of your journey, you will reach the city of Astara, situated on the banks of the Astarachay River. Here, you can visit the historical mosque and take a stroll along the river bank. Don't forget to taste some of the delicious local food from the nearby restaurants.
This is only one of the stages of your road trip. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready to explore Azerbaijan and have an unforgettable journey!
Astara - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Astara
- Ardabil
Distance 322 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: fast
96.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Astara, Azerbaijan to Ardabil! This scenic 87km journey takes only 2 hours to complete and promises a plethora of sights and sounds! As you traverse the route, be sure to check out the historical sites and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. You will also cross the state border along the way. Be aware of the steep ramps and winding roads in some sections, as well as the narrow roads in others. Make sure to take advantage of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that will appear along the route. After your journey is complete, you will be rewarded with a wealth of knowledge about the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an exciting adventure and a whole lot of fun!
Ardabil - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Ardabil
- Tabriz
Distance 223 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: fast
67.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Ardabil to Tabriz, two magnificent cities of Iran! This 223 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, so you can make the most of your time and explore the best places to visit in each city.
Your first stop is Ardabil, home to the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore the complex and its beautiful buildings, as well as the picturesque nature surrounding it. Another great place to visit in Ardabil is the Shorabil Lake, a great spot for a picnic.
Next, hit the road for Tabriz! Here you can find the Tabriz Grand Bazaar, a historical shopping center dating back to the Seljuk period. Take a stroll through the colorful bazaar and admire the many shops and restaurants. You can also visit the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex consists of several historical monuments, including the Arg of Tabriz, the Constitutional House of Tabriz, and the Blue Mosque.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip from Ardabil to Tabriz!
Tabriz - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
5
Tabriz
- Zanjan
Distance 293 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
87.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip adventure from Tabriz, Iran to Zanjan! At 293 kilometers and a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, this scenic route is sure to offer plenty of interesting sights and attractions along the way. On your journey, be sure to admire the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Tabriz, including the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex and the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz. As you drive through the countryside, take in the captivating views of the mountains and valleys around you. Don’t forget to pull over and take pictures of the breathtaking scenery! Stop by the historical sites of Maragheh, such as the Maragheh Observatory and the Tomb of Sheikh Yusef Sarvestani, before arriving in Zanjan. Here, you can explore the Zanjan Grand Bazaar and marvel at the architecture of the Grand Mosque of Zanjan. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a thrilling journey from Tabriz to Zanjan!
Zanjan - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
❯
❮
6
Zanjan
- Qazvin
Distance 184 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
55.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a scenic road trip from Zanjan to Qazvin, a 184 km drive that can be completed in less than two hours. As you drive, take in the stunning views of the beautiful landscape of Iran. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Soltaniyeh Dome, which is the largest brick dome in the world, and the remains of Takht-e Soleyman. Also, see the ancient city of Abyaneh, whose traditional red-clay rooftops, narrow alleys and spectacular mountain views are amazing. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend some time in the historical city of Qazvin, where you can visit the many historical sites and monuments. Make sure you take the time to visit the Qazvin Bazaar, one of the most famous bazaars in Iran. As you drive through the area, keep an eye out for other historical sites and attractions that you may encounter. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary of this stage. So get ready for an incredible road trip from Zanjan to Qazvin!
Qazvin - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
7
Qazvin
- Tehran
Distance 143 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
42.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Qazvin to Tehran, a 143 km journey that will take you approximately two hours to reach your destination. Along the way, you will be able to take in the breathtaking scenery of the lush countryside and explore some of the most amazing historical sites in Iran. A few of the must-see attractions include the Jameh Mosque of Qazvin, the Tomb of Sheikh Jebraeil, and the Ramsar Palace. In addition, you'll find a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites along the route, such as the Tappeh Sialk archaeological complex and the Soltaniyeh Dome. As you journey along, don't forget to take some time to admire the beautiful nature and landscapes that surround you. When you arrive in Tehran, you will have plenty of time to explore the city and its many attractions, such as the Grand Bazaar and Golestan Palace. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Tehran - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Tehran - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - pxhere.com
❯
❮
Tehran
[detailsContainer]
The grand finale of the "From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip" is the bustling city of Tehran in Iran. This vibrant metropolis is a great way to end your road trip in style.
Tehran is the largest city in Iran and offers plenty of attractions for travelers. The sprawling Golestan Palace is a must-see with its beautiful gardens and grand architecture. The National Museum of Iran is another great spot to explore and learn more about the country's rich culture and history. The Azadi Tower is also a great place to take in the city's skyline, as well as the nearby Grand Bazaar.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Darband area is a great spot to explore with its nature trails, cafes, and restaurants. The Milad Tower is also a great place to visit for panoramic views of the city.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Tehran is the Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). It is well connected to major cities in the region and provides easy access to the city.
At the end of your road trip, the city of Tehran is the perfect place to explore and experience the fascinating culture of Iran. With its grand palaces, museums, bazaars, and outdoor attractions, Tehran is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tehran - Azerbaijan - Asia - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Baku
-
End:
Tehran
-
Distance:
1,450 km
-
Stay:
8 days
-
Getting there:
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD),
Zabrat Airport (ZXT)
-
When to drive:
April, May, September, October, November
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip is an enriching 8-day journey beginning in the vibrant city of Baku, Azerbaijan, and concluding in the historically rich capital of Tehran, Iran. Spanning approximately 1216 kilometers, this route is a tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical wonders, guiding travelers through regions steeped in millennia of history.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Gobustan National Park: Home to more than 6,000 rock engravings that date back between 5,000 and 40,000 years, this park is a testament to the prehistoric inhabitants of the area.
- Ardabil: The city is famous for the stunning Mausoleums of Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage site that exemplifies the architectural and cultural achievements of the Safavid dynasty.
- Zanjan: A city with a storied past that boasts a plethora of historical sites, including the Grand Mosque and the Rakhtshooy Khaneh (traditional laundry house), showcasing the city's unique blend of history and architecture.
Best Time to Go:
The most favorable time to embark on this Road Trip is during the spring (late March to June) or early fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, the landscapes are at their most picturesque, and the cultural sites can be enjoyed in comfortable temperatures.
Potential Risks:
- Road conditions can be unpredictable, with certain stretches being narrow and winding, which may present challenges for drivers unfamiliar with the terrain.
- Travelers must navigate an international border crossing between Azerbaijan and Iran, which necessitates proper documentation and an awareness of the respective countries' entry requirements.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Azeri and Persian culinary delights along the way provide an immersive gastronomic experience.
- The Road Trip offers a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of modernity and tradition, as both Azerbaijan and Iran are countries deeply rooted in ancient history yet rapidly developing.
- Engaging with local communities along the way can enrich the journey with personal stories and insights into regional customs.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the From Caucasus to Persia Road Trip is a gateway to creating lasting memories. This expedition is more than just a Scenic Drive; it's an invitation to witness the confluence of diverse Eurasian cultures and to discover an area of the world that has been at the crossRoads of civilizations for thousands of years.
-
