Home › Destinations › Quba
Quba, Azərbaycan - Things to Do in Quba

Quba

Quba, Azərbaycan - Complete Travel Guide

Quba, located in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains in northern Azerbaijan, is a picturesque city renowned for its impressive natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious apples. As the administrative center of the Quba District, this charming destination offers visitors a perfect blend of mountain scenery, traditional Azerbaijani culture, and outdoor adventures. The city sits at an elevation of about 600 meters above sea level, providing cooler temperatures and impressive views of snow-capped peaks. Quba is famous for its diverse ethnic communities, including the unique Red Village (Qırmızı Qəsəbə), home to one of the world's largest communities of Mountain Jews. The region is also celebrated for its carpet weaving traditions, pristine waterfalls, and the nearby Shahdag National Park. Visitors can explore ancient mosques, sample local delicacies like Quba apples and traditional sweets, and start hiking adventures through some of Azerbaijan's most spectacular mountain terrain.

Top Quba

Shahdag National Park

Discover Azerbaijan's largest national park, featuring diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and impressive mountain landscapes. The park offers excellent hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to traditional mountain villages. Visitors can spot brown bears, lynx, and various bird species while enjoying panoramic views of the Greater Caucasus range.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 2-3 AZN per person. Best visited from May to October when trails are accessible. Book guided tours through local operators for 50-80 AZN per day including transportation and guide services.

the Red Village (Qırmızı Qəsəbə)

Explore this unique settlement that houses one of the world's largest communities of Mountain Jews, known for their distinctive culture and traditions. The village gets its name from the red-tiled roofs of traditional houses and offers insight into a fascinating blend of Jewish and Caucasian cultures. Visitors can tour the local synagogue, interact with residents, and learn about centuries-old traditions.

Booking Tip: Free to visit independently, but guided tours (30-50 AZN) provide valuable cultural context. Best visited during weekdays when community activities are more visible. Arrange visits through Quba tourism office for real feels.

Hike to Afurja Waterfall

Trek through lush forests to reach this spectacular 75-meter waterfall, one of Azerbaijan's most beautiful natural attractions. The moderately challenging hike takes about 2-3 hours and rewards visitors with impressive views and the opportunity to swim in natural pools. The trail passes through diverse vegetation and offers excellent photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Free access to the trail, but hiring a local guide (40-60 AZN) is recommended for safety and navigation. Best visited from April to October. Bring sturdy hiking boots and pack lunch as there are no facilities along the trail.

Tour Traditional Carpet Workshops

Visit local artisans who continue the ancient tradition of hand-weaving Quba carpets, known for their intricate geometric patterns and high quality. These workshops offer demonstrations of traditional techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can observe the entire process from wool preparation to the final product and purchase authentic handmade carpets.

Booking Tip: Workshop visits are typically free, with carpets ranging from 200-2000 AZN depending on size and complexity. Best to visit during weekday mornings when artisans are most active. Contact workshops in advance through your hotel for personalized experiences.

Quba's Historical Mosques and Architecture

Discover the city's rich Islamic heritage by visiting historic mosques including the beautiful Cuma Mosque and Ardabil Mosque, showcasing traditional Azerbaijani architectural styles. These sites offer insight into the region's religious history and feature intricate tilework and wooden craftsmanship. The tour can include visits to traditional bathhouses and old merchant quarters.

Booking Tip: Mosque visits are free but dress modestly and respect prayer times. Guided historical tours cost 25-40 AZN per person. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon. Local guides available through tourism information center provide detailed historical context.

Getting There

Quba is located approximately 165 kilometers north of Baku and is easily accessible by road. The most convenient option is to drive or take a taxi, which takes about 2.5-3 hours and costs 60-100 AZN. Regular bus services operate from Baku's Central Bus Station with departures every hour, costing around 8-12 AZN per person. The journey offers scenic views of the Azerbaijani countryside and gradually ascending mountain landscapes. For international visitors, the nearest airport is Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport, from where ground transportation to Quba can be arranged.

Getting Around

Quba is a relatively small city that can be explored on foot, especially the central areas and main attractions. Local taxis are readily available and inexpensive, with short rides within the city costing 3-8 AZN. For visiting surrounding attractions like waterfalls, national parks, and mountain villages, hiring a local driver or joining organized tours is recommended as public transportation to remote areas is limited. Many hotels and guesthouses can arrange transportation services, and rental cars are available though local driving experience is helpful due to mountain road conditions.

Where to Stay

City Center
Near Quba River
Mountain View Areas
Red Village Vicinity
Shahdag Resort Area
Traditional Guesthouses District

Food & Dining

Quba's culinary scene celebrates both traditional Azerbaijani cuisine and local mountain specialties. The city is famous for its delicious apples, which are incorporated into various dishes and desserts. Local restaurants serve hearty mountain fare including fresh trout, lamb dishes, and regional variations of plov (pilaf). Traditional tea houses offer real feels with local sweets like pakhlava and shekerbura. Many establishments feature outdoor seating with mountain views, and prices are generally affordable with main courses ranging from 8-25 AZN. Don't miss trying Quba's famous apple jam and locally produced honey.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Azerbaijan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

MALACANNES - Shisha Lounge

4.9 /5
(3963 reviews) 2
bar night_club

Fisincan Cafe & Restaurant

4.6 /5
(2086 reviews) 2

Qala Divari

4.8 /5
(1942 reviews) 2

Fontan Restoran Qebele

4.7 /5
(1803 reviews) 2
lodging

Romeo Land Restaurant

4.9 /5
(1079 reviews)

Terrace 145

4.6 /5
(800 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Quba is from late spring to early autumn (May through October) when weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities and mountain exploration. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest temperatures, perfect for hiking and waterfall visits, though this is also the busiest tourist season. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors. Winter visits are possible but many mountain trails become inaccessible due to snow, though the city takes on a magical winter atmosphere and is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more real feel.

Insider Tips

Purchase fresh Quba apples directly from local orchards for the best quality and prices, especially during harvest season in September-October
Many attractions and restaurants close early in the evening, so plan activities for daytime and early evening hours
Learn a few basic Azerbaijani phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas, and locals greatly appreciate the effort

Activities in Quba