Four seasons in one compact country

Azerbaijan's small size hides a lot of climate variety. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are the most comfortable months for Baku and the Absheron peninsula, with mild days and clear skies for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August) turns the capital warm and dry, which makes it a good time to swap the city for the Caspian coast or the cooler air of the mountain towns. Winter (December to February) is quiet in Baku but brings skiing to Gabala and Shahdag.

Match the season to the region

Baku and Absheron reward a spring or autumn visit, when walking the Old City and the boulevard is most pleasant - though a well-timed summer trip works well if a beach day by the Caspian is part of the plan.

Gabala, Sheki and Guba feel different depending on the month: green and mild in summer, golden in autumn, and snow-dusted for skiing and mountain views in winter.

ZEVA tips

• Pack light layers even in summer - mountain evenings in Gabala and Sheki stay cool.
• Plan around Novruz (late March) if you want to see Baku's biggest spring celebration.
• Book Sheki's historic caravanserai rooms ahead of time during peak season weekends.