Lankaran

Lankaran is the main city of southern Azerbaijan, on the Caspian coast near the border with Iran. The subtropical climate makes it the land of tea plantations, citrus orchards and green hills.

Visit the old fortress with its lighthouse tower, the Khan's Palace and the tea plantations. Nearby is Hirkan National Park with relict Hyrcanian forests — some of the oldest forests on Earth, home to the Persian ironwood tree.

Local cuisine is a reason to come on its own: try lavangi — chicken or fish stuffed with walnuts and herbs — and freshly brewed Lankaran tea.

Getting there with 4T Transfer

The drive along the southern highway takes about 3.5 hours. A one-way transfer from Baku costs from $110 per car (sedan) or $130 (minivan).

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are the best; summers are hot and humid. The mountain district of Lerik, famous for its long-lived residents, is an easy side trip.