Looking for the best things to do in Ganja, Azerbaijan? Read on...
Situated on the historic Silk Road, Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second-largest city after Baku, is a delightful blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. It may not be as well-known as Baku, which is approximately 4 hours away by car, but it feels more authentic and less touristy.
The name of the city may sound strange in the modern context but it is actually derived from the Persian word "ganj", meaning "treasure" or "treasury".
Imamzadeh Complex
The Imamzadeh Complex is a magnificent religious site consisting of a mausoleum, mosque, caravanserai, cemetery, and funerary monuments, all surrounded by a red brick wall. The complex's centrepiece is the beautifully decorated mausoleum, with its blue domes and intricate tile work. This 8th-century shrine attracts both locals and tourists for its spiritual importance and architectural beauty. The complex exudes a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, and it is a must-visit landmark in Ganja.
Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum
No visit to Ganja would be complete without paying tribute to one of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated poets, Nizami Ganjavi. His mausoleum, located just outside the city centre, is a significant structure that reflects the nation’s pride in its literary heritage. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the mausoleum is a peaceful space where you can learn more about the poet whose work has inspired Persian and Azerbaijani literature for centuries. The story of Layla and Majnun is one of his most iconic works. We visited during the 5-day annual Nizami Days celebration, while local actors were rehearsing a play to be staged later that day.
Javad Khan Street
Just as Baku has Nizami Street, this bustling street is the heart of Ganja’s social life and offers a lively mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops. As you stroll down Javad Khan Street, you’ll encounter a blend of modern and Soviet-era architecture, alongside local vendors selling traditional Azerbaijani sweets, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Stop for a cup of Azerbaijani tea at one of the local cafes and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Shah Abbas Mosque
The Shah Abbas Mosque, built in the 17th century, is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its red-brick exterior and intricate tile work make it a striking landmark in the city. The mosque’s serene courtyard and elegant minarets reflect the beauty of Safavid-era design. As one of Ganja’s most important historical sites, it remains a place of worship and cultural significance.
Triumphal Arch at Heydar Aliyev Park
Heydar Aliyev Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Azerbaijan. It features impressive fountains and sculptures, as well as expansive green spaces and tranquil walking paths, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls, family outings, and outdoor activities. The Triumphal Arch at the entrance is a monumental structure that commemorates Ganja’s rich history.
The park complex also includes an amusement park called "Ganjland" that offers attractions for both children and adults.
For the best experience, visit the park in the evening when it's beautifully illuminated and filled with local families enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Bottle House
One of the quirkiest attractions in Ganja is the Bottle House, a unique structure made entirely of glass bottles. Built in the 1960s by Ibrahim Jafarov in memory of his brother who went missing during WWII, the house is both an artistic marvel and a touching memorial. It’s estimated that around 50,000 bottles were used to create this one-of-a-kind residence. The intricate patterns and designs on the walls make it a fascinating sight for visitors.
Khan Bagi Park
For a dose of greenery and tranquility, head to Khan Bagi Park, one of the city’s largest and oldest parks. This well-maintained public space is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic under the trees. The park's fountains, tree-lined paths, vibrant flowerbeds and tea houses provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Tip: You can see part of the 16th century Ganja Fortress walls outside this park.
Ganja has a rich architectural heritage that blends various historical influences, from Persian and Islamic to Russian and Soviet styles.
Here are some of its most notable buildings:
Ganja State City Hall
Ganja City Hall
Ganja State Philharmonic Hall
Ganja State Philharmonic Hall
Ganja State Drama Theatre
Ganja State Drama Theatre
The Russian Church in Ganja
Also known as the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky, this is a striking example of 19th-century Russian Orthodox architecture.
Russian Church
If time permits, go on a day trip to Göygöl National Park, a pristine natural area known for its crystal-clear lake and lush mountain scenery. An hour away from Ganja, the lake Göygöl (which means "Blue Lake"), is nestled at the foot of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains and is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and nature photography. The park is home to a variety of wildlife.
Dashli Qala Hotel,
Our family of 3 stayed at Dashli Qala Hotel, a nostalgic Silk Route-themed hotel with modern, spacious bedrooms and a discreet entrance leading into a shopping centre. Find more accommodation in Ganja .
Gence Sufresi Restaurant
We enjoyed a delicious Azeri breakfast at the beautiful Silk Route-themed Gence Sufresi restaurant in the shopping centre.
Sah Sarayi Restaurant
Sah Sarayi is a quirky outdoor garden restaurant specialising in local Azerbaijani food. It also has indoor booths for inclement weather. We feasted on dolmas, kebabs, ayran and other local delicacies, with the resident felines keeping us company. While waiting for the food to arrive, I enjoyed walking around the restaurant admiring the fascinating props.
Although Ganja isn’t on most Azerbaijani itineraries, we don’t regret adding it to ours. This city may not be as famous as Baku, but its charm and history make it a must-see for travellers looking to explore the lesser-known gems of the Caucasus.
See my video on Ganja here.
See things to do in Baku.
See how to apply for an Azerbaijan visa.
See common scams in Azerbaijan.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
Looks like a great place to vacation and explore
It's a beautiful city!
Ganja looks really lovely. I am interested in visiting after reading this. Some of the architecture is stunning.
The Khan Bagi Park looks so cool! Thanks for sharing!