Astara is a city in and the capital of the Astara District of Azerbaijan. Astara is a short walk across the border from Astara, Iran.
Spring (April - June): Pleasant temperatures (15-25°C), ideal for exploring the coastline and nature.
Summer (July - August): Warm (25-35°C), great for beach activities and enjoying the local fruit harvests.
Autumn (September - November): Cool weather (10-20°C), perfect for sightseeing and hiking.
Winter (December - February): Mild (5-15°C), peaceful and quieter for a relaxing getaway.
By Car: A 5-6 hour drive (350 km) from Baku, via the M-3 highway, taking you along the Caspian coast.
By Bus: Direct buses from Baku’s International Bus Terminal, taking around 6-7 hours.
By Taxi: Taxis are available for a more direct and convenient transfer from Baku or nearby cities.
Astara Beach – A peaceful and scenic beach along the Caspian Sea, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
Astara National Park – A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.
Astara Waterfall – A beautiful waterfall located near the city, surrounded by lush greenery.
Lankaran Fortress – A historical fort located in the region, offering panoramic views of the Caspian Sea.
Astara Museum – Learn about the rich history and culture of the region, with exhibits on local traditions and the environment.
Talysh Mountains – A mountain range offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Relax at Astara Beach and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
Explore Astara National Park for nature walks, hiking, and birdwatching.
Visit the Astara Waterfall for scenic views and a tranquil escape.
Take a hike in the Talysh Mountains, where you can enjoy both the stunning views and the serenity of nature.
Explore Lankaran Fortress and learn about the region's history while enjoying panoramic sea views.
Discover the local culture by visiting Astara Museum and participating in local festivals or events.
Luxury:
Caspian Sea Resort – A luxurious hotel near the beach offering upscale amenities and sea views.
Astara Hotel – Comfortable and well-located, perfect for a relaxing stay with views of the coast.
Mid-Range:
Astara Guesthouses – Cozy guesthouses offering local experiences and hospitality.
Talysh Highlands Resort – Located near the mountains, a great base for nature enthusiasts.
Budget:
Local motels and budget hotels – Simple and affordable accommodations for travelers on a budget.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kebab – Grilled skewers of marinated meat, a staple in Azerbaijani cuisine.
Plov – A rich, aromatic rice dish typically served with lamb, chicken, or fish.
Kuku – A Persian-style frittata made with herbs, vegetables, and eggs.
Fresh Caspian fish – A local delicacy, particularly fish from the Caspian Sea, often grilled or served in stews.
Saffron rice – Rice cooked with saffron, a fragrant and colorful dish that pairs well with meats.
Top Restaurants:
Astara Seafood Restaurant – Known for its fresh seafood, especially Caspian fish dishes.
Talysh Café – A cozy spot offering traditional Azerbaijani food with a focus on local specialties.
Caspian Beach Restaurant – A beachfront eatery with a variety of Azerbaijani and seafood dishes.
Astara Market – A local market with stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, and local street foods.
Caspian Coast Culture: Astara’s proximity to the Caspian Sea has shaped its coastal culture, where fishing and trade have been integral to the region’s economy and lifestyle.
Talysh Heritage: The region has a significant Talysh population, with its own language and unique customs, which are reflected in the local traditions, festivals, and cuisine.
Hospitality: Azerbaijani hospitality is at its best in Astara, where locals are known for warmly welcoming visitors, offering tea and traditional sweets.
Traditional Music & Dance: Azerbaijani folk music, including performances with instruments like the tar and kamancha, is commonly enjoyed during cultural events in the region.