July 15, 2025 – Baku, Azerbaijan
With global airfare prices climbing and regional tensions on the rise, Azerbaijani travelers are increasingly on the hunt for affordable yet high-quality vacation options. According to tourism experts speaking with Media.az, there are still budget-friendly travel destinations—both abroad and within Azerbaijan—that remain accessible this summer.
Top Picks Abroad: Turkey, Montenegro, and Egypt
Tourism expert Rakhman Guliyev says Turkey, Montenegro, and Egypt are currently the top affordable destinations for Azerbaijani travelers. Despite economic uncertainty, competitive packages are still available, especially in Turkey.
“Round-trip airfare, hotel stays, airport transfers, and concierge services can be booked starting at $700–800 per person for five-star resorts in Antalya, Bodrum, or Kusadasi,” said Guliyev. “Four-star packages range around $500–600, while three-star options begin at $500.”
He adds that similar pricing can be found for Egypt’s resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh, which remains a strong alternative for beachgoers.
Montenegro is slightly more expensive: five-star packages with full board and airfare hover around €1,000–1,100, while four-star stays begin at €900, and three-star accommodations can go for €500.
By contrast, Guliyev notes that destinations like Dubai, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and China see lower demand during the summer. “Dubai, for example, is too hot this time of year. Even with discounted pricing, there’s little interest. Asian destinations are stable price-wise, but expect a jump in demand—and cost—come autumn,” he said. “Meanwhile, Turkey becomes even more budget-friendly in the off-season.”
Flight Costs Reshape Travel Choices
Tourism analyst Nizami Hasanov emphasized that airfare increases have made many budget trips abroad less accessible. However, excluding flight expenses, affordable destinations still exist.
“Vietnam, Thailand, and Tanzania offer great value—but the lack of direct flights drives up total travel costs,” he said.
Domestic Travel Booms: Spotlight on Ismayilli and Guba
Faced with rising costs overseas, more Azerbaijanis are vacationing at home. Local expert Jafar Garaev says the Ismayilli region has become a top choice following road repairs that improved accessibility.
“Set at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains, Ismayilli offers stunning nature, rich history, and a wide range of accommodation—from guesthouses to modern hotels,” Garaev said.
Guba is also gaining momentum thanks to ongoing hotel development and expanding tourism infrastructure. Both regions now lead Azerbaijan’s domestic tourism scene, offering scenic, peaceful holidays without leaving the country.
