What to Bring Home from Azerbaijan: 10 Gift Ideas

There is much more to bring back from Azerbaijan than a fridge magnet. Here are gifts people love — and where to find them.

10 ideas

1. A carpet or kilim. Azerbaijani carpet weaving is on UNESCO's list. Exporting a carpet requires a certificate — shops usually help arrange it.
2. Kelaghayi — a silk headscarf with traditional patterns from Sheki or Basqal.
3. Armudu glasses — pear-shaped tea glasses.
4. Tea from Lankaran and Astara, with thyme or bergamot.
5. Jam — white cherry, fig, green walnut, quince.
6. Sweets — pakhlava, shekerbura, Sheki halva.
7. Narsharab — tangy pomegranate sauce for meat.
8. Copperware from Lahij.
9. A backgammon set — handmade and inlaid.
10. Spices and dried fruit from the market.

Where to shop

• Old City — carpets, souvenirs, kelaghayi.
• Green Market (Taza Bazar) — sweets, spices, dried fruit.
• Local brands in malls — clothes, jewellery and fragrances with national motifs.

Tips

• Bargaining is normal in small shops.
• Keep receipts: larger purchases may qualify for Tax Free.
• Pack liquids and jams in checked luggage.