Your stay — Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Naftalan.
The Property — Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan
Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan, a 3-star hotel, exudes a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat in Naftalan. Its modern design blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty of the Naftalan region. Guests can unwind at the hotel's spa, which offers mud therapy, a unique experience that leverages the area's famous mud baths. The hotel's warm staff and comfortable rooms make it an ideal choice for couples and solo travellers looking to recharge in a peaceful setting.
Chronicles of Naftalan
Naftalan, Azerbaijan, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it was a small village. The city's name 'Naftalan' is derived from the Azerbaijani word for 'oil', a nod to the area's oil-rich history. The city's architecture has evolved over the years, with a mix of Soviet-era buildings and modern structures emerging in recent times. Naftalan is also known for its ancient history, with archaeological sites like the ancient settlement of Muganli nearby. Today, the city maintains a unique cultural identity, blending traditional Azerbaijani customs with modern influences.
Best Time to Visit
Full Naftalan guide →Best months
The ideal months to visit Naftalan are June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, with average highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F). These months offer a comfortable temperature range, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings without the peak season crowds.
Peak / festival surge
July is the peak tourist month in Naftalan, with the city hosting the annual Naftalan Music Festival, attracting music enthusiasts from across the region. Hotel prices tend to increase during this period, making it essential to book in advance. The festival is a major draw, with many visitors flocking to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season, which spans from April to May and September to October, offers the best value for money, with milder weather and fewer tourists. Expect to find discounts on hotel rates and package deals, making it an excellent time to explore Naftalan without breaking the bank.
Weather & packing
Naftalan's climate is influenced by its continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack lightweight clothing for your visit in July, and don't forget to include a hat and sunscreen for protection against the strong summer sun.
Live City Briefing — Naftalan
- The city of Naftalan has introduced a new public transportation system, making it easier for visitors to get around the city. The city council has also announced plans to develop a new museum showcasing the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
- The Naftalan Oil Museum has reopened after a major renovation, offering visitors a chance to learn about the city's oil industry and its significance in Azerbaijani history. The museum features interactive exhibits and a collection of rare artifacts.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on higher floors (4th floor and above) for a quieter stay, as the hotel is located in a relatively quiet area of Naftalan. The concrete floors throughout the hotel may transmit some noise from above, so avoiding rooms on lower floors can help minimize disturbance.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the lift, as it is located on the 2nd floor and may be noisy, especially during peak hours. Also, rooms on the first floor may receive some noise from the service entrance and surrounding streets.
Best views
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Naftalan doesn't provide a scenic view, as it's located in a relatively urban area. However, rooms on the higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding rooftops and streets.
Quietest floors
3rd floor to 5th floor
🔊 Noise notes
While Naftalan is generally a quiet city, the hotel's location on a main road may lead to some occasional traffic noise. Additionally, the concrete floors may amplify noise from above, so being mindful of room placement is essential.
Insider tips
Take advantage of the hotel's spa facilities, which offer a range of treatments and access to the nearby thermal springs. Be sure to book in advance to secure a spot. If you're driving, there is limited parking available on-site, so consider arriving early to secure a spot or exploring alternative parking options nearby.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan
free, 100 Mbps speed, no login constraints
serves all floors, no historic sections
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) on all devices
14:00-00:00 check-in, 08:00 early bag-drop, late check-out fee AZN 50
available, AZN 10 per day
step-free access, wheelchair entries at main entrance, some narrow corridors
on-site parking, AZN 20 per night; nearest public car park: Naftalan City Parking, AZN 15 per day; EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: AZN 2 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: AZN 200 advance deposit + AZN 200 incidental card hold at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Mosque: Cümə Məscidi (1.9 km · ~24 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Ticarət Mərkəzi — 1.6 km · ~21 min walk
Çinar Otel Naftalan — 954 m · ~12 min walk
Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi — 1.4 km · ~18 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Kapital Bank — 1.4 km · ~17 min walk
Naftalan Məlhəmi — 1.4 km · ~17 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Azerbaijani Manat, AZN
You can exchange currency at banks, currency exchange offices (pul), or use ATMs. Be cautious of poor rates at airport and tourist bureaux.
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but cash is king. Mobile payments are not common.
Tipping is around 5-10% in restaurants, 1-2 manat for taxi drivers, and 1-2 manat for hotel staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can get a cheap coffee at a local café for around 2-3 manat
A budget-friendly option for lunch is a kebab from a street vendor, around 5-6 manat
A main course at a mid-range restaurant will cost around 15-20 manat
The cheapest eats are usually found in the Naftalan Park area and around the bazaar.
You can find affordable groceries at the local bazaar or at the supermarkets like Qafqaz
Affordable shopping can be found at the local bazaar or at the markets near the city center
A day pass for public transportation costs around 1-2 manat, and the cheapest way from the airport is by taxi for 15-20 manat
Avoid exchanging money at the airport or tourist bureaux, as the rates are often poor.Use public transportation instead of taxis for short distances.Eat at local cafes or street vendors for affordable meals.
Emergency Contacts
NaftalanFor all emergencies in Azerbaijan, dial 112 for a single emergency number that connects to police, ambulance, and fire services. Local numbers 102, 103, and 101 still work in Naftalan. Tourists should also have their embassy's consular number handy.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Naftalan, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Kapital Bank — 1.4 km · ~17 min walk — pharmacy · Naftalan Məlhəmi — 1.4 km · ~17 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Baku Railway Station (28 May) → Ganja Railway Station, then taxi (30 mins) to Gold Naftalan Hotel
💡 The overnight sleeper from Baku is a good choice, arriving Ganja early. From the station, grab a Bolt taxi to Naftalan—about 20 AZN. The train is reliable in mild weather, but delays happen in winter.
Naftalan Bus Station → Çinar Otel Spa Naftalan
💡 No meter system here. Agree the fare before getting in—3 AZN is the standard for this short ride. For walking, it's 1.5 km along Nəsimi Street, but roads are dusty.
Ganja International Airport (KVD) → Çinar Otel Spa Naftalan
💡 Pre-arrange via the hotel for a fixed rate around 40 AZN. Drivers from the airport rank often ask for 60–70 AZN; haggle or use Bolt app if available.
Ganja Railway Station or Central Bazaar → Gold Naftalan Hotel, Naftalan
💡 Bargain hard for shared taxis—locals pay 5 AZN. These run along the M2 highway; they’ll drop you at the hotel entrance if you ask. Not great for large luggage.
Baku International Bus Terminal (BIBT) → Naftalan Bus Station, then bus 1 or walk 20 mins to Gold Naftalan Hotel
💡 Buy the ticket at the terminal kiosk; no advance booking online. Sit on the left side for views of the Ganja plain. The bus drops you near the central roundabout—head northwest on Heydar Aliyev Street.
Baku International Bus Terminal → Naftalan Bus Station
💡 Buses are basic but reliable. From Naftalan bus station, take a taxi (3 AZN, 10 mins) to Çinar Otel. Book your return ticket a day ahead—afternoon services fill up.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), Baku → Gold Naftalan Hotel, Naftalan
💡 Book through Bolt or Uber app from Baku airport—it’s cheaper than street taxis. Expect about 4 hours with traffic. Confirm the driver knows the hotel (Gold Naftalan Qold Otel) as it’s new.
Baku city centre or Heydar Aliyev International Airport → Çinar Otel Spa Naftalan
💡 This is a 5-hour drive. Break it at Ganja for lunch. Use Bolt or Uber in Baku to get a fair price, then negotiate a flat rate for the full trip.
About Naftalan
Wikipedia ↗
Naftalan is a city in Azerbaijan, known as a medical touristic center. It is located on an agricultural plain near the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. The word naftalan also means a petroleum product that can be obtained there. It is the centre of a petroleum industry, with a grade of oil referred to as ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
Request rooms on higher floors (4th floor and above) for a quieter stay, as the hotel is located in a relatively quiet area of Naftalan. The concrete floors throughout the hotel may transmit some noise from above, so avoiding rooms on lower floors can help minimize disturbance.
Which rooms should I avoid at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
Avoid rooms near the lift, as it is located on the 2nd floor and may be noisy, especially during peak hours. Also, rooms on the first floor may receive some noise from the service entrance and surrounding streets.
Is Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan noisy?
While Naftalan is generally a quiet city, the hotel's location on a main road may lead to some occasional traffic noise. Additionally, the concrete floors may amplify noise from above, so being mindful of room placement is essential.
Which rooms have the best views at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Naftalan doesn't provide a scenic view, as it's located in a relatively urban area. However, rooms on the higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding rooftops and streets.
What are insider tips for staying at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
Take advantage of the hotel's spa facilities, which offer a range of treatments and access to the nearby thermal springs. Be sure to book in advance to secure a spot. If you're driving, there is limited parking available on-site, so consider arriving early to secure a spot or exploring alternative parking options nearby.
What time is check-in at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
Check-in at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan have Wi-Fi?
free, 100 Mbps speed, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
AZN 2 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
A budget-friendly option for lunch is a kebab from a street vendor, around 5-6 manat
What is the cheapest way to get around from Qaşaltı Rixos Naftalan?
A day pass for public transportation costs around 1-2 manat, and the cheapest way from the airport is by taxi for 15-20 manat
When is the best time to visit Naftalan?
The ideal months to visit Naftalan are June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, with average highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F). These months offer a comfortable temperature range, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings without the peak season crowds.
Top Attractions in Naftalan
💡 Bring your own water bottle – the only café nearby is overpriced for tourists.
💡 The oil is thick and dark, so don't lean in too close. It's safely enclosed, but the smell is strong.
💡 The best light for photos is late afternoon, when the sun hits the metal plaque at the base.
💡 Ask the curator for the English-language pamphlet — there's often one behind the desk, even if it's not on display.
💡 The staff speak limited English, but they're happy to show you around. A donation of a few manat is appreciated but not required.
💡 Look for the chess tables near the eastern entrance — locals play most afternoons, and you can often join in if you nod and smile.
💡 It's on the north-facing wall, so best photographed in the morning. Part of the mosaic has crumbled; be careful not to walk on fallen tiles.
💡 Best in late afternoon when the light hits the lake. Locals come here to walk dogs and chat — it's a good spot for people-watching.