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What’s it REALLY like to travel to Baku, Azerbaijan?

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When I think back to my travels in Baku, Azerbaijan, one anecdote comes to mind. I’m driving through the highway as we speed past modern, silver buildings interspersed with sand-colored mosques and souks, set back against the arid landscape. My guide points out a cluster of buildings on one side of the highway.

“See those buildings?” he tells me. “Our journalists live there. They get to live there for free.”

I smile weakly and say, “Oh. For free. Cool.” Inside, I’m thinking, really? In exchange for what?

That’s what it’s like to grow up in a country without freedom of the press. Journalists living in government-provided housing is seen as something to extol to international visitors, rather than something that should be kept under wraps.

That’s not to say that Azerbaijan is horrifying. Far from it. I found Baku to be an intriguing destination, quite often perplexing, and well worth a three-day visit with my boyfriend before traveling on to Georgia and Armenia.

Table of Contents

Azerbaijan: A Modern Land of Fire

Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire — this is a country where flames can and do burst out of the earth in unexpected places. There are places close to Baku where you can see eternal flames billowing out of the ground, or even from the water. And the reserves of natural gas cause unusual geological effects, like bubbling mud volcanoes.

And sitting in the middle of that fiery desert, on the banks of an inland sea, is one of the world’s most prolific collections of modern architecture. The most famous of which are three modern towers shaped like flames, lighting up with even more flames at night.

If you mention modern architecture set against a desert, where do you think of first? Dubai, maybe, or Doha, Qatar? I got a similar vibe from Baku. Azerbaijan is rich with oil money, thanks to its location next to the Caspian Sea, which had led to insane levels of recent development.

While Dubai and Doha have their share of modern buildings, Baku sprawls like neither city. As you’re driving around Baku, it seems borderline uncanny that you can cruise over so many hills and still see all kinds of modern, interesting buildings.

Within this unusual setting, there are a lot of cool places in Baku to explore and enjoy.

Best Things to Do in Baku

The good thing about visiting a city like Baku is that there isn’t an established tourist trail — you don’t need to hop from sight to sight.

Have dinner overlooking the Flame Towers. On a whim, I ended up at Panoramic Restaurant . While most of the windows face away from the Flame Towers, there is a tiny outdoor patio with only three tables that has a view of the Flame Towers! Do what I did — go early in the day to check it out, then make a reservation for that exact table for sunset that evening.

Explore the old city of Baku. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place where the architecture differs enormously from the rest of the modern city. The old city dates back to the 6th century and it gives you an idea of the incredible cultural history in this region from Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Shirvani, Persian, Ottoman, and Russian cultures. The Maiden Tower is a great spot for a view of the Flame Towers. And just outside the old city is the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum.

Visit the markets. What struck me about Baku’s markets is how immaculate they are. I’m used to seeing piles of produce flung in every direction; it seems like Azerbaijanis make every effort to shape their produce into the most aesthetically pleasing piles. The conical shapes on the mango slices and dried flowers are perfect.

It extends to larger fruits, too. Apples were stacked in clean straight lines; perfect green watermelons made up the perimeter. One table even grouped tomatoes not just by type but by size, arranging them into perfect mounds!

Normally I’m a bit uneasy at markets because I feel guilty when I don’t buy anything, but I felt more relaxed here. That and men kept giving me macadamia nuts to sample — the best macadamia nuts I’ve ever tasted. (Did I buy any? Nope. Macadamias are one food that I avoid because if I have one, I’ll have a million.)

Check out Heydar Aliyev Center.  In a city filled with modern architecture, this is one of the most famous buildings of all (and a symbol of Azerbaijan, named after its most beloved leader). The building contains a museum and conference center with rotating exhibitions. But even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth it, because it’s in the middle of a giant park, which becomes a place to see and be seen at sunset.

This is easily the best Instagram spot in Baku. I recommend coming around sunrise or sunset for the best light.

Enjoy the cafe scene. While the old city was surprisingly more dead than I expected, I loved the neighborhood just east. This area was filled with all kinds of interesting cafes and restaurants, and I loved walking around and exploring.

Spend an evening down by the Caspian Sea. I was a bit surprised that there was so little seafood on the menus in Baku, despite being located on the sea. But there is one place where seafood is the star: Derya Fish House .

Once you step out of your cab, you arrive to a windy waterfront filled with locals celebrating the end of the day. Oh, and it’s cheap! The two of us had a whole fish, bread, a bowl of olives, eggplant caviar, lemons, pickled vegetables, cheese, and pomegranate sauce on the side for just $18.

Best Day Trips from Baku

The best day trip from Baku is its most famous day trip — to Qobustan to see the mud volcanoes and petroglyphs.  Qobustan National Park (sometimes written as Gobustan) is just under an hour’s drive from Baku.

Qobustan is known for its mud volcanoes. To get to them requires an off-roading vehicle. When my car pulled to the side of the road, I assumed we’d be getting into some kind of jeep — but was I ever surprised when we got into a tiny Soviet-era Lada! It didn’t look like it would last a day in the desert, let alone go off-roading to mud volcanoes!

And soon we reached the mud volcanoes.

The gurgling is a lot slower than I thought it would be — just a constant, slow BLURP! BLURP! every few moments. Like the volcano had eaten a lot of beans that day.

The landscape is beautiful and dramatic — but that wasn’t all we’d see.

Next up in Qobustan was the petroglyphs — ancient rock art. I’ve seen ancient rock art in other parts of the world, like Kakadu National Park in Australia , but this rock art is uniquely impressive. You see people dancing, people hunting, petroglyphs of animals. It has survived remarkably well, and this is why Qobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing Qobustan was one of the highlights of my time in Azerbaijan, and I feel like you can’t go to Baku without making a stop here.  See tours to see Qobustan’s mud volcanoes and petroglyphs.

The other half of my day was spent touring the famous sites on the opposite side of Baku. Here you’ll find two more attractions that prove that Azerbaijan is the land of fire: Ateshgah, the Zoroastrian fire temple, and Yanar Dag, where the fire bursts from the earth.

Ateshgah is a temple on the outskirts of Baku. It was built in the 17th and 18th centuries, though ceremonies have taken place on the same site as early as the 10th century, and it has been a center of worship for Zoroastrians, Sikhs, and Hindus. The flame inside the temple is naturally occurring, but it actually went out in 1969 due to environmental destruction. The fire today is lit by Baku’s main gas supply.

At Yanar Dag, you can see a steady fire burning from the bottom of the hill. Fed by natural gas, this is another fire that never extinguishes. It was so toasty down by the fire — I have never wanted to have a stick and a bag of marshmallows so much in my life! (And let’s not kid ourselves, a bag of graham crackers and chocolate waiting by the table.)

Ateshgah and Yanar Dag are two places that show you how interesting of a natural environment Azerbaijan is. See tours to Ateshgah and Yanar Dag here.

Azerbaijan Food

What kind of food will you be eating in Azerbaijan? Delicious food. Surprisingly good food. The dishes I ate were most similar to Turkish cuisine, fresh and flavorful. While there were some similarities to their Georgian and Armenian neighbors, Azerbaijani food is very much its own thing. I was only in the country for a few days, so this is by no means an exhaustive guide, but it contains several of my top hits.

I ate a lot of dolma — vegetables stuffed with a mixture of rice and meat. While “dolma” can mean stuffed grape leaves or cabbage leaves in other cultures, in Azerbaijan it can mean any kind of stuffed vegetable.

Also popular are kebabs of all kinds, and plov, roasted rice and meat dishes.

Eggplant dip was everywhere — made from roasted eggplant, peppers, and onions and mixed with a variety of herbs and spices. This was the perfect start to a meal. You eat it with bread.

My absolute favorite dish was at Panoramic Restaurant in the Old City — I can’t remember the name and REALLY should have written it down, but it was a skillet filled with chicken, cherries, potatoes, and chestnuts. It sounds like a winter dish but it was solely on a hot summer night.

While you don’t see a ton of fish on the menus in Azerbaijan, you will down at restaurants on the Caspian Sea like Derya Fish House . I recommend ordering a grilled white fish with pomegranate sauce on the side — it brings the same kind of acidity that you get from lemons.

As for Azerbaijani wine, it does exist and it’s worth sampling, but it’s nothing to write home about. Georgia and Armenia have much better wine.

Azerbaijanis love sweets and pastries, and I tried a few different kinds of baklava — one made with walnuts, one made with almonds, one made with hazelnuts. I honestly think walnuts are king — they need that slightly bitter flavor to cut the sweetness. Hazelnut baklava was dangerously sweet!

And Azerbaijanis are crazy about tea. Tea breaks are important punctuation marks of the day. You can sweeten tea with jam, and they serve it with small pastries.

This is just a sample of the delicious food I ate in Azerbaijan.

Want to learn more about Azeri cuisine?

Go on a food tour in baku..

Travel Azerbaijan with JayWay Travel

On this trip I traveled as a hosted guest of JayWay Travel , a boutique travel agency specializing in Eastern and Central Europe.  I’ve worked with JayWay Travel in Ukraine in the past and they do such a good job putting together bespoke itineraries where you don’t have to worry about a thing. JayWay recently added Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia as new destinations where they have local experts.

For my three-day trip to Baku, that meant pick-ups and drop-offs at the airport; a full-day private tour to Qobustan and the fire region, including a stop at a market; a local SIM card, and support throughout the trip. That was perfect for me — I knew my first day would be spent napping and taking it easy due to the weirdly timed flight (see more on that below), and I liked getting to do my own exploring on the final day.

As I always say, if you’re an experienced traveler, you don’t need JayWay in order to travel. But JayWay is perfect for your parents, older travelers, less experienced travelers, and experienced travelers who want someone else to plan their trip for a change. It’s an enormous time-saver when you’re busy, too.

The Caucasus is a fantastic travel destination, but it’s not nearly as easy to travel as Europe. Azerbaijan is a country just waking up to tourism, and they don’t have the established tourism infrastructure of other countries. It’s a good place to have a helping hand.

Learn more about JayWay’s Azerbaijan trips here.

Where to Stay in Baku

Most of the time when I visit a new city, I stay in the old town or old city because it’s usually the prettiest, most central part of town.  Baku’s old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which made it seem like a slam dunk, and so I stayed at a hotel in the old city, the Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel.

While I had a good stay there, I actually don’t recommend staying in the old city of Baku. It’s beautiful but it’s mostly inaccessible to cars (to get an Uber or taxi, you need to walk a distance outside the old city); you are constantly going up and down stairs; there are lots of aggressive touts around the Maiden Tower; there aren’t as many cafes and restaurants as you would think. If you have mobility challenges, you should absolutely avoid staying in the old city.

If you do want to stay in the old city, the Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel is a nice midrange choice. It’s comfortable, the internet works well, it’s not too deep into the old city, and the staff are great. And the best thing about this hotel is that it has an Illy cafe in the lobby. Reliable quality coffee isn’t always easy to find!

So which Baku neighborhood is best? I recommend staying in a hotel just east of the old city. This area is home to lots of cool restaurants, cafes, parks, and nightlife. And because it’s part of the main city, cars can drive the streets and you can hail Ubers close to your hotel. Most of it is flat, though there are some steeper parts.

Recommended Baku Accommodation:

• Luxury: JW Marriott Absheron Baku
• Midrange: Passage Boutique Hotel
• Budget: Renaissance Palace Hotel
• Find deals on more Baku hotels here.

Azerbaijan Visa

Azerbaijan requires a visa for most visitors. In the past it was difficult and expensive for most westerners to get an Azerbaijan visa for longer than a few days. Now it’s MUCH easier and cheaper — you can get an e-visa online for just $20! See the full list of nationalities eligible for the e-visa here.

You order the visa online, it takes around three days to process, and you print it out and bring it to immigration with your passport. Don’t keep it on your phone; bring an actual printed copy.

Order your visa directly from evisa.gov.az . NOTE: THIS IS THE CORRECT SITE; DO NOT BE FOOLED BY IMPOSTERS! There are many third party visa sites that mimic the layout of this site, then try to charge you $50 for the same exact thing. I almost got fooled by one of those sites.

Flying to Baku with Azerbaijan Airlines

I flew nonstop from New York to Baku on Azerbaijan Airlines.  This is the one direct flight from the United States to Azerbaijan. The flight takes 11 hours and currently flies twice per week.

While it’s awesome to fly nonstop, the flight leaves at an awkward time: it departs New York at 11:30 AM and arrives in Baku at 6:30 AM, which is 10:30 PM New York time. As a result, you probably won’t be able to sleep much if at all, and you’ll likely spend your first day in Baku in a jet-lagged stupor. Plan a low-key day for your arrival if you take this flight.

I was lucky to fly in Azerbaijan Airlines’s Comfort Club, as someone special upgraded me for my birthday. Comfort Club is like the stop between premium economy and business class.

You get comfier seats and a TON more space (the seats go much further back but don’t lie flat), you’re served multiple courses for meals, and you get lounge access at the airport (in my case, the cheese-and-champagne-filled Air France lounge at JFK). I was able to stick my feet straight out without touching the seat in front of me (I’m 5’4″). I didn’t get into the entertainment but there was a decent selection of movies. For an 11-hour flight where I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep much, I was so glad to have this level of service!

If you’re coming from the US on another line, you can get connections on Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. Azerbaijan Airlines flies to cities including Tbilisi, Tel Aviv, Paris, London, Dubai, and several Turkish and Russian destinations.

Travel to Azerbaijan BEFORE Armenia

If you’re planning to travel throughout the Caucasus, you should try to travel to Azerbaijan before Armenia. It will make your life much easier.

Azerbaijan and Armenia don’t have diplomatic relations, and all borders are closed. Armenians are not allowed to enter. (While Armenia doesn’t have diplomatic relations or border crossings with Turkey, Armenians are allowed to travel to Turkey anyway, so Azerbaijan is much stricter.)

When I arrived in Azerbaijan, I was asked if I had ever traveled to Armenia. I said no, and there was no evidence of Armenia in my passport. But I do know people who have been interrogated heavily for traveling to Armenia previously, regardless of their nationality.

If you have visited the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is Azerbaijani land currently occupied by Armenia, you will automatically be rejected. (They also ask you if you’ve traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh when you apply for your visa, which will also earn you a rejection if your answer is yes.)

However, Armenian immigration officials are more forgiving. They do ask you if you visited Azerbaijan and why, but if you only visited as a tourist, they don’t care and they let you in without any problems. This is why I recommend visiting Azerbaijan first and Armenia second. (It’s best to go via Georgia, either by land or by plane.)

Unfortunately, ethnic Armenians of different nationalities (whether they’re American, Russian, French, Lebanese, Argentine, or something else) are often rejected at the border based on their last name. From what I’ve researched, it seems to come down to the mood of the immigration officer, and I’ve heard that some people try to convince the immigration officials that their last name is Persian.

If you’re an ethnic Armenian who wants to travel to Azerbaijan, or a person whose last name ends in -ian or -yan, I recommend you do more research. This is beyond my pay grade.

Traveling to Baku: The Takeaway

I’m very happy that I got to travel to Baku — but I think this is a one-and-done trip. Which is fine! Not every destination has to be an “I can’t wait to go back” destination. I’m so glad that I visited and had the experience this interesting city had to offer.

Looking back at my two-week trip to the Caucasus, I think that starting with Baku was a good idea. I was able to take advantage of the only nonstop flight to the Caucasus from New York, and then I moved on to Georgia and Armenia, which were both more impressive. I wouldn’t have done it any differently.

Chisinau and Minsk: Two Offbeat Soviet Cities

Essential Info:  My trip in Baku was entirely organized by JayWay Travel , a travel company that organizes custom private tours in Central and Eastern Europe. They organize everything as soon as your feet touch the ground in your country, from flights and tours to airport pickups and a cell phone or SIM card. JayWay recently added Azerbaijan as one of their new specialties, along with Georgia and Armenia. In Baku I stayed at the  Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel . Rates from $56. When using Uber to get around Baku, be sure you check the license plate — some drivers here operate with a different car than the account they claim to have. Never get in a car unless they match. Travel insurance is essential before every trip — in case of an emergency, it could save your life and finances. I use and recommend  World Nomads  for trips to Azerbaijan.

Many thanks to JayWay Travel for hosting me on my Caucasus trip, including covering my expenses in Azerbaijan. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you traveled to Azerbaijan? What did you think?

Things to do in Baku in 3 days – A complete guide

By Joan Torres 19 Comments Last updated on December 19, 2023

Until very recently, Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, was a real off-the-beaten-track destination only known by the most intrepid travelers.

Pierce Brosnan, in the James Bond movie The world is not enough , was the first person who finally told us about its existence, when he showed images of some oil fields right in the desert plains around Baku.

Those images, however, didn’t really trigger any interest in the country, as people thought that, perhaps, Baku was not very different from the Arab Gulf monarchies, which was a really wrong approach.

Whereas it is true that Baku is an oil-rich city and, in fact, Azerbaijan was the top world exporter at the beginning of the 20th century, many years before the Gulf monarchies discovered the black gold, on the other hand, it is also a city with a very deep history, belonging to a region which has been inhabited for thousands of years, besides having an important role in the Silk Road , as well as, of course, being part of the USSR for nearly a century.

Nevertheless, thanks to exponential development, Baku today is an almost futuristic city that manages to combine both tradition and modernity, two elements that can be seen together all across the city.

After visiting Baku on two occasions, here is a complete Baku travel guide with all the best  things to do in Baku in 3 days, including plenty of travel tips.

For more places to visit in the country, read my complete itinerary to Azerbaijan

In this Baku travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Where to stay
• How to move around
• What to do in Baku
• Where to eat
• More information

Insurance for traveling in Baku I strongly recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount BUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Introduction to traveling to Baku

From the end of the 19th century, Baku has been a global leader in oil exportation and has been growing at full speed, but it was only after the dissolution of the USSR and Azerbaijan’s post-independence, that this development was accelerated, Baku became a futuristic and modern city, perfectly comparable to European standards.

However, due to the obvious corruption, or preferably, bad resource management, this development has been exclusively focused on the capital, to the extent that its contrast with the second largest city, Ganja, where you can still find unpaved streets in the city center, is huge.

The capital of Azerbaijan is a luxurious city, a  Dubai -like-concept but with a real soul, meaning that, in the city center, you can find a Rolls Royce official store and the most luxury brand stores, along with buildings and mosques from the 12th century.

Going to Tbilisi? Check out my city guide to Tbilisi

Baku is, definitely, the most developed city in the Caucasus (including Armenia and Georgia ) but, in my humble opinion, this development is economic, not social.

Whereas, in its neighbor Georgia , many young people are quickly learning European values, in Baku, even though they are a rich and supposedly secular city, people are much more traditional, and you will quickly realize when you only see men hanging out in most places, people not speaking English and, overall, people being more closed-minded.

However, visiting Baku is totally worth it and not only due to its eccentric composition but also because it is a real blend of Europe, the East, and the Soviet Union, so, so chaotic, that it’s practically impossible to define it, and that’s the most exciting thing about it.

Visa for visiting Baku

From January 2016, you can  apply for an e-visa to visit Baku.

The visa costs 25 USD, takes 3 working days and is valid for 30 days.

For 50 USD, you can also apply for an urgent visa and get it on the same day.

All Western nationalities are eligible for the e-visa but you can check the full country list here .

Where to stay in Baku

Backpackers Hostel – Sahil Hostel – The busiest hostel in town, as it is really cheap, plus everything is brand-new and very clean. A nice place to meet other travelers, it also has private rooms.

Budget Guest House –  Khazar Old City Guest House – If you want to stay in a traditional house, in the heart of the old city, this is the most highly recommended.

Mid-range Hotel –  Deniz Inn Boutique Hotel – The top well-rated boutique hotel in town is a traditional building in the old part of Baku.

Top-end – Four Seasons –  Located downtown, this is the best 5-star hotel in Baku. The building where is it built is a real landmark, by the way.

Transportation – How to move around Baku

Moving around baku by taxi.

In order to avoid bargaining with taxi drivers, I recommend you use Uber and short taxi rides costing around 2-3AZN (1.20 – 1.70USD), so moving around by taxi is also a feasible way to check all the places to visit in Baku. Apparently, Yandex isn’t available anymore.

Moving around Baku by metro

There are two metro lines and a single ticket costs 0.30AZN (18¢). However, first, you have to get a metro top-up card which costs 2AZN (1.20USD).

Alternatively, you can buy a single-use metro card, which you can only top-up once and costs 0.20AZN (12¢).

Moving around Baku by bus

There is a modern bus network but you will have to know where you are going. The price is the same as in the metro.

How to get from and to the airport

How to get from baku city center by bus.

There are buses going and coming to the airport every 20 or 30 minutes, all day long. They drop you off in downtown, in front of 28th May metro station. A single ticket costs 1.30AZN (75¢) and it also works with the metro card.

How to get from Baku city center by taxi

With Uber, a taxi ride costs around 10AZN (5.90USD).

For generic info about moving around the country, read the transportation section of this guide.

Things to do in Baku in 3 days

In 3 days, you can cover most things to do in Baku, including a day trip to visit the mud volcanoes and the petroglyphs of Qobustan .

If you are interested in all the tours offered in Baku, as well as day trips from Baku, there is a large offer of tours that can be booked online. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Map of the places to visit in Baku

What to do in Baku on day 1

The first day Baku itinerary is quite optimistic but, if you plan well ahead, I think you can manage it.

Baku Old City

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the walls of the Old City mark the boundaries of where the city used to extend.

Its oldest building is claimed to date from the 11th century, although some historians think that it might belong to the 7th.

As in any old city, the best you can do is getting lost among its entangled streets but there are a few buildings which are must-visits, like Maiden Tower , one of the most iconic buildings in the country, which is even printed in one of their notes.

The tower contains a museum that shows the historical evolution of Baku and you can also climb to the top to enjoy some of the best views in the city. Going to the top costs 10AZN (5,90USD).

The other building which you can’t miss is the Shirvanshas Palace , whose main attraction is a stunning mosque from the 15th century. The  Shirvanshas is the dynasty that ruled the region for nearly 700 years, from the 9th to the 16th century.

From all the things to do in Baku, the Old City is, certainly, the most interesting one.

Do you want to visit the Old City of Baku with a professional guide? CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

The Carpet Museum

In my opinion, the cool part about the Carpet Museum is not getting in, as the outside is much more awesome than inside. Jokes aside. If you are interested in Persian carpets, just go ahead but, if not, the coolest thing is to take pictures at the waving walls that are trying to imitate a carpet.

Read: Everything you need to know to travel to Georgia

The Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are the three flame-shaped skyscrapers which managed to link Baku to the concept of futurism by themselves.

To be honest, they are only 182 meters high but, due to their position, in the upper part of Baku, they are visible from anywhere.

You can get there on foot through some stairs that go along a beautiful park. There is a funicular at the bottom of the park but I always found it closed.

The towers were finished in 2012 and, besides showing off, their main purpose is to accommodate pretentious businesses like Fairmont Hotel , one of the top hotels in the city, a Lamborghini dealer store, and I don’t know what other posh stuff.

The oil extractors

This place is off the main tourist trail but, if you are interested in checking out some perfectly functional oil drillers, this is your chance.

They are not very far and, actually, you can get there on foot from the Flame Towers. They are just behind the TV tower (you can see the exact location on the map), from where you can also enjoy pretty cool views of the city and the bay.

By the way, if you get down to the seaside, you will pass by a very poor neighborhood of Baku, which clearly shows the huge social inequality that rules in this country.

Taza Pir Mosque

A one-hundred-year-old mosque, even though it was built on a place that used to serve as a sanctuary from the 15th century.

To be honest, this isn’t an outstanding mosque but, for me, the most interesting part was to see the other face of Azerbaijan, which is the face of Azerbaijani men worshipping and showing their faith to Islam.

Like all the Muslim ex-Soviet countries, the Government of Azerbaijan is secular but, its main peculiarity is that, unlike the rest of the world, the most religious people are the young ones and not the elderly that lived in the Soviet Union, as Islam is only now coming into fashion. When I was traveling in Uzbekistan , I also observed a similar situation.

Heydar Aliyev Center

Another pretty cool thing to do in Baku is visiting the futuristic building whose architect is the deceased Iraqi-British woman Zaha Hadid .

With its surrealistic and almost impossible curved walls, this building is a perfect sample of innovation and modern art.

Its surroundings are filled with super weird statues, like giant rabbits and snails, apart from the classic I Love Baku .

The building accommodates different types of temporary exhibitions. The entrance fee costs 15AZN (9USD).

Museum of Miniature Books

If you have the time, you can also visit the museum that has the World Guinness Record for the largest collection of miniature books, including the 3 smallest books ever, measuring 2mmx2mm, which can only be seen using a microscope.

Like me, you may be thinking that those mini-books don’t make a lot of sense, basically because you can’t read them, but they originate in an ancient Persian tradition.

Fountain Square and the rest of downtown

Composed of the most fashionable shops, restaurants, bars, hipster cafés, parks and so on, I recommend you finish your day in downtown, in the area around Fountain Square, the place where all the local people gather to hang out.

What to do in Baku on day 2

Yasil market.

I bumped into this market by mere chance and then I found out that it is very famous among locals, but I didn’t see any tourists.

Yasil is a traditional market which has been restored as per Baku modern standards. It is a typical fruit and vegetable market and everything sold is seasonal.

I was lucky enough to visit Baku in October, the pomegranate season, the symbol of Azerbaijan.

Almost all stalls were filled with pomegranates and they were selling freshly squeezed juice for just 1AZN (60¢).

Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

Did you know that Azerbaijan was formerly called The Land of Fire ?

From the 12th century, tales from travelers wandering this region mentioned the existence of several magic fires found across the area.

They thought those fires were magic because they burnt continuously without any wood but, what they didn’t know is that the fire was coming from natural underground gas fields.

Yanar Dag is one of those fires which is still burning, even though the fire is artificial today, as it was extinguished after they discovered an oil reserve next to it in the 19th century.

How to get there – Yanar Dag is outside of the city. To get there, you will have to catch the 147 bus from Azadliq metro station. Alternatively, you could also get there by Uber, which is easier, quicker and won’t cost you much.

Fire Temple Ateshgah

In the 18th century, a merchant traveler was so fascinated by one of those flames that he decided to build a worshipping temple on it.

How to get there – The temple is very close to the airport and the 184 bus passes close to it.

What to do in Baku on Day 3

Day trip to qobustan to see the petroglyphs and the mud volcanoes.

During the Stone Age, around 15,000 years ago, when the Caspian Sea waters were higher and the region was completely green and fertile, a bunch of hunters decided to settle in some caves in the area.

These caves were decorated with their own art style and more than 600 petroglyphs were drawn, many of them still being in very good conditions. Today, these paintings have become one of the best places to visit in Baku.

For more information, read my article about the petroglyphs of Qobustan (it includes prices and how to get there).

Moreover, if you are interested, you can also visit some volcanoes that expel mud , which have become a real tourist attraction. They are very close to the petroglyphs and you can only go by car.

If you want to make things easier and go with a guide, there’s this tour targeting the petroglyphs + mud volcanoes + an ancient mosque from the area. I think it’s worth it. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TOUR

Where to eat in Baku

Here are my restaurant recommendations (all places are frequented by locals).

Budget – Xezer Restaurant – Local eatery serving traditional food.

Gourmet fast food – Gourmet Pendir & Chorek – The first national fast-food chain in Azerbaijan serves good quality local sandwiches and stuff like that.

Fine dining – Sumakh – A local fancy restaurant serving high-quality food and awesome service.

More information for visiting Baku

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Tours – Here you can see a big bunch of tours in Baku, as well as day trips from Baku.

SIM Card – You will need one, especially to move around by Uber. I recommend Azercell. You can buy a SIM Card in many mobile stores but you should go to the official store of Azercell, as you will be charged the real price. There is a big one in Fountain Square.

All guides and articles for traveling in Azerbaijan destination

• Azerbaijan Travel Guide
• Best Hostels in Baku
• Qobustan Petroglyphs and Sovietism
• Reasons to Visit Azerbaijan
• Azerbaijan Itinerary

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Muscat Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Dubai
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Nouakchott
• A City Guide to Mosul

These were my top recommendations for what to do in Baku. If you know of any other places to visit in Baku, kindly let us know in the comments section. 

19 comments

I never went to the oil extractors and i wish i had thought about that! One thing i think you should have mentioned though is the beautiful designs of some of the metro stations 🙂

oh yes, the stations were pretty nice indeed 🙂

Hey Joan, I love this travel guide to Baku very much, very detailed, thank you 🙂 I have a question: is it safe to take photos of the petrol extractors? I mean, I am pretty sure that in some countries they would not like people to sniff around them, for several reasons. I have been living in several countries in the Arab Gulf, and I am pretty sure that you would not be allowed to take photos of them. I would not even try it! Thank you and keep up the good work!

Hey Marc, thank you for your email. You can’t really compare it to the Gulf because the Gulf petrol areas are very deep into the desert and they are in restricted areas. The ones in Baku are in the suburbs of the city, some of them located right next to houses, meaning that the area is not restricted at all. Does this mean that you can take a photo of them? Well, I don’t know, but I have been there twice and there wasn’t official surveillance at all. I only saw a few workers roaming around who didn’t really care about my presence.

I was in the oil field at Romanov, 40 minutes outside Baku a few days ago. There is surveillance and locals keeping an eye open. When we were about to leave the oil field a company car came at high speed and they men in the car screamed that taking photos was forbidden. They was quite aggressive. I had the camera under my jacket, else they probably would have demanded that I delete the photos. My Azerian father in law explained that the oil companies are concerned about making the pollution too exposed in these days of social media.

wow, thanks for sharing your experience, Michael!

Very useful information, keep up the good work ! very well done !

Hi, I am reading over and again – to prepare for our short visit coming up to Baku. Just so you know, the visa is now good for 90 days. Any thoughts on survival guide for vegetarians (no egg, fish, meat, chicken, in short no animal food of any kind) who can take milk, yoghurt?

Hi Vasu, the visa is valid for 30 days. I just re-checked the official e-visa portal and there are no changes. I think you are confused because it says that you can travel for 30 days within a 90 days period but you can’t exceed those 30 days.

I am not a vegetarian, so I can’t really give you many tips. They don’t have a very vegan cuisine but I remember that most menus had salads and some eggplant-based dishes.

I cannot see the map for places to visit in Baku.

Maybe it is a problem of your browser

Thank u very much for valuable informatin you prensent for us.Baku,s weather,s more pleasent and mild and than dubai.Baku is the capital of Azeebayjan, İt,s people are turk, it was colonized by soviet 101 years ago, but they,re not russion. Thank u every body★)

Joan – your guide has proved very useful while I have been in Baku. Just to say that Azerbaijan appear to have got on board with 2-tier foreign tourist / local prices for their main sites: Maidens Tower and The Palace now both 15 Manat to access; Fire Temple Ateshgah 4 Manat & Yanar Dag 9 Manat. The Quobastan Petroglyphs were 10 Manat – but as the museum staff picked me up in their bus to take me to the site from Baku I am quids in on that one 😀

Hey Andrew, glad you found it useful and thanks for the price updates 🙂

Hi, iam planning to travel with Family December first week,. Can you please advise us as we want to see snow filled area. Can we have one day trip from Baku to hill stations. Thank you

Hi Yes, you can go to the area around Quba

Hi Joan, thank you for the amazing work! I am flying to Azerbaijan in a few days and your guide is of great help. I wonder if you have ever visited Sumqayit polluted areas and/or poor neighborhoods (slums) in Baku? I know that “Shangai” has been demolished but I am sure there are still deprived areas of the same kind. Any idea about that?

Hi Isabelle. I did walk through some slums (by pure coincidence) when I was walking around the TV tower, very close to it, but I don’t know the name of those slums

“Wow, this guide on things to do in Baku is absolutely fantastic! I recently had the opportunity to spend 3 days in this vibrant city, and this blog provided me with an incredible list of activities and attractions to make the most of my trip. From exploring the historic Old City and its charming narrow streets to visiting the iconic Flame Towers for breathtaking panoramic views, there was never a dull moment. I especially loved indulging in the local cuisine and trying out traditional Azerbaijani dishes at the various restaurants recommended in the article. Thanks to this comprehensive guide, I had an unforgettable experience in Baku and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting destination to visit!”

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Baku Itinerary

Last Updated on January 24, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Because Azerbaijan is something of an “off the beaten path” destination, finding the ideal information on how to plan a Baku itinerary can be difficult.

Though a small country, Azerbaijan boasts an incredibly diverse climate and a very interesting history dating back thousands upon thousands of years, however, most visitors to this oil-rich nation choose to visit the glitzy capital of Baku.

Not a lot is known about Baku and you would be forgiven for not knowing what there is to do in this grand and bizarre city. However, spending a couple of days in Azerbaijan’s capital is sure to be an experience you will look back upon for years to come and Baku is a city that’s worth visiting.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Baku?

When planning your trip to Baku, it can be difficult to figure out just how many days you should devote to exploring the city. As a major capital and the biggest city in the Caucasus region, Baku is massive and has quite a lot to keep visitors occupied for at least a few days.

However, if you’re short on time or want to make sure you get the most out of the Azeri capital, I would say that it is worth spending at least 3 days in Baku.

This amount of time will allow you to see all of the highlights of the capital city in the downtown and Old City areas. It will also allow you to go on a day trip to some of the amazing sites surrounding the city.

If you’re short on time, spending 2 days in Baku is possible and worth it as well, it is just unlikely that you will be able to fit as much as you might like into your itinerary.

It is possible to pack the main sites of the Old City and downtown into the first day and then devote the second day to a day tour. Alternatively, you could simply devote two full days and explore Baku properly and really dig as deep as possible into the city (follow the first two days of this itinerary!)

Regardless if you plan to see Baku in 3 days or you only have 2 to spend, you are sure to be charmed by the cosmopolitan and modern vibes that this city of contrasts has to offer.

Getting To & Around Baku

First things first, it’s generally likely that you will need to apply for an e-Visa before entering Azerbaijan and visiting Baku. Check online to see if you’re required to apply for an e-Visa (citizens of countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the EU, the UK and the USA are all eligible for one). There are only a handful of nations whose citizens can enter Azerbaijan visa-free.

Plan to apply for your e-Visa at least three days prior to travelling to Azerbaijan, however, we recommend applying as early as possible to prevent any complications.

You will need to make sure that all of your information is entered in correctly and you must upload a copy of your passport.

Once your visa is approved, you will need to print it out and then present it to immigration along with your passport while at the border.

Though Baku is quite a large city, the majority of its main tourist sites are actually within very easy reach of each other on foot. If you’re not keen to walk all over the place while in Baku, the city is well-serviced by a great metro system that will get you where you need to go. You can purchase a single ticket from machines at every station.

Taxis are also affordable in Baku , but be sure to be aware of scams. To avoid being overcharged, it is best to call a taxi in advance. We recommend using the Bolt app, which operates prolifically throughout the Azeri capital.

2 to 3-Day Baku Itinerary

Day 1 – old city highlights.

The first day of this itinerary for Baku sees you exploring the lovely UNESCO-listed Old City. This area of Baku sets it apart from the likes of other oil-rich cities like Dubai as the history here dates back centuries.

Explore the Old City

Arguably the best way to get started is with a free walking tour of the Old City and the surrounding monuments. Though the free walking tour craze hasn’t quite taken off here as much as it has in other European cities, the Baku Free Tour , run by the incredibly knowledgeable Gani, is an excellent way to get your bearings and learn about Baku.

The Baku Original Free Walking tour meets every day at 11 AM in front of the Pizza Hut/KFC in Fountain Square. Though the tour is free, because demand isn’t super high, you need to make sure to book in advance online.

The tour will take you all over the old city and explain all of the histories of the area along with some nuances of Azerbaijani culture that you may have not been aware of.

Some of the highlights include learning about the disputed history of the Maiden Tower , stopping by the thousand-year-old Muhammad Mosque , and even seeing the smallest book in the world in the Museum of Miniature Books , which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of miniature books (who knew that was even a thing?).

The tour will also take you by the Shirvanshahs Palace and allow you to admire the beautiful architecture of the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall , which is modelled off of the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco.

While we always recommend free walking tours in most cities that offer them, this one was easily one of the best we’ve been on and it will give you some invaluable information on the history and culture of Baku that you will not get from simply reading a guide — including this one!

After the free walking tour, head to lunch at Dolma , which will give you a great introduction to Azerbaijani cuisine and agreeable prices.

Maiden Tower

Though you will go by this on the free walking tour, it can be worth visiting one of Baku’s most famous monuments on its own.

The Maiden Tower, which was built sometime between the 4th and 12th centuries (a lot is unknown about this structure), is one of the most defining structures in Azerbaijan’s capital. Though the true purpose of the building is not completely known and there are over twenty legends and mysteries surrounding it, there is no doubt that it is an iconic part of the Baku cityscape.

Entry into the Maiden Tower includes a small museum about Baku and the tower within. The views from the top are fine, however, it may not be worth the entry fee to get in. It is also surrounded by glass, which makes it difficult to take good photos from the top.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Constructed in the 15th Century by the former king, Ibrahim I of Shirvanshah, this beautiful palace complex is one of the top attractions to visit on any visit to the Azeri capital.

Surrounded by a lot of fascinating history, it is worth going in to see the beautiful Persian architecture and learning about how the upper classes lived in Baku centuries ago.

The view of the city from the entrance to the palace is also one of the best in Baku, as it expertly combines the antique architecture of the old city combined with sights of the ultra-modern Flame Towers.

The back door is also one of the only examples of Ottoman architecture in the city, but here you can also find an interesting addition to Baku: the cat house. These houses are scattered around the city to provide shelter and a place for food and water to the city’s many stray cats. When we were there, there was a mother with four adorable kittens who had taken up residence there. .

Day 2 – Explore Modern Baku

Day two of this Baku itinerary sees you getting outside of the old city and exploring the grand downtown area. Today is where you will get a better idea about how Baku has evolved over time and the influences it has had over the centuries.

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

After spending time at the Taza Bazaar, head over to the seaside and visit the intriguing Azerbaijan Carpet Museum . Though this may sound like a peculiar concept for a well-curated museum, it is worth the 7 AZN entry fee to see.

Azerbaijan has an incredible history of carpet-making and this museum excellent displays some beautiful carpets, which are wonderful works of art, over three floors. It also includes local artisans who will demonstrate how these carpets are made by hand.

Our favourite part of the museum was on the top floor, which included carpets depicting images of stories and landmarks from Azerbaijan. It is truly amazing to see the amount of skill and detail that goes into these carpets and plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring all of this museum.

Caspian Seaside Promenade

After learning about Azeri carpet making, it’s time to take a stroll along the lovely park lining the beautiful Caspian sea

If the weather is fine, you will see lots of people out and about enjoying the sea breeze and the pleasant vibes of this area of the city. There are a few cafes along the promenade and there is also a bizarre area known as Little Venice that is full of man-made canals and bridges.

For an excellent view, opt to take the funicular to Upland Park. From there, you can get a beautiful, panoramic view of the Caspian Sea and the modern Flame Towers.

After enjoying the views of the Caspian, head to lunch at Cezar, a local restaurant close to the gate of the old city.

Explore Downtown Baku

After spending some time along the Caspian, it’s time to head inland and explore a bit more of the city’s downtown area.

If you want to have some great historical context, we recommend going on the Baku Downtown Free Tour , which meets in the same place as the old city tour (it is also necessary to book in advance for this one).

This tour will take you through Fountain Square , where you will learn its history, and along the pedestrianised and luxury-filled Nizami Street . You will also go past the ruins of the Armenian Church where you can learn a little bit about the history of the conflict between the two countries.

He will also take you to the Sahil Garden , where you will learn about why this lovely park is so controversial among locals.

The tour will also take you by a number of other sites and areas where you will learn about famous residents of Baku and some more history of this beautiful city.

Even if you’re not able to go on this tour, it’s well worth taking the time to explore this area independently or on a paid guided tour. For instance, this historic and modern Baku tour is a good option. Alternatively, you could opt for this old and modern Baku tour which offers both a day and night option.

Day 3 – Mud Volcanoes, Gobustan, Aliyev Centre & More

If you are spending 3 days exploring Baku, then your last day should be spent seeing some sites outside of the city proper, along with one of the city’s most famous buildings.

Though it is possible to take a taxi to all of these places yourself or to hire a car a drive there on your own, getting there by public transport is nearly impossible. This is why we recommend taking an organised day tour.

We opted to book through Tes Tours , who have an office in the old city, and was well worth the per-person price. Alternatiely, this guided day tour is also a great option, though doesn’t include a stop at the Aliyev Centre.

We had a friendly and knowledgeable guide who was able to give us a lot of context and information about the things we were seeing and offered great insight into life in Azerbaijan today.

Mud Volcanoes

As one of the most popular sites to visit as a day trip from Baku, the mud volcanoes are located about 80 kilometres outside of the Baku city centre and are a truly fascinating place to see.

As some of the only mud volcanoes in the world that are powered by natural gas rather than geyser forces, these mounds of bubbling mud are reached by a bumpy dirt road. The landscape surrounding them will make you feel as if you’ve left Earth altogether and they are certainly worth the journey out there.

There is also no entry fee for the mud volcanoes, so you can enjoy this bizarre natural phenomenon completely free of charge.

Gobustan Rock Art

Located not far from the mud volcanoes is another one of Azerbaijan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan.

This historic site is filled with remnants of the prehistoric man, as evidenced by the thousands of years old cave drawings on the rock faces. Some of the petroglyphs are more than 15,000 years old and the area contains more than 6,000 rock paintings dating through tens of thousands of years.

The paintings depict the life and culture of the prehistoric humans who lived in cave areas and have provided archaeologists and anthropologists with much historical insight into the first humans.

Ateshgah Fire Temple

If you are curious to learn about religion in Azerbaijan before the country became predominantly Muslim, then visiting the Fire Temple of Baku is one of the best places to see in Azerbaijan.

This Zoroastrian temple has been in its place since the 17th or 18th centuries, however, it is an excellent place to learn about the world’s first monotheistic religion. This temple is equipped with a few flames that are powered by natural gas, so they will never be extinguished.

Zoroastrians believe that fire is the physical manifestation of God on Earth and therefore it is incredibly sacred for them. It is also the basis for the followers of the Lord of Light from Game of Thrones .

Fire Mountain

Azerbaijan is known as the “land of fire” and nowhere does that become more evident than the fire mountain. This small bit of a hillside just outside of Baku is the sight of a natural gas fire that has been burning for decades.

While it might sound kind of cool to go see a burning mountainside — I was very excited to see this for myself — it might be worth it to lower your expectations and, honestly, it can be worth skipping altogether.

Because of how much Azerbaijan has drained its natural resources, the fire isn’t nearly as big as it used to be. It takes up about one metre of a hillside and, in all honesty, I have seen more impressive fires while camping.

If you do end up visiting, they do charge a small entry fee.

Heydar Aliyev Centre

As one of the most iconic buildings in Azerbaijan today, no visit to Baku is complete without a visit to the incredible Heydar Aliyev Centre.

Officially opened in 2012, this beautiful modern building designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid is one of the most mesmerising works of contemporary architecture in the world today. The building won the 2014 Design Museum’s Design of the Year award, making Hadid the first woman in history to win.

The main enjoyment of the Aliyev Centre is outside of the building, where you can very much enjoy the gorgeous architecture and some of the outdoor temporary exhibitions. Inside, the centre boasts a massive auditorium, a museum, and conference rooms.

Where to Eat & Drink in Baku

Azeri cuisine takes influences from many of its neighbours and friends, including Iran, Turkey, Georgia, and Russia, making a diverse cuisine that is worth sampling. Though it is possible to get some vegetable dishes, the cuisine is meat-heavy so it may prove difficult to be a vegetarian here.

Dolma — Though tourist-friendly, this restaurant serves a range of traditional Azeri fare at agreeable prices. The service is quite good as well.

Xezer Kafe — Located close to the old city gates, this local place has a wide menu with Azeri favourites including delicious soups, dolma, and salads. They also have an English menu to make ordering easier.

Bir Iki — This is a great option if you’re after a quick but tasty doner or shwarma after a long day of sightseeing in Baku. They offer both eat-in and takeaway options.

Coffee Moffie — This is a fantastic cafe if you are looking for a good espresso drink, a cup of Azeri tea, or a glass of local wine. Set with a trendy vibe, this cafe also acts as something of a coworking space for Baku’s freelancers and has a great wifi connection as well.

Where to Stay in Baku

Baku is trying to distinguish itself as a luxury destination, with ample choice for high-end hotels that will set you back a month’s salary. Despite this, however, there are a number of great budget and mid-range accommodation options available in the city as well. These are some of our suggestions:

Cth Hostel Baku – This small guesthouse offers a number of private single or double rooms at very affordable prices. There is a fantastic and hearty breakfast included and it is well-located within walking distance of most main sights. The staff only speaks limited English.

Sahil Hostel – A popular choice amongst backpackers and solo travellers in Baku, this hostel is a great choice in the city. Located closed to Sahil Metro and within easy walking distance of all the main sites, they have a range of private and dorm rooms available.

Seven Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a little more comfort during their trip to Baku. Well located, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and a helpful staff to make your stay a great one.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Baku hotels!

Cultural Notes

Azerbaijan is a Muslim-majority country, however, it has been incredibly secular for some time and there is no state religion declared. Therefore, you will not see many local women wearing hijabs, consumption of alcohol is at a level consistent with Christian-majority countries, and in Baku, loudspeakers announcing the call to prayer are banned, though over 90% of the population identifies as Muslim.

Though there isn’t much religious adherence in Azerbaijan, the country is still quite culturally conservative and patriarchal, and traditional gender norms reign supreme, especially in more local joints in Baku. There are, for instance, cafes and bars where women might feel unwelcome and it may be unwise to wear anything too revealing.

It is also very much a more male-dominated society and it is rare to see many women working in most establishments, except for the more European-style cafes and shops.

Even the idea of men wearing shorts is a controversial topic in Azerbaijan. While the general consensus among locals is that it is okay for foreigners to wear what they will, you still might get some uncomfortable looks and glances.

I would also say it would be unwise to wear short skirts or shorts as a woman in Baku, no matter what time of year it is. Men can be a bit less cautious with their clothing choices, however, it’s worth noting that most Azeri men would not wear shorts. It is generally accepted for foreigners to wear what they desire, though.

Spending two or three days in Baku is an excellent way to see Azerbaijan’s capital and enjoy the fascinating history and unique culture of this rapidly developing city.

Are you planning to visit Baku? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Georgia to Azerbaijan: Tbilisi to Baku & Sheki to Tbilisi

Georgia vs Armenia vs Azerbaijan: Which Country to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Your blog is informative and helpful. I had good time earlier in Georgia and now planning Azerbaijan trip based on your blog. Thank You.

Thanks for the kind words! I’m so happy we could help you plan your trips 🙂

Hi Maggie, This is a very useful blog. I just have one question. How much tip do you think is enough for the free walking tour?

Happy you found this helpful! For the walking tour, it’s common practice to tip the amount that you believe the tour was worth 🙂

Hi..can you recommend where to buy carpets? does the museum sell carpets ? also is there an artisan market? local goods, crafts etc?

Hi, unfortunately, I don’t really know where or how to buy carpets in Baku. Hope you have a great trip!

Going there for 4 days in october for the international soccer. Looking forward.. Any more hints.. Is dining expensive

Hi Patrick, thanks for your comment! Have a look at our price guide for more tips and average expenses for Baku: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baku-azerbaijan-trip-cost/ Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

Thank you great summary, will help me plan my trip next summer!!

Glad this helped, Sammie!

Thank you for sharing this itenary. We found it very useful since we made a 3-day visit to Baku on occasion of the Eid hols in UAE last weekend.

Thanks for your comment, Zajin. Hope you had a great time in Baku!

we are planning for National Day in December. 3 days was sufficient for you?

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3-Day Baku Itinerary + Everything you need to know!

• November 25, 2019
• 10 minute read

Psst, FYI – this post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at absolutely no extra cost to you) and ads keep this blog free for you to enjoy. Thanks for supporting the free content on this site (and for sponsoring more doggy treats for little Albus!)

Ummm, so what is Baku? Where is Baku? When I told people I was heading to Baku, not a single person knew what I was talking about. So if you’re looking to get dumbfounded stares from your friends and family, Baku is the perfect off-the-beaten-path holiday.

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, hosts an eclectic mix of Asian and European cultures, which still raises confusion on whether its part of Europe or Asia, making it all the more interesting. The orangey hue of the limestoned buildings give off a very romantic European feel, but talk to the locals and indulge in their gastronomic delicacies, and you might think otherwise. Go on and ask a local which continent they believe their country is on, I promise you will get varying answers.

A quick insight into Baku: Predominantly Muslim in culture, it’s no wonder you will find Islamic influences on its architecture and culture. Though not a Muslim-country, their traditions borrow heavily from the Islam religion. Architecturally, you will notice the buildings look more European, with splashes of Islam influence as well. The people are still relatively conservative, though the younger generation is getting more progressive with Western influences creeping in through the media.

Hearing the names Baku and Azerbaijan may not spark any immediate impressions, but the wealth of this oil-rich country can immediately be seen once you step into the airport. I’m a little embarrassed to admit this but I had no idea how modern Baku is. It’s no surprise that the city is modernizing rapidly, with Rolls Royce showrooms and high-end boutiques all over the city, but what makes Baku unique is how they still manage to stay true to tradition. In fact, Baku seems to be the most developed city comparted to the other Caucasus countries, Georgia and Armenia. Many have compared it to Dubai, but to me, Baku definitely possesses more soul!

So now that we know a wee bit more about Baku, what is there to do in this city of new and old? Let me entice you with this 3-day Baku itinerary!

• 1 Visitor Travel Visa for Azerbaijan
• 2 Travel insurance for Azerbaijan
• 3 Where to stay in Baku
• 4 Getting around Baku
• 5 Getting a taxi from Baku Airport
• 6 3-day Baku Itinerary: Things to Do
• 7 What to eat in Baku
• 8 Where to eat in Baku
• 9 SIM Cards
• 10 Cost Breakdown of 3 Days in Baku
• 11 Visiting Baku Checklist
• 12 MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Visitor Travel Visa for Azerbaijan

Do you need a visa to visit Baku, Azerbaijan? At the moment, only citizens of Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan don’t require a visa. If you hold any other passport, you’ll most likely need to apply for a visa in advance.

Luckily, applying for a travel visa to Azerbaijan is super easy, and can be done online. You can apply for your e-visa here. The single entry visa costs 24USD and takes roughly 3 working days to process.

Travel insurance for Azerbaijan

Any seasoned traveler will tell you never to leave home without travel insurance, and Baku, Azerbaijan is no exception.

Travel insurance is the most overlooked purchase when traveling, but one of the most essential. Anything can happen when you’re on holiday and you’d want to be covered in the case of travel mishaps such as flight delays, personal accidents or theft.

I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance , designed specially by travelers for travelers , so they know exactly what they’re talking about. Get a quote now.

Where to stay in Baku

One of my favorite parts of Baku was the old city. I woke up early one morning and had the old town to myself, which was one of my favorite memories of the city! For that reason, I highly recommend staying in the old city, near Maiden Tower.

• Budget option! Sahil Hostel & Hotel – From $6 per night for a bed If you’re on a budget, this is the best and highest rated hostel in Baku! Only 600m from Fountain Square and 700m from Maiden Tower, the location is unbeatable.
• Icheri Sheher Hotel – From $33 per night Located right next to Shirvanshah Palace, this hotel even has its own park you can enjoy your morning walks in!
• Premier Old Gates Hotel – From $53 per night Featuring stylish rooms and a terrace with a stunning view of the Flame Towers. Just 300m from Maiden Tower!
• Shah Palace Hotel – From $95 per night Enjoy some luxury for less at Shah Palace Hotel, with elegant classic-style rooms, and only 200m from Maiden Tower!
• ART Gallery Boutique Hotel – From $142 per night If aesthetics are important to you, then you can trust an art gallery not to disappoint in that department. Very stylishly decorated rooms to gain you those IG likes! Strategically located just 25m from Maiden Tower! Another great thing is that this hotel has elevators, which is hard to come by in Baku’s Old City!
• Unique! Hotel Fairmont, Flame Towers – From $178 per night How about staying in the Flame Towers itself? Staring at the Flame Towers from the outside is pretty cool, but how about taking a look at it from the inside and be treated to stunning views of the Capsian Sea!
• Splurge! Four Seasons Hotel Baku – From $292 per night If your wallet can stomach it, why not? It’s the Four Seasons.

Getting around Baku

The cost of living in Baku is relatively low, so we chose to get around with ride-sharing apps, Bolt and Yandex. Rides cost only about 2-3AZN (1.20 – 1.70USD), so it’s especially economical if you’re traveling in a group of two or more.

Getting a taxi from Baku Airport

There are plenty of taxis waiting outside the airport, but to not be ripped off, I recommend using the ride-sharing app, Bolt or Yandex to book your journey to your hotel. It should cost less than 15AZN (9USD) to the city. It’s also much easier since English is not widely spoken in Baku, so having your drop off points specified in the app would save you from the hassle and miscommunication.

3-day Baku Itinerary: Things to Do

Depending on what time you arrive in Baku, take the first day to just explore the Old City or join a free walking tour. Our flight arrived at Heydar Aliyev International Airport at 11 am, and we pretty much only had time for lunch and the free walking tour. I would allocate a bit of time at the airport too, because it is truly one of the prettiest airports I’ve seen, so you might wanna take some pictures!

Go on a free walking tour

On the first day of any trip, I always love to get my bearings by joining a free walking tour . Tours start at 11 am and 5 pm every day in front of the KFC at Fountain Square. Some free walking tours are really boring, but I really loved this one because you really learn so much about their culture and way of life. It’s a real eye-opener, and I promise you will learn something you never knew about Azerbaijan!

On this tour, you will already be walking through Downtown Baku and Fountain Square , which gives you a glimpse into the modern side of Baku.

Get lost in Baku Old City

There is a certain charm to Baku’s Old City, and while strolling through the winding cobbled streets, you’ll get glimpses of Baku’s signature Flame Towers, which gives Baku its unique new-meets-old vibe. While in the Old City, you definitely won’t miss the Maiden Tower which stands tall above the city walls. You can climb up to the top for breathtaking views of the city for just 15 AZN (8.90USD). But read on if you’d like to get stunning views of the city, for free!

Another building you have to make a stop at is Shirvanshas Palace , a stunning 15th-century mosque. Entry is also 15AZN (8.90USD).

Did you know that Baku is home to the smallest book in the world which can be found in the Miniature Book Museum , which also holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of miniature books? Now, how cute is that?

Close to the Museum of Miniature Books, you’ll also walk past this now-famous lion mural! It’s no wonder it’s gaining in popularity because it really is an impressive work of art!

The Flame Towers

If you’re in Baku, you definitely won’t miss the Flame Towers peeking over the city skyline. But if you want to see the towers, I suggest seeing them from afar. And one of the best viewing points is from Upland Park.

Sunset at Upland Park

If you want the best views of The Flame Towers and Baku’s cityscape, head up to Upland Park. You can either take the stairs all the way up, or just hop on the funicular for AZN 1! Spend the later part of the afternoon exploring the park and wait for the sun to set on Baku’s beautiful city.

Day trip to Guba and Khinalug

If you had only one day trip to choose from while in Baku, I highly recommend Guba and Khinalug . You will be taken out to the mountains and up to a remote village up in the mountains, where its villagers are believed to be descendants of the prophet Noah! For jaw-dropping, awe-inducing views, Khinalug will not disappoint; we were ooh-ing and ahh-ing at every turn! And wait for the fog to roll in, which adds a mystical feel to it.

On the way, you will make a stop at a carpet-weaving factory where you can see how the beautiful Azeri carpets are woven by hand!

It will be a long day though, so make sure you have an early night before! I went with Guided Azerbaijan , and am so glad I made the choice! Our tour guide, Emin, made our day so much more enjoyable and made sure we were comfortable and satisfied throughout the day! I highly recommend them, you can book your tours with them here.

Half-day trip to Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

Only an hour’s drive from Baku will transport you back in time to Gobustan National Park, which houses over 6,000 ancient petroglyphs, the oldest dating back about 40,000 years. Entry to the park is only AZN10 for adults, and AZN1 for students.

You’ll also get to visit the mud volcanoes, that are still bubbling and expelling mud. The best part is, you’ll get to hop into a vintage Russian Lado and ride through bumpy dirt roads! If you get a cheeky driver, he’ll give you a thrill ride (read: speeding, sudden braking, twists and turns not for the faint-hearted) complete with traditional Azerbaijani music like we did. Definitely an experience I will never forget!

Just staring out at the landscape, I felt like I’d landed on Mars; minus the months-long journey to get there.

This half-day tour is perfect if you’re catching the night train to Tbilisi as we did. So you have the second half of the day to explore Baku City before your train journey. I went with Guided Azerbaijan again for this half-day tour. You can book your tour with them here.

Baku Promenade

Take an evening stroll down Baku Promenade, and admire the sun setting on the water. Baku even has its own Little Venice where you can ride a gondola (motor-powered might I add!). You definitely won’t get the authentic Venetian experience so it might be best to skip this gimmicky attraction. If carpets tickle your fancy, pop into the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum . Otherwise, admiring its unique shape from the outside is also a treat for the eyes!

Heydar Aliyev Centre

If you’re a fan of Zaha Hadid’s work, you’ll notice this from a mile away. The Heydar Aliyev Centre won the 2014 Design Museum’s Design of the Year award, making Hadid the first woman in history to win. Take a walk around the whole building and admire it from all angles, and then make a stop at the I Heart Baku sign to take that touristy photo!

What to eat in Baku

Sampling the local cuisine is half the experience of traveling to a new country, so indulging in some Azeri cuisine is definitely a must. You’ll find the dishes borrow inspiration from its neighboring countries such as Iran, Turkey, Georgia, and Iran, which makes for an interesting mix of flavors. Lamb is rather predominant here, but you can always request for beef and chicken if you find the smell of lamb too gamey. Here are some interesting dishes that are must-tries!

Pilaf is one of Azerbaijan’s signature dishes, and also one of my favorites! It’s a rice dish with a crispy crust, usually topped with some meat.

Qutab is Azerbaijan’s very own savory crepe. Inside the thinly rolled dough, you’ll find all sorts of fillings to your liking, such as pumpkin, meat, cheese and greens.

Who doesn’t love a good dumpling? These lamb-stuffed dumplings are Azerbaijan’s local dumplings and taste oh-so-good!

For something unique, how about some yogurt soup? You can have them served hot or cold, but apparently having it cold makes it less sour and more palatable.

Cost Breakdown of 3 Days in Baku

Azerbaijan is a relatively affordable holiday destination especially if you are on a budget. Based on everything I mentioned in this post, your costs per person for 3 days are:

• Accommodation for 2 nights: $21
• Food: 60AZN ($35)

Total cost: $141 per person for 3 days

So have I managed to pique your interest about Baku? Have any questions about your three days in Baku? Feel free to drop a comment below!

Visiting Baku Checklist

⇢ Compare flight prices to Baku ⇢ Apply for your e-visa ⇢ Compare accommodation options and prices on Booking.com | HotelsCombined.com | Agoda  | Airbnb ⇢ Don’t forget travel insurance! Travel insurance is the most overlooked purchase when traveling, but one of the most essential. Anything can happen when you’re on holiday and you’d want to be covered in the case of travel mishaps such as flight delays, personal accidents or theft. Choose World Nomads Travel Insurance , designed by travelers for travelers.

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MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Here are my top travel tips and resources to help you save money and plan your trips effectively! If you're looking for more tips, head over to my travel tips resource page or my comprehensive guide on trip planning .

• Booking Flights: When it comes to finding great flight deals, I always start my search on Google Flights or Skyscanner . To save some cash, consider flying mid-week or on the weekends, opt for carry-on only with budget airlines, and be open to red-eye or early morning flights. Check out my in-depth guide on how I find the cheapest flights .
• Accommodations : I'm a stickler for finding the absolute best deals on my stays, so I will obsessively oscillate between a few booking sites: Booking . com (in general) and Agoda (for Asian destinations). When it comes to vacation rentals, there's Airbnb or VRBO .
• Travel Insurance : It's always a wise decision to purchase travel insurance for international trips. I can't stress this enough - it's highly recommended! For international travel insurance, I suggest considering World Nomads or SafetyWing . SafetyWing , in particular, stands out as one of the few policies that cover Covid-19. They also offer excellent monthly policies that are perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers!
• Travel Credit Card : My go-to travel credit card for booking trips is the Wise travel card. I love that there are no foreign transaction fees, so I can pay like a local and never get any surprises at the end of my trip. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs wherever you are. With  Wise , you are always guaranteed the best exchange rate, and I have saved  sooo  much money just by using this card. Most of the time, I get charged the exchange rate I see on Google, plus or minus a few cents.
• Tours: Most times, I prefer traveling independently but sometimes, getting a guide and a local's perspective makes the experience all the more enriching. When it comes to tour bookings, I trust Viator and GetYourGuide to provide me with excellent options. In Asia, I choose Klook as they are the biggest provider in the region. Plus, you can often get entrance tickets and discounted prices!
• Transportation : To navigate through public transit options and plan my journeys from one place to another, I rely on Rome2Rio. When it comes to rental cars, I compare rental companies and find the best deals through DiscoverCars .
• Connection : It's essential to me to have seamless connectivity wherever I go. I need it to navigate to new places, Google what's around me, and keep in touch with my loved ones. But fumbling around with multiple SIMs has always been a nightmare, which is why I choose Airalo when I travel. No more switching SIMs, just purchase a plan on your phone, on the go, anywhere, and stay connected.
• Luggage Storage : Whenever I need to check out early or take advantage of a long layover, I securely store my luggage with LuggageHero . It's a reliable service that allows me to roam around freely. As a bonus, you can use this link to enjoy your first hour of FREE luggage storage on me!
• What to Pack : I always have packing anxiety once I've left home— you know the phantom feeling that you've forgotten something even though you've checked 372836 times . So I made my own packing list and use it religiously before every trip, and by religious I mean I tick off that list at least 7 times before I zip up my bag. Check out my in-depth packing list here.

Hi! I’m Steph. You probably ended up here because just like me, you have an insatiable thirst for trotting the globe, or are just curious about travel. Get ready for brutally honest and in-depth travel guides that will be your trusty companions on global adventures. No fluff, just real talk and practical tips to make your journeys smooth. Join me as we conquer the globe, one epic destination at a time! Together, we’ll uncover hidden gems, laugh at mishaps, and create unforgettable memories. So grab your passport, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s embark on this thrilling journey!

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• March 29, 2019

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• June 17, 2020

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Baku Itinerary: How to Spend Perfect 2 Days in Baku

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

If you are here, you must be planning to spend 2 days in Baku and looking for an itinerary that lets you make the most of your time in the dynamic and stunning capital of Azerbaijan. Qədəmin mübarək olsun! I’m quite confident, this two-day Baku itinerary will meet your expectations.

I’ve crafted this itinerary in a way that it covers almost all the must-see sights in Baku city, including the beautiful Old City aka Icheri Sheher, the iconic Flame Towers, and the unique Heydar Aliyev Center. I also recommend some great places to eat and stay, so you can experience the best of Azerbaijani cuisine and hospitality and share helpful tips, so you can plan a perfect and memorable trip.

Visiting Baku for Two Days: A Perfect Baku Itinerary

A city where old and new weave seamlessly into a captivating tapestry of ancient traditions and futuristic innovations, Baku is full of intriguing history, culture, art, architecture, and gastronomical adventures.

Located on the shore of the Caspian Sea, the city is loaded with innovative architecture and well-heeled infrastructure, thanks to its rich oil and natural gas reserves.

With a plethora of cool places to explore and enjoy, you are going to have an amazing time in Baku. Are you ready to uncover Baku, one of the most intriguing hidden gems in Europe ?

Day 0: Arrival in Baku

Board a shuttle or hire a Bolt from the  Heydar Aliyev International Airport  to the city center.

Make sure you book a hotel that’s right in the heart of the city so you stay close to where the action is. It saves you from the extra work of figuring out public transportation and makes getting around the city super convenient.

Depending upon when you arrive in Baku, you can plan your day accordingly. We arrived around 2 pm and had almost half a day at our disposal. We checked into our hotel on Nizami Street , freshened up, had a refreshing cup of coffee and snacks, and napped.

Well-rested, we head out in the evening to join a 3-hour guided night city tour where our local guide made us see and feel the magic of Baku at night. With brightly lit-up monuments, the city really comes alive as the sun goes down.

Day 1: Explore Baku’s Old City

On your first day in Baku, explore the UNESCO-listed Old City, Icherisheher aka inner city . With charming cobbled streets lined with medieval architecture, It’s the heart and soul of Baku. There’s no better place to soak in the city’s rich culture & history.

It’s recommended to take a free walking tour or a private walking tour to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture. However, if you want to explore on your own, here’s a route to follow.

Enter the Old City via historic Gosha Gala Gapisi (Double Gates) and start with Maiden Tower (Qiz Qalasi), the mysterious and iconic ancient tower that’s considered the oldest structure in Baku. It’s the much-loved symbol of the city that has inspired quite a few Azeri folktales and even appears on the Azerbaijani national currency, the manat. For an entrance fee, you can see the museum inside the tower and climb to the top to enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the bay.

Next, head to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs , a 15th-century palace that served as the residence of the Shirvanshahs. The main building of the palace is turned into a museum now that displays a collection of historical artifacts. Other notable structures inside the complex are a Divankahana, a mausoleum, tombs, mosques, and a bathhouse.

If you are a museum and a book lover, walk a few steps from the palace to visit the Museum of Miniature Books , Zarifa Salahova’s treasure trove of hundreds of thousands of miniature edition books in different languages from almost all countries around the world. Entry is free.

While you stroll the narrow winding streets of the Old City, make it a point to stop by Muhammad Mosque, Juma Mosque, and Bazaar Square, and shop for traditional souvenirs.

Also, capture the different perspectives of the iconic Flame Towers from varied spots in the Old City.

As you stroll the charming streets of Baku Old City, you’ll come across a score of colorful photography spots.

And colorful doors and windows, and unique sights!

Afterward, relish traditional Azerbaijani lunch at Mugam Club or Karvansaray Restaurant, or Sehrli Təndir. Located inside old Han or caravanserai, all these restaurants offer a historical vibe. You must try local specialties such as dolma (stuffed grape leaves), plov (flavorful rice dish), and succulent kebabs.

After lunch, head to Nizami Street , the main shopping street in Baku. Lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, some architectural gems, and the famous Fountain Sqaure, it’s utterly atmospheric and is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee, grab a bite, or indulge in window shopping.

After a day’s sightseeing, it’s time to relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset and then the vibrant nightlife of Baku.

Walk down to the Bulvar (Baku Boulevard) to catch the beautiful sight of Baku bathed in sunset colors and enjoy a stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade along the Caspian Sea and feel the wind in the hair while relishing the views of Baku’s modern skyline.

Flame Towers , the hero of the city’s skyline comes alive at night with a mesmerizing light show. Bulvar is also home to a range of cafes, restaurants, and attractions like Baku Eye (the Ferris Wheel), and the National Flag Square . The area around the boulevard is bustling with activity at night, making it a great place to soak up the city’s energy.

Complete your day with a dinner at Sky Grill , an outdoor terrace restaurant by Hilton located on the 24th floor that boasts a breathtaking nighttime view of the city. You can enjoy the drinks at their signature revolving rooftop bar on the 25th floor, 360 Bar .

Day 2: Explore the Modern Side of Baku

Begin your second day by getting up close with the Flame Towers , the iconic trio of skyscrapers you’ve been watching from every corner of Baku.

Just across the towers is Upland Park aka Highland Park , a beautiful urban park that’s home to exciting sights like a Turkish mosque, an eye-catching fountain waterfall, Martyrs’ Lane or Alley of Honor , and the Eternal Flame Monument . You can climb the stone steps or take a funicular to the top of the park to enjoy the bird’s eye view of the city and its bay.

Next, head to the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum , a gold mine of the carpet-weaving history of Azerbaijan. You can admire the intricate designs that include traditional as well as modern and learn about ancient weaving techniques. Visit the museum’s official website for information on entry tickets and opening hours.

Once out of the museum, stroll the beautiful Mini-Venice . You can ride a gondola here. Cross the Denizkenari Milli Park and walk down to Nizami Street to enjoy another round of traditional Azeri lunch at Dolma or Firuze.

After lunch, drive to the Heydar Aliyev Center , a masterpiece of modern architecture in Baku by the legendary architect, Zaha Hadid . Marvel at its exquisite fluid curves and innovative design and walk around the museum to learn about the contemporary art and culture of Azerbaijan.

If time permits, drive a bit further to Heydar Mosque , the largest mosque in the Caucasus. It looks gorgeous. You wouldn’t see many tourists here as it’s not open to the public.

Come back to Baku Old City and enjoy a traditional cup of tea and experience the tea culture of Azerbaijan at Çay Bağı 145. Coffee lovers interested in witnessing the coffee culture of Aaerbaijan can choose to sit at Coffee Moffie or Old School.

Refreshed and rejuvenated, take a moment to capture the beauty of Baku at night. Stroll the beautifully lit streets of the Old City, stopping by wherever your heart desires, and trying local sweets like pakhlava, shekerbura, and goghal at one of the many sweet shops.

Trip to Baku: How to Plan

Best time to visit baku.

While April to October is considered the best time to visit Baku, the end of March (average high of 13°C or 55°F and average low of 5°C or 41°F), April (average high of 16°C or 60°F and average low of 8°C or 46°F), and October (average high of 19°C or 66°F and average low of 12°C or 53°F) are the perfect months to be there. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, lower prices, and of course, a beautiful opportunity to enjoy the city and its attractions with ease, without hoards of tourists.

The end of March is particularly good for culture lovers as it’s when Azerbaijan celebrates its major festival of Novruz , the Persian New Year.

Getting to Baku

Served by Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), Baku is well-connected to major international cities with more than 40 direct flights from various cities across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Azerbaijan Airlines remains the major air carrier.

If you are coming from the neighboring countries, there are regular trains and buses to Baku from Moscow, Tbilisi, Istanbul, and Tehran. You can also plan a road trip from these cities, but make sure you familiarize yourself with border entry requirements, driving permits, and road regulations.

How to Get From the Airport to Baku City Centre

The International airport is located about 24 km from the city center and takes somewhere around 30 minutes to cover the distance.

Aero Express , the official airport shuttle runs every 30 minutes from the airport to the city center and vice versa. It stops at Surakhani Bridge, Koroglu metro station, and 28 May Metro Station or Central Railway station and costs AZN 1,30 to 1,50. To use the services, you need to buy BakuKart , the city’s public transport card at the BakuKart kiosk, and be aware, the kiosk accepts only Azerbaijani manat. Find more information at www.aeroexpress.az .

Hiring an official taxi or Uber or Bolt is also a good option if you seek comfort and ease. Bolt or Uber costs a little less than an official taxi.

For a stress-free and safe transfer, I usually recommend booking a private airport transfer . As a family traveler, I prefer this option while traveling to foreign countries as it’s comfortable and much safer when traveling with kids.

Getting Around Baku

The Old City, the Bulvar, and its attractions are best explored on foot, however, for attractions like Heydar Aliyev Center, you’d need transport.

For that, you can hire a taxi (choose Uber or Bolt always) or board a Metro (you need a BakuCard).

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, the best way is to take a guided tour around the city. Get Your Guide and Viator offers a range of paid guided tours in Baku, like and Civitatis offers free walking tours. The tours take away the hassle of transportation as well as give you a chance to know more about the history and culture of the place.

If you are planning to take a day trip or two from Baku, it’s best to rent a car or hire a chauffeur-driven car or book a guided tour.

We hired a local car with a driver and thus, traveling around Baku or to other places in Azerbaijan was a breeze. I strongly recommend hiring a chauffeur-driven car if you are traveling with kids. It’s quite affordable and comfortable for families.

How to Stay Connected in Baku

It’s vital to stay connected while in a foreign country. The roaming packages cost a fortune, so I use and recommend getting a local sim card wherever I travel.

You’ve two options – you can buy an e-sim card ( if your mobile phone supports it) from Airalo before even you land at your travel destination or reach the destination and buy a tourist sim card from the local mobile network operators.

For Baku, Azercell , Bakcell , and Nar are the most famous mobile service providers, with Azercell being the best in terms of network and coverage. You can compare the tourist sim packages to choose the one that fits your bill. I purchased the one with 2 GB of data for 7 days in Azerbaijan . It cost me AZN 10 ($5.88).

Where to Stay in Baku

There’s a mind-boggling range of accommodations, including luxury hotels in the city center or boutique guesthouses in the Old City, Icherisheher. I highly recommend choosing accommodation located inside the fortress walls or close to the Old City.

OVERALL BEST : Royal Antique Boutique Hotel (⭐ 9.5) Located inside the Old City, 400 meters from the Palace of The Shirvanshahs, this atmospheric hotel offers comfy and clean rooms, a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. A continental breakfast comes included. Travelers rave about it saying it feels like a home away from home.

TOP BUDGET HOTEL: Renaissance Boutique (⭐ 8.4) This hotel is a few minutes walk from the Old City and offers comfy, clean, and spacious rooms. Some rooms come equipped with a balcony while those that don’t afford windows with city views. The hotel has a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar.

TOP MID-RANGE HOTEL: Art Club (⭐ 9.3) Located close to the Old City, the Art Club features a shared lounge, terrace, restaurant, and bar. Rooms are cozy, clean, and comfortable. The staff is super professional, friendly, and helpful. Their suites with a terrace are the best! With the affordable prices, it’s definitely the best value for your money.

TOP LUXURY HOTEL: Four Seasons Hotel Baku (⭐ 9.3) Strategically located right next to the Old City, this 5-star hotel overlooks the Caspian Sea and Baku Old Town. Most of the rooms and suites afford the panoramic views over the sea and the old city. They also feature an indoor swimming pool, a spa, and a wellness center in addition to a sauna and hammam, and a fitness center.

TOP LEVEL TRAVEL SUSTAINABLE HOTEL: Hilton Baku (⭐ 8.7) Less than 10 minutes walk from the Old City, this 5-star seafront hotel features a terrace restaurant with a view, a famous revolving rooftop bar, & a tea lounge. All the rooms offer awesome views of the city and the sea. Most importantly, the hotel is committed to sustainability and has been certified as Travel Sustainable Level 3+ property.

TOP APARTMENT: Luxary Home Zafro Palace (⭐ 10) Located in the Yasamal district, this beautiful and ultra-spacious 3-bedroom luxury apartment is perfect for big families. It comes with a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, ensuite bathrooms, and a balcony with mesmerizing city view. To safeguard your privacy, the accommodation has a private entrance and soundproofing.

What and Where to Eat & Drink in Baku

When in Baku, you can’t miss out on a diverse range of traditional Azerbaijani flavors. Baku is a haven for non-vegetarians like my husband and daughter. If you are a vegetarian like me, always ask for vegetarian-friendly options before dining in because some restaurants don’t serve vegetarian food at all.

Here are some must-try local dishes and recommended dining spots in Baku:

Shakh plov or shah pilaf , a classic rice dish typically made with saffron, tender lamb or chicken, aromatic spices, and loaded with dried apricots, plums, chestnuts, and raisins is a must-try in Baku. The vegetarian version is also available. The best restaurants to try this dish are Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant and Sahil Restaurant.

Indulge in one of the most popular Azeri dishes, Dolma (yarpaq dolmasi) wherein grape leaves are stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, minced meat, onions, and herbs. In a vegetarian version, badimjan dolmasi, eggplants are stuffed with a mixture of herbs and spices. The best restaurants to try are Mugam Club and Dolma.

Don’t miss out on trying kebabs. Grilled to perfection, these skewered meat delights come in various options like lamb, beef, chicken, or fish. The most common varieties are lyulya kebab , shashlik , baliq kebab , and toyuq kebab . The best restaurants to try a kebab platter include Karvansaray Restaurant and Sumakh.

Sample lavash , a traditional thin unleavened flatbread baked in tandir, a traditional stone oven. It’s claimed to be Armenian in origin, however, is prepared in Azerbaijan, Iran, and Türkiye. Almost all the restaurants serve lavash in Baku.

Relish Qutub , a paper-thin flatbread, filled with meat or greens, folded, and baked in saj, a traditional Azerbaijani frying pan. You can try this famous snack at Sumakh, Sahil, Nergiz, and Sehrli Tandir.

Try Buglama , a stew wherein lamb or mutton pieces are steamed with onions, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and spices at Sehrli Tandir.

Levengi is a traditional dish of chicken, fish, or eggplant stuffed with walnuts, onions, and raisins, and flavored with albukhara and alcha seasonings. You can relish this traditional dish at Sehrli Tandir.

Dovga , a yogurt-based soup peppered with fresh herbs like dill, leek, mint, and coriander is a must-try at Mugam Club. It’s served hot or cold, depending on the season.

Savor Pakhlava , a delicious layered pastry dessert prepared with filo pastry, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey at Rəmzioğlu Paxlava or Sheki Sweet Home.

Shekarbura is another sweet and delicate crescent-shaped Azeri pastry filled with sugar and nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts. You can try this mouth-watering dessert at Rəmzioğlu Paxlava or Sheki Sweet Home or Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant.

How about tasting local wine ? Bayan Shira and Sadaf (white), and Madrasa (red) are the most popular Azeri wines. The good places to try Azerbaijani wines are Room Fine Art Wine & Dine and KEFLI Local Wine & Snacks. If you are a wine aficionado, joining a wine crawl walking tour lets you explore the best wine bars in Baku with a local guide.

Another unusual yet tasty treat to try is a combo of Tea and Jam ! Tea is vital to Azerbaijan culture, much like in India. Traditionally, chai is served with jam. The jams, mostly, contain whole fruit such as cherries, plums, berries, pears, apples, pumpkin, watermelon, pineapple guava, or dry fruits like walnuts. The best place to experience the Azeri ritual of chai and jam is Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse.

And gulp down a glass or two of Ayran , a chilled salty yogurt drink, especially if you are traveling during summer. You can find it at most supermarkets easily.

Helpful Tips

Here are a few things you should keep in my while exploring Baku!

• Azeris are friendly and helpful, however, most of them don’t understand English, so keep the Google Translate app handy all the time. It’s a lifesaver! Also, knowing a few basic phrases in Azerbaijani can greatly enhance your travel experience.
• Use Bolt or book a private transfer from the airport to avoid inconvenience and a taxi scam.
• Baku is a walkable city and thus, packing a pair of sturdy and comfy shoes is a must!
• It’s best to exchange currency in the center of the city than the airport.

Alternative Baku Itineraries

If you have more than 2 days in Baku, here are suggestions to help you craft an itinerary accordingly:

3 Days in Baku Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku City Day 2: Explore Baku City Day 3: Day Trip to Gobustan or Ateshgah and Yanardag or maybe a guided day tour of all three attractions

4 Days in Baku Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku City Day 2: Explore Baku City Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, and Shebeke Beach

5 Days in Baku Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku City Day 2: Explore Baku City Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, and Shebeke Beach Day 5: Day Trip to Shamakhi and/or Lahic OR alternatively, you can take a day trip to Sheki while exploring Lahic, Gabala, and Shamaki on the way (an exhausting one but worth it)

6 Days in Baku Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku City Day 2: Explore Baku City Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, and Shebeke Beach Day 5: Day Trip to Shamakhi and/or Lahic Day 6: Day Trip to Gabala and or Savalan Valley

7 Days in Baku Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku City Day 2: Explore Baku City Day 3: Day Trip to Ateshgah and Yanardag Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, and Shebeke Beach Day 5: Day Trip to Shamakhi and/or Lahic Day 6: Day Trip to Gabala and or Savalan Valle Day 7: Day Trip to Quba and/or Khinaliq

Baku Travel FAQ

Is baku worth visiting.

Indeed. With fascinating history, culture, architecture (a mind-boggling mix of medieval and futuristic), plenty of beautiful attractions, unique natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals, Baku checks all the boxes on being a wonderful travel destination.

What’s Baku Famous For?

Located on the shores of the Caspian Sea at the intersection between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East – the capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku is renowned for oil exploration and F1 races . A fine blend of ancient and modern architecture, the Flame Towers (the poster boy of Baku) and Heydar Aliyev Centre showcase innovative futuristic trends while the UNESCO-listed humble Icherisheher preserves its beautiful heritage. There’s a treasure of history, art, and culture in Baku owing to its strategic position on the ancient Silk Road Trade Route . It’s dubbed the City of Winds as it remains windy almost all through the year. Also, Baku is known for being the lowest-lying national capital in the world .

Is Baku Safe For Tourists?

Baku is a flourishing capital with a well-off infrastructure and is amazingly tourist friendly. It’s fairly safe for tourists, however, common tourist scams like getting overcharged by taxi drivers, stealing credit card information, or pickpocketing do occur. As with any travel destination, it’s vital to exercise caution and take sensible precautions such as taking care of your belongings, not carrying large amounts of money, using reliable transportation services, not venturing out after dark, and being vigilant of your surroundings.

How Many Days Are Enough in Baku?

2 days in Baku are more than enough to explore the highlights, however, if you would like to discover beyond the highlights, I recommend at least 4 days in Baku.

Is Baku Expensive to Visit?

I’d say, Baku is neither cheap nor expensive – it’s reasonably competitive. Obviously, the cost of your trip largely depends on various factors – the duration of your stay, your travel style & personal preferences. The estimated daily expenses in Baku can range anywhere from $50 to $150 depending on the type of accommodation, food outlets, transportation options, and attractions you choose.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Baku?

It depends on your nationality. Check the visa requirements for Azerbaijan before planning your trip. Azerbaijan offers single-entry eVisa to over 95 countries, including the US, European Nations, the UK, Canada, and India. The online application process is super easy.

What is the Local Currency in Baku, and Can I Use Credit Cards?

The local currency in Baku, Azerbaijan, is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are widely accepted in Baku, however, It is wise to keep some local currency handy for small purchases, especially in street markets or smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.

_____ _____ _____

I sincerely hope this Baku tour itinerary helps you craft yours to explore the best of Baku in 2 days. If you’ve any questions, shoot them in the comments section below.

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Anjali Chawla

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Why and When to visit Baku Azerbaijan – A week’s first-timers itinerary

Why visit Baku, Azerbaijan you might wonder? Well, you’re searching for somewhere new to explore, a place with a mix of great food, ancient traditions but modern comforts. But you also crave a touch of ‘something new’ and creature comforts? Great, then why not get to know this magical city full of cultural fusions and modern pride and possibility.

In a week in Baku, you can tour medieval palaces hidden in the heart of the walled city. After sightseeing, you can sip a cocktail overlooking the entire city from a different rooftop bar each night.  

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan may not top the lists of ‘countries visited yet, but hey that’s THE reason to go now.  It’s growing in popularity fast. With loads of unique things to do and see, a safe, family friendly culture and eating out pretty good value, Baku beats expectations! So, we really encourage you to explore this small, hospitable and beautiful part of the world. 

I will admit I visited a very different Baku for the first time in 1999. At this time, Azerbaijan was hard at work shaping its forward path after independence from the Soviets, for the second time in a century.  Incredibly, I was lucky enough to live here in the 2000s for several years and now always love returning to Azerbaijan.  

Here’s our guide to spending a week in and around Baku, with practical tips to make the most of your visit. For many, it may be reassuring to know English is widely spoken by the younger generation and within Baku, main attractions are well sign-posted in English.

If you’re thinking about mountain hiking after spending time in Baku, you might encounter less English in smaller remote villages, but doesn’t this just add to the adventure?  Take another read of our post Don’t Speak the Language?

First, let’s cover some basics!

Where is Baku?

Azerbaijan views itself geographically as European – remember the country did win a recent Eurovision Song Contest! To the north lies Russia, to the west Georgia, and to the south Iran and Armenia.  There is also a very short 11-mile border with Turkey! We don’t get into politics on our blogs but be aware of the tensions and restrictions associated with historical and ongoing regional conflicts if you plan to travel between countries in region.  

Baku sits on the Caspian Sea, which is in fact a lake. In fact, it’s the largest inland lake in the world, measuring 149,200 square miles (386,400 square km)—larger than the area of Japan. Click here for more amazing facts about the Caspian.

There are resorts along the coast but I think the draw to coming to Azerbaijan is to explore the city, countryside and culture although an afternoon at the pool or beach is always a lovely break from sight-seeing.

When's the best time to visit Baku?

For the best weather, plan to visit in May/June or wait until September/October. It can be very hot in July/August and you won’t enjoy walking around as much. Many Azeris escape to their country dachas (summer cabins) out of the city. Baku does have a breeze. Sometimes it can be quite windy but don’t let this put you off at all – it’s a plus in mid summer!

Although winters in Baku are mild and typically frost free, surprisingly it can snow occasionally in Baku (here’s our dog, Ellie, when she experienced her first  snowfall!)  There is a ski resort in Quba, north of Baku if you’re looking for a new alpine run!

Good to Know: Azerbaijan has 20+ public holidays!

Azerbaijan is a country that loves Public Holidays.   There are over 20 public holidays in Azerbaijan listed here . On these dates, some public sites may be closed. Facilities like restaurants, parks, waterfront areas and shops may be busier as Azeri families spend time together.

Do I need a visa to visit Azerbaijan?

Yes, BUT it’s so easy now as you just apply on-line for an e-visa! Here’s what you need to know.

Azerbaijan introduced an e-visa process a few years ago. Believe me, this has transformed the process of getting a tourist visa to enter the country.   Just go on-line and apply here and within 48 hours you’ll receive an email with your visa attached! A single visa is $20 USD (2023).

What's the currency of Azerbaijan?

The currency is the Azeri Manat (AZM) and credit cards are widely accepted. I find it is good to have a bit of cash to hand for entrance tickets, buying water or a coffee. Tips are not expected but appreciated. You can pick up cash at the airport on arrival or just ask at your hotel for the nearest ATM.

Most travellers will find prices in Baku good value unless you’re hitting the 5 star/luxury end in which case you will pay global prices.

Getting to Baku

Currently the best air routes from within Europe or USA are with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.  Azerbaijani Airlines or Azal (the national airline) has a limited service but this includes direct flights from major hubs of New York, London and regional hubs including Qatar.  There are also sufficient regional carriers  if you fancy combining time in Azerbaijan with say Uzbekistan or Georgia.

Important Tip. If you have visited Armenia, you may be questioned about this before being permitted to enter Azerbaijan. 

There is not a metro or train service from the airport to town (30-40 mins) so either pre-book with booking.com or Uber once you arrive.  Most central hotels have good shuttle and transfer options too.

Land crossing/Trains into Baku

Unfortunately the international overnight train service between Tblisi, Georgia into Azerbaijan (Baku) has been suspended and at the time of writing does not appear to re-starting passenger border services  any time soon.  You can leave Azerbaijan into Georgia but cannot enter into the country.  It’s worth checking the status if you plan to travel independently, but reliable data can be sparse to come by.

Accommodation in Baku

Just look on Booking.com and you will see the huge range of accommodation options available in Baku. Take your pick from the stunning seafront ‘Four Seasons’ to mainstream brands like Hilton and Marriott with great facilities, pools and central locations. Our preference is to stay within the walled Old City; the historic heart of Baku. In 2023, we stayed at a small boutique hotel, Royal Antique. Use Booking.com or  contact them direct for best rates. Here’s the breakfast room with beautiful views and a wonderful eager to please, happy team!

Packing for Baku, Azerbaijan

Above all, you want to be comfortable on your travels.  For a week in Baku and a couple of trips out of town there are a few items we urge you to pack including:

– comfortable shoes – walking is a must to explore the city’s cobbled streets, climb steps, and hike around on trips out of town;

– headscarf and knee length clothing if entering mosques

– sun-hat and sunscreen

– a little more ‘dressy’ clothing. Azeris dress well and are smart and outfits well put together. For evening dining, enjoy dressing up!

– shorts are becoming more ‘the norm’ but most Azeris do not wear shorts out and about!

– binoculars as city views are simply incredible!

Getting Around Baku is easy

Central Baku where a lot of the tourist sights are, is easy to navigate on foot. There is a reliable and safe metro system which is cheap way to get across town if you need to. T he Azerbaijani Metro Guide site has a route map and instructions on buying tickets . The stations are well maintained and some are really beautiful.

Uber and Bolt taxi services are  available and, from our experience, are reliable and remove any need to bargain on fares. Your hotel can advise what works based on your location and destinations.

Beyond Baku, you will need to decide whether to take tours, hire a driver or rent a car.  Roads between the main cities are pretty good, but driving may not be what you are used to. If you want to head to some of the mountain villages, I strongly suggest you hire a driver or take a tour because these are single tracks, sometimes over remote terrain and you need to know what you’re doing.

PS. (I never drove in Baku! – parking is a bit of a nightmare)

A Week in Baku Itinerary

This itinerary blends time in the heart of beautiful  Baku and sprinkles in 2 trips outside the city.  There are so many great places to eat across the city so we won’t recommend daily restaurants by day. However, we share some of our Baku favourites towards the post end!

Use our ideas as a baseline, or follow it as is! If you need help from a travel specialist, we highly recommend Regent Holidays who know this part of the world so well, and offer a range of organized trips to take the work out of your lap!

Day 1 - Introduction to Baku

Day 1 - morning - old city walled city "icheri sheher".

First, download a map of the city center.  Next, make your way to the double gates that are the main entrance into the UNESCO recognized 12th century, medieval city of Baku. It’s simply stunning with narrow streets leading to homes, museums, shops, parks, cafes, restaurants and hotels. 

Book with Baku City Tours for a free city walking tour . We do this because despite having lived here, it’s a great way to keep updated. What’s more, we meet local residents who love their city! Arif was a fantastic guide and passionate about his country and its future. His company also offers other tours in Baku and beyond so check out their site above.

After a few hours of exploring, find yourself a traditional restaurant in the old city. Recharge your batteries by relaxing over a hearty lunch – the local food is wonderful. 

Day 1 - Afternoon - Hop On-Hop Off Bus to Highland Park

Consider taking the Hop On/Hop Off bus to get your bearings around the broader city.  With 16 stops, this route takes around 1.5 hours to do a full circuit. Why not get off at the Highland park stop for a refreshment (ice cream anyone?) and soak in the panoramic views of the city and the sparkling waters of the Caspian.

You will see a mosque as you walk around the gardens at the top, and several memorials.  Take a walk down what is called Marty’s Alley, where etched faces of those lost in conflict decorate memorial graves. Whatever views you hold, this is a poignant place and a reminder of ongoing conflicts within the region.

While you are here, you will be drawn to three massive towers rising out of the hillside.  These architectural icons dominate the skyline but at the same time, blend in with the old and remind us of the important role Baku played in the early energy sector development.  More on how to spend time here on Day 6!

To return to the city, take the funicular down to the Boulevard at sunset for stunning views across the city and Caspian Sea.

Day 2 - Magic Carpets and Ancient Palaces

Day 2 morning - visit the carpet museum.

Azerbaijan has a rich heritage of carpet weaving. If you want to buy an authentic souvenir, a hand-made rug will last you years. Before you start shopping though, visit the UNESCO supported National Carpet Museum. which was set up in 1972 and has thousands of beautiful exhibits.  The museum is near the  Boulevard and is designed to look like a rolled up carpet as you can see in the photo below!

Tip: If you want to see carpet making, head to Guba (a couple of hours north of Baku), where traditional weaving continues. You can even take a class!  When our Dad came to visit Baku, visiting the carpet weavers was one of his highlights and the carpet we bought remains bright and beautiful to the day! We also did some bargaining 🙂

Day 2 Afternoon - Discover Palace of the Shirvanshahs

You likely walked past The Shirvanshahs Palace if you took our suggested walking tour yesterday. Now it’s time to get inside the ancient palace system and the royal way of life that existed here centuries ago.

Open from 10am to 6pm you can easily spend a hour or so here. Buy your ticket at the small booth as you enter through the main gate. Its 15AZM for foreigners and you can book onto a tour, if you enjoy getting more of the secrets and stories of which there are many!

Just round the corner from the Palace, is the Miniature Book Museum, free to enter and open 11am-6pm.  It is closed Monday and Thursdays! Pop your head in for a few minutes and discover a library of tiny literature of every possible genre. It’s fun and fascinating and apparently in the Guinness Book of Records! And between the two, is a beautiful tea garden.

After a rest from all that exploring, why not stroll the waterfront Promenade. Exit the old city and cross the main road back towards the carpet museum and you will find yourself in a wide boulevard filled with life,

This is a 4km boulevard  with traditional tea cafes and small kiosks selling treats from candy floss to ice-cream. It’s a delight and full of families enjoying an evening out, especially at weekends. You will get amazing views of the Flame Towers dancing with colors as night falls and in the other direction, the Port of Baku shines out as a modern symbol of the prosperity of the country

Day 3 - Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Why not take a trip out of town and explore a couple of remarkable Azerbaijan sights?

The unique Gobustan National Park is around an hour south of Baku.

First, we recommend a stop at the impressive Bibi Heybat mosque. It’s right on the roadside as you head south. It’s modern but beautiful to visit en route. Many tours to Gobustan will make a stop here.

Next you will arrive in Gobustan which is a small village, but just beyond is an important historic site. 

Start in the well-appointed museum to get an overview. Then drive on further to the site where the petroglyphs can be viewed up close.

It’s quite rough walking so wear shoes with a good tread. Put yourself back in time and imagine how life might have been here. It’s quite intriguing as you stand in what is really an arid desert.

After Gobuston, it’s on to the mud volcanoes, and if you have kids with you, they will LOVE these. They bubble and pop and are (I was informed) only to be found in Azerbaijan. When we visited in May 2023, a new walkway and viewing system was being constructed along with a mud spa, so that will be a new experience on offer soon!

This day is really best done with a tour because they will give you lunch and it will be around 7 hours door to door. There are limited restaurant facilities in these locations so bring a picnic if you’re traveling independently.

Day 4 - The Old, The New and The Pool

Day 4 - morning- maiden tower and heydar aliyev center.

You will likely have seen this on your first day city tour and subsequently as you walked around the Old City.  There is many a tale as to why this tower was built back in the 7 or 8 th century. Some regard it as a fortress lookout point as the sea came up here centuries ago; others love to share the tales that are the stuff of legends. You decide what to believe when you visit!

The entrance for foreigners is 15 AZM. There’s a booth next to the base of the tower where you can purchase a ticket. There’s a small museum inside and as you wind your way up the 29 meters of stone staircase, each floor has artifacts to browse over. On reaching the top, you will get great views of the city but a Perspex glass (new, since I lived here) makes taking photographs a little less pleasurable!

Next to the entrance of the Tower, you will find the shady, relaxing cafe called Qiz Qalasi. It’s a perfect spot to sip some Azeri tea with traditional nuts, and jam as you watch life go by. One of my favourite spots in Baku.

Heydar Aliyev Center

Next grab an Uber over to the ‘out of the world’ sensational Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by British Iranian architect Zaha Hadid. The brief was to create a building in the name of Heydar Aliyev (the previous president who is seen as the father of modern Azerbaijan), symbolizing the break away from Soviet times.

It truly is a stunning piece of design and hosts many events, exhibitions and international meetings. Entrance to the museum is currently 15 AZM – use the Heydar Aliyev Official site to buy an e-ticket for entry or buy at the door. Don’t miss it.

Day 4 - Afternoon - Relax before evening of Azeri culture

If you haven’t already snuck in a little time by the pool, then we suggest you take this afternoon to relax and soak up some rays. 

And now you’re all chilled, why not head out for some live music or theatre show. Baku has a rich arts culture, from galleries to jazz clubs, opera, ballet and an impressive state Philharmonic complex. Check local magazine guide Baku Life for what’s on during your visit. The Baku international jazz festival is a big pull – now in its 18th year.

Day 5 - Day out in Quba Region

Book yourself on a tour that heads north of Baku on the M1 Highway. As you leave the city behind, you will get an appreciation for rural life as you see small settlements and stop off at local sights like the cute Candy Cane mountains.

Within an hour, you will be in Quba staring at the beauty of the Caucasus mountains and exploring small villages where life is so different from the city. Your guide will help you with ideas of things to do but some may be worth checking out ahead of time. It is possible to rent cabins and spend a few days here too. Quba is a lovely town to wander around.

Maybe you’re an avid golfer? If so, Azerbaijan has invested millions to bring its clubs to international levels and you can book in for a round at the Guba Golf course w hich golfer friends speak highly of. There is also a course in Baku.

Beyond Quba, most tours keep going to the tiny settlement of Xınalıq. It is literally perched on top of a mountain and so remote that you can only get here in summertime. Baku City Tours have a great day out that combines these destinations o r check with your hotel.  Don’t miss Quba! It’s so relaxing and rejuvenating here.

Day 6 - A little shopping & sipping

Day 6 - morning - bazaars and bargain hunting.

Living in Baku means visiting the local bazaar for the best food on offer. I used to love my Saturday morning trips to Yashil Bazaar (Green Market) which still is my favourite. You will find fresh produce, spices, herbs, pendir (local cheese), fresh pomegranates, juiced to order, meat, cakes – yes all you could possible want to eat. This is a great place to buy spices, dried fruits and herbs to bring home. Be prepared to bargain a little – it’s the culture! Teze Bazaar is a Baku institution and been operating for over 80 years. It’s also a  little more central.

For a more modern shopping experience, head to one of the modern shopping malls in the city center. The flower shaped Deniz Mall has modern shops or head to the Port Baku area for your designer goods! Nizami street and Fountain Square are lined with retail options too…shoppers, you will love Baku.

Although touristy, I love hunting through the stores in the Old City for a gift or two.  If you find yourself drawn back here, try to make time to stop by the  renown poet Aligaga Vahid’s statute.  You will stumble upon many more great example of the artistic talents of generations of Azeris as you explore the city.

Next door, is a small cafe which is a little tent full of traditional tea samovars. They have delicious teas, coffee and cakes to choose from and you’re looking right at the old city wall. This is how I like to spend an hour on my last afternoon in Baku.

Day 6 - Afternoon/Sunset at the Flame Towers

So, we’ve given you a little time in this itinerary to pack or visit another part of the city on your last afternoon. But before you head to the airport, we think a last night cocktail is needed at the Fairmont’s Bar 19, within one of the Flame Towers you’ve been admiring all week. 

Take an Uber and park yourself at the window area and just marvel at the city you’ve got to know.  They have a light bar menu too if you’d like to eat here. Enjoy as the city’s night lights start to sparkle beneath you.

Other amazing rooftop bars

There are no excuses not to find yourself a rooftop bar spot during your week in Baku. Other great central spots for a cocktail with stunning vistas are the Hilton’s 360 Rotating Sky Bar or Infinity at the Marriott to toast the end of an incredible week in Baku!

As promised, Baku food highlights

Gone are the days of heavy carb loaded food in this part of the world. Just check out Baku Restaurants on Trip Advisor and you’ll see what I mean!

The fusion of Persian, Russian and European flavors create a delight in local food options. Equally, you will find excellent Asian, Italian, Indian options from relaxed cafes to fine dining.  We recommend trying at least one traditional restaurant because the food will be authentic and more affordable. Qula or Old Baku Restaurant.

Around Nizami (Fountain Square) you will find restaurants for every taste. An interesting one is an old Cheese factory and the current menu is built on this concept! Fun.

If you want to venture out of the city center a little, grab a ride to White City which has erupted in recent years with designer shopping and elegant eating.

For Asian, Chinar (at the bottom of the Funicular ride) remains a top favourite, and Indian is available along with other regional delights including Iranian and Georgian.

My favourites are old city rooftop restaurants with striking vistas along with your glass of wine,

Finally, don’t overlook street food like the always available Azeri Kebab. You will find many kiosks around Fountain square to buy this ever popular local snack.

And, a few last thoughts...

Baku’s architecture reflects its unique mix of European, Islamic and Soviet influences. It’s a fascinating destination and although you can easily fill a week with this itinerary, there is so much more to discover.  Imagine:

-hiking in the rugged Caucasus mountains,

-joining the annual Baku Formula 1 Race Party (dates are 13-15 September in 2024),

– traveling west to Sheki staying overnight at its stunning caravanserai (ancient trading stop). While here, enjoying local baklava made from hazelnuts. You can even take a cooking class here to learn more about delicious Azerbaijan food. If you’re a foodie, you will love Azerbaijan!

So many places are ‘over visited’ these days. It’s maybe not as much fun when we’re pushing through crowds.  But not here.  

We feel Baku and Azerbaijan offer fresh travel adventures with an element of freedom to roam. From the times I have spent here, I will guarantee you will leave Baku with new friends because the Azeri people are some of the most hospitable, kind and talented people on our planet. 

Love Jude and Ruby 

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A Perfect Weekend in Baku: A Sample Itinerary

Discover how to spend a weekend in Baku with this handy guide. What to know before you go.

Baku is a city of juxtapositions. The Old City is sprawled out with the Baku Flame Towers in the background. Old Soviet buildings neighbor modern Azeri ones.

Azerbaijan has changed hands several time, but by international standards, it’s still a “new” country, finally gaining its independence from the Soviets in 1991. Baku is old and new, new and old. A weekend in Baku is enough to make your head spin.

But yes, we’re talking about the  good kind of head-spinning.

Directly translated as the “land of fire”, Azerbaijan is a natural resource-laden country whose main export is oil and gas. However, there’s a lot of cultural upheaval going on in this new-meets-old country that I found quite fascinating. This transition is especially prevalent in the capital city, Baku.

While the rest of Azerbaijan confused and challenged me, I distinctly remember how joyful and excited I felt while exploring Baku. There’s a lot to unpack here, from the old marvels of the city to the strange contemporary buildings that have only just been built there.

Throw in a slew of fascinating and unique natural attractions just outside the city limits, and you’ve got a well-rounded weekend in Baku ahead of you.

Throughout your 2 days in Baku, you can definitely experience the highlights of the city (although I  always recommend spending more time in a place!). See below for the deets.

2 Days in Baku Itinerary: Practical Information

Getting an Azerbaijan Visa

Traveling to Azerbaijan requires a visa for citizens of most countries, including the United States. The good news is that it’s a completely online process to obtain an Azerbaijan tourist visa.

If you’re planning on visiting Baku, you need to apply online for your eVisa, print it out, and submit it to the immigration official when you arrive at the airport. It’s not a very hard process – it takes anywhere from 3-7 days for online approval and costs $25 USD.

How to Get In and Out of Baku

Flight:  The easiest way to get to Baku from anywhere in the world is to fly into Heydar Aliyev International Airport. The airport has several flights a day, primarily from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. You can compare flight prices and search for the best deals on Google Flights, CheapoAir, and Expedia.

Overnight Train: If you’re coming in from Tbilisi, Georgia or Sheki, Azerbaijan, you can take an overnight train. These trains are exceptionally slow, but you can get a sleeper car and save yourself some money on a hotel.

Ferry/Boat:  If you’re arriving from certain destinations, like Iran or Turkmenistan, you may be able to take a ferry into Baku. However, most of the boats that operate in the Caspian Sea are cargo/commercial ships.

Overland:  There are buses into Baku from all over the region. Depending on where you’re coming from, it can take anywhere from a few hours to over a day. Within Baku, there are a few different bus stations where you may be picked up or dropped off – be sure to confirm which one you need to leave from!

Currency and Payments in Baku

For currency, Azerbaijan uses the Manat (AZN). Despite the fact that there are card readers in lots of places, most transactions in Baku are made in cash.

You can withdraw money from ATMs there, or simply exchange at one of the many exchange points throughout the city. Be sure to try and break your big bills when possible, as a lot of smaller restaurants and shops do not have much change.

Where to Stay in Baku

Sahil hostel & hotel (budget).

There’s no hostel in Baku that feels more like home than Sahil Hostel & Hotel . The dorm beds are comfortable and private, the property is squeaky clean, and there’s a relaxed but open vibe about it that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

It’s walkable from practically everywhere, and super close to the seaside boardwalk (which I loved). And, at just a few USD per night, it is an amazing deal.

Check Rates and Availability

Viva Boutique Hotel (Mid Range)

Whether you prefer a private room or simply want a comfortable, private place to stay, the  Viva Boutique Hotel is the perfect spot for you.

It’s affordable, the rooms are clean and cozy, and it’s a very central location – just a few minutes walk to the Old City and many other central areas.

Fairmont Baku Flame Towers (Luxe)

If you’re looking for a uniquely “Baku” luxury hotel, the  Fairmont Baku Flame Towers is the perfect choice.

It’s a 5-star property located in one of the iconic flame towers of the city – there’s also an incredible rooftop pool.

Getting Around in Baku

Walking:  Central Baku is an extremely walkable place, and you’ll be able to get to many places within the city center on your feet. Remember that Baku is in a desert, so in the spring and summer months, it can get pretty hot during the day. If you plan on walking a lot, be sure to stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Public Transportation: Baku also has a metro and bus system that’s ridiculously cheap to use. You can load them at Bakikart kiosks. First, you need to buy a card to use, which costs 2 AZN. Then, you can fill it with however much money you want. Rides on both the buses and the metro are 20 gopik (0.2 AZN) per ride.

Uber/Rideshare: Baku is the only capital city in the Caucasus to use Uber, and that makes getting around incredibly convenient. If you have access to Wi-Fi or cellular data, you can simply call an Uber like you would in the United States and charge it automatically to your designated credit card. Most Ubers within the central city area cost 2-7 AZN.

Taxi: Taxis are abundant in Baku and you can simply hail one from the street or have your hotel/restaurant call you one. However, this is the most expensive way to get around Baku, so keep that in mind if you’re budget-conscious.

Where to Eat in Baku

Surprisingly, there isn’t a huge food culture in Baku. You’ll find inexpensive kebab and döner shops – characteristic of the region – pretty much everywhere.

There are also some traditional Azeri restaurants, but you’ll find when you visit one, it’s mostly fellow tourists and foreigners eating there. Despite the fact that they are mostly catered to tourists, I still think it’s worth trying a couple of Azeri restaurants during your stay to experience the traditional dishes of the region.

With that said, the people of Azerbaijan are very proud of their traditional Azeri breakfasts, and I highly recommend trying one while you’re in the city.

For a traditional-style breakfast, I highly recommend trying Sehirli Tandir at least once. Yes, it’s a bit pricey for Azerbaijan, but the freshly-baked, tandir-style bread, the delicious cheeses and honey, and the historic atmosphere of the place are certainly worth it.

Another fantastic restaurant to try traditional Azeri food in Baku is Nargiz Restaurant . It’s an underground, centrally-located restaurant that has an extensive (I mean, HUGE) menu of traditional dishes and all kinds of variations on them.

Again, it’s a little more expensive than the average meal, but it’s worth sitting down here to sample some qutab , piti , and dushbara .

2 Days in Baku: A Weekend Itinerary

Baku itinerary: arrival, take a stroll at the seaside.

Arguably one of the coolest things about Baku is that it neighbors the Caspian Sea. The Caspian Sea isn’t  really a sea, rather the largest salt lake in the world. Off the coast, you’ll see deep blue water, with oil rigs dotting the horizon.

When you first arrive in Baku, it’ll probably be evening time, which means the city will be nice and cool for a stroll. The best place to take a walk and experience the sights and sounds of the city is on the Baku Boulevard.

This beautiful, big walking area is full of both tourists and locals, and is a nice place to get a feel for the city.

While there, you can stroll for a bit and grab dinner, or simply sit on a bench and admire the calmness of the Caspian Sea. There are also great views of the old city and the Flame Towers.

After your walk, take it easy on your first night, because the next two days will definitely be packed with things to do.

Baku Itinerary Day 1: Exploring the City, Old and New

When I’m visiting a new city, I love spending a day just walking and wandering around its main areas. And luckily, Baku is a VERY walkable city.

On your first full day in Baku, I recommend making a list of things you’d like to see and tackling them one by one, or simply taking a free guided walking tour of the city. I ended up doing both. My free walking tour guide, Eldar, was awesome – explaining some of the history of the city as well as some of the strange and lesser-known facts about many of the sights we passed by.

Like with any weekend trip, you can’t accomplish everything in a couple of days, so I’d recommend choosing 3-4 priorities for the day and try to knock those out first. Some of the main attractions in Baku that you might want to check out include:

• Baku Old City*
• Palace of the Shirvanshahs
• Maiden Tower
• Fountain Square*
• Philharmonic Hall*
• Palace of Happiness *
• Bibi-Heyat Mosque
• Museums: Carpet Museum, Azerbaijani Literature, Art Museum, and National Museum of Azerbaijan
• Funicular Car
• Flame Towers
• Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center (explore the inside museum AND the outside)
• Upland Park (at sunset, see below)

*Sights included on the free walking tour. Bold means I highly recommend/would prioritize going here.

If you’re in more of a ‘sit back and relax’ kind of mood, you can also opt for an organized Baku city tour . I like taking these tours every so often because they typically give you an insider’s perspective on the city, and include some quirky facts or fun stories to boot (and I’m a HUGE sucker for quirky facts about a place!).

At sunset, end your day by heading up to the Upland Park viewpoint . Upland Park is arguably the best place in the city to watch the daily light show, which happens around 8:30 PM.

There’s also a magnificent view of the rest of Baku and the Caspian Sea down below. While there, you’ll probably share the space with wedding photographers, joggers, skateboarders, families, and other light show spectators. It’s a great place to do some sunset people-watching, too.

Baku Itinerary Day 2: Mud Volcanoes, Gobustan, and Lots of Fire

On your second day in Baku, I recommend actually getting  outside of Baku to explore some of the weirdest and most wonderful sights near the city.

The easiest way to do this is to book a full day Baku tour with TES Tour , which will take you to the mud volcanoes, Gobustan National Park, Ateshgah Fire Temple, Yanar Dag, and the outside of the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center.

You can also opt to hire a taxi and do this tour on your own, but it will be MUCH more expensive.

The Mud Volcanoes

Baku is one of the few places in the world where you can see mud volcanoes. A rare phenomenon that only happens in certain areas, these naturally-formed bubbly mud pots look like mini volcanoes dotted across a flat area of dirt.

You probably won’t want to stay long here, but there are a few interesting things to note about these mud volcanoes:

• They’re cold to the touch . In many places around the world, the bubbling mud is caused by heat. However, in Baku, the mud volcanoes are cold because they’re caused by gas pockets under the ground.
• They’re not just in Baku . There are mud volcanoes in a bunch of different places around Azerbaijan! The Baku ones are simply the easiest to see, especially if you have a short time in the country.
• Some people use them as mud masks . You’ll probably see such people when you visit. But I wouldn’t dare… I’m not sure there’s any scientific evidence to back these claims.

Gobustan Petroglyphs

If you’re a natural history or archaeology nerd, you’ll love Gobustan National Park. First of all, it’s naturally very beautiful, with giant boulders strewn about as if they were tossed into a pile by a child at play.

More importantly, on said rocks, there are ancient (I mean, 1,000+ years old) petroglyphs carved into the sides, depicting scenes from the daily lives of nomadic inhabitants of modern-day Azerbaijan.

Traditional Azeri Lunch Buffet

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention one of the best meals I had in Azerbaijan, which was on my day tour of Baku.

Our tour group arrived at an Azeri lunch buffet which was full of every kind of food I read about when I googled “foods to try in Azerbaijan.” The kicker? The entire buffet only cost 10 AZN. That’s the equivalent of $6 USD, all you can eat!

I searched and searched the Interwebs and couldn’t figure out the name of the restaurant, so that’s all the most reason to go with a tour than on your own.

Ateshgah Fire Temple

A pilgrimage site for people of the Zoroastrian faith, the Ateshgah Fire Temple was built sometime between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Here, you can learn more about the history of fire worship and the current practices and traditions around it, complete with somewhat creepy wax models and museum-like panels inside of the reconstructed historic site.

Of course, the actual fire is the main point of focus here. It sits in the center of the temple complex in a small shelter and burns perpetually.

Yanar Dag is a special place, and while it’s not one where you’ll linger for a long time, you’ll probably want to see it for yourself. While Azerbaijan is known as the land of fire, Yanar Dag is  actually the land that’s on fire.

You see, here, natural gas is so abundant that it causes a natural fire on the hillside that burns forever and ever. It looks like there’s burning charcoal leaking out the side of the hill…pretty cool if you ask me.

My only reservation about going here with a day tour is that you’ll usually end up here in the heat of the afternoon, which is mildly unpleasant and not as epic to photograph.

Ah well, beggars can’t be choosers. If I could do it again, I’d come back here at sunset or at night.

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center

Per my recommendation, you probably saw this yesterday more thoroughly. However, if you opt to take the TES day tour of Baku, you’ll visit here again as the last stop on your tour.

Pomegranate Wine

This one is not part of the day tour, but one I wanted to throw in here anyway. Whether you decide to take the day tour or simply rent a car or taxi and do it yourself, you’ll probably end your day in the early evening.

This gives you enough time to enjoy a traditional Azeri meal and a glass of the traditional pomegranate wine: a final toast to your amazing (and maybe exhausting) weekend in Baku.

If You Have More Time

Day trip to xinaliq.

If you’re itching to get outdoors, you can take a day trip from Baku to the highest-elevation village in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan Traveller offers a wonderful trip (they’re the same company that run the free walking tours).

The trip spans a full day (9 AM-9 PM+) and takes you to both Quba and Xinaliq. This is a great way to experience what life is like in Azerbaijan outside of Baku.

Day Trip to Gabala

Sometimes you just need an escape from the busy city, and Gabala can offer that to you. Gabala is a resort area popular with Azerbaijan’s locals, filled with lots of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. You can take a day trip to Gabala with TES Tour .

2 Days in Baku Itinerary: Read Next

• Central Asia Travel Tips: 35 Helpful Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling in Central Asia
• The Best Things to Do in Astana, Kazakhstan: 11 Amazing and Unique Spots in the City
• One Week in Kazakhstan – A Step-by-Step Kazakhstan Itinerary

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I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

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The 10 BEST Things to Do in Baku, Azerbaijan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From exploring the 12th century fortifications of Old City to enjoying the sight of the world famous Flame Towers, these are just some of the  best things to do in Baku .

Azerbaijan’s capital, dubbed by Lonely Planet   as “the architectural love child of Paris and Dubai”, is one of the fastest changing cities in the world.

Dilapidated alleyways are now bustling with hipster cafes and international restaurants. The Flame Towers are a marvel of modern architecture. Millennials wander the streets dressed in the latest high-end fashion.

Yet Baku is not without its charm either.

At the centre of Baku lies the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounding this time capsule are stone mansions and luxury boutiques. The blend of the old and new works effortlessly.

There are a lot of tourist attractions around the city. The city is rapidly expanding and you will find many things to do in Baku to keep yourself busy and entertained.

Table of Contents

Do A Walking Tour Of The Baku Old City

See the bibi heybat mosque, climb up the maiden tower, visit the mud volcanoes at gobustan national park, check out the flame towers, wander through the azerbaijan carpet museum, don’t miss the palace of the shirvanshahs, admire the ateshgah fire temple, see the old city walls, pop in to the miniature book museum, where to stay in baku, our guide for the best things to do in baku.

We spent a few days in the capital of Azerbaijan after travelling across the Caspian Sea by cargo ship, and after so much time spent in Central Asia, the step into European style was quite dramatic.

If you’re planning on taking a trip to Azerbaijan, don’t miss these amazing things to do in Baku.

Old City or “Icharishahar”, is one of Azerbaijan’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites . It’s truly a unique, historical part of Azerbaijan and is located within the heart of Baku.

The Old City is very clean and recently renovated. It’s a very beautiful and very artful town, surrounded by fortressed walls, adding to the character.

Walk through its cobblestone streets, see and touch the stones of the ancient walls, zigzag through narrow corridors and admire the intricate art on the doors.

The Old City of Baku has a lot to offer. The town has a lot of aged buildings, a palace complex, mosques and the iconic Maiden Tower.

Across from the Maiden Tower you can book an audio tour that will elaborate on the main sightseeing points of Old City.

We always suggest a guided tour because we prefer to ask locals questions and hear the story of their hometown through their eyes.

It’s a great place to wander around. There are a lot of souvenir vendors, great tea shops and restaurants. With a beautiful view of the boulevard, picturesque moments of merchants playing chess or backgammon, interesting trinkets being sold – you won’t get tired even after hours of exploring.

It’s truly a place where time seems to have stopped.

No matter who you turn to for advice on what to see in Baku, Old City will always be the top recommendation!

The Bibi Heybat Mosque is one of the most interesting things to do in Baku, and even non-Muslims will enjoy exploring this wonderful piece of architecture.

The present day structure is from July, 1998, and is a recreation of the mosque that was built in the 13th century by Shirvanshah Farrukhzad II Ibn Ahsitan II.

Today’s restored mosque is a classic example of the Shirvan architectural school. Interestingly enough, it is the only religious building that was completely destroyed by Stalin in 1936.

It has three domes, which follows the traditional iron shape of the old mosque and two minarets. The domes are decorated with turquoise and green mirrors, that are bordered with gilded inscriptions from the Qur’an.

The mosque includes the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum (Prophet Muhammad’s descendant), and present day serves as a spiritual centre for and a major monument of Azerbaijan’s Islamic architecture.

You are welcome to visit outside of prayer times.

To make the most of your day, book a guided 5-hour tour where you will go to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Gobustan before continuing on to Bibi Heybet Mosque and mud volcanoes!

• Location: 6 km southwest from Baku
• Opening hours: 24h/7
• Price: Free of charge

While in Baku you cannot miss climbing on top of Azerbaijan’s most recognised landmark, and the centre of the city’s historical importance.

The Maiden Tower, or as locals call it Giz Galasi , is located in the Old City and is constantly surrounded by a hive of activity from locals and tourists alike.

It was built in the 12 th century as part of the walled city of Baku. The name Giz Galasi is better translated as “Virgin Tower”, so named because of its impenetrability.

The Maiden Tower is part of UNESCO’s world heritage listing, looped in with the Old City and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace.

Climb the Maiden’s Tower just before sunset and enjoy the panoramic view of the Azerbaijan capital and its Old City – it’s a Baku must see!

• Location: in Old City district
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 15 AZN

The other of Azerbaijan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites is the Gobustan National Park, that attracts thousands of tourists annually.

This otherworldly site is a sprawling field speckled with bubbling mud volcanos, anthropological sites and sizzling lakes.

In Azerbaijan there are around 300 mud volcanoes to be found at the shore, in the sea and on islands. That’s about 30% of the world’s total, and is a main reason people choose to visit Azerbaijan.

Grab the opportunity to visit the Gobustan National Museum and learn all about the history of petroglyphs, see ancient human bones or work tools from the Mesolithic period.

To get to Gobustan National Park from Baku head to the Maiden Tower and take bus number 88 or 120 to the ‘Field of 20’ stop, then change for bus number 195 the rest of the way.

Alternatively you can book a day tour with Viator, which is actually quite a good way to see the the mud volcanos.

The Flame Towers are located on a hill overlooking Baku Bay and the Old City. It’s an iconic trio of buildings that transformed the image of the city from a forgotten place to modern day Baku.

Not only does it transforms the city’s skyline, but it also pays respect to Baku’s history and predicts its strong future.

The design of the towers was inspired by Azerbaijan’s historical past of fire worship amongst locals. The buildings are shaped in a form of a flame, and are completely covered with LED screens that present movements of a fire.

From almost anywhere in the city you can see the Flame Towers, which dominate the new skyline.

Our tip is to visit the TV tower that is situated above – you will encounter the most stunning view!

• Location: 1A Mehdi Huseyn 1A Mehdi Huseyn
• Opening hours: every day from 10 AM – 1 PM, 2 PM – 10 PM
• Price: free of charge

In Azerbaijan and nearby Central Asia, carpet weaving occupies a special place in the history of its national culture.

Definitively the most widespread folk art is carpet weaving. It was a part of everyday life of Azerbaijanis and turned into a national symbol.

The carpets have a high aesthetic and historic importance, so they’re also used to cover the walls and floors of homes, nomads’ tents, mosques and government buildings as well.

The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum was set up in 1967. Besides the obvious carpets, it also holds in possession over 10,000 objects such as ceramics, metal works, and jewellery dating from the Bronze Age etc.

The museum is primarily used for research, keeping and displaying carpets and carpet items, as well as applied art works.  

• Location: 28 Mikayıl Hüseynov Prospekti
• Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM, Saturday – Sunday from 10 AM – 8 PM
• Price: 7 AZN

An important piece of Azerbaijani history is Shirvanhahs’ Palace, which was built in 15 th  century by the Shirvanshah kingdom.

The Shirvanshahs were the rulers of Shirvan, the name of the land that now occupies modern-day Azerbaijan. Being the leaders, they of course had to build an epic palace to call home.

Their Palace, alongside the Maiden Tower and the Old City, is bunched together in Baku’s UNESCO World Heritage listing.

The sandstone complex is significant for the situation inside the Old City, which is located behind the fortress walls that were built by the same kingdom in the 12 th century, right around the time Baku became the capital.

That is the main reason why the architecture of the Old City is similar in emphasising the art of medieval Islamic civilisation.

The Palace consists of a palace building, the mausoleum of the King Khalilullah buried with his mother and sons, two mosques, east gate (Murad’s Gate) , bath house (“hammam”) and Sufi philosopher and scientist Sayid Yahya Bakuvi’s mausoleum.

It was restored in 2003, and now you can enjoy couple of entertaining audio-visual surprises.

• Location: Gasr, lane 1, 76, Sabail
• Opening hours: every day from 10 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 8.50 AZN

Zoroastrianism and their belief in fire worship is a fascinating religion that can be found all over Asia, and their Temples of Eternal Fire are quite well known.

In a small suburb of Baku, one of their temples still exists today and is one of most popular Baku tourist attractions.

The temple in its present state was constructed around the 17th-18th centuries, and was built by the Baku-based Hindu community.

The area is known for a unique natural phenomenon – burning natural gas outlets. That means that the underground gas coming up to the surface lights up as it makes contact with oxygen.

For that reason the temple quickly became the holy place of Zoroastrians – the fire worshipers. They thought that the inextinguishable fire had mystic properties so they flocked to the temple to worship the relic.

In the early 19th century the Temple acquired its present-day appearance.

The Fire Temple has a pentagonal structure with a castellation and entrance portal. The altar is situated right at the natural gas vent, a well from which beat eternally burning gas accompanied by four smaller flames on the rooftop corners of the pavilion.

• Location: 20 kilometres east of Icheri Sheher
• Price: 2 AZN

The Old City Walls are built on a site that has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period. The Old City of Baku reveals traces of Sasanian, Arabic, Zoroastrian, Persian, Ottoman, Russian and Shirvani presence in cultural continuity, making it one of the most culturally fascinating places in the region.

Today the walls still stand, and it’s very impressive to see how much of the Inner City’s 12 th  century defensive walls have remained.

Boasting a triple row of fortress walls, the Maiden Tower and other fortification facilities, the Old City was a magnificent stronghold.

It’s very impressive to navigate within its walls and see how the urban pattern of the city acts as a maze. It’s stunning architecture makes it one of the more popular Baku attractions.

The large squares and wide length streets gradually narrow and shrink into a geometric design which in the past, allowed full involvement of residents in defensive activities.

The only one of its kind in the world, the Miniature Book Museum was opened in 2002 by Zarifa Saahova. The dedicated bibliophile opened the museum in hopes to inspire young generations to read more, and he’s doing a great job.

The museum holds thousands of miniature-sized books, including editions of works of Dostoyevsky, Pushkin, Chukovsky and Gogol.

The books are from all parts of the world, and are written in numerous languages, including Russian, Azeri, German and English.

The oldest book in the museum is a copy of the Quran, dating to the 17th century, while the smallest tome (6mm x 9mm) is the Russian book “The Most Miraculous Thing,” which can only be read by using a magnifying glass.

Don’t miss out on the Miniature Book museum as it’s one of the unique things to see in Baku.

• Address: Icheri Sheher 67, 1-st Castle Lane, 67
• Opening hours: every day from 11 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays & Thursdays)

Baku Travel Guide

Doing reading on what to do in Baku can be time consuming, as well as researching on what areas are best to stay in Baku.

We have created the list of places to visit in Baku as well as a guide where to stay, in order to aid you make the most out of your Baku sightseeing experience.

For many affluent visitors to the city, the best place to stay in Baku is the iconic Flame Towers , which is under the famous Fairmont umbrella.

It’s luxurious, unique, and if it fits in your budget well worth to stay, although they are a bit far from the centre of town. Still if you’re happy taking taxis, this is an excellent place to stay. Book it on Booking.com

If you want the absolute best accommodation in Baku then check out the Four Season s for unparalleled service and quality in the city.

More of a hostel kind of person? Then don’t miss the options on HostelWorld.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Hello Alesha and Jarryd your article is really helpful. I am planning to visit Baku in the 2nd week of December this year. did you visit Guba and Gabala. how many days are enough to see all these places in Baku? kindly refer to hotel names that are pocket friendly and in range of center of city.

Hi Taz, so glad the article was helpful for you. Unfortunately we didn’t get to Guba and Gabala. We would like to go back to Azerbaijan one day and explore this country more. We feel maybe 3 days would be a great amount of time. As for hotels, we are not too sure with that one. Google would be your best friend with that one. There is a lot to see and learn. Have a wonderful time and happy travels.

Nice and helpful article. i am planning to visit solo next month from October 8 to October 13.

That is exciting. Have a great time in Azerbaijan. 🙂

This blog was extremely helpful. I’m planning a trip in two weeks and I have made a note of all the things listed here for things to do in Baku.

Just one question, is the day city tour good or the night city tour or should we do both?

Thank you !

So glad you found this article helpful. It can depends on your schedule or timing. Either is great. If you have the time do both and see two different sides of Baku. Happy travels

hi Alesha and Jarryd am visiting Baku on 28th May…I would like to know whether we can walk through the old city at night after 8pm?…We are 3…me my daughter(12yrs) and my son(21yrs)….is it safe?

Waiting for your reply

Best Regards,

When we were there we did walk around at that time to dinner and the long way back to the hotel. We felt fine and did not feel in danger at all. It is all up to you and your gut feeling. Ask your hotel when you get there and see what they think. Have a great trip.

I am planning to go on 17 may .

Have a great time. 🙂

Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thank you for reading

Thank you for great tips. We will be heading Baku the most likely at the end of this summer 🙂

Thank you for reading and have a great time in Baku. 🙂

I really love Icherishahr and carpet museum in Baku.It was so fantastic.

Glad you had a great time. It is a great city. 🙂

I seen your baku post, Its really amazing . Thanks for sharing.

Thank you 🙂

Mud Volcanoes At Gobustan are beautiful!

Hi Mina, we missed out on the mud volcanos. We were on the boat crossing the Caspian Sea too long and our visa days ran out. We will have to return one day. 🙂

Hi Alesha & Jarryd; Your article is extremely helpful in planning and deciding upon my list of things to do in Baku. We have just 5 days and your article helped me a lot to shortlist my sights. Thanks a lot. Stay happy and blessed.

Hi Sammina, thank you so much. So glad you found the article helpful. Have a great time there. Happy travels. 🙂

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The Perfect Baku & Azerbaijan Itinerary With Day Trips to Sheki & Gobustan

May 23, 2023 by Bino Leave a Comment

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant and modern destination that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and entertainment. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Baku is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Caucasus region. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive 4-day itinerary for exploring Baku and the surrounding areas, highlighting the best things to see and do in this fascinating city and in Azerbaijan.

Table of Contents

Getting to Baku

Baku is served by the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which is located approximately 20 km from the city center. The airport is the largest in Azerbaijan and is well-connected to other major cities around the world. There are several airlines that operate direct flights to Baku, including Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa. Travelers can also find connecting flights from other major cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Baku is connected to other major cities in Azerbaijan and neighboring countries by rail. The city’s main railway station is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line connects Baku to Tbilisi in Georgia and Kars in Turkey. The journey from Tbilisi to Baku takes approximately 12 hours, while the journey from Kars to Baku takes around 30 hours.

Day 1 – Old City of Baku 

Old city tour.

old city of baku – Icherisheher

On the first day of the Baku itinerary, visitors can explore the historic Old City, also known as Icherisheher . This UNESCO-listed site is home to several attractions, including the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

The Old City is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with historic buildings and mosques. Visitors can take a guided walking tour or explore on their own. The area is home to several souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can easily spend an entire day here exploring the different nooks and crannies and that’s exactly what I did.

Maiden Tower

maiden tower

One of the most iconic landmarks in Baku is the Maiden Tower , located in the Old City. This 12th-century tower stands at 29.5 meters tall and is shrouded in mystery and legend. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

The Maiden Tower has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a watchtower, lighthouse, and even a prison. Visitors can learn about the tower’s history and significance at the on-site museum.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

palace of the shirvanshah

Another must-visit attraction in the Old City is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs . This 15th-century palace complex was the residence of the Shirvanshahs, rulers of the Shirvan region of Azerbaijan.

The palace complex includes several buildings, courtyards, and gardens. Visitors can explore the various rooms and halls, including the Divankhana, a reception hall adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.

Museum of Miniature Books

This is a cute little museum within the Icherisheher and is said to be the only museum in the world dedicated to miniature books. You can find versions of well known books such as The Little Prince or various plays by Shakespeare in micro form. There is also a huge international selection spanning the likes of Chinese communist Mao-era books to Islamic scripture. Entrance here is free.

Juma Mosque

The underrated Juma Mosque deserves a visit, especially when you’re already exploring the Icherisheher. This is often skipped by group tours so there’s a fair chance you’ll find the place to yourself at any given time. The architecture is beautiful with intricate carvings on the stone facade of the mosque. 

Chill in a Teahouse

a teahouse in baku’s old city

While exploring the old city of Baku, make sure to stop by for tea and cakes at one of the teahouses within the vicinity. For great views, Cay Bagi 145 offers sweeping views of the Maiden Tower from the topmost dining room. Admire the scene while munching on excellent Russian Honey Cake and traditional tea.  

National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

national museum of the history of azerbaijan

Stretching an entire block, the National Museum of the History of Azerbaijan is located a few blocks away from the old city walls. The building used to be the residence of an oil magnate until the Soviet Army confiscated the premises and turned it into a museum. The museum itself consists of 2 parts – the first is a showcase of the opulence of the 1920’s when the building was occupied for its original purpose. Visitors will pass through ornately decorated rooms filled with priceless furniture and antiques. The second part of the museum showcases the history of Azerbaijan. The latter was closed during my visit. Do note that the entrance to the museum is from Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Street. 

Day 2 – Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Center & Museums

Day 2 of the Baku itinerary offers visitors a mix of modern and old architecture, stunning views and a relaxing stroll along the seafront.

Flame Towers

flame towers of baku

On the second day of the trip, visitors can start their day by visiting the iconic Flame Towers . These three skyscrapers are the most recognizable landmarks of Baku and are a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. The towers are illuminated at night and offer a stunning view of the city. Visitors can also take a funicular for 1 Manat to the top of the towers for a panoramic view of Baku. The adjacent Highland Park offers not just a great view of the towers but also of the skyline of Baku.

Carpet Museum

A short walk from the entrance to the funicular is the Carpet Museum . The building itself is shaped like a rolled carpet and inside, the exhibits provide a visual showcase of the different carpet styles in Azerbaijan, including the historical regions of Azerbaijan that are in present-day Iran. It is worth visiting for those who are into carpets or who are aesthetically-inclined. 

Baku Boulevard (Bulvar)

After visiting the Flame Towers, visitors can take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard , a beautiful promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea. The boulevard is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and offers a variety of activities such as bike rentals, cafes, and street performances. The boulevard also features a Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s eye view of the city.

Heydar Aliyev Center

heydar aliyev center

In the afternoon, visitors can head to the Heydar Aliyev Center , a modern architectural masterpiece that houses a museum, exhibition halls, and a conference center. The building was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. The museum inside the center showcases the history and culture of Azerbaijan, and visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the building.

Tip: Afternoon is the best time to visit the Heydar Aliyev Center as the sun will be shining on the front part of the building during this time.

Window Shopping in Nizami Street

pedestrian area of nizami street

You can spend the late afternoon to evening window shopping along the pedestrian section of Nizami Street . One thing I noticed about Baku is that shops are often open until late, with restaurants closing even later. Most of the buildings along Nizami Street are floodlit at night and make for an atmospheric scene when walking around the area. I asked the locals who actually pays for the electricity bills and was told the government does. 

Day 3 – Gobustan & Other Day Trips Near Baku

Gobustan national park.

petroglyphs of gobustan by bruno girin

On the third day of the Baku itinerary, visitors can explore the Gobustan National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes. The park is located approximately 60 km southwest of Baku and can be reached by car or public transportation.

The petroglyphs at Gobustan date back to the Upper Paleolithic period and provide a glimpse into the lives of ancient humans. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn more about the history and significance of the petroglyphs.

gobustan mud volcanos by nick taylor

In addition to the petroglyphs, Gobustan is home to over 300 mud volcanoes, which are unique geological formations that spew mud and gas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mud volcanoes to learn about their formation and see them up close.

Ateshgah Fire Temple

ateshgah fire temple by nick taylor

After visiting Gobustan National Park, visitors can head to the Ateshgah Fire Temple , located approximately 30 km northeast of Baku. The temple is a unique religious site that was once used by Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs.

The temple is known for its natural gas fires, which have been burning for centuries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple to learn about its history and significance.

The final stop on the third day of the Baku itinerary is Yanar Dag , a natural gas fire that has been burning for centuries. The fire is located approximately 25 km north of Baku and can be reached by car or public transportation, or as a final stop in a day trip that includes the Ateshgah Fire Temple.

Visitors can watch the flames dance and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The fire is particularly impressive at night when it illuminates the area.

Overall, the third day of the Baku itinerary offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders and cultural sites of the region.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Shamakhi and Sheki

Aside from Baku, Sheki is another popular destination for those visiting Azerbaijan. Being 4 hours away, some travelers invariably choose to stay overnight. If you have the time, staying overnight allows you to explore Sheki at a more leisurely pace and to head to additional places such as the mountainside village of Lahic which is known for crafts. That said, it is entirely possible to do Sheki as a day trip and I did exactly that. From Baku, I departed at around 8AM and got back at 9PM. The day trip allowed me to stop at Shamakhi, the Diri Baba Mausoleum and Nohur Lake before taking in the sights of Sheki. 

juma mosque in shamakhi

Roughly midway between Baku and Sheki is the town of Shamakhi . It is most known for the Juma Mosque , a historic place of worship and the oldest mosque in Azerbaijan. It is considered a significant example of Islamic architecture in the Caucasus region. The mosque originates from the 8th century during the Arab invasion of Azerbaijan and was later renovated and expanded in the 17th century. The mosque has a distinctive rectangular shape and features a large central hall with a high ceiling and wooden columns. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy.

inside shamakhi’s juma mosque

One of the most notable features of the Juma Mosque is its minaret, which stands at a height of 24 meters and is decorated with intricate brickwork and ornamental motifs. The minaret is one of the oldest surviving examples of Islamic architecture in the Caucasus region and is considered a masterpiece of medieval brickwork.

A further hour or so from Shamakhi is Nohur Lake . It is a picturesque lake located in the Gabala region of Azerbaijan and is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. During autumn, the trees on the hills surrounding the lake turn into a flurry of red and yellow, making it an especially scenic spot for photos.

The lake is fed by several mountain streams and is known for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding landscape and create a stunning visual effect when viewed in the early morning before the winds set in. The lake is also home to a variety of fish species, including trout and carp, making it a popular spot for fishing. Aside from fishing, visitors to Nohur Lake can take part in a range of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and picnicking. There are several hiking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests and visitors can also rent boats or kayaks to explore the lake itself. Visitors who are heading to Sheki typically make a customary stop to admire views of the lake. 

Sheki Khan’s Palace

sheki’s khan palace

Sheki Khan’s Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Sheki. It was built in the 18th century and served as the residence of the local ruler, the Khan of Sheki. The palace is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful frescoes.

A typical tour of the palace takes visitors to various rooms that are decorated with beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows. Outside the palace is a large garden with fountains and a pool.

sheki khan palace

Along the walk to the main palace building, visitors can marvel at local craft shops, including one that showcases just how the stained glass windows were restored without using a single nail. 

Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its history and architecture. Photography inside the palace is prohibited.

Caravanserai

caravanserai of sheki

The Caravanserai is another popular historical site in Sheki. It was built in the 18th century and served as resting houses for traders and travelers who were passing through the city. Up to this day, the caravanserai is used as a place for lodging. It has now been converted into a hotel. While the facilities are not plush, the atmosphere evokes a much simpler time. There is also a charming central courtyard filled with trees and benches for guests to relax in. The outer part of the caravanserai is filled with souvenir shops and teahouses. 

Albanian Church

albanian church in kish village, sheki

The Albanian Church in Kish Village is a historic Christian church located in the village of Kish in the Sheki Rayon of Azerbaijan. The church is believed to have been built in the 1st century AD and is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in the Caucasus region. It was originally an Albanian Apostolic Church and was later converted into a mosque during the Islamic conquests in the 8th century.

In the 19th century, the church was renovated and restored by the Russian Empire, which controlled Azerbaijan at the time. It was then used as a Russian Orthodox Church until the early 20th century. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the church was returned to the Azerbaijani government and was declared a national historical and architectural monument.

skyline of sheki

Where to Eat in Baku

Baku offers a wide range of Azerbaijani cuisine with its unique blend of flavors and spices. Visitors can try the traditional dishes such as plov, dolma, and kebab. Plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, is a must-try for anyone visiting Azerbaijan. Dolma, stuffed grape leaves or vegetables, is another popular dish. Kebabs, grilled meat skewers, are also a staple of Azerbaijani cuisine.

For those who prefer vegetarian options, there are plenty of options available. Badimjan dolma, stuffed eggplant, and lobiya choban salati, a bean salad, are some of the vegetarian dishes that visitors can enjoy. Azerbaijani cuisine also features a variety of soups, including dovga, a yogurt-based soup, and shorba, a meat-based soup.

Here are some recommended restaurants that I have personally tried:

Nakchivan – This nicely decked restaurant specializes in cuisine from the Azerbaijan exclave of Nakchivan. Check out the Nakchivan variation of Dolma, the Chicken with Pomegranate Sauce as well as their crunchy flat walnut pies. 

Sumakh – This is another atmospheric restaurant to check out in Baku for local food with an extensive menu of local dishes. Servings are huge so it may not be ideal for solo diners. Their plov and lamb dishes are excellent.

chicken cutlet in marivanna

Marivanna – kitschy and instagram-worthy Russian restaurant in the city center near the coast. 

Dolma – This underground restaurant is very touristy but they serve a wide variety of Azerbaijani and Caucasus dishes so if you are pressed for time, this city center restaurant is a great option.

United Coffee Beans – this is probably the closest you can get in Baku to a hipster cafe. While coffee houses abound in the city, the number of establishments that offer vegan milk options is limited. United Coffee Beans is one of them. They also have a range of healthy eats including grain bowls and wraps.  

Accommodation

When planning a trip to Baku, finding the perfect accommodation is crucial. Fortunately, Baku offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.

Luxury: InterContinental Baku – Located right in the heart of the city, the InterContinental Baku is housed in a strategic location. It is just next to Sahil Metro Station and about 10 minutes walk away from the Icherisheher (Old Town) and the pedestrian shopping street of Nizami. Rooms are plush and the lighting is touch-based.  

Budget: Sahil Hostel & Hotel – There are a few hostels where backpackers congregate in Baku and Sahil Hostel & Hotel is one of the more prominent places of lodging. Don’t be fooled by the rather un-glamorous entrance – the hotel itself is modern and clean. Wooden parquet floors help shield guests from the cold from autumn until spring. Private rooms are also available, including those that have their own balconies. This hostel is also an excellent place from which to watch the Formula 1 in Baku. 

Helpful Tips for Baku & Azerbaijan

• Travel Insurance: In this age of uncertainty, I’d err on the side of caution and purchase travel insurance. You can check out Worldnomads as they have quite an extensive coverage, even including personal accidents into their list of benefits.
• Getting Around: While in Baku, I use Bolt app which allowed to get around different spots in the city easily despite knowing no Russian or Azeri language. I got to pay local price and most trips within the city cost me less than 3 Manat (~ around 2 USD or less).
• Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan: Most places in Azerbaijan, especially the area near Baku which is semi-arid, don’t get much rain so there’s no rainy season to be wary of. However, do not that it can get very hot in summer which is in July and August. 

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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Travel Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Baku travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this wonderful capital in the country of Azerbaijan.

• List of the Best Backpacker Hostels in Azerbaijan
• The Best Spas, Massages and Hammams in the Caucasus – Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan
• Is Baku, Azerbaijan ready to host the Formula 1? A tourist’s point of view
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in Azerbaijan
• List of the Best Budget Hotels in Azerbaijan

Table of Contents

Baku Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Baku, Azerbaijan

1. heydar aliyev cultural center.

Suggested Tour:  Baku: 3-Hour Private Night Tour (Yanardag & More)

2. Baku Old City

Suggested Tour:  Baku: Old City Walking Tour

3. Baku Boulevard

Suggested Tour: Baku Panoramic Night Tour

4. Flame Towers

5. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

6. Fountain Square

Suggested Tour:  Full-Day City Tour of Baku with Azerbaijani Lunch

7. Highland Park

As elsewhere in Baku, it is striking in its ideal cleanliness, well-maintained area. The observation deck offers a wonderful view of the whole of Baku. Great place for photos of the beautiful scenery of the whole city at a glance. It’s near the famous Flame Towers.

8. Ateshgah – Fire Temple

Suggested Tour:  Baku: Burning Mountain & Zorastrian Temple Private Tour

9. Maiden Tower

Suggested Tour: Baku: Historic and Modern Baku Tour

Baku Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Baku, Azerbaijan

Day 1 – weekend guide to baku, azerbaijan.

Baku Old City –  Start your tour by wandering around the old city of Baku. Explore everything here, eat at any restaurants or cafes, you’d get to travel back in the ancient Baku.

Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum –  See how carpets are made, even the most expensive carpet of Azerbaijan.

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center –  Be amazed and stunned with the amazing architecture of this center. Designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, it offers a lot of great photo opportunities.

Flame Towers –  You can go here by funicular or stairs. Anyhow, you’ll surely have a good time enjoying the view it offers from the observation deck.

Highland Park –  Since it’s near the Flame Towers, why not spend your time here as well?

Ateshgah – Fire Temple –  Discover and learn more about the interesting history of Zoroastrianism.

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku Boulevard –  Rent a bike and stroll around this boulevard for a relaxing last day in Baku.

Maiden Tower –  Before you leave Baku, never miss the chance to visit the iconic Maiden Tower.

Baku Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re a Backpacker

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and private parking. The units come with air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the hostel, every room has a seating area.

Price: Starts at $25 per night for Twin Room with Private External Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Check-in Old City Aparts

Check-in Old City Aparts features sea views and free WiFi. Every unit has a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a microwave. A fridge and kettle are also available.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Deluxe Apartment, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Drop Inn Baku

Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Budget Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re on a Budget

ATFK Hotel Baku

ATFK Hotel Baku offers a gym. Free WiFi and free private parking are also available on site. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a flat-screen TV, fridge and electric kettle. The private bathroom includes free toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and hairdryer.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Standard Double Room, includes taxes and charges, add $6 for breakfast (optional),  and it offers a free cancellation.

Sahil Hostel & Hotel

Units at the Sahil Hostel and Hotel are air-conditioned and soundproofing. Grand Prix Formula 1 Race track turn 4 and 5 are visible from some rooms of the hotel and from the main balcony. Guests can also find free toiletries and hairdryers for their comfort.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Twin Room with Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, add $5 for breakfast,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Old East Hotel

Old East Hotel boasts a restaurant, bar, and free WiFi throughout the property. Every room at this hotel is air-conditioned and comes with a TV. Guests will also find a kettle in the room. Each room has a private bathroom. The hotel also provides tour desk services and car hire.

Price: Starts at $72 per night for Standard Double Room, add $2 for taxes and charges , free breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you want Luxury

JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel

This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, on the Freedom Square. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel feature a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, work desk, and a laptop safe. Guests will find a bath, shower, bathrobe, and slippers in each luxury bathroom. WiFi is available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $156 per night for Deluxe, Guest Room, 2 Double, City View, add $2 for taxes and charges , add $22 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Hilton Baku

Featuring a revolving rooftop bar, a pool, and a gym, this seafront hotel is an 8-minute walk from Baku’s Old City. Air conditioning, hot drinks facilities, and a 32-inch flat-screen TV are featured in all rooms and suites at the grand Hilton Baku. Rooms are spacious and bright and feature king-sized beds. Cocktails and wonderful views can be enjoyed in the Hilton’s 360 Bar.

Price: Starts at $161 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $2 for taxes and charges , add $19 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

Dinamo Hotel Baku – Adult Only

Dinamo Hotel Baku offers a unique experience with its spacious bedrooms, free WiFi, exquisite International cuisine, and classic afternoon teas. The rooms designed in Art Deco style feature exclusively commissioned fabrics, exceedingly comfortable beds, and marble bathrooms with designer toiletries. In-room mini-bar, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres are available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $160 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $28 for taxes and charges , add $18 for breakfast ,  and it offers a free cancellation.

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Things to do in Baku – a budget-friendly guide to Azerbaijan’s exquisite capital city

What are the top things to do in Baku? If you’re on a tight budget and want to explore Baku without breaking your piggy bank, here is a list of the cheapest and most fun activities to do in Baku.

Baku, it sounds like a species of parrot but in reality, it’s the name of the bustling capital city of Azerbaijan . I’m not very fond of big cities and I prefer to sleep in my tent somewhere in the woods rather than being cramped up in a dorm room in a city, but I gladly made an exception for Baku!

This lively metropolis is a world on its own. The Lonely Planet describes it as “the love child of Paris and Dubai” and once you visited the city, you’ll understand why.

I would also describe it as the big brother of Batumi , an odd but beautiful Georgian city on the coast of the Black Sea. Baku has a beautiful boulevard on which you can walk for hours and it’s particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

The city also has many little parks where you can hide between the green bushes, an old historical city with the neo-Ottoman Shahidlar mosque, a museum of miniature books, incredible eye-catching architecture such as the Heydar Aliyev Center, and of course, the iconic Flame Towers towering above the city.

I always feel lost whenever I enter a huge city, especially during the first days. There’s a chance you’ll see me sitting on a bench dazed by the heavy traffic and crowds of people, not really knowing where to go or what to do.

That’s why I put together this guide with things to do and places to stay in Baku so you won’t feel as lost as me and you won’t need to break your piggy bank.

It can be an expensive city if you don’t watch out so it’s good to know a few useful things about Baku before you go. I would still recommend you to sit on a bench and observe the people and the surroundings. It’s always a fun thing to do, especially while sipping on a coffee.

[kt_box opacity=”1″ background=”#eded57″]

Read more about the visa requirements and registration in Azerbaijan !

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A short introduction to Baku

The name ‘Baku’ can be interpreted as ‘city of winds’. After a walk through the streets, you quickly understand why. Azerbaijan’s capital city is located on the western Caspian seaside and you can often feel the harsh sea breeze blowing through the city’s streets and messing around with your hair.

Baku is the largest city in the Caucasus and is the political, scientific and cultural center of Azerbaijan. The city is hip, modern, chaotic and multicultural with architecture that spans multiple generations and styles that neighbor in interesting ways.

For example, the futuristic Flame Towers are placed right behind the centuries-old city walls. One moment you find yourself walking in the hypermodern shopping streets and a few streets further you can come face to face with grand old 19th century styled apartment blocks or wooden houses with hanging balconies that evoke the spirit of the Silk Road.

Kind of a crazy mix but it works. It creates a unique atmosphere and your camera will love it!

Baku is also the industrial center of Azerbaijan. The city lies on the Apsheron Peninsula which is rich with underground sources of oil and natural gas.

That’s why Azerbaijan is historically called the Land of Fire. The many oil rigs on the coast are visual proof of that. Unfortunately this contaminates the seawater with oil so Baku isn’t exactly the place to go on a beach vacation (except for Bilgah beach ).

But do not fear, you won’t get bored here as there are plenty of other (free) things to do in and around Azerbaijan’s metropolis.

Is Baku safe?

Before traveling to a new city, we often wonder if it’s safe. You might be asking yourself if Baku is safe for students or expats or if the Azerbaijan capital is safe for solo female travelers.

My take on it is that Baku is a very safe city. Crime level there is extremely low compared to other big metropolises around the world. Foreigners feel very comfortable in this city and the whole atmosphere of Baku is quite peaceful.

Even if you’re a solo female traveler, you can wander around the parks of Baku without worrying about being bothered or harassed by men.

The streets are very clean and with the creation of a new tourist police service Baku is safer than ever.

Now does that mean that nothing bad ever happens in Baku? Of course not. Like in all big cities, small crimes such as pick-pocketing are not unheard of.

Use common sense when traveling in crowded areas in the city center or late at night.

To avoid being a victim of pickpockets keep your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag . I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

Top things to do in Baku – 14 places worth visiting

1. Icheri Sheher

Icheri Sheher or “Old Town” is the heart of the city and is located right in the center of Baku. It’s the place where ancient Baku was founded and has a history of thousands of years.

Icheri Sheher was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000. The town is surrounded by fortress walls and is a historical ensemble of numerous unique monuments such as the Shirvanshah’s Palace complex, the Maiden Tower, mosques, minarets and the ruins of caravanserais (old inns where travelers could rest) and bathhouses.

Walking around in Baku’s Acropolis feels like walking back in time. There’s a cozy atmosphere, especially at night when the locals are preparing food, playing backgammon or just sitting around and drinking tea in the streets.

Entrance fee : Free

2. The Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Shirvanshahs literally means “the kings of Shirvan”. Shirvan was the main territory of the Shirvanshah kingdom and the palace was built in the 15th century in the center of Icheri Sheher.

The architectural style is very exquisite and it emphasizes the art of medieval Islamic civilization.

The Palace complex contains the palace building, the Royal mosque, the Key Gubad mosque, the Divankhana mausoleum where king Khalilullah is buried with his mother and sons, Sufi philosopher Bakuvi’s mausoleum and the ruins of bath houses.

Entrance fee : 10 AZN 

3. Discover the city with the Hop on Hop off bus tour of Baku

If you just arrived in Baku and want to get a quick tour of the city for cheap, why not try a hop on hop off bus? This is a great activity to get a quick sense of the city and it brings you to so many of the places mentioned in this guide.

You can get on board at any of the 15 stops along the circuit and buy a 24-hour ticket from the conductor for only 20 Manat. If you have only a few days to spend in Baku and want to see as many places as possible, this is definitely an activity I would recommend!

The bus ticket includes earphones for the audio-guide, a city map, and extra information about most of Baku’s touristic attractions.

At each stop, the bus will stop for two minutes allowing some time to take pictures. You can also hop off the bus to explore the different sights and hop back on again when the next bus comes along, an hour later.

The first stop is across the road from the Hilton Hotel in Azadlig square.

This is where you can find the bus at the beginning of its loop:

The bus runs from 10 AM to 7 PM daily and the ticket is valid for 24 hours.

Bus fee : 20 AZN but the ticket is valid for 24 hours

4. Museum of Miniature Books

This museum, located in Icheri Sheher, is the only one in the world that is dedicated to miniature versions of books. This library is the private collection of Zarifa Salahova and contains thousands of tiny books that originate from all around the world and are written in numerous languages, including Azeri, Russian, English and German.

It’s definitely worth visiting this unique museum!

Entrance fee : Free, donations are welcome

5. Stroll around Taza Bazaar

One of the things we love to do while we travel is to visit local bazaars. They give a glimpse into the daily life of the local people, they are a sensory experience and usually very photogenic.

The Taza Bazaar is one of the largest markets of Baku and was opened more than 70 years ago. It’s actually one of the oldest bazaars in Azerbaijan. It is located in the center of the city on Samed Vurgun street.

If you want some amazing pictures of the bazaar, try getting there in the early morning when the light is just perfect. If you’re staying in a hostel and you feel like cooking, you can buy fresh vegetables, herbs, oriental spices and Caspian sea fish there.

6. The Workshop of Ali Shamshi

While you’re wandering through the narrow lanes of the Old City, you’ll suddenly come across a psychedelic looking wall. This is the exterior of Ali Shamshi’s studio, who is a talented artist.

His tiny studio is filled with colorful paintings and quirky installations. Pop in his studio while you’re visiting Icheri Sheher.

Entrance fee : free

7. Sunbathe at Bilgah beach

If you want to swim and spend some time working on your tan, Bilgah Beach is the perfect place to do so. While many of Baku’s beaches are spoiled because of oil pollution, Bilgah beach is a clean sandy beach and a great spot to enjoy the sea.

It’s just 35 kilometers northeast of Baku. Admission is free and we’re sure you’ll end up staying there sunbathing for hours. You can get there by taking Bus 185 from Koroghly Metro. The bus stops at Bilgah Sanatorium.

The bus stop where you need to wait is located close to this intersection:

8. Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower is probably one of Baku’s most famous landmarks. There are a lot of different theories about the purpose of this tower but none is confirmed.

One theory is that the tower was part of the Shirvanshah’s defense system and served as a beacon. People sent alarm signals from this tower to other towers, using smoke by day and fire by night.

Another theory is that this tower used to be a Zoroastrian temple of fire worship and that with the changing times in the Middle Ages later functioned as a defense tower.

A local friend also told us another legend about this tower: The Shah’s (king) daughter fell in love with a guy whom her father refused her to marry.

The king built this tower to lock her up and the daughter became so desperate that she jumped from the tower and killed herself.

One tower, many stories. You can go inside the tower, visit the interactive exhibits and climb the spiral stairs to the top and be rewarded with a nice view of the city.

Entrance fee : 10 AZN

9. Upland Park

Another place where you will be rewarded with an amazing view is Upland Park. The park summarizes the architecture in Baku – a blend of Ottoman, Soviet and ultramodern architecture.

It’s a nice place to walk around. I would definitely recommend you to go there at sunrise or sunset as you’ll have a fantastic view of the harbor and the Caspian Sea. It’s a fairly comfortable climb up the stairs but you can also get there by taking the funicular.

Entrance fee : 2 AZN if you take the funicular, free if you walk

10. Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are the tallest skyscrapers in Baku, with a height of 190m. This iconic trio of buildings marks the city’s skyline and is evidence of the country’s oil wealth.

The towers also promote its historic identity as they are inspired by Baku’s history of fire worship.

The three flame-shaped towers are set in a triangular shape and each tower has a different function. The tallest of the three is a 39-story residential luxury apartment building.

Imagine the views from your kitchen while having breakfast in the morning! The second tower is a hotel and consists of 318 rooms spread over 36 floors.

The third one is an office tower that provides many commercial office spaces. Not a bad place to work if you ask me! I reckon that those offices definitely come with a nice view!

The towers provide a spectacular light show once the sun goes down. The facades of the three Flame Towers function as large display screens which uses more than 10.000 high-power LED lights!

The light show makes the towers look like they are burning as it depicts a beautiful array of red flames going towards the sky. The display of lights is also arranged to show the Azerbaijani flag in all its glory.

Entrance fee: The towers are not open for public visits, unless you’re a resident, office worker or hotel guest. The price of one night in the hotel costs around $170 per night , not exactly a budget-friendly price.

You could always try to become friends with someone who lives in the residential tower or give your best smile at the security guards…

11. Heydar Aliyev Center

The Heydar Aliyev Center is an architectural masterpiece! This cultural center is named after Heydar Aliyev, the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan and later president of the Republic of Azerbaijan (2993 – 2003).

The building is considered as one of the main attractions for tourists and became a symbol of modern Baku.

The cultural center was opened in 2012 and was designed by the Iraqi-British award-winning architect Zaha Hadid. The overall shape of the building resembles a wave-like ascension from the ground towards the sky followed by a gradual descent down to the earth.

The center received an award in 2014 for Design of the Year.

The Heydar Aliyev Center houses a conference hall, the Heydar Aliyev museum and multiple exhibition halls. The museum presents the history of Azerbaijan and different stages of Heydar Aliyev’s life and work.

One of the exhibition halls demonstrates all the periods of the history of Azerbaijan and displays items related to different areas of Azerbaijani culture.

Entrance fee: Admiring the architecture of the building is free but if you want to go inside the center, you can buy a ticket for 12 AZN.

This ticket provides you access to the museum and the “Azerbaijan Treasures” exhibition within the Center. You can also buy separate tickets for the other exhibitions that are held.

12. Baku Boulevard

The Baku Boulevard is a 3 km long promenade which runs parallel to Baku’s seafront. It was established in 1909, in a time when the Baku oil barons built their mansions along the Caspian shore.

At the beginning of the Soviet period, the boulevard’s area was mismanaged and the situation became worse as the sea began to rise so high that many of the trees and shrubs in the park started to die because of the salinity of the water.

After a big clean-up and a huge renovation and reconstruction work, the boulevard became a popular place for locals and tourists to stroll and relax.

There are now many small parks, fountains, and restaurants. There’s even a weird little Venice setting where you can rent tiny gondolas.

13. Get lost in the streets and get surprised

It sounds cliché but the best way to visit Baku is by picking a random street, start walking and getting lost. You’ll find interesting little shops, exquisite buildings, colorful mosques, beautiful parks, and odd monuments.

14. Enjoy the sunrise over the Caspian sea

Last but not least on this list of cool things to do in Baku: Enjoying a beautiful sunrise from the pier of Baku. Baku has a long pier that extends far out into the sea. some of the sunrise scenes I captured in this video are from that location.

It’s the perfect place to witness the sun rising above the sea in all its glory. You’ll hear the sound of the waves gently splashing on the peer while feeling the sun gradually warming up your skin.

What are the best day trips from Baku?

Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire due to the huge amount of underground oil and gas sources. The natural gas in Azerbaijan’s bowels is so much that it comes to the surface over and over again.

In some places a match dropped accidentally can ignite the gas, which will keep on burning until it fully exhausts. No wonder that Azerbaijan became a pilgrimage destination for fire-worshippers, followers of the Zoroastrian religion.

They believed that the fire sources were the manifestation of divine power so they built altars and temples to worship them. In the suburbs of Baku are some very interesting and unique places where you’ll learn more about the history and richness of the Land of Fire.

1. The mud volcanoes of Qobustan

There are about 1000 mud volcanoes in the world and Azerbaijan is home to one-third of them because the country is a big source of oil and natural gas. The mud volcanoes are formed in places where pockets of underground gas find a weak spot in the earth and force their way to the surface.

That starts first with a big explosion, then a huge flame but instead of magma, there will be a big eruption of mud. Interesting enough the mud is cold so you can touch it without hurting yourself.

The substance contains a lot of minerals so sometimes people come here to take a mud bath in the volcanoes. The mud volcanoes in Qobustan were formed in 2001 and they are definitely a very interesting phenomenon worth visiting!

How to get to the mud volcanoes from Baku by public transport:

Take bus 125 or any other bus that goes to the Bina Mall. This trip costs 0.50 AZN and you can buy the bus ticket in the ticket machine at the bus stop.

Get off the bus at the mall (it’s the end station anyway) and take bus 195 towards Qobustan and Alat. Don’t get off at Qobustan unless you want to visit the museum .

Although the mud volcanoes are referred to as ‘the Qobustan mud volcanoes’, they are actually located near Alat. Ask the driver to stop at the bus stop in Alat.

It’s a tiny little bus station near a small village. The journey from the mall to Alat is about 55 minutes and costs 0.80 AZN which you pay to the driver once you get off the bus.

You’ve got two options when you’re in Alat. You can take a taxi to the volcanoes. Don’t worry about finding a taxi, the taxi drivers will definitely find you!

They will give you ridiculous prices but don’t give in. Don’t pay more than 15 AZN for a roundtrip! Start walking away and they will lower their price.

The second option is to walk. Walk for about 50m towards the village, take the first road to the left and follow this road for about 2km until you come across train tracks.

Cross it and keep walking. You’ll be up for a long walk in the desert – about 5km one way. Keep following the dirt track and you will see a sign that says ‘volcanoes’. Follow that sign up the hill and you’ll suddenly see the hidden mud volcanoes appear. Take plenty of water with you as it can be super hot in summer!

Check out our vlog about the mud volcanoes:

[kad_youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcLWamrq078&t” width=”600″ height=”400″]

2. Qobustan National Park

The National Park of Qobustan is cut up with numerous ravines (in Azerbaijani Qobu), so it’s clear where the park got it’s name from. Qobustan is home to thousands of rock engravings spread over 100km.

The engravings display hunting scenes, people, ships, constellations, and animals. The oldest petroglyphs are 12.000 years old!

UNESCO included the Qobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape in the World Heritage List in 2007.

It’s considered to be of “outstanding universal value” for the quality and density of the rock art engravings, for the substantial evidence the collection of rock art presents and for the cultural continuity between prehistoric and medieval times that the site reflects.

There’s also a museum on the site that presents a lot of background information about the history of the area and the rock engravings.

Entrance fee: 2 AZN, entrance to the museum is included in this price

How to get to Qobustan from Baku by public transport:

Get off the bus at the mall (it’s the end station anyway) and take bus 195 towards Qobustan and Alat. The journey from the mall to Qobustan takes about 40 minutes and costs 0.80 AZN which you pay to the driver once you get off the bus.

You’ll know when to get off because you’ll see a sign with ‘Qobustan’. You can always ask the bus driver in advance to stop there.

The museum and rock engravings are at about 6km from the bus stop in the direction of the hills. You can walk the distance if you’re up for it but make sure that you’re prepared as it can be very hot during summer.

The walk is partially uphill. You can also opt for a taxi, which will be very easy to find but less easy to bargain with taxi drivers. Don’t pay more than 20 AZN and maybe you can make a deal to include a visit to the mud volcanoes for this price (see the section above). The museum is open from 9 am until 5 pm.

3. Atesghah Temple of Baku or Fire Temple of Baku

The Ateshgah Temple of Baku (‘Atash’ is the Persian word for fire) is a religious temple in Surakhani, a suburb of Baku. The pentagonal complex was constructed in the 17th – 18th centuries. In the middle of this complex sits an altar with a natural gas vent, which is known for its natural “eternal flame”, a phenomenon of burning natural gas outlets.

This flame went out in 1969, after the exploitation of petroleum and gas in the area but it’s now lit by gas pipes from the nearby city.

The temple was founded as a pilgrimage and holy place of Zoroastrians – a group of religious people who worship fire – who were involved in the Silk Route Trade.

They attributed a mystical significance to the inextinguishable fire and came here to worship the relic and practice fire rituals. The temple altar is surrounded by a number of small cells, which accommodated the ascetic worshipers and pilgrims.

The temple ceased to be a place of worship after 1883 with the installation of petroleum plants and the complex was turned into a museum in 1975. It was also nominated for the List of World Heritage Sites in 1998.

Entrance fee : 4 AZN

How to get to Ateshgah Temple from Baku by public transport:

Take the metro to Koroghlu. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines in the metro stations and costs 0.50 AZN. Get out at the metro station called Koroghlu.

Walk out the station and to the buses that go towards the suburbs (there’s a sign that will tell you ‘towards Baku’ and ‘to suburbs’). You’ll also see a lot of taxis but you can ignore the drivers who will call out to you.

Take bus 184 towards Amirjan settlement. The last stop of this bus is directly next to Ateshgah temple. All you need to do is cross the train tracks.  

The ride takes about 16 minutes. Pay the driver 0.40 AZN once you get off the bus. 

Walk towards the big walled complex. Chances are that you’ll see a few buses parked there. Enter the gate, go to the right and purchase your entrance ticket at the little kiosk right next to the entrance of the temple.

4. Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain)

One of the most famous tourist places of the “eternal flame” in Azerbaijan is the mountain of Yanar. Well, the word mountain is a bit exaggerated as it’s rather a hill but it’s still quite a fascinating place.

It reminded me a lot of Mount Chimaera in Turkey – which can be properly called a mountain. Both places have natural gas burning in its slopes since ancient times.

Perfect place to have a campfire if you ask me! Yanar Dag has a 10m long wall of fire that is burning continuously alongside the edge of the hill.

The best time to watch it is in the evening when the sight of the blazing hill is most effective. The legend goes that it was a shepherd who actually ignited the fire in the 1950s by tossing a cigarette and that the hill has burnt ever since.

Yanar Dag is declared a state-protected conservation area since 2007.

Entrance fee : 3 AZN

How to get to Yanar Dag from Baku by public transport:

Take the metro to Koroghlu. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines in the metro stations and costs 0.50 AZN.

Get out at the metro station named Koroghlu. Walk out the station and to the buses that go towards the suburbs (there’s a sign that will tell you ‘towards Baku’ and ‘to suburbs’).

You’ll also see a lot of taxis but you can ignore the drivers who will call out to you. Take bus 217 towards Yanardag qorugu. This is also where you have to get off the bus. The journey takes about 30 minutes from Koroghlu and you pay 0.45 AZN to the driver when getting off the bus.

Where to stay in Baku

Baku is a city that is worth taking the time to discover, so you will want to stay there at least a night or two. It is a city rich in traditional architecture but it also blends in modern elements.

Baku also offers a wide selection of hostels for budget travelers who want to save money to explore during the day and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

Maybe you’re asking yourself What are the best and cheapest budget hostels in Baku? Here are some hostels where we stayed that we absolutely recommend:

Mr. Hostel Baku

This is a very colorful and cozy hostel right in the city center. It’s the perfect place to relax after a backpacking adventure around Azerbaijan. The staff speaks perfect English and will help you with your registration if needed.

The old city is just 10 minutes away from this hostel so it’s a location where a lot of backpackers end up staying. Freedom Square and the flame towers are less than a 20-minute walk from Mr. Hostel.

Although this establishment is right in the city center of Baku, it feels really calm and quiet inside. There are plenty of desks and cozy couches to work from in the main lobby and the internet connection is super fast.

When we were there, the receptionist helped us get our ferry ticket to cross the Caspian sea and they showed us tons of cool activities we could do in the city. We can’t recommend this place enough.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Mr. Hostel Baku”

Freedom Hostel

The living room of this hostel reminded us more of a luxurious home than a budget accommodation. Freedom hostel is a very spacious establishment and the kitchen is huge!

There is also a nice terrace where Cynthia and I spent our evening relaxing in the setting sun.

Baku metro station, as well as the subway station, are not far and can be reached in a few minutes.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Freedom Hostel”

Cheeky Carabao Backpackers Hostel

This hostel has some really cool features. It has a ping-pong table where you can play in the evening with other backpackers, cool walls covered in graffiti and massive rooms. We loved chilling in the lobby and meeting kindred spirits.

The dorms of this hostel are very spacious, and clean and they have very big windows. If you like to cook, there are a few corner stores nearby in Baku where you can get vegetables. The kitchen of the hostel comes fully equipped with pans, dishes and a working stove and oven.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Cheeky Carabao Backpackers Hostel”

What are the best and cheapest restaurants in Baku?

Baku has a really wide range of restaurants. There are options for all kinds of travel budget. Whether you can’t wait to try local dishes at a great price or you crave international cuisine, eating in Baku won’t disappoint you.

Here are a few budget restaurants that we recommend you check out while in the Azerbaijani capital:

This small cafe became one of our favorite places to eat out when we stayed in the Azeri capital. Araz Cafe is a cozy place with fantastic food almost right next to the fountain square on Nizami street.

For being an Azeri cafe, Araz has some of the best Plov I ever had. It’s as delicious as the rice dishes I ate in Uzbekistan . If you don’t like meat, there are different good options for vegetarians in this restaurant.

Araz Cafe is also a great location to smoke shisha while listening to some live music. If you don’t like the smoke of shisha (how can you not love that perfume?) the cafe has a huge terrace where you can also eat and enjoy a great time.

This is where you can savor the delicious meals and experience the ambiance Araz Cafe offers:

Dolma Restaurant

This restaurant is also located near fountain square close to the old city. The establishment owes its name to a dish famous in Azerbaijan; the dolma.

It’s a dish made of rice and meat stuffed inside grape leaves. This restaurant is probably the best place in Baku to enjoy the typical Azeri dish.

If you’re very hungry, this is the place where you should eat, the portions are humongous and you’ll leave the place absolutely stuffed. If you enjoy wine, you should try out the local pomegranate wine and finish your meal with a shot of strong Raki.

This is where you’ll find Dolma Restaurant in Baku:

This is the restaurant I recommend if you’re looking for a quiet and romantic venue. Eating in Sumakh feels like eating in a five star Michelin restaurant, both for the high quality of the food and for the beautifully decorated dining room.

From the quality of service to the food, design, and atmosphere of the restaurant, in Sumakh everything is at the highest level.

This restaurant has very traditional and authentic Azerbaijani dishes as well as some savory European options. To accompany the meal, Sumakh also offers a fine selection of Azerbaijani wine.

This is where Sumakh is located:

How to get to Baku and travel around the city

How to get from the airport of baku to the city center.

If you fly to Azerbaijan, you’ll be landing at Heydar Aliyev international airport in Baku. Getting from Baku’s international airport to the city center is not very complicated. The airport is located just 21 km away from the city center and you can there by taxi or by city bus.

I explain everything you need to know about reaching the city center from Baku’s international airport in this article .

How to get a taxi in Baku

Taxi drivers in Baku tend to ask exorbitant prices if they see you’re a foreigner. For Azerbaijan as for Central-Asian countries like Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan , it’s better to download the Yandex app on your phone.

Yandex works as a cab-hailing app meaning you won’t have to negotiate directly with the driver and you can avoid being ripped off.

If you use Yandex in Baku, the taxi rides become extremely cheap. Short taxi rides with this app cost 2-3 AZN which is the equivalent of 3 USD.

If you don’t travel with a phone or can’t download Yandex, getting a taxi in Baku might be a bit more complicated. Most official taxis in Baku don’t have a taximeter and drivers typically charge around 15 AZN for rides around the city.

If you don’t speak Russian or Azeri they might even ask more. Taxi drivers generally don’t accept foreign currency so make sure you have some manats with you.

As in Russia it’s quite common to flag down private cars and agree on a price for the ride, this might seem strange, but you’ll see plenty of locals doing it.

Traveling around Baku by city bus

Baku has a very good city bus system. Buses are quite modern and rival city buses you would find in Europe. A bus ticket inside the city costs around 0.20 AZN while buses to the suburbs will typically charge from 0.30 AZN to 0.50 AZN.

Here is a map of all the bus stops in Baku.

Taking the metro in Baku

Traveling around Baku by metro is very practical and you can easily reach a lot of interesting sights around the city. There are two main metro lines in Baku, one going around the city center and another roughly in a northwest-southeast axis. Twenty metro stations are currently opened in the Azerbaijani capital.

A single metro ticket costs 0.30 AZN and the metros are operating between 6 AM and 1 AM the next day.

I hope you will enjoy your stay in Baku as much as we did! In case you have to wait multiple days to catch the boat to Kazakhstan , and have some time to kill, you’ll know what to do in Baku!

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of the links, we get a commission at no extra costs to you! See it as a small donation to keep this blog going. Thank you!

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Have a look at our videos of Azerbaijan . Hope we can inspire you to visit this beautiful and off-the-beaten-track country!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – AZERBAIJAN TRAVEL TIPS:

• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking in Azerbaijan
• Visa, registration and border crossing in Azerbaijan
• Traveling from Azerbaijan to Kazakhstan across the Caspian Sea by cargo ship

7 thoughts on “Things to do in Baku – a budget-friendly guide to Azerbaijan’s exquisite capital city”

“Wow, this blog post on ‘Things to Do in Baku’ is an absolute gem! It beautifully captures the essence of Azerbaijan’s exquisite capital city and provides a comprehensive guide for budget-friendly explorations. The author’s attention to detail and personal experiences truly make this article stand out. From exploring the historic Old City to indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine, this guide offers an impressive range of activities to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture and charm of Baku.

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Hi Rozi, could you send me a direct email concerning your question? You can contact me at [email protected]

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Thank you for reading! Happy to hear you appreciated our guide to Baku!

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Visiting Baku, Azerbaijan: One Of The World’s Most Fascinating Cities

• Last Updated On: September 8, 2023

To round out my Caucasus adventure, my last stop was to visit Azerbaijan and its beautiful capital city of Baku. Azerbaijan is not on most people’s list as most people venture more towards neighboring Georgia and its capital city of Tbilisi . I did spend much more time in Georgia, and even in Armenia but in the end I had to visit Azerbaijan since it was nearby.

Baku is A city of Juxtapositions

I think the best way to describe Baku is that it is the ultimate city of juxtapositions. It’s the city with the ultimate contrast between old and new, one I’ve never seen before. It’s the perfect example of what discovering massive oil wealth can do for a country.

Azerbaijan discovered oil at the end of the 19th century and quickly became one of the most influential countries of its time. In fact, near the turn of the century, Azerbaijan produced 50% of the world’s oil. Yes 50%! Nowadays, it accounts for under 1% but it goes to show just how revolutionary it was when Azerbaijan discovered oil.

With this newfound wealth, the country rapidly expanded outside the old city walls. They built magnificent parks, buildings, monuments, hotels all in the traditional European style. They literally had oil barons that would vacation in countries like Italy or France, see something they liked, and then proceed to replicate it back at home.

As you walk around Baku, you can’t help but be mesmerized by the fact that this city which had nothing 100+ years ago, all of a sudden looks like it could Vienna or Rome. It literally went from 0 to 100 in the span of a few years. Nowadays, as you walk through the streets of Baku, you’ll notice how impeccable and immaculate the conditions of the roads are. It is super clean to the point that it just looks almost fake. It’s like Dubai which was also built in the last few decades but with a much larger emphasis on the traditional European architecture (and a fraction of the cost of things in Dubai).

Having just visited Yerevan, Armenia and Tbilisi in Georgia which were “normal” capital cities filled with big city grit, post soviet charm (if you can even call it that), Baku really just blew my mind. I couldn’t stop asking myself how this Caucasus country bordering Armenia and Georgia looks like it is from a different world. But that’s what oil wealth does for you!

Where to eat and drink in Baku, Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani food is absolutely delicious. It’s a mix of Turkish, Persian, and Central Asian food which is right up my alley. You’ll find no shortage of kebabs, dolma, plov, stews, dumplings and the like. The food is cooked with an array of different spices and herbs that have evolved over centuries of being at the forefront of the silk road.

The Plov, which is a dish of rice and meat is the national dish of Azerbaijan. Plov is not so popular in Turkish cuisine but rather a staple of central Asian cuisine like Uzbekistan or Tajikistan. There are numerous types of plovs to try and my favorite of the bunch is probably the lamb plov with the fried crust. Think delicious saffron rice with seasoned lamb meat, chestnuts, spices, and raisins all wrapped in a delicious filo crust.

Dining is also incredibly affordable in Baku. You get top quality food in a very nice atmosphere for bargain prices. I would pay about 30-35 Manat ($18-25) for a dinner that included wine, salad, and insane amounts of grilled meats. I could easily have spent half this money and still been full.

There aren’t many trendy hipster places in Baku

Unlike Azerbaijan’s Caucasus neighbors of Yerevan and Tbilisi , there aren’t many new age trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and cafes in Baku. I think Baku is trying to get there but has still mostly focused on being this grandiose extravagant city.

There aren’t any decent cocktail bars or cafes that I could find in Baku. This was particularly sad as coming from Tbilisi and Yerevan, there were countless spots like this on offer.

Qayana Restaurant

Qayana came at the recommendation of my hotel was probably my favorite restaurant in Baku. It’s located in the old town and attracts locals and tourists alike. They have an onsite clay oven that they use to make fresh bread for every diner. The meats are grilled to perfection and the prices are very reasonable.

I had numerous kebabs and the plov because I had to try everything. It turned out to be way too much food but I enjoyed this place the most. I came back for breakfast the following day to have a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast.

Dolma Restaurant

Dolma is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. It’s located underground near the old town and decorated in the traditional style. The food here is exceptional with delicious dolmas and grilled meats. I stayed the course in pretty much every meal I had ordering lamb chops, minced lamb kebabs, and the like.

Lamb is probably one of my favorite things to eat and for the prices they had here, I had to get my fix in before going back to a place where I eat lamb pretty much never.

Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant

The Shirvanshah restaurant is a must for tourists. The 15th century palace complex is considered one of the masterpieces of Azerbaijan architecture, and is of great historic importance for the country. For these reasons reasons, among others, it was awarded World Cultural Heritage status by the UNESCO.

Nowdays, there is a large restaurant in the complex which serves delicious traditional Azerbaijani cuisine. The decor and ambiance is incredibly beautiful and pays homage to the traditional styles. They even have live music playing traditional music for diners.

I pretty much had the same food here as I did everywhere else which is heaps of lamb meat, dolma, and salad. This place is definitely a must visit.

Rooftop at the Hilton hotel

For amazing panoramic views of Baku, head to the rooftop hotel at the Hilton. This 360 degree rooftop is actually a rotating rooftop so for those that get vertigo, this is not the place for you. From here, you can have wonderful views of the Baku skyline and in particular the very unique Flame Towers with their never ending light shows.

Where to stay in Baku, Azerbainjan

Baku is an upscale city (or at least it portrays itself as such) and you’ll find no shortage of the big chain hotels that own grandiose buildings. Think JW Marriott, Hilton, Four Seasons, etc. There aren’t many boutique hotels that I found during my search because Baku just doesn’t attract that type of crowd. At least that is my theory.

I also looked for Airbnbs throughout the city and nothin really impressed me, at least nothing like what I found in Tbilisi, Georgia . Therefore, I ended up using my Marriott points to book nights at the Courtyard Marriott. It’s a level two hotel so it is quite cheap (only 12,000 points a night). I ended up getting an amazing room with a balcony overlooking the city. Fantastic deal for this hotel. It’s also centrally located meaning I could get everywhere easily by foot or by Bolt.

How to get around Baku

Getting around Baku is very simple. You just need to download the app Bolt which is the ride hailing app of choice in Georgia and Azerbaijan (yandex in Armenia). Don’t even bother with learning the metro system in Baku which is actually quite extensive with beautiful subway stations.

The reason for this? The price is just too damn cheap to really bother with anything else. A ride from Baku International Airport to the city center is about 7-10 Manat ($4-6). Yes it is less than $5 to travel from the airport to the city by private taxi. If you are too cheap to pay these prices, you probably shouldn’t be traveling.

Bolts around Baku city are between 1.7-3 Manat ($1-$1.7). Yes, I’m not joking, it is about $1 to go by taxi around Baku. Having already been to Tbilisi and Yerevan where prices are similar, I still don’t understand how anyone can make money doing this. At least in Azerbaijan however, the price of gas is heavily subsidized so at least it makes more sense. Price of petrol is 1 Manat per liter (~$0.6 per liter).

What to do in Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku is a large city with an incredible amount of beautiful buildings to see. There are not many traditional sights to see like in other big capitals because of how new everything is. Nevertheless, you’ll need at least a day to see the main highlights of the city.

Take the free walking tour

The free walking tour is definitely a great way to familiarize yourself with the city. The tour meets just outside the old city walls every day in the summer (and on demand during off season months). I really enjoyed the tour as the guide explained a lot about this city that is so perplexing especially having visited Tbilisi and Yerevan prior.

I particularly liked getting the guide’s views on the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict as I had gotten a very biased version days before with my guide in Yerevan. The tour takes roughly 3 hours and mostly centers around the old city.

Visit the Heyder Aliyev Cultural center

Designed by the noted architect Zaha Hadid, the building is firm and stunning and one of the signature attractions in Baku. The outer area and park offers a beautiful view of the city. It is recommended to visit the centre before sunset so you can experience both the pre- and post-sunset view of the building.

Walk along the waterfront and enjoy views of the flame tower

Visit the Baku Old City

Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the ancient city dates back to the 12th century. Within its confines are enough touristy gems, such as the Maiden Tower, Juma Mosque, Hamam Mehellesi public baths and the Palace of Shirvanshahs.

The old city is incredibly well preserved and you’ll find beautiful displays of the traditional architectural styles of Azerbaijan. You’ll find iconic narrow streets that meander from one beautiful view to another. It’s crazy to think that most of Baku was just within the confines of the old city walls just 100 years ago.

I particularly liked the pictures where I could see old town architecture with the flame tower in the background. It just goes to show how unique and how different the city of Baku is. The combination of old and new doesn’t exist like it does in Baku.

Visit the Yanar Dag Flaming Mountain

A must visit sight in Baku is a short drive to the Yanar Dag Flaming Mountain. It’s located about 25km outside of Baku to the northeast. Yanar Dag Flaming Mountain is literally just that, a hill that is on fire . Because of the incredible amount of natural gas and oil in the country, there are some areas of the country that have have fires for decades or even centuries.

Yanar Dag in particular has had their fire burning for 50+ years now. The oil reserves in this part of the mountain mean the fire will burn continuously rain or shine. It’s not as big as I thought it would be but it was still very impressive to see.

Come here right around night time to see the full effect of the fires. Do not book a tour to visit Yanar Dag but simply use Bolt to come here. I paid about 10 Manat one way for the Bolt to Yanar Dag and told him to wait for me. It only takes about 20 minutes to see everything and the drivers are usually happy to wait for you to collect the return fare.

Take a day trip to Gobustan and the mud volcanoes

The Gobustan National Park is located about  60 km away from Baku and is one of the most popular day trips from Baku. The typical itinerary goes to Gobustan and mud volcanoes and takes most of the day. There are many tour operators that you can find in the old city offering this tour. The going rate is about 80-90 Manat per person which includes a lunch.

This park was created to protect the true jewels of nature hidden in the lands that make up the Gobustan National Park, which was also declared a UNESCO Cultural Heritage in 2007.

The Petroglyphs of Gobustan

The mud volcanoes are interesting things to see but most people come to Gobustan for the petroglyphs. What are petroglyphs you ask?

They are some of the most ancient drawings made by early humans. They were chiseled with primitive tools of the time into the exposed rock in the Gobustan national park. These drawings embody the thinking patterns of early human beings which makes it one of the most important historic discoveries. The drawings date back to as far as 40,000 years ago long before civilization developed. More than 6,000 carvings have been found to date.

Many of the drawings depict animals like horses, lions, mammoths etc. as well as dance ceremonies and other traditional practices of the time. It is quite mesmerizing to stand here in front of the drawings knowing that they were done at a time when people knew little more than just how to survive.

The scenery of the Gobustan is quite beautiful as well. You are surrounded by large rocky cliffs on all sides making it a perfect day trip. I also did appreciate having a guide to explain everything. I would have otherwise felt like I was just looking at a bunch of scribbles on rocks (which are cool but not so interesting).

Mud Volcanoes of Gobustan

Nearby to the Petroglyphs are the famous mud volcanoes of Gobustan. Its muds are reputed to have many benefits for the skin, bones and rheumatism.

There are not more than 800 mud volcanoes in the whole world and about 400 of them are found in Gobustan. What are mud volcanoes? They are volcanoes that eject flames and spew out tons of mud covering the surrounding area. A few people believe that volcanic mud has healing qualities.

And what in the world is a Gaval Dash? These are musical gemstones that produce tambourine-like sounds when struck by a smaller stone. Where else in the world can you find Gaval Dash? Nowhere, but in Gobustan.

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

Best Things to Do in Baku in 3 Days

Until recently, most people would never have heard of Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital city. It was a city and country that flew completely under the radar, even for intrepid travellers. However, in the last couple of decades, the city has emerged as a new must-visit metropolis with plenty of things to do in Baku to keep you busy for days. 

It certainly has an interesting and mystical appeal to it. Most people simply see images of the futuristic architecture contrasted against the golden-hued Old City, which is enough to spark some sense of intrigue. Lonely Planet describes the city as an architectural love child of Paris and Dubai, and I couldn’t possibly come up with a better description. That’s exactly what it’s like. It’s the epitome of East meets West.

After having spent a lot of time in  Tbilisi  and  Yerevan , I honestly didn’t think I’d feel much love for Baku. But I was wrong. It truly is a cool city in its own way. It might not scream hipster-like Tbilisi or edgy like Yerevan, but there is a charm to Baku. So, here’s my Baku travel guide for spending the perfect three days in and around the city.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Quick facts about Azerbaijan

Currency:  Azerbaijani Manat, AZN

Language:  Azerbaijani or Azeri, which is closely related to Modern Turkish

Visas:  An e-Visa is issued within 3 working days through the Government’s online platform  here and is valid for 30 days. Nationals from 80 countries can apply for an e-visa and it’s just US$23. A rushed Azerbaijan visa can be organised through the  online platform  and is ready within 3 hours for US$50.

Budget:  $30-40 per day for a budget traveller (without any day tours)

Health:  Tap water is drinkable as its chlorinated, although some foreigners have had problems with it. I drank it for the days I was there without any problems.

When to go to Baku

Baku has relatively severe summers and winters with dramatic changes in temperatures, making both  Spring and Autumn  the best time to visit Baku. From April to June and then September to November are the best months to travel to Baku. Although, October to December is considered the city’s wettest months. 

I was there at the start of December and it was relatively cool and windy, but not too bad for a short visit.

History of Baku

The city first came to prominence under the Shirvanshahs who made it their capital in the 12th century. The city came under persistent attacks from the Mongols until Peter the Great captured the city in 1723. It continued to change hands between Persia and Russia until 1806 when it was finally ceded to Russia.

Oil  has been known to surface around the city since the 10th century. However, it wasn’t until commercial extraction was deregulated in 1872 that it saw a massive boom in exports. By the turn of the 20th century, Azerbaijan was producing 50% of the world’s petroleum and oil tycoons began to build lavish mansions and skyscrapers in the city. 

In 1920, the Red Army marched into Baku and Azerbaijan became a republic under the  Soviet Union  until 1991. Tensions continued to grow across the region and after the fall of the Soviet Union, bloody conflict erupted with Armenia until the mid-1990s over territory. 

Towards the end of the 20th century, most of the easily extractable oil reserves had been exhausted. After  independence , foreign companies explored new refineries and oil exports rose once again and have since contributed to massive growth in the 21st century.

The city is still one of the most important ports on the Caspian Sea and oil and gas still contributes majorly to the country’s economy.

How to get to Baku

The Baku  Heydar Aliyev International Airport  services many international destinations with most of the major airlines flying into this airport.

Otherwise, it’s easy to reach Baku overland as well, from Georgia.

From Georgia by train

The  overnight train  between Georgia and Azerbaijan is an extremely popular option because of its ease, comfort and affordability. 

From  Station Square in Tbilisi , the train departs at 8.35pm and arrives at 9am the next morning in Baku.

From  Baku Railway Station , the train departs at 8.40pm and arrives at 9am the next day at Tbilisi. 

It’s best to purchase the ticket at least the day before from the station or through a local agency. In summer and peak travel times (May to September), the train can be booked weeks in advance and so it’s best to plan ahead if you’re travelling at this time. 

I took the train from Baku to Tbilisi at the start of December, and I booked the day before at the station without an issue.

The  border crossing  can be quite long but the process is painless. On the Baku to Tbilisi overnight train, we arrived at the border at 6am and waited two and a half hours at the border in total for the entire process but it all happens onboard.

There are three classes and I took the third class in an open carriage. It’s perfectly comfortable and you are still given clean bedding to use included in the ticket. It was one of the nicest overnight trains I’d taken in a long time after months in Asia!

Read next: What You Need to Know Before You Go to Georgia

From Georgia by marshrutka

Another option from Georgia to Baku or vice versa is by  marshrutka , the Caucasus’ main transportation option. These minibuses do not technically go the entire way between Tbilisi to Baku but it’s possible to get across the border by stopping en route.

From Tbilisi’s Ortachala marshrutka station, there are minibuses going to Qax (pronounced ‘Gakh’) in Azerbaijan at 8.40am, 11am and 1pm. From Qax, there are marshrutkas to Tbilisi at 8.30am, 10.30am and 1pm. 

The  border crossing  took just 30 minutes and was very efficient. The journey should take around 6 hours in total. From Qax, you can go directly to Baku on frequent minibuses or most travellers head to  Sheki , a small town just 45 minutes away and just 1 manat (AU$1) for the bus. I stayed in Sheki for a couple of days, where there are a few historical sights to see.

From Sheki, there are direct marshrutkas and big coaches throughout the day heading for Baku and the journey takes around five hours. My marshrutka from Sheki to Baku cost 9 manat (AU$8).

Border with Armenia

You  cannot travel  between  Armenia and Azerbaijan  because of their ongoing conflict over land and territory known as Nagorno-Karabakh. When you cross the border from Georgia into Azerbaijan, the border officials will ask whether you have been to Armenia before. It’s not illegal to do so but it’s certainly considered illegal if you have been to Nagorno-Karabakh.

Otherwise, if you just say you have been to Armenia as a tourist without visiting the disputed territory then you shouldn’t face any problems. However, having a Nagorno-Karabakh stamp or visa will mean you will not be able to enter Azerbaijan, technically forever (or until you get another passport).

Getting around Baku

Baku has a great transport network with an efficient and cheap metro and bus system.

Metro system  | The metro is the most convenient transport and you must purchase a plastic top-up card to be able to hop on, called BakiKart. The same card can also be used on most city buses.

There are three metro lines currently and a single trip on the metro costs 0.30 AZN. The BakiKart card costs 2 AZN to purchase.

If you’re staying in the city centre though, the city is surprisingly walkable, especially the Old Town part. The metro is really only useful if you want to go somewhere outside of the immediate city centre or to the main Bus Terminal and Train Station.

To get to the airport  | You’ll need to take a local airport bus because the metro does not reach the airport. The trip should cost around 1.30 AZN and you can use the BakiKart card (it’s possible to purchase one at the airport).

Uber  | The ride-sharing app is available in Baku and vintage British taxis are all over the city. However, trips are quite expensive compared to public transport and cost around 3AZN within the city and around 10 AZN to the airport.

Getting the Baku Card

The Baku Card is an official Baku  tourism card  for visitors that includes free public transport, free or discounted entrance into 30 museums plus discounts at restaurants and cafes. You can purchase a 24-hour card for 24 AZN, 72-hour card for 45 AZN or 1-week card for 70 AZN. If you plan on going to a few of the museums and UNESCO attractions, it can be worth the money as some of the individual ticket prices are exuberant. 

You can learn more about the card at the official website  here .

Things to do in Baku in 3 days

If you have  three days in Baku , you’ll have the perfect amount of time to see the main sights and get out of the city on a day trip too. So, here are the best things to do in Baku in three days.

Baku Old City or Icherisheher

Baku’s Old City was the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s old architecture and history is what draws most people to explore inside its walls. Most of the major landmarks here were built from 7th to around the 12th century while most of the Gothic style apartment buildings were constructed under the Russian occupation. 

You could spend a couple of hours just wandering the sandy coloured, stone laneways and taking pictures of the stunning buildings. However, some of the noteworthy attractions here are the top things to do in Baku. 

You could put aside an  entire day for the Old City , which would give you time to see the main attractions and wander the laneways. There are also some good food options inside the old walls if you get hungry.

Maiden Tower

This stone tower is the city’s most iconic sight, along with the Flame Towers, and it’s impossible to miss in the Old City. 

There’s still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the tower. Its construction date is unknown, although most historians agree it appears to be from the 12th century. Its an unusually shaped building with walls up to 5m thick at its base. Its purpose and meaning are also uncertain. Some believe it was a fire temple for the pre-Islamic Zoroastrians, while other’s believe it was meant to be a defensive structure to keep invading armies out. 

Either way, the tower is open for visitors and as you climb through the levels you can read about the tower’s history as well as the greater city. The real appeal though is the panoramic view from its rooftop, where you can see right across the city skyline and to the Caspian Sea.

Entrance is a bit pricey at 15AZN or AU$14.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

The Shirvanshahs ruled the region from the 9th to the 16th century and Baku became their capital in the 12th century. The main attraction in this palace complex is the 15th century mosque and tomb commissioned by Shirvan Khalil I. 

The entrance is also 15 AZN or AU$14.

Step inside an old caravanserai

Baku was a major trading hub on the Silk Road and caravanserais or resting places were constructed all over the city for traders. Some have been preserved and turned into restaurants and shopping bazaars, meaning you can take a peek into what used to be important structures on the long trade route across continents. 

The  Karvansaray Restaurant  is one of the most popular, just two minutes walk from the Maiden Tower.

Shop for souvenirs

Many of the buildings in the Old City have been converted into souvenir and handicraft shops and it won’t take you long to come across beautiful carpets and textiles hung around the doorways of the buildings. 

The Old City is the best place for shopping in Baku and you can get all the souvenirs you could possibly want there. Some of the popular buys are Azeri carpets, Russian style woolly hats, silver jewellery and antiques.

Flame Towers

The three futuristic-looking flame-shaped towers known as the Flame Towers have become the icons of Baku. The skyscrapers are sitting on the upper hill of the city and stand out from almost anywhere. The towers were only finished in 2012 and are meant to symbolise the country’s wealth from the oil industry. However, they have since become more of a symbol of some of Baku’s modern architectural designs that have popped up around the Old City. 

You can reach the Flame Towers by a 20-30 minute walk up from the Old City walls. Or you can take the funicular from near the Carpet Museum, which costs just 1 manat each way. The attraction is really just to get a closer look at the towers, as they’re mostly used for fancy hotels and luxury car dealerships and are not really worth entering inside. 

On your  second day in Baku , you can head up to the Flame Towers to check them out after walking down to the edge of the Caspian Sea and past the architecturally unique, Carpet Museum. The funicular leaves from just across the road from the museum and takes you up to the Flame Towers.

Next, head back to downtown Baku where you can relax in Fountain Square and grab lunch from one of the city’s best restaurants.

Downtown Baku

The highlight of downtown Baku is  Fountains Square . This leafy public space is surrounded by the best shopping and eating options in the city. You can find international brands here including H&M and Starbucks, as well as the best bars and the hub of Baku nightlife. 

This was also where the Christmas market was held when I was here and it has to be one of the best things to do in Baku in December, with countless delicious food stalls and cheery Christmas music.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Baku, then the area around the Fountains Square is where you should head. My top restaurant picks for this part of downtown Baku include:

• Chef Baku:  A nice place with a view out onto the pedestrian shopping mall, it’s popular for those looking for a cup of tea or a proper meal.
• Dolma:  A really extensive menu covering all the region’s best dishes in a traditionally decorated place. The staff are over the top friendly and the place is very busy with tourists in high season. You must try their dolmas, their speciality.
• Fisincan Restaurant:  One of the most popular restaurants for trying the Azeri national dish, pilaf, as well as other regional favourites like dolma and kebab.

Day trip to Gobustan and the mud volcanoes

On your  third day in the city , I recommend taking a day trip to Gobustan (sometimes written Qobustan) National Park and the mud volcanoes. The landscape as soon as you leave the city is almost apocalyptic and otherworldly and it makes for an interesting contrast to the built-up and modern city.

The rock and mud around Gobustan appear like a wasteland but in reality, there are some interesting attractions here which I would say are a must visit in Azerbaijan. 

The rock caves in the National Park are decorated with hundreds of petroglyphs or rock art, drawn around 40, 000 years ago by early humans.

The drawings are relatively well preserved and are mostly figurative with many representing animals and big game. Before you enter the area, you should visit the dedicated Museum which explains the history of the drawings and their meanings in an interactive display. From there, you can follow the easy paths that lead to the main drawings on the nearby caves.

The ticket for the museum and rock art is 10 AZN (AU$9).

Mud volcanoes

Not far from the rock art, you can also visit the mud volcanoes. Don’t worry too much as they’re not really volcanoes as such but mounds of bubbling cold mud that appear like mini volcanoes. More than half of the world’s mud volcanoes lie in Azerbaijan and some of the most accessible ones are in Gobustan National Park. 

They’re created from a combination of gases underneath the earth’s surface, but it’s otherwise safe to get up close to the gurgling mounds. You’ll need a local driver for this as it’s not a place you can reach any other way. 

Both the rock art and mud volcanoes are usually done in a 5-6 hour day trip from Baku. Gobustan is just 68km or just over an hour from downtown Baku. In high season it’s possible to join tours that run almost daily for around 50 AZN per person, otherwise, you can hire a driver to do a private trip. 

I went with a private driver called  Elmin  and it cost me 80 AZN (AU$75). I can highly recommend him and his number is +994506857879. I learnt a lot about Azerbaijan from him as his English is incredibly good.

Where to stay in Baku

For most travellers, it’s best to stay in either the Old City or Downtown Baku. This way you can easily access the main attractions and best restaurants and shops, even on foot. 

Olive Inn and Hostel  | This is the hostel I stayed at in downtown Baku, just 1km from Fountains Square. I would highly recommend it for budget travellers. The dormitory rooms are spacious and comfortable with lockers and privacy curtains on the beds. The Wi-Fi was very good and the staff were extremely helpful, making sure I enjoyed my stay in the city. Prices were from AU$13, check availability here .

Maajid Hotel and Restaurant | This hotel is centrally located to the Old City and just 300m from Shirvanshah’s Palace. It retains some traditional style with friendly staff and modern facilities. Their private rooms are very spacious and comfortable, making it a top mid-range option. Standard double rooms are from AU$40 per night. Check availability here .

Travelling around the Caucasus region?

You can check out some of my other posts on the Caucasus region, including:

• 11 Free Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Yerevan
• The Ultimate Travel Itinerary for the Caucasus

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Lovely post. Loved it

What an incredible blog post on the “Best Things to Do in Baku in 3 Days”! Your recommendations are not only comprehensive but also perfectly tailored for anyone looking to make the most of their limited time in this vibrant city. I appreciate how you’ve carefully curated a diverse mix of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences, ensuring that readers get a well-rounded taste of Baku’s unique charm. Your attention to detail, insightful tips, and personal anecdotes make the article engaging and relatable. You have a deep love for Baku and a knack for guiding others to its hidden treasures. Thank you for sharing such an invaluable resource.

Thank you for writing such a detailed post. Planning a trip to Baku for 4 days and this has really cleared up a lot of my doubts. Thanks once again.

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The best things to do in the beautiful Baku

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

Heydar Mosque in the Binəqədi area of Baku at night © Alexander Melnikov / 500px

The capital of Azerbaijan  is a mix of the ultra-modern and the very-old, where the country's Turkish, Russian, Persian and European identities collide on every street. Here's how to explore the biggest city in the Caucasus, with experiences that will give you a feel for Baku’s awesome oddness.

See the incredible Flame Towers by day –  and night

The modern parts of Baku were built with oil money. At the start of the last decade the city went to jaw-dropping lengths to show off its astronomical wealth, and futuristic buildings now completely dominate the skyline. The symbol of Baku has become its Flame Towers  – three shimmering skyscrapers covered with LED panels that light up at dusk, transforming the towers into a flickering red and orange fire. Throughout the night the skyscrapers also morph into a waterfall, and the Azerbaijani flag. These displays are visible from everywhere in the city and gazing at the flames, especially, is a monumentally cool experience.

Try taste sensations of Azerbaijani food and wine

The pretty, pale homes of İçəri Şəhər aren’t as eccentric as the brash New City outside; but if you look close enough they are exciting in different ways. Behind many doors are secret restaurants. These are perfect places to try Azerbaijani cuisine, such as dolma (rice and other fillings wrapped in vine leaves), baliq (grilled sturgeon with a plum sauce) and qutab (savoury pancakes, sometimes stuffed with minced camel). The rooftop terraces of the Old City's Persian-style hotels, such as the decadent Sultan Inn , are also great spots to watch the sun go down with a bottle of pomegranate wine.

Explore the maze-like İçəri Şəhər, the Old City

Baku’s oldest and most mellow quarter is a maze of narrow sandstone streets known as İçəri Şəhər (Icheri Sheher, the Old City). From the 12th century this place was the centre of the Shirvanshah dynasty, which ruled over what is now Azerbaijan until 1539. Today about 3000 people still live within these stone walls, and work in İçəri Şəhər's art galleries, cafes and bath-houses. These Turkish-style hammams open from very early until very late, with separate opening hours for men and women.

Enjoy the views from Qız Qalası, Maiden's Tower

One of the oldest buildings in the Old City is Qız Qalası, known in English as the Maiden’s Tower . This Unesco-listed tower is not much to look at, but the stubby stone fortress is the setting for dozens of Azerbaijani myths and legends – and from the top there are clear views out over the Caspian Sea. Despite its name, the Caspian is actually a vast lake, which explains how Baku can still be so far below sea level. It is the world’s lowest capital city.

Stroll up to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Climbing the sandstone streets, past walls decorated with characterful ceramics and existentialist graffiti, you reach the highest part of the Old City, and the second Unesco-listed building in İçəri Şəhər: the 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs . The palace is now home to a museum of Azerbaijani history – its beautiful stone chambers now have cool multisensory installations inside. The palace's courtyards are also some of the best places for night-time views of the Flame Towers.

Honor Azerbaijan's fallen at Şəhidlər Xiyabanı ( Shehidler Hiyabani)  cemetery 

At the top of the steep hill in the New City that takes you to the Flame Towers, Şəhidlər Xiyabanı (Shehidler Hiyabani) is a cemetery and memorial to the first Azerbaijani soldiers who were killed during the Karabakh conflict in the 1990s. In this complex there is also a memorial to the Turkish soldiers who died during WWI, and a mosque that was donated to Baku by Turkey – both signs of how closely the two countries are linked.

Admire Heydar Aliyev Centre designed by  Zaha Hadid 

Taking pride of place in the centre of the city, Baku’s other out-of-this-world piece of architecture is the curvaceous and brilliant-white Heydar Aliyev Centre . This exhibition space and concert venue, designed by architect Zaha Hadid, seems to change shape as you walk around it; the idea was to symbolise the fluidity and romance of modern Azerbaijan. 

Marvel at the contradictions of modern Azerbaijan 

Perhaps Baku’s biggest contradiction is that, as you stare at its futuristic landmarks, you are really looking into its past as well. Azerbaijan fell into an economic crisis soon after the Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Centre and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum  (shaped like a giant rolled-up carpet and displaying the country's largest collection of them) were completed, which put a stop to the outlandish new buildings.

The country is still astoundingly wealthy – the annual Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix isn’t the only time of year when the streets are filled with expensive sports cars – but Baku is beginning to go mainstream as well. While a few years ago Baku was all about dazzling visitors with its originality, now in its new venues, like Park Bulvar Mall , you could be almost anywhere in the world. Its central pedestrian zones, Fountains Square and the nearby Nizami St, are filling up with European stores and brunch-spots.

Catch up on Baku's past at the Historical Museum

The Old City isn’t the only place to explore Baku’s past. The Historical Museum is worth a visit to learn about the other eras from Azerbaijan’s history, from the medieval Shirvanshahs, to centuries as part of Iran and the Russian Empire, and then its life as a Soviet Republic. The museum is housed in an opulent mansion that belonged to one of Baku’s greatest late-19th-century oil barons, which is worth visiting just for its dazzling interiors.

You might also like: Baku for architecture buffs: the ultimate self-guided tour    8 stunning European cities for architecture    This ultra-marathon showcases the splendors of the Nagorno-Karabakh

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2022

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The best things to do in Baku, Azerbaijan

This post is a travel guide about the best things to do in Baku. Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan and a city famous for its gas and oil reserves on the Caspian sea coast.

What can I say about Baku? Baku did not charm me like the rest of Azerbaijan. I loved Azerbaijan with its rich history, green rolling hills, friendly people and delicious food. But Baku was very different from the rest of the country.

Baku reminded me a lot of Nursultan in Kazakhstan , because both cities are built by dictators showing off their oil and gas wealth to the international world. Besides that, both do so with futuristic buildings and international events to cover up their authoritarian regimes.

That said I stayed for more than a week in the city and certainly enjoyed my time. I must admit that there are definitely some interesting things to do in Baku.

What to do in Baku

There are a lot of things to do in Baku if you love history. While Nursultan was built out of nowhere in the past 20 years, Baku actually has a very long and interesting history as a multicultural Silk Road city on the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Baku was once part of the Mongol, Persian and Russian empires, before becoming the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. At last, Azerbaijan finally gained independence in 1991 with Baku as its new capital.

As a result, Baku is both modern and full of history. You can feel that nowadays, Baku is a young and dynamic city that is changing rapidly after the fall of the Soviet Union. While the old town with its silk road architecture is a journey back in time, the city also sees lots of new projects.

President Aliyev has a museum on offer in the form of a rolled up carpet, the second largest flag pole in the world, a cultural centre in an undefined form of waves and the flame towers that rise high above the city. As you can read there is no shortage of things to do in Baku if you love futuristic or eccentric architecture.

Baku’s oil wealth

Throughout its history Baku has always attracted those in search for profits from the rich oil and gas reserves in the Absheron peninsula . A handful of powerful oil barons became rich while the majority of workers who did the dirty jobs often lived in harsh conditions.

The current reality is not much different. If you only visit the capital you will think the country is well off with all the fancy things to do in Baku.

Certainly, not much of the Soviet past survived in Aliyevs Baku, but it doesn’t take much to look beyond the facade of glitter and glamour. Taking a marshrutka to the suburbs already shows you a different side. And if you are into Soviet architecture, its still there if you look carefully.

Even though the city didn’t charm me, I was certainly fascinated by it. Its ancient Zoroastrian roots, its communist past, its current politics and above all the interesting mix of different cultural influences that still persists.

Things to do in Baku

1. icheri seher: strolling through the old town.

Wandering around the old town was among my favourite things to do in Baku. Icheri Seher is the most ancient part of the city. The fortress and walls here, were already built in the 12 th century. Walking around in the small streets gives you a sense of Baku’s long history as a Silk road town influenced by the Persians, the Turks and the Russians.

There are mosques, caravanserais, ancient hammams and lots of restaurants and cafes. This is the historical heart of Baku and probably the best place to stay with some great budget hostels.

2. The Maiden tower

In the middle of Baku’s old town is the mysterious Maiden tower. Some believe that the maiden tower used to be a Zoroastrian fire temple while others believe it was an astronomical observatory. The towers design and purpose remain unknown and many legends exist as you can read in this article .

The 12th century building is still one of Azerbaijan’s national symbols and you will find it on the Azeri currency notes. You can enter the Maiden tower to enjoy the view over the old town from the top. Recently a tunnel was found connecting the Maiden tower to the Shirvanshah palace.

3. Palace of the Shirvanshah

The palace of the Shirvanshah from the 15th century is another important historic building in the old town of Baku. It now hosts a small museum about the Shirvanshah dynasty. It is an interesting place to visit, but comes nowhere near the beauty of the palace of the Shaki Khans in Sheki .

4. Juma mosque

Before you know you have already passed by the beautiful Juma mosque. The mosque was built on the site of an ancient Zoroastrian fire temple and it was rebuilt several times. The current mosque is from 1899 and it’s worth a quick look inside.

5. Visit a Hamam

Because of the Persian influences Azerbaijan has a tradition of communal bathhouses . If you are interested in reading more about the Hamam culture of old Baku I can recommend this article .

Nowadays the hamams have upgraded to a place to pamper yourself with saunas and pools. If you visit in winter and it’s cold outside there will be no experience more relaxing than a visit to one of the hamams. Teze Bey Hamami is one of the more authentic hamams left, but there are others as well.

6. Miniature book museum

If you are looking for free things to do in Baku, come to the miniature book museum. I am a book lover, so obviously I was excited about this funny museum. The collection of 5600 books includes the worlds smallest Quran.

7. Modern Baku: shopping at Nizami street

Close to the old town is Fountain square and Nizami street. The main pedestrian street in Baku with its modern shopping area where western brands have taken over. What does remain authentic are the delicious Azerbaijani restaurants and the multicultural atmosphere.

8. Nizami museum of Literature

Not far from the fountain square is Nizami’s national Museum of Azerbaijani literature. Nizami was a famous Persian poet that was born in Gence in Azerbaijan. He and other Persian poets had a big influence on Azerbaijan’s literature.

The most famous Azerbaijani Novel is Ali and Nino. The love story of a Muslim Azerbaijani boy and a Georgian Christian girl in Baku written by Kurban Said in 1937.

9. Boulevard: walking along the sea front

The best place to see Modern Baku is along the boulevard where you can walk along the Caspian sea coast and witness some of Baku’s new futuristic architectural buildings on the skyline. The place is also very popular with the Azerbaijani youth that is hanging out here and families that go for a stroll in Milli’s park.

The boulevard is now about 5 kilometers long, but plans are to extend it to 26 kilometers and make it one of the top things to do in Baku. You can see the construction going on of some of Baku’s newest and futuristic buildings as we speak. 

Already you can take a boat in mini Venice , walk to the second largest flagpole in the world, visit the carpet museum and see the crystall hall that hosted the Eurovision song festival in 2014.

10. The carpet museum

The carpet museum has a much longer history than its brand new building in the form of a carpet. It was initialy located in the Juma mosque in the old town in 1967. It now has the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets in the world and has organized more than 30 exhibitions in different countries.

11. The Baku eye

I didn’t go into Baku’s own ferris wheel, because I am afraid of heights. I am sure though that the view must be amazing and it is also relatively cheap if you consider the price of other ferris wheels in Europe.

12. The Flame Towers

Azerbaijan’s flame towers are visible throughout the city and representative of Azerbaijan’s roots in Zoroastrianism. The Zorastrians built several fire temples in Azerbaijan and it’s no coincidence that fire was worshipped here. With its vast gas and oil reserves fires erupted spontaneously in places where gas seeped from the surface. In fact, Azerbaijan in Persian means the protector of fire.

The flame towers are a symbol of the city. Even though you cannot enter them they are pretty impressive to see. The best way to see the flame towers up close is by taking the Baku funicular. 

13. Taking the Baku funicular

The best way to see the Flame towers up close is taking the Baku funicular. It costs only 1 Manat to go up and down. It starts on Neftchilar avenue square and brings you to the Flame towers.

Even though the flame towers can not be visited, I can recommend you to take the funicular up the hill. Seeing the flame towers up close is quite impressive. Even more interesting is the beautiful view over Baku and the nearby Martyrs Alley.

14. Martyrs Alley

A sad, but peaceful and serene place is the park around Martyrs Alley with the graves of soldiers who died during Azerbaijan’s wars. Most of them are from the Second World war, but also from the more recent struggles for independence in 1992 and the ongoing conflict regarding Nagorno Karabagh.

15. Heydar Aliyev’s cultural centre

No longer in walking distance from the old town I passed by the Heydar Aliyev’s cultural centre several times by bus on my way out of Baku. I never stopped to have a closer look, which maybe I should have. The futuristic building is a strange form of white waves. Apparently the interior offers more quirky architectural wonders so it is definitely among the top things to do in Baku for those into architecture.

16. The cats of Baku

I couldn’t write about Baku without mentioning its cats in the old town of Baku. I love cats and even though there are not as many as in Istanbul, there were enough that stole my heart.

17. Trying Azeri food

Azerbaijan’s food is an interesting mix of Turkish, Central Asian and Persian cuisine . Besides tea, flatbread, kebabs and fresh salads, Azerbaijani cuisine has some delicious specialities and trying Azeri food is among the top things to do in Baku.

Dolma (minced meat with rice and spices wrapped in vine leaves or tomato) was a favourite, but the highlight was Naz Qovurma (A lamb stew with pomegranate and hazelnuts) . And it’s just as delicious as it sounds.

Other national dishes include Dushbara (dumplings in broth), Lavangi (fish stuffed with onion, walnuts and raisins), Dovga (yoghurt soup with spinach) and Qutab (flatbread filled with spinach).

Things to do near Baku

Baku is located in what is called the Absheron peninsula. While most tourists never leave Baku, the Absheron peninsula offers plenty of interesting things to do near Baku.

If you like to travel off the beaten path and learn more about Azeri culture the Absheron peninsula is well worth the effort.

18. Bibi Heybad Mosque

In the outskirts of the city on the way to Gobustan you can find the beautiful Bibi Heybad mosque. Although the current building is quite new, this is a place of worship with a long history. It started in fact, not as a mosque, but as a mausoleum with the tomb of a descendant of Mohammed that was built in the 13th century by the Shirvanshah dynasty

How to get there: Bus 124 from 28th may or Sanahil bus station. It is very easy to visit this mosque from Baku and it is also easy to combine it with a trip to Gobustan, because it is on the way

19. The absheron peninsula

Some places in the Absheron peninsula are hard to get to and require a tour like the Gobustan mud volcanoes and Gobustan Petroglyphs .

Others are easy to visit with public transport such as the burning hills of Yanar Dag , the Atesgah fire temple, the Mir Movsun Agha pir and the Mardaken castle .

To read more about the Absheron peninsula you can read my post about The best day trips from Baku . It includes information on the best way to visit these sites with public transportation.

20. Xinaliq

I can also really recommend a visit to Xinaliq, Europe’s highest mountain village. Even though there are day tours available from Baku I would recommend to sleep in one of the homestays. You need at least 2-3 days for this, but it was my highlight of Azerbaijan. Read more in my post on Xinaliq travel guide .

The best budget places to eat in Baku

1. araz kafesi.

Araz kafesi near fountain square is a great budget place with a good menu of different kebabs and other Azeri cuisine. I can recommend the dolma.

2. Fisincan restorant

A similar budget place near Araz kafesi is Fisincan restorant. They have a nice garden outside next to the Armenian church. It has almost the same menu. I can recommend the Naz qovurma.

3. Gutab House

Gutab House is the best place to try the traditional Gutab. Delicious flatbreads with a filling. Spinach is the most common, but Gutab house serves a large variety of Gutabs for under less than 1 Manat. There is even one with camel meat.

Baku Travel Tips

The best hostels in baku.

I stayed in the Baku Old City hostel in the old town and was happy about it. The people were friendly and a nice breakfast was included. The latter is useful as shops in Azerbaijan don’t open early and it will be difficult to find a place for breakfast.

Hostels are getting more common in Baku and they are a great way to keep things within your budget. Other hostels with good reviews are Travel Inn Hostel & Sahil hostel . Budget rooms are available at the City Inn Boutique hotel or the Maestro hotel .

How much time do I need for Baku?

There are a lot of things to do in Baku and I would say you need at least three days to do Baku justice. However, that is if you stick to Baku itself.

I highly recommend you to make some daytrips out of the city. Add another 2 days to explore the Absheron peninsula with its interesting tourist attractions like mud volcanoes and burning hills. Add more days to head to the Caucasus mountains and visit Xinaliq.

The best time to visit Baku.

The best time to visit Baku are spring and autumn when the temperatures are comfortable and the weather is good.

Baku’s summers are hot and dry and the winters mild. Winter is also a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer heat. Snow is rare in Baku, but it can get chilly so bring some warm clothes if you decide to visit during winter.

Visa and registration in Baku

Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa. It’s an easy process, but make sure you are on the official website .

If you are staying for more than 10 days in Azerbaijan you must register with the government. You can do this yourself online at the immigration department . However, you do need a local mobile number as they will send a code to confirm your application.

You can also ask your hostel to do it to make sure it is done well or go to a police station that does registration. I registered myself at the police station in Sheki and it was a smooth process.

Language in Baku

The main languages in Baku are Azerbaijani (very similar to Turkic) and Russian.

Baku is a multicultural city with a large expat community. Even though english is not widely spoken you can get by pretty easily. Most young people and those that work in tourism speak at least a basic level.

Money matters in Baku

Azerbaijan uses the Manat. Baku has enough ATM’s to get money. In shops and restaurants it’s best to pay in cash.

Make sure you have enough small bills as people rarely have change for a 100 or even 50 manat bill.

Baku is not an expensive city and if you are a budget traveller staying in hostels and eating in cheap restaurants you can survive on less than 30 dollars a day.

Books about Baku

Ali and Nino by Kurban Said is a wonderful novel about the love story of a muslim Azerbaijani boy and a Georgian Christian girl. Set in Baku around 1920 it is a great book to read before you visit the city.

The best way to get around in Baku

Baku on foot.

Most things to do in Baku are in the old town, along the boulevard or around Nizami street. It is a pretty large area so expect to walk a lot. However, this is still one of the best ways to discover Baku.

Taxi’s in Baku

I rarely used taxi’s in Baku, because I either walked or used the metro. That said, taxi’s should not be expensive.

Taxi’s do try to overcharge tourists so always negotiate a price beforehand and make sure it is a licensed taxi. Using uber is recommended.

A taxi in the city should cost between 4 to 10 manat if you stay within the centre area.

A taxi from the Baku airport to the centre of town should not cost more than 25 manat, but it requires some negotiation skills.

There is also a bus from the airport to Baku’s train station that will cost you less than 2 manat and takes about 45 minutes. The train station is in the centre and well connected by metro and other bus routes.

Bus & Metro in Baku

Baku has an excellent public transport system by bus and metro. You can purchase a Bakikart for 2 manat that you can recharge. It is valid for the Metro and the new red buses. The metro connects the old town (Iceri Seher) with the train station (28 May) and the suburbs.

For buses you can check the routes here . The older buses still accept cash and it is 20q per ride, the newer red buses only accept the Bakikart.

The best way to get to Baku

Flying to baku.

Baku has an international airport allowing you to fly directly into Baku. Some budget airlines like Wizz air have cheap tickets available.

Traveling by train to Baku

You can travel by train to Baku from neighbouring Georgia. Keep in mind that the border with Armenia is closed. Therefore the most direct route are the sleeper trains between Baku and Tbilisi.

A more scenic and adventurous route is to make a stop in Sighnaghi (Georgia) , cross the border to Azerbaijan the next day and make another stop in the Silk road city of Sheki before taking the sleeper train from Sheki to Baku for a nostalgic Soviet like journey.

Update 2023 : The night train from Sheki to Baku is no longer running because they are modernizing the railway system in Azerbaijan. As soon as the train is running again I will update this page, but it will likely be a newer train and therefore a different experience than I had on an old Soviet train.

Traveling by ferry to Baku

Another exciting way to reach or leave Baku is by ferry. There are services from Baku to Turkmenbashi in Turkmenistan (17 hours) or Aktau in Kazakhstan (30 hours). There is no timetable, but ferries leave every 3 to 5 days. Prices range between 80 and 150 dollars. You can find more info on the ferries on caravanistan .

Safety in Baku

Baku is a very safe city where you can follow normal precautions. Crime is low and there are no problems walking alone in the streets even if it is dark.

However, some scams do exist in Baku. Taxi’s tend to overcharge foreigners. Also check your restaurant bill to see if you were not charged ‘extra’ and always check your change.

Solo female travel in Baku

As a woman travelling alone I did not encounter any problems when I was in Baku. I travelled for more than a week with public transport including the more conservative Absheron peninsula.

Despite Azerbaijan being a muslim country, you won’t notice this when you are in liberal and modern Baku.

Solo female travellers might get the occasional male attention in the streets, but nothing that can be discouraged by a stern look or walking away.

For women no special dress code applies in the city and you can wear whatever you wish.

If you plan to travel into the Absheron peninsula it is good to dress more modestly though, as things are much more conservative once you leave the city.

Disclaimer : This post about the best things to do in Baku contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

4 thoughts on “The best things to do in Baku, Azerbaijan”

This is very interesting. I grew up in the Soviet Union when Azerbaijan was part of it, though I never visited it. It’s fascinating to read your perspective of the city.

Detailed guide to Baku.thanks for sharing I read your previous post on Azerbaijans and they were amazing too. Thanks for sharing.hope to explore this country some day

I miss the cats of Istanbul too. This is an interesting read, thanks for sharing.

Hi such an excellent informatio about this beautiful city. I invite all tourist to visit this city as soon as possible.

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48 Hours in Baku – Azerbaijan’s capital

A city in between oil wealth and Soviet influences

Baku is a city of 2 million inhabitants and the capital of Azerbaijan . If you come here, then you either have some oil business to attend to or you’re here on a stopover. Not a lot of people visit Baku just for Baku – which is a shame.

The city now is at a crossroads between traditions , Soviet influences and straight-forward capitalistic modernism . We’re sure that a lot of things will change over the course of the next 10 to 20 years. Therefore: Now is a great time to go!

Table of Contents

Top 3 things to see in Baku

• The Heydar Aliev Center by Zaha Hadid
• The Flame Towers
• Dağüstü Park

All three items on this list represent the modern, the new , the western-oriented city. It’s all about representing the country’s wealth and their ability to build contemporary structures that require modern thinking, liberty and money. These three will give you glimpse of where Azerbaijan is headed.

Heydar Aliyev Centre

Zaha Hadid had all the liberty to build this place to (near) perfection

Flame Towers – modern landmarks of the city

View from the Fairmont Hotel at the Flame Towers

The terrace of the Heydar Aliev Center

The terrace of dağüstü park, the view of the city at night.

But of course not all of Baku looks like these shiny structures of wealth.

3 things they don’t want you to see in Baku

• The oil industry
• The old parts of the city outside of the city walls
• The mosques

From what we learned, Azerbaijani people are incredibly proud about their capital. They love feeling a sense of belonging to a western world, when they offer a ride in a Mercedes bus from the modern airport. You’ll drive the wide boulevards lined with skyscrapers, that lead to the city centre. They are proud of their international boutiques (Tiffany’s, Cartier, you name it), the huge shopping centres, the high-rise buildings (even a Trump tower!). Somehow it feels like they don’t really want you as a visitor to see what they are trying to leave behind so deeply.

The people of Baku love their traditions, don’t get us wrong. But they probably just don’t want you to see, that the majority of people isn’t as rich as the shiny facades might want to tell you. A lot of the high rise buildings are empty, because people can’t afford to buy the apartments in them.

We lived in the Fairmont Hotel at one of the three Flame Towers, which are the new landmarks of modern day Baku. But nobody will admit that the two other Flame Towers are still empty. Not one apartment or office space in them has been sold so far. So while the facades shine bright every night by the means of a LED show, the empty buildings are guarded by securities.

Taza Pir Mosque

Old Soviet cars are still in use everywhere, not just in the old parts of the city

The contrasts of Baku: Traditional bread baken in a wood fired oven vs. young people taking selfies or walking with balloons 🙂

5 star hotel room in Baku

Baku offers many modern restaurants, 5 star hotels, shopping malls – all the comforts of a modern destination . But we loved that Baku has more to offer than it’s shiny new world. Their efforts to become the next Dubai might take away some of that quality throughout the next years, so better be quick to visit!

Disclaimer: We went on a trip to Baku as part of an invitation by the Fairmont Hotel Group, but our views of the destination and the hotel are independent.

Azerbaijan Baku

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Insider Tips to Explore the Azeri Capital – Baku Travel Guide 

Last Updated: August 24, 2021

what to do in Baku

As per a ballpark figure, over a quarter of residents live in the capital city of Azerbaijan. Baku features a dramatic landscape — an architectural mix that reminds one of the graceful Paris and innovative Dubai. Add to this its unequalled cosmopolitan urban charm with well-cobbled streets, recently built subway and fast Wi-Fi. All of this is nestled up together in a clean, beautifully laid out city.

Embracing both tradition and modernity, it is a beautiful city that fits right in your bill. Thanks to the city’s groundbreaking development which manages to entertain all ages and interests. While couples can meander through the wooden parks holding hands, families can relish mouthwatering food at restaurants overlooking the sea.

Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Baku

Most people are aliens to Baku’s lifestyle. In fact, you may have many questions about this destination, such as: Is Baku cheap to travel to? Is Baku safe for travellers? How do we reach Baku? Do locals speak English? This Baku travel guide will answer all your queries in the simplest terms.

Best Time to Visit

Although the temperature is mild all year round, April-June (spring) and September –October (autumn) are the best times to visit Baku. You can have a whale of a time as the city is in full spring. It is dry and warm — the streets turn into a burst of colours and mountains wrapped in sunshine. The city fires up for celebrations and cultural explorers can sightsee their favourite destinations. Then from September to October, marvel at the sandstone and green landscapes with magical transformations of nature.

Get to Baku

Now, since your holiday is planned, and things are booked, everything depends on how you reach this undiscovered gem of a city. It depends on several factors like budget, time and preferences.

To reach by plane, book tickets to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), which is located 15 miles out of town. There are no direct flights from the US and Asia, but you will have no issue finding a flight via Turkish or Middles Eastern Airlines. There are direct flights to Moscow, Frankfurt, Kiev and Minsk, while flights from other European cities may have one/ more stopovers. From there, you can hop on the express bus to reach Baku or hire a taxi that could be a tad expensive.

The train ride is an experience on its own. It will whiz you past the scenic fields and verdant landscape. There are cars that will offer comfort and privacy at higher budgets. You can pre-book to avoid delays. Alternatively, you can buy tickets for a public bus that connects Baku with the major cities and costs you less. There are international services from Russia and Iran as well.

Get Around Baku

One of the useful things to know before travelling to Baku is the mode of transportation that runs within the city. There are buses and subways that work in a widespread network to carry you to your desired places. Taxis are cheap with 1.30 for every mile, while car rentals can unsettle your budget by demanding 35 per day.

Religion and Language

Islam is the predominant religion in the country. There are other residing communities as well, such as minority Jewish and Orthodox Christians. Most people in Azerbaijan can’t speak English, so it comes in handy to know a phrase or two in their native language for easy conversations. The widely spoken languages are Azerbaijani and Russian.

Oil-Rich City

The history of Azerbaijan is revolved around oil and gas reserves. The second oil boom in 2006 brought another revolution that raised some of the exemplary architecture. Due to the cutting edge technology and unique vision, you get the opportunity to marvel at jaw-dropping masterpieces.

Major Tourist Attractions

The blue-glassed Flame Towers, the residence of the ruling dynasties Palace of the Shirvanshah, MOMA museum with bean-bags, tailor-made Carpet Museum, waterfront promenade Bulvar, the World Heritage Site of İçəri Şəhər, vantage point at Maiden’s Tower and the leafy piazza Fountains Square are must-visit tourist attractions in Baku. Then tick off Heydar Aliyev Centre, explore Yashil Bazar, visit Mud Volcanoes, and pay homage at Bibi-Heybat Mosque.

Currency Exchange

• Another significant thing that you should know is that the official currency of Azerbaijan is manat (code: AZN; symbol:).
• Exchange the foreign currency with the national currency for seamless transactions. The restaurants, shops and markets may accept the US Dollars but are hesitant about accepting the old banknotes issued before 1992.
• It is handy to carry money in small denominations while shopping.
• Always exchange the currencies in banks, airports or hotels, and do not deal with private individuals to avoid fraud.
• Discuss the money with taxi drivers in advance, as they request you to pay in national currency.

Law and Order

• The traffic on the roads is organised and scrutinised by the police all around. They help to maintain peace and order. So, it’s better to carry an identification card in case of any misunderstanding or problem.
• Wear decent clothes that are not transparent or revealing to stay away from unwanted attention or fine. Wear walking/ hiking shoes for a comfortable excursion. It could get hot outside, so get those breathable shirts and dresses.
• Being drunk on the streets is highly prohibited and could result in a punishable offence.

Accommodation in Baku

There is no dearth of fancy hotels and low-priced accommodations in Baku. It stands up to the expectations of being the luxurious capital city of Azerbaijan. You can let your hair down when you prefer to stay in the popular neighbourhoods of Baku, such as the UNESCO-recognised İçərişəhər, flower-crammed Khutor, and the buzzing market ofYaşıl Bazar.   The best-rated, contemporary hotels are Fairmont Baku offering 5-star services, Flame Towers with its rooftop pool, and the Sheraton Baku located in the vicinity of the airport. You are welcomed with warm hospitality and world-class facilities.

It does not harm to tip when eating in any of the restaurants of Baku. A tip of 10% looks friendly. Moreover, in a few restaurants and open-air cafes, if you tip in advance, you can enjoy some real fast services.

Baku is absolutely safe for tourists. Petty thefts are almost negligible. No brownie points for this — stay vigilant in a new destination and use local apps for navigation, to avoid any scam by taxi drivers.

As you browse the local markets and souvenir shops, haggling is encouraged to get the best prices.

Q1. What is BAKU?

BAKU is the capital city of Azerbaijan, a country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia.

Q2. What is the perfect time to explore BAKU?

The perfect time to explore BAKU is between April to June and September to October.

Q3. Name some key attractions in BAKU.

Some popular tourist attractions in BAKU include the Old City (Icheri Sheher), the Flame Towers, the Maiden Tower, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and the Heydar Aliyev Center.

Q4. Is BAKU a safe city?

Yes it is generally a safe city.

Q5. What languages are spoken in BAKU?

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, which is the most widely spoken language in BAKU. Russian and English are also widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

Baku is a city that will leave an incredible impression on your heart. All you got to do is to know a few things and follow these tips for a butter-smooth vacation.

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Shaheen Taj

Shaheen Taj is a freelance travel writer by profession. She is particularly fond of traveling and loves to jot down her experiences and cultural diversities of different countries.

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10 reasons why Baku, Azerbaijan needs to be on your bucket list

There are few places in this big ol’ world left under the radar, but Baku is one that should be right at the top of your ‘must visit’ list.

Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan , a little country that sits at the crossroads of East and West. It’s a melting pot of culture, with a history that includes an ancient fire religion, medieval ruins and Islamic traditions; it also spent almost 70 years behind the Iron Curtain.

Here are ten reasons why you need to book a trip right now to eat, sit, wander and have your mind expanded by the compendium of culture that is modern-day Baku.

1. It’s full of amazing architecture

Whether you are a scholar of architecture or simply a curious traveller, you’ll easily be able to spend a day just exploring the exteriors of this mosaic-like city.

EXPLORE BAKU ON OUR 10-DAY HIGHLIGHTS OF AZERBAIJAN & GEORGIA SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE. FULL DETAILS HERE. 

CHECK OUT OUR FULL RANGE OF ADVENTURES IN AZERBAIJAN HERE

2. There’s a hillside on fire 24/7

The country has a deep affinity to the element of fire, so much so that it’s even known as ’The Land of Fire’. Nearby you’ll be able to visit the Ateshgah fire temple; it has a long history as a place of pilgrimage for both Hindus and Zoroastrians. Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest continually practised religions, with many elements still present in Azerbaijan’s culture. Fire is sacred and you’ll find countless references to its flickering flames throughout everyday life for Azeri people.

3. You’ll find some unusual museums

RELATED: 10 MUST-VISIT PLACES IN GEORGIA

4. It’s a city made for strolling

5. There’s a sweet treat at every meal

6. Azerbaijan wine is a thing

While Georgian wine is shining bright in the spotlight, just over the border lies Azerbaijan. Both of these regions are similar in style and terroir, so try some of the local wine when visiting.

You’ll find similar techniques and traditions too, including the use of amphora for fermentation, and some unique grape varieties such as  Madrasa and Saperavi. Hit up one of Baku’s newer wine bars such as Kelfi for the full gamut. There’s even pomegranate wine, though it’s a pretty particular taste…

RELATED: WHY BULGARIA IS THE NEW BORDEAUX

7. It’s full of passionate people

An incredible meal tastes darn delicious, but the icing on the cake is the waiter who figures out exactly what you’re hungering for and then with a smile, suggests the perfect option from the menu. Yes, of course it’s the PEOPLE that truly make a place special.

During my time in Baku, I experienced nothing but genuine hospitality. The Azeri have a deep-set pride of their culture and are keen to share it with anyone who shows an interest. A fan of the food? Don’t be surprised if you’re welcomed into a kitchen when you ask how something is made. Take a trip to the markets and you’ll be asked for a selfie with every stall holder – a toothy grin and a snap truly makes their day.

RELATED: THE ART OF CONNECTING WITH STRANGERS IN UZBEKISTAN

8. You’ll spend your days feasting on flavour

RELATED: A GUIDE TO THE WORLD’S BEST-KEPT CULINARY SECRET

The cuisine is based on fresh produce, abundant herbs and spices, and regional specialties that you’ll not find anywhere else in the world. It’s also super healthy, with ferments and pickles on every table, and no shortage of ways to include yoghurt into a meal. Dovga (chilled yoghurt soup) is surprisingly refreshing on a hot day. One paragraph is not nearly enough space to even start on the food in Baku; you’ll have to try it for yourself.

9. See some of the world’s oldest art

How these ancient carvings aren’t more of a mecca yet is a mystery – the impeccably preserved collection of over 6000 rock engravings are just awesome to gaze at in person. Standing at the bottom of the rock face, it puts life into perspective when you realise that these were crafted by communities as far back as 40,000 years.

10. Musical interludes aplenty

Here is a country that takes music just as seriously as it takes it food. There is a rich tradition of artistic endeavours in Azerbaijan and artists of all disciplines are well respected; there are sculptures all around the city of poets, writers and musicians, as well as countless opportunities to catch a festival celebrating them. Sample some of the traditional (and very intricate) folk music called mugham, catch a classical concert, or hit up a jazz show.

Interested in Azerbaijan? Check it out on a small group adventure with Intrepid now! Explore our range of trips now .  

All photos by Cassandra Charlick. 

Feeling inspired?

Cassandra Charlick

Based in Margaret River, it would be easy to spend 365 days a year lounging on secluded beaches, drinking world-class wine and mountain biking though majestic forests. However, Cassandra’s career as a freelance journalist and singer mean that her suitcase is never far from the front door. She’s written and held a microphone in London, New York, Japan, Australia, and even floated aboard a boat for 6 months circumnavigating Africa. Her bucket list never seems to get any shorter, no matter how many times her passport is stamped.

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The Ultimate Baku Travel Guide

With a wonderful mix of ancient and modern buildings, Baku lays claim to being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The capital of Azerbaijan offers something for everyone, from great restaurants, bars, and cultural sights to the beautiful beaches on the Caspian Sea. Read on to discover our top tips for your visit to the 'City of Wind' .

Get your bearings

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