Baku, Azerbaijan-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Baku’s Old City

  • Morning:
    • Start your day with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast at Bakikhanov Street Market Cafe, where you can try local specialties like lavash bread and tea (10-15 AZN / $6-$9 USD per person)
    • Visit the Azerbaijan State Museum of History to learn about the country’s rich history and culture (20-30 AZN / $12-$18 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the historic Old City (Icherisheher) with its narrow streets, ancient mosques, and traditional shops selling local handicrafts
    • Visit the ** Maiden Tower**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Baku’s most iconic landmarks (10-15 AZN / $6-$9 USD per person)
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at Sayat-Nova restaurant, which serves delicious Azerbaijani cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes like plov and dolma (30-40 AZN / $18-$24 USD per person)
    • Take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a scenic waterfront promenade perfect for people-watching

Day 2: Modern Baku

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning example of modern architecture and a must-see attraction in Baku (20-30 AZN / $12-$18 USD per person)
    • Explore the nearby Crystal Hall, which hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Museum of Modern Art to see an impressive collection of Azerbaijani and international art (20-30 AZN / $12-$18 USD per person)
    • Take a break at Café Le Chalet, which serves delicious coffee and pastries in a cozy atmosphere
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at X-Club, a trendy restaurant with a focus on modern Azerbaijani cuisine (40-50 AZN / $24-$30 USD per person)
    • Head to the rooftop bar at The Four Seasons Hotel for stunning views of the city

Day 3: Baku’s Beaches and Parks

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Baku Seaside Boulevard, a scenic waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and parks
    • Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the sea breeze
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Park, which features beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of picnic areas (free admission)
    • Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk through the park to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery

Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan National Museum

  • Morning:
    • Take a day trip to the Gobustan National Museum, which features ancient rock art, petroglyphs, and artifacts (40-60 AZN / $24-$36 USD per person)
    • Explore the nearby village of Gobustan, where you can see traditional Azerbaijani houses and meet local people
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to Baku and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
    • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Bakikhanov Street Market Cafe, which serves delicious Azerbaijani cuisine

Where to Stay:

There are many great hotels in Baku, but here are a few recommendations:

  • The Four Seasons Hotel: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city and excellent service (150-200 AZN / $90-$120 USD per night)
  • The Shining Hotel: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location (80-100 AZN / $48-$60 USD per night)
  • Hotel Azad: A budget-friendly option with clean and cozy rooms (40-50 AZN / $24-$30 USD per night)

Things to Know:

  • Azerbaijan uses the manat currency, which is pegged to the US dollar
  • The official language is Azerbaijani, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas
  • Baku has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters

Transportation:

  • Baku has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis
  • You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service like Uber or Yandex Taxi
  • Consider renting a car to explore the city and surrounding areas

Tips and Tricks:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites
  • Try local cuisine and drinks, such as plov, dolma, and tea
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Azerbaijani sweets like baklava and lavash bread!