Baku, Azerbaijan-6-day-itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Baku, Azerbaijan

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Center

Morning

  • Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport
  • Take a taxi or bus (route #111) from the airport to your accommodation
  • Check-in at Hotel Renaissance Baku or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore narrow streets and alleys, historic mosques, and ancient buildings
    • Stop by the Maiden Tower, a 12th-century monument with unclear origins
  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine at L’Escargot, located in the Old City

Evening

  • Take a stroll along Nizami Street, one of Baku’s most famous promenades
    • Admire the beautifully restored historic buildings and take photos
    • Visit the nearby Heydar Aliyev Monument, a massive bronze statue of Azerbaijan’s former president

Day 2: Museums and History

Morning

  • Visit the Azerbaijan State Museum of History (Musée d’Histoire de l’Azerbaïdjan)
    • Learn about the country’s history from ancient times to modern days
    • See exhibits on traditional Azerbaijani crafts, such as carpet-weaving and ceramics
  • Stop by the nearby Museum of Musical Instruments

Afternoon

  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning building designed by Zaha Hadid
    • Explore the museum inside, featuring interactive exhibitions about Azerbaijan’s history and culture
    • Enjoy panoramic views of Baku from the top floor

Evening

Day 3: Nature Escapes

Morning

  • Visit National Park (Bakı Milli Qoruğu)
    • Take a short walk through the park, enjoying scenic views of Lake Baku
    • Observe local wildlife, such as gazelles and birds
  • Stop by the nearby Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that has been burning for thousands of years

Afternoon

  • Relax at Hotel Boulevard, located in the heart of Baku’s business district
    • Enjoy the hotel’s pool and fitness center, or take a leisurely walk around the nearby park
    • Have lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, serving international cuisine

Evening

  • Attend a traditional Azerbaijani dance performance at Festival Hall
    • Enjoy the music and dance of this unique cultural event
    • Try some local snacks or drinks during intermission

Day 4: Shopping and Markets

Morning

  • Visit Nizami Street Market (Rynok Nizamyskogo Prospekt), a bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs
    • Haggling is encouraged at this vibrant market!
  • Stop by the nearby Baku Mall, featuring international brands and luxury shopping

Afternoon

  • Visit the Crystal Gallery (Kristal Gallery)
    • Marvel at the stunning crystal chandeliers on display
    • Learn about the history of crystal-making in Azerbaijan

Evening

  • Have dinner at Shahrzad, a popular restaurant serving traditional Azerbaijani cuisine
    • Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and attentive service

Day 5: More History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit Azerbaijan State Museum of Art (Musée d’Art de l’Azerbaïdjan)
    • Explore exhibits featuring local and international art
    • See works by famous Azerbaijani artists, such as Mikayil Abdullayev
  • Stop by the nearby House-Museum of Mirza Fatali Akhundov, a 19th-century writer and public figure

Afternoon

  • Visit the Museum of Miniature Books (Musée des Livres de Poche)
    • Marvel at the intricate details and beauty of these tiny books
    • Learn about the history of book-making in Azerbaijan

Evening

  • Attend a concert or performance at Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Society
    • Enjoy world-class music and entertainment in this beautiful venue
    • Try some local snacks or drinks during intermission

Day 6: Last Day in Baku

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs at Nizami Street Market (Rynok Nizamyskogo Prospekt)
    • Pick up a few last-minute gifts or mementos
  • Have lunch at L’Escargot, located in the Old City

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along Nizami Street, one of Baku’s most famous promenades
    • Admire the beautifully restored historic buildings and take photos
    • Visit the nearby Heydar Aliyev Monument, a massive bronze statue of Azerbaijan’s former president
  • Depart for the airport or continue your journey

Things to Know:

  • Language: Azerbaijani (official), Russian, English (widely spoken)
  • Currency: Azerbaijani manat (AZN)
  • Weather: Baku has a dry climate with hot summers and mild winters
  • Safety: Generally safe for tourists, but take normal precautions

Transportation:

  • Airport: Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD)
  • Taxi: Available from the airport to city center; metered taxis are recommended
  • Public Transportation: Bus routes #111 and #112 connect the airport to city center
  • Walking: Baku is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many walkable streets and promenades

Tips:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites
  • Haggle: Expect to haggle at markets and bazaars
  • Learn some Azerbaijani phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases, such as “merhaba” (hello) and “teşekkür” (thank you)

Other:

  • Azerbaijan has a rich history: From ancient times to modern days, this country has been home to many cultures and civilizations
  • The cuisine is delicious: Azerbaijani food combines Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European flavors; try popular dishes like plov (pilaf), shashlik (skewers), and dolma (stuffed vegetables)
  • Baku is a vibrant city: Enjoy the energy of this bustling metropolis, with its mix of old and new, traditional and modern, culture and entertainment.