Baku, Azerbaijan-7-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Downtown Baku

Morning: Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Take a taxi or metro (Line 2) from the airport to your hotel.
10:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel and freshen up. We recommend staying in downtown Baku for easy access to attractions.
- Hotel Suggestion: Baku Plaza Hotel (4-star)
- Alternative: Holiday Inn Baku (5-star)
11:30 AM: Visit the iconic Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning example of modern architecture. Take a guided tour inside and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Nakhchivan Restaurant, a local favorite serving traditional Azerbaijani cuisine.
3:00 PM: Explore the nearby Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea. Enjoy the street performers, food stalls, and stunning views of the sea.
8:00 PM: Dine at Museum Cafe, offering an upscale dining experience with a focus on local flavors.

Day 2: Historic Baku

9:00 AM: Visit the Old Town (Icheri Sheher), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the narrow streets and alleys of this historic neighborhood.
- Must-see attractions:
  - Juma Mosque
  - Synyk Kala (a medieval fortress)
  - Maiden Tower (Gardashga Donuz)
1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Chaykhana, a cozy tea house serving traditional snacks and drinks.
3:00 PM: Visit the State Museum of History of Azerbaijan, showcasing the country’s rich history and culture.
7:00 PM: Dine at Karavansaray Restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Azerbaijani cuisine in an atmospheric setting.

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

9:00 AM: Visit the Baku Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Food Court, a casual eatery offering international cuisine options.
2:00 PM: Explore the nearby Mud Volcano, a unique natural wonder where you can see mud bubbles and take a guided tour.
6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant 360, located in the heart of Baku, serving contemporary Azerbaijani cuisine.

Day 4: Shopping and Entertainment

10:00 AM: Visit the Baku Mall, an upscale shopping center with international brands and restaurants.
1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Food Court or try some local street food.
3:00 PM: Explore the nearby Crystal Hall, a stunning concert venue hosting world-class performances.
7:00 PM: Dine at Tandoori Nights, serving delicious Indian cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Gobustan and Bibi-Heybat Mosque

8:00 AM: Depart for Gobustan (1 hour drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs.
- Guided tour of the petroglyphs
- Explore the nearby mud volcanoes
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at a local restaurant in Gobustan.
2:00 PM: Visit the stunning Bibi-Heybat Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Azerbaijan.
4:00 PM: Return to Baku and enjoy some free time.

Day 6: Day Trip to Absheron Peninsula

9:00 AM: Depart for the Absheron Peninsula (30-minute drive), known for its stunning natural beauty and historic sites.
- Visit the ancient Fire Temple of Ateshgah
- Explore the scenic coastal views
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the peninsula
4:00 PM: Return to Baku and enjoy some free time.

Day 7: Departure

Spend your last day in Baku exploring any attractions you missed earlier or doing some last-minute shopping.
Depart for the airport and head back home.

Things to Know:

Azerbaijan is a Muslim country, and dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
Try to learn a few basic Azerbaijani phrases like “merhaba” (hello) and “teşekkür” (thank you).
Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.

Transportation:

Tips:

Be patient and flexible when dealing with crowds or unexpected situations.
Try local cuisine and drinks, like plov and chay (tea).
Don’t haggle too much at markets; it’s considered rude to negotiate prices excessively.

We hope you enjoy your time in Baku!