Baku Azerbaijan

Welcome to Baku: A Traveler’s Guide

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. This guide will take you on a journey through the city’s must-visit places, activities, restaurants, accommodations, and insider tips to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Places to Visit

1. Old City (Icheri Sheher)

  • Address: Old City, Baku AZ1100
  • Hours: 9am-6pm
  • Admission: 10 AZN (around $5 USD)

The walled city of Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest part of the city. Explore its narrow streets, historic mosques, and ancient architecture.

2. Heydar Aliyev Center

  • Address: Azadlig Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 10am-7pm
  • Admission: 15 AZN (around $8 USD)

This iconic building is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic design and stunning interior make it a must-visit.

3. Maiden Tower

  • Address: Maiden Tower, Baku AZ1100
  • Hours: 9am-6pm
  • Admission: 10 AZN (around $5 USD)

This 12th-century tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Baku. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its top.

4. Flame Towers

  • Address: Azadlig Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: Varying hours for different restaurants and shops
  • Admission: Free to enter, but some attractions may have a fee

This trio of skyscrapers is the tallest building in Baku and offers stunning views from its observation decks.

5. Baku Boulevard

  • Address: Baku Boulevard, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 10am-10pm (varies depending on the season)
  • Admission: Free to enter

This scenic waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride along the Caspian Sea.

6. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

  • Address: Huseyn Javid Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 10am-6pm
  • Admission: 5 AZN (around $3 USD)

Learn about the ancient art of carpet-weaving and see stunning examples on display.

Activities

1. Horse Riding

Take a guided horseback ride through the picturesque countryside surrounding Baku.

2. Baku City Tour

Join a guided tour to explore the city’s main attractions, including Old City, Heydar Aliyev Center, and Maiden Tower.

3. Cooking Class

Learn how to prepare traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov, shashlik, and baklava with a local cooking class.

4. Wine Tasting

Visit a wine cellar to taste some of Azerbaijan’s finest wines and learn about the country’s rich viticulture heritage.

Where to Eat

1. Sayat-Nova

  • Address: Sayat-Nova St, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 12pm-11pm
  • Cuisine: Traditional Azerbaijani

Enjoy delicious plov, shashlik, and other local specialties in a cozy atmosphere.

2. Bakhtyars

  • Address: Bakhtyars 3/1, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 12pm-11pm
  • Cuisine: Traditional Azerbaijani

Savor authentic Azerbaijani cuisine, including kebabs and traditional desserts like baklava.

3. Khanski Dvor

  • Address: Khanski Dvor 1/3, Baku AZ1000
  • Hours: 12pm-11pm
  • Cuisine: Traditional Azerbaijani

Experience the rich culinary heritage of Azerbaijan at this historic restaurant located in a former palace.

4. Café Gourmet

  • Address: Fuzuli St 13/15, Baku AZ1100
  • Hours: 10am-10pm
  • Cuisine: International cuisine with an emphasis on coffee and desserts

Enjoy delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Baku

  • Address: Heydar Aliyev Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Phone: +994 12 493-3933
  • Prices: Around $200-$300 USD per night

Experience luxury and elegance at this 5-star hotel located in the heart of Baku.

2. Hotel Fairmont Baku

  • Address: Heydar Aliyev Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Phone: +994 12 493-3933
  • Prices: Around $200-$300 USD per night

Enjoy upscale amenities and stunning views at this 5-star hotel located in the Flame Towers complex.

3. Hotel Park Inn by Radisson

  • Address: Heydar Aliyev Ave 1, Baku AZ1000
  • Phone: +994 12 493-3933
  • Prices: Around $150-$250 USD per night

Relax and unwind in a cozy atmosphere at this 4-star hotel located near the city center.

Things to Know

1. Language: Azerbaijani, Russian, English are widely spoken in Baku.

2. Currency: AZN (Azerbaijani Manat) is the local currency.

3. Safety: Baku is generally a safe city for tourists.

4. Weather: Baku has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Transportation

1. Taxis: Available throughout the city, but some taxi drivers may not speak English.

2. Buses: An efficient and affordable way to get around the city.

3. Metro: Baku has a modern metro system with several lines that cover most areas of the city.

Tips

1. Respect local customs: Azerbaijan is an Islamic country, so dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.

2. Learn some Azerbaijani phrases: Show respect and appreciation for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you).

3. Try traditional food: Azerbaijan has a rich culinary heritage, so be adventurous and try new dishes.

Other Things to Know

1. Festivals and Events: Baku hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Baku Jazz Festival and the Baku International Film Festival.

2. Shopping: Baku has a wide range of shopping centers and markets where you can buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goods.

3. Nightlife: Baku has a lively nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Baku!