Baku, Azerbaijan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Old City and Modern Wonders

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Azerbaijani breakfast at Café Leilei (Nizami Street 56, Baku). Try the traditional Piti soup or Shakh Pilov.
  • Visit Icherisheher (Old City), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s over 2,000 years old. Wander through its narrow streets filled with historic buildings, craft workshops, and souvenir shops.
  • Climb the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of Baku. The tower dates back to the 12th century.
  • Explore the Palace of Shirvanshahs, another historical monument inside the Old City.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Xalvono (Huseyn Javid Street 43, Baku), known for its delicious Azerbaijani cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Take a taxi to Heydar Aliyev Center (1 Namig Gadjali St., Baku). Designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this cultural center is a marvel of contemporary architecture.
  • Visit the Flame Towers, another iconic landmark of Baku, and enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Narzan Kebab & Bar (Aleksandr Pushkin Street 5, Baku), famous for its delicious kebabs and a vibrant atmosphere.
  • End your day with a walk along Baku Boulevard, enjoying the sea breeze and beautiful lighting.

Day 2: Discovering Modern Baku and Carpet Museum

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Food Story (Nizami Street 45, Baku), a popular spot for breakfast with an extensive menu.
  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Park and take the funicular up to Highland Park for breathtaking views of Baku.
  • Explore Fountains Square and the nearby Nizami Museum of Literature.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Café Sapphire (Neftchilar Avenue 132, Baku), a cozy restaurant offering a variety of dishes.
  • Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum to learn about the rich tradition of Azerbaijani carpet weaving.
  • Take a taxi to Bakini Street, a vibrant and colorful street filled with street art, cafes, and boutiques.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Tarqawiyan Restaurant (Nizami Street 47, Baku), where you can taste traditional Azerbaijani dishes in a beautiful setting.
  • End your day with a visit to Little Venice, a charming neighborhood filled with cafes and restaurants by the sea.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Azerbaijani, but English is widely spoken in the city.
  • The local currency is the Manat (AZN).
  • Taxis are affordable and easy to find. However, use meter-taxis for a fair price.
  • Baku is generally safe, but be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is pleasant.

Transportation:

  • Walking and taxis are the best ways to get around the city. You can also use the metro for longer distances.
  • To save money, consider buying a BakuCard which gives you unlimited travel on all public transportation for 1, 3, or 5 days.