Baku Azerbaijan

Travel Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Welcome to the enchanting city of Baku, Azerbaijan! This guide will provide you with essential information to make your visit memorable.

Places to Go

  1. Icherisheher (Old Town): Explore the historical heart of Baku, filled with ancient architecture, narrow streets, and bustling markets. Don’t miss the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah’s Palace.

  2. Flame Towers: These iconic skyscrapers, located near the Baykov non-oil gas park, offer a spectacular view of the city.

  3. Heydar Aliyev Center: Designed by Zaha Hadid, this cultural center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and other events. The building’s unique design is worth seeing alone.

  4. Baku Boulevard: Stroll along this 28-km-long pedestrian walkway that follows the Caspian Sea coastline. It’s filled with cafes, fountains, sculptures, and more.

  5. Gobustan State Reserve: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site to see petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and enjoy a boat trip on the Caspian Sea.

  6. Ateshgah Fire Temple: Explore this 17th-century temple, where Zoroastrians used to worship the burning natural gas that emerges from the ground.

Activities

  1. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience a bird’s eye view of Baku at sunrise or sunset.

  2. Carpet Museum: Learn about Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-making tradition and see some stunning examples.

  3. Abbasgala Rope Park: Enjoy adventure sports in the beautiful nature reserve.

  4. Visit a Tea House: Sip on traditional Azerbaijani tea, enjoy local pastries, and engage in friendly conversation with locals.

Where to Eat

  1. Xalvendo Restaurant: Try delicious Azerbaijani cuisine in a charming atmosphere. Don’t miss their dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and shashlik (kebabs).

  2. Lemon Tree Kitchen & Bar: Enjoy international cuisine with a view of the Flame Towers.

  3. 4 Rooms Restaurant: Experience fine dining in a historic building with a modern twist.

Where to Stay

  1. Four Seasons Hotel Baku: Luxury accommodation with stunning views, top-notch service, and excellent facilities.

  2. JW Marriott Absheron, Baku: Another luxury option offering comfort, convenience, and a fantastic location.

  3. City Hostel Baku: Budget-friendly accommodations for travelers seeking a more casual experience.

Things to Know

  1. The official language is Azerbaijani, but many people also speak Russian and English.

  2. The currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are widely accepted in city centers, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.

  3. The weather can be quite hot in summer, so pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.

Transportation

  1. Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but make sure to use reputable companies or apps like Yandex.Taxi or BakuTaxi.

  2. Metro: Baku’s metro system is clean, safe, and cheap. It operates from 6:00 AM to midnight.

  3. Bus/Tram: Buses and trams are also an affordable option for getting around the city.

Tips

  1. Bargaining is expected in markets and souvenir shops.

  2. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

  3. Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Enjoy your stay in Baku! If you have any specific questions or need further advice, feel free to ask. Safe travels!