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Baku, Azərbaycan - Things to Do in Baku

Things to Do in Baku

Baku, Azərbaycan - Complete Travel Guide

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a captivating blend of ancient history and futuristic architecture that sits majestically on the western shores of the Caspian Sea. Known as the 'City of Winds' and the 'Land of Fire,' Baku offers visitors a unique experience where medieval fortress walls stand alongside gleaming modern skyscrapers like the iconic Flame Towers that dominate the skyline. The city's rich oil heritage has funded remarkable urban development while preserving its UNESCO World Heritage Old City (Icherisheher). This dynamic Caucasian metropolis seamlessly weaves together Persian, Turkish, and Russian influences, creating a distinctive cultural tapestry reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. From exploring ancient fire temples and Zoroastrian sites to marveling at contemporary architectural marvels, Baku provides an extraordinary journey through time. The city's strategic location along the ancient Silk Road has left it with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, excellent museums, vibrant bazaars, and a thriving arts scene that makes it one of the most intriguing destinations in the South Caucasus.

Top Things to Do in Baku

Explore the Old City (Icherisheher)

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage medieval walled city with its narrow cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, and historic caravanserais. This living museum contains the mysterious Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah's Palace, and numerous traditional workshops where craftsmen still practice ancient trades.

Booking Tip: Entry to the Old City is free, but individual attractions like Maiden Tower cost 2-5 AZN. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Consider hiring a local guide for 20-30 AZN to unlock hidden stories.

Visit the Flame Towers and Modern Architecture

Marvel at Baku's futuristic skyline dominated by the iconic Flame Towers, which light up spectacularly at night with LED displays resembling dancing flames. Take in panoramic city views and explore the modern Heydar Aliyev Center designed by Zaha Hadid.

Booking Tip: The towers are best viewed from Highland Park (free) or from restaurants in the towers themselves. The Heydar Aliyev Center charges 15 AZN entry. Evening visits offer the most dramatic lighting displays.

Discover Fire-Related Sites

Experience Azerbaijan's connection to fire at Ateshgah Fire Temple, where natural gas flames have burned for centuries, and Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain), where flames continuously emerge from the hillside. These sites showcase the country's Zoroastrian heritage and natural gas phenomena.

Booking Tip: Combine both sites in a half-day trip costing 15-25 AZN total entry. Tours including transport cost 40-60 AZN per person. Best visited in evening when flames are most visible against the darkening sky.

Experience Local Markets and Bazaars

Immerse yourself in Baku's trading culture at Taza Bazaar for fresh produce and spices, or browse the carpet shops around the Old City. The markets offer insight into daily Azerbaijani life and opportunities to purchase traditional crafts, saffron, and caviar.

Booking Tip: Markets are free to explore and most active in the morning. Bargaining is expected - start at 50% of the asking price. For authentic carpets, budget 100-1000+ AZN depending on size and quality.

Enjoy Caspian Sea Waterfront

Stroll along the beautifully developed Baku Boulevard (Dənizkənarı Milli Park) stretching for kilometers along the Caspian Sea shore. The promenade features parks, cafes, the Baku Eye ferris wheel, and boat trips, offering respite from the city's bustle.

Booking Tip: The boulevard is free to walk, with optional activities like the ferris wheel (5 AZN) or boat trips (10-15 AZN). Rent bikes for 5 AZN/hour. Best enjoyed during sunset with views of the Flame Towers reflecting on the water.

Getting There

Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is Baku's main gateway, located 25km northeast of the city center with direct flights from major European, Middle Eastern, and some Asian cities. Airport buses (1 AZN) run every 30 minutes to the city center, while taxis cost 15-25 AZN. Overland options include buses and trains from Georgia (Tbilisi), though these take 8-12 hours. The city is also accessible by ferry from Turkmenbashi in Turkmenistan, though schedules can be irregular.

Getting Around

Baku's public transportation system includes a modern metro with two lines covering major attractions (0.30 AZN per ride), extensive bus network (0.30 AZN), and abundant taxis. The metro is clean, efficient, and connects the airport to downtown. Taxis are affordable (3-8 AZN for most city trips) and ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate here. The city center and Old City are very walkable, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. For day trips to fire temples and surrounding areas, organized tours or taxi hire (80-120 AZN per day) are most convenient.

Where to Stay

Old City (Icherisheher)
City Center/Fountain Square
Port Baku/Flame Towers Area
Sahil/Caspian Waterfront
Nizami Street District
Highland Park Area

Food & Dining

Baku's dining scene brilliantly showcases Azerbaijani cuisine alongside international options, with the Old City offering traditional restaurants in historic settings and the modern city center featuring upscale establishments. Must-try dishes include plov (saffron rice pilaf), kebabs, dolma, and fresh Caspian sturgeon, often accompanied by strong Azerbaijani tea served in pear-shaped glasses. Local restaurants typically cost 15-30 AZN per person for a full meal, while high-end establishments in the Flame Towers area charge 50-100 AZN. The Fountain Square area buzzes with cafes and eateries, and don't miss trying local sweets like pakhlava and shekerbura, best found in traditional tea houses throughout the Old City.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Azerbaijan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

MALACANNES - Shisha Lounge

4.9 /5
(3963 reviews) 2
bar night_club

Fisincan Cafe & Restaurant

4.6 /5
(2086 reviews) 2

Qala Divari

4.8 /5
(1942 reviews) 2

Fontan Restoran Qebele

4.7 /5
(1803 reviews) 2
lodging

Romeo Land Restaurant

4.9 /5
(1079 reviews)

Terrace 145

4.6 /5
(800 reviews)

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Baku is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant (15-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. Summer can be extremely hot and windy with temperatures reaching 35-40°C, though the Caspian Sea breeze provides some relief. Winter (December-February) is mild but can be rainy and windy, with temperatures around 5-10°C. The city's nickname 'City of Winds' is well-earned, as strong Caspian winds blow year-round, particularly in winter. Spring offers the added bonus of seeing the countryside green and blooming, while autumn provides clear skies perfect for photography and sightseeing.

Insider Tips

Learn a few words in Azerbaijani - locals greatly appreciate the effort and 'Salam' (hello) and 'Təşəkkür edirəm' (thank you) go a long way
The Baku Card offers discounts on attractions and free public transport, available at major hotels and tourist information centers for 20-30 AZN
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove shoes before entering mosques - women should carry a headscarf

Explore Activities in Baku