Top 10 Things to Do in Baku

Baku, the “Paris of the Caucasus,” is a city where ancient Silk Road heritage meets bold 21st-century architecture. Whether you have 48 hours or a week, here are the essential experiences that capture the spirit of Azerbaijan’s vibrant capital.

1. Wander the UNESCO Old City (Icherisheher)

Step through the stone walls into Baku’s historic heart. Lose yourself in the maze of cobbled lanes, discover the 12th-century Maiden Tower, and explore the magnificent Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Don’t miss the artisan shops selling carpets, copper crafts, and miniature paintings.

Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos.

2. Marvel at the Flame Towers

These three shimmering towers dominate Baku’s skyline and symbolize Azerbaijan’s ancient Zoroastrian fire-worshipping tradition. At night, LED screens transform them into giant flames visible across the city.

Best viewpoint: Highland Park (Dağüstü Park) offers panoramic views of the towers, Old City, and Caspian Sea.

3. Stroll Baku Boulevard

This 25km seaside promenade along the Caspian is perfect for sunset walks. Rent a bike, stop at outdoor cafés, watch street performers, and visit attractions like the Carpet Museum and Little Venice boat rides.

4. Experience the Heydar Aliyev Center

Zaha Hadid’s undulating masterpiece is as stunning inside as out. The flowing white curves house exhibitions on Azerbaijani culture, history, and art. Even if museums aren’t your thing, the architecture alone is worth the visit.

5. Explore Gobustan Rock Art

Just 40 minutes from Baku, this UNESCO site preserves 40,000-year-old petroglyphs depicting ancient hunters, dances, and animals. Combine it with a visit to the nearby mud volcanoes—a surreal lunar landscape you won’t forget.

6. Visit Fire Worship Sites

Azerbaijan’s nickname, “Land of Fire,” comes from natural gas flames that have burned for centuries. See the eternal flames at Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) and the Ateshgah Fire Temple, once a pilgrimage site for Zoroastrians and Hindus.

7. Savor Azerbaijani Cuisine

Baku’s food scene blends Persian, Turkish, and Russian influences. Must-tries:

• Plov (saffron rice with lamb and dried fruits)
• Dolma (grape leaves stuffed with meat and herbs)
• Qutab (thin savory crepes)
• Pakhlava (honey-nut pastry)

Restaurant rec: Try Firuze in the Old City for traditional atmosphere and authentic flavors.

8. Discover Modern Baku

Beyond the Old City, explore trendy Nizami Street for shopping, catch a performance at the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera, or visit the ultra-modern Park Bulvar shopping mall right on the boulevard.

9. Day Trip to Absheron Peninsula

Rent a car or join a tour to explore Baku’s surroundings:

• Qobustan village (not the rock art—this is wine country!)
• Mardakan Castle (medieval fortress)
• Surakhani village (quieter fire temple)
• Beach resorts like Bilgah and Novkhani

10. Experience Baku’s Nightlife

When the sun sets, Baku comes alive. Sip cocktails at rooftop bars overlooking the Flame Towers, dance at Port Baku clubs, or enjoy live mugham (traditional Azerbaijani music) at intimate venues.

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Practical Tips

• Best time to visit: April-June and September-October for mild weather
• Getting around: Metro is cheap and efficient; taxis are affordable (use Bolt app)
• Language: Russian and Azerbaijani; English is common in tourist areas
• Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN); ATMs are everywhere
• Visa: Many nationalities get e-visa or visa-on-arrival

Ready to explore Baku? Contact us to plan your perfect Azerbaijan adventure!