Baku Travel Guide: What to Do, Eat and See in 2024
Baku is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern architecture and buzzing nightlife.
As Azerbaijan’s capital, it is home to over two million people and is the country’s cultural and economic hub.
In this comprehensive Baku travel guide, I’ll tell you the best things to do, see, and eat in the city.
Things to Do in Baku
Baku is a mix of old and new. On one side you have the historic buildings, streets, and palaces and on the other, you have modernity fueled by gas profits.
Explore the Old City (Icheri Sheher)
The UNESCO-listed Old City, or Icheri Sheher, is a must-visit attraction in Baku. It’s a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and ancient fortifications. While there, make sure to pet the many cats freely roaming around.
Like the cats in Istanbul, these are also well-fed and taken care of by residents and business owners, so don’t feed them.
Instead, take some memorable photos with adorable feline friends as a souvenir of your trip.
Visit the Flame Towers
These iconic skyscrapers are one of Baku’s most recognizable landmarks. They are lit up at night to resemble flames, and the view of the city from the top is breathtaking.
Take a Cable Car Ride to the Martyrs’ Lane
This is a beautiful park that honors those who died during the Soviet crackdown on Azerbaijan’s independence movement in 1990.
Take a cable car up the hill for stunning views of the city. Or walk if you want to save money.
Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center
This modern architectural masterpiece is a museum and cultural center that celebrates the life and legacy of Azerbaijan’s former president.
It was designed by the world-famous architect Zaha Hadid.
Relax at a Tea House
Azerbaijani tea culture is an important part of local life, and there are many tea houses throughout Baku where you can sip on a cup of hot tea and enjoy a snack.
Places to See in Baku
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
This is a beautiful palace complex in the heart of the Old City. It was the seat of the Shirvanshah dynasty, which ruled Azerbaijan from the 9th to the 16th century.
Maiden Tower
This is an ancient stone tower located in the Old City. Its exact purpose is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the 12th century.
Baku Boulevard
This is a beautiful promenade that runs along the Caspian Sea. It’s a great place to take a stroll, go for a jog, or simply relax and enjoy the views.
Gobustan National Park
This park is located about an hour’s drive from Baku and is home to thousands of rock carvings and petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age. You can find more information about how to get to the mud volcanoes without an organized tour here.
Carpet Museum
Azerbaijan is known for its intricate carpets, and the Carpet Museum in Baku is dedicated to the history of this art form. The entrance fee is 10 AZN / 5.5 EUR.
Food to Eat in Baku
Plov
This is a classic Azerbaijani dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables. It’s hearty and filling, and you can find it in most restaurants in Baku.
Dolma
This is a dish of stuffed vegetables, usually grape leaves or bell peppers, filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and herbs.
Dushbara
Dushbara are small dumplings filled with meat and served in a savory broth. They are a popular Azerbaijani comfort food.
Baklava
This is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. It’s a popular dessert in Azerbaijan and throughout the Middle East.
Azerbaijani Tea
Tea is an important part of Azerbaijani culture, and you can find it in many tea houses throughout Baku. It’s usually served with sweets or snacks.
Where to go next?
After exploring the many wonders of Baku, a trip to Sheki is a must-do for anyone visiting Azerbaijan. This picturesque town, located in the northwest of the country, is famous for its historic architecture, including the magnificent Sheki Khan’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sheki also offers stunning natural scenery, including the lush forests of the Caucasus Mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Kish River.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the local cuisine, particularly Sheki’s delicious sweets, and pastries. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Sheki is a perfect destination to complement your Azerbaijan adventure.
