Baku - Discovering Azerbaijan

Travelling to Baku

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Baku, a pretty good destination in Azerbaijan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Baku and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Baku, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Azerbaijan, here's everything to know about Baku for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Baku

Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan. It is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea and contains the country's largest port. Baku is known for its mix of modern and ancient architecture, including the iconic Flame Towers, which are three skyscrapers that resemble flames. The old town of Baku, called Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and contains many historic landmarks and museums. Baku is also known for its diverse cuisine, including traditional Azerbaijani dishes such as plov and dolma.

What to visit in Baku

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Baku, Azerbaijan and relevant information about each: 1. Old City (Icherisheher) - This walled city within Baku is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains historical landmarks such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Maiden Tower, and Juma Mosque.
2. Flame Towers - These three skyscrapers are a modern addition to the Baku skyline and are known for their unique design and LED lighting that creates the illusion of flames.
3. Heydar Aliyev Center - This museum and cultural center was designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid and features exhibitions about Azerbaijani culture, art, and history.
4. Baku Boulevard - Stretching along the Caspian Sea, this promenade is a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride while taking in views of the sea and the city.
5. Ateshgah Fire Temple - Located on the outskirts of Baku, this temple is a historic site where Zoroastrians once worshiped the eternal flame.
6. Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) - This natural gas fire has been continuously burning on a hillside near Baku for thousands of years and is believed to have been the inspiration for the legend of the fire-worshiping religion of Zoroastrianism.
7. Gobustan National Park - This park is home to thousands of ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs that depict prehistoric life in the region.
8. Bibi-Heybat Mosque - This mosque is a replica of the one that stood on the same spot until it was destroyed by the Soviets in the 1930s; it is considered to be one of the holiest Islamic sites in Azerbaijan.
9. National Museum of Azerbaijan History - This museum showcases the history and culture of Azerbaijan from ancient times to the present day, including artifacts from the Silk Road and Islamic empires.
10. Carpet Museum - This museum celebrates the artistry and history of Azerbaijani carpets, which are known for their intricate designs and bright colors.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Baku.

When to go on holiday to Baku

The best time to visit Baku, Azerbaijan is between April to June and September to November, when the weather is comfortable and pleasant for outdoor activities. During these months, the temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, and there is little to no rainfall. If you prefer warmer temperatures and are looking to enjoy the beach, then the summer months of June to August are also a good time to visit; however, it can get very hot and humid during this period, with temperatures reaching upwards of 35°C. Finally, if you're interested in winter sports, you might also consider visiting Baku between December to February, as there are several ski resorts in the nearby mountains that offer a range of winter activities. However, it can get quite cold during this time, with temperatures dropping to 0°C or below.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Baku

There are a few different ways to get to Baku, depending on where you are starting from. Here are some common options: 1. By plane: The most common way to get to Baku is by flying into Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Many airlines, including Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa, offer direct flights to Baku from major cities around the world.
2. By bus or car: If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you can take a bus or drive to Baku. The city is connected to the surrounding areas by several major highways.
3. By train: You can also take a train to Baku from some nearby countries, such as Georgia or Russia. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway connects Baku with Tbilisi and other major cities in the region.
It's important to check visa requirements and travel restrictions before making your plans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Baku, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Baku

Here are some typical foods of Baku, Azerbaijan along with their short descriptions: 1. Plov - a rice dish cooked with meat or fish, onions, and spices such as saffron, cumin, and garlic.
2. Dolma – grape leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice mixed with herbs and spices. It can also be made with other vegetables such as eggplant, tomato, or pepper.
3. Dushbara – small traditional dumplings filled with spiced minced meat and served in a warm broth.
4. Lyulya Kebab – skewered minced meat (usually lamb or beef) cooked over an open flame and served with pita bread and salad.
5. Qutab – thin, savory pancakes filled with ground meat, herbs, and spices. They can also be made with cheese, potatoes, or pumpkin.
6. Lavangi – a traditional Azerbaijani dish made with chicken, walnuts, and onions, baked in a pastry shell.
7. Sheki halva – a sweet, sticky dessert made with ground nuts (usually hazelnuts or walnuts), sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and cardamom.
8. Pakhlava – a sweet pastry made with layers of dough and filled with chopped nuts, sugar, and honey syrup.
9. Qorovat – a slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew seasoned with herbs and spices like saffron and cinnamon 10. Tendir Bread – The traditional bread of Azerbaijan - a large, fluffy, round bread made in a clay oven called a tandir. It’s usually served with savory dishes like kebab or plov.
You can find general info about typical foods in Azerbaijan here.

Is Baku an expensive destination for tourists?

Baku can be considered a relatively expensive destination for some tourists, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining options in the city center. However, there are still affordable options available, such as budget hotels, hostels, and local cafés and restaurants. In general, the cost of transportation in Baku is quite affordable, as the city has a well-developed public transport system with multiple options for getting around the city. Sightseeing in Baku can also be done on a budget, as there are many free or low-cost attractions to visit, such as the Old City, the Flame Towers, and the Heydar Aliyev Center.

Where to find accomodation in Baku

The best areas to find accommodation in Baku for tourists are the city center (including the Old City or Icheri Sheher), Fountain Square, Nizami Street (Torgovaya), and the seaside Boulevard (Bulvar). These areas offer easy access to many of Baku's top attractions, including historical sites, museums, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. The area around the Baku Flame Towers is also becoming increasingly popular as it offers great views of the city and easy access to the modern cultural center of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Baku here:
Booking.com

Is Baku a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Baku is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and is relatively safe compared to other cities in the region. However, as in any city, tourists should still take basic precautions to ensure safety, such as avoiding walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night, being aware of their surroundings and belongings, and taking care when using public transport. It's always a good idea to research your destination and ask locals or fellow travelers for advice on safety and any potential risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Azerbaijan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Baku.

What type of travelers will enjoy Baku the most?

Baku, Azerbaijan is a great destination for a wide range of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. Here are some reasons why: - Couples: Baku is a romantic destination, with its charming old town, waterfront promenade, and stunning views from the Flame Towers. There are also many top-rated restaurants and cafes serving local cuisine and international dishes.
- Young people: Baku has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. The city also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Baku Jazz Festival and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
- Families: Baku is a safe and family-friendly destination, with many parks, museums, and cultural attractions. Kids will enjoy visiting the Baku Ferris Wheel, the Carpet Museum, and the Heydar Aliyev Center, which has a dedicated children's area.
Overall, Baku is a versatile destination that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor activities and entertainment.

How to get around Baku

When it comes to transportation in Baku, there are various options to choose from. The most common means of transportation are buses, minibusses (marshrutkas), metro, taxis, and rental cars. The metro is the most efficient and affordable way to move around the city, covering most of the major areas. Buses and minibusses are cheap and can be convenient, but they can be crowded at peak times. Taxis are plentiful, but sometimes more expensive than other options. Renting a car can be a good option if you want to explore outside the city.

What to see around Baku

There are many beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Baku. Here are a few options: 1. Gobustan National Park - home to some of the world's oldest rock art, Gobustan is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes.
2. Mud Volcanoes - located in the suburbs of Baku, the mud volcanoes are a special attraction. Watching the eruption of mud from the ground, taking a mud bath and relaxing in mineral waters would be a unique experience.
3. Yanar Dag - meaning "burning mountain," this natural gas fire has been burning for several decades and creates a unique, natural spectacle.
4. Castle of Ramana - A 12th-century castle located just 25 km from Baku. The area has an incredible Persian style stone bridge dating back 600 years 5. Ateshgah Fire Temple- a Hindu temple that was historically used as an ancient center of worship for Zoroastrianism, It is said that pilgrims have been visiting the temple for more than 2,000 years.
6. Qobustan to Lahij - The route from Gobustan to Lajij village located in Ismayilli region is very scenic. The village has stunning views with medieval ruins, old narrow streets, and traditional metalworking and carpet weaving workhops.
For every travel information about Azerbaijan you can click here.

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