Baku, the capital metropolis of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant and fashionable vacation spot that provides a singular mixture of historical past, tradition, and leisure. With its beautiful structure, scrumptious delicacies, and pleasant locals, Baku is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody touring to the Caucasus area. On this article, we’ll present a complete 4-day itinerary for exploring Baku and the encompassing areas, highlighting the most effective issues to see and do on this fascinating metropolis and in Azerbaijan.
Attending to Baku
By Air
Baku is served by the Heydar Aliyev Worldwide Airport, which is situated roughly 20 km from the town middle. The airport is the biggest in Azerbaijan and is well-connected to different main cities world wide. There are a number of airways that function direct flights to Baku, together with Azerbaijan Airways, Turkish Airways, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa. Vacationers may discover connecting flights from different main cities in Europe, Asia and the Center East.
By Practice
Baku is related to different main cities in Azerbaijan and neighboring international locations by rail. The town’s principal railway station is situated within the metropolis middle and is definitely accessible by public transportation. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line connects Baku to Tbilisi in Georgia and Kars in Turkey. The journey from Tbilisi to Baku takes roughly 12 hours, whereas the journey from Kars to Baku takes round 30 hours.
Day 1 – Outdated Metropolis of Baku
Outdated Metropolis Tour
outdated metropolis of baku – Icherisheher
On the primary day of the Baku itinerary, guests can discover the historic Outdated Metropolis, also called Icherisheher. This UNESCO-listed web site is residence to a number of points of interest, together with the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
The Outdated Metropolis is a maze of slender streets and alleys, lined with historic buildings and mosques. Guests can take a guided strolling tour or discover on their very own. The realm is residence to a number of memento retailers, cafes, and eating places. You may simply spend a complete day right here exploring the completely different nooks and crannies and that’s precisely what I did.
Maiden Tower
maiden tower
Some of the iconic landmarks in Baku is the Maiden Tower, situated within the Outdated Metropolis. This Twelfth-century tower stands at 29.5 meters tall and is shrouded in thriller and legend. Guests can climb to the highest of the tower for panoramic views of the town and the Caspian Sea.
The Maiden Tower has been used for numerous functions over the centuries, together with as a watchtower, lighthouse, and even a jail. Guests can study in regards to the tower’s historical past and significance on the on-site museum.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
palace of the shirvanshah
One other must-visit attraction within the Outdated Metropolis is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. This Fifteenth-century palace complicated was the residence of the Shirvanshahs, rulers of the Shirvan area of Azerbaijan.
The palace complicated contains a number of buildings, courtyards, and gardens. Guests can discover the varied rooms and halls, together with the Divankhana, a reception corridor adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.
Museum of Miniature Books
It is a cute little museum throughout the Icherisheher and is alleged to be the one museum on the earth devoted to miniature books. You will discover variations of well-known books akin to The Little Prince or numerous performs by Shakespeare in micro kind. There’s additionally an enormous worldwide choice spanning the likes of Chinese language communist Mao-era books to Islamic scripture. Entrance right here is free.
Juma Mosque
The underrated Juma Mosque deserves a go to, particularly once you’re already exploring the Icherisheher. That is typically skipped by group excursions so there’s a good probability you’ll discover the place to your self at any given time. The structure is gorgeous with intricate carvings on the stone facade of the mosque.
Chill in a Teahouse
a teahouse in baku’s outdated metropolis
Whereas exploring the outdated metropolis of Baku, ensure to cease by for tea and truffles at one of many teahouses throughout the neighborhood. For excellent views, Cay Bagi 145 presents sweeping views of the Maiden Tower from the topmost eating room. Admire the scene whereas munching on wonderful Russian Honey Cake and conventional tea.
Nationwide Museum of Historical past of Azerbaijan
nationwide museum of the historical past of azerbaijan
Stretching a complete block, the Nationwide Museum of the Historical past of Azerbaijan is situated a couple of blocks away from the outdated metropolis partitions. The constructing was the residence of an oil magnate till the Soviet Military confiscated the premises and turned it right into a museum. The museum itself consists of two elements – the primary is a showcase of the opulence of the 1920’s when the constructing was occupied for its authentic goal. Guests will move via ornately adorned rooms crammed with priceless furnishings and antiques. The second a part of the museum showcases the historical past of Azerbaijan. The latter was closed throughout my go to. Do observe that the doorway to the museum is from Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Road.
Day 2 – Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Middle & Museums
Day 2 of the Baku itinerary presents guests a mixture of fashionable and outdated structure, beautiful views and a calming stroll alongside the seafront.
Flame Towers
flame towers of baku
On the second day of the journey, guests can begin their day by visiting the long-lasting Flame Towers. These three skyscrapers are probably the most recognizable landmarks of Baku and are a must-visit attraction for anybody visiting the town. The towers are illuminated at evening and supply a shocking view of the town. Guests may take a funicular for 1 Manat to the highest of the towers for a panoramic view of Baku. The adjoining Highland Park presents not only a nice view of the towers but in addition of the skyline of Baku.
Carpet Museum
A brief stroll from the doorway to the funicular is the Carpet Museum. The constructing itself is formed like a rolled carpet and inside, the reveals present a visible showcase of the completely different carpet kinds in Azerbaijan, together with the historic areas of Azerbaijan which might be in present-day Iran. It’s price visiting for individuals who are into carpets or who’re aesthetically-inclined.
Baku Boulevard (Bulvar)
After visiting the Flame Towers, guests can take a stroll alongside the Baku Boulevard, a phenomenal promenade that stretches alongside the Caspian Sea. The boulevard is a well-liked spot for locals and vacationers alike, and presents a wide range of actions akin to bike leases, cafes, and road performances. The boulevard additionally incorporates a Ferris wheel that provides a hen’s eye view of the town.
Heydar Aliyev Middle
heydar aliyev middle
Within the afternoon, guests can head to the Heydar Aliyev Middle, a contemporary architectural masterpiece that homes a museum, exhibition halls, and a convention middle. The constructing was designed by the famend architect Zaha Hadid and is a must-visit for structure fans. The museum inside the middle showcases the historical past and tradition of Azerbaijan, and guests may benefit from the lovely gardens surrounding the constructing.
Tip: Afternoon is the most effective time to go to the Heydar Aliyev Middle because the solar shall be shining on the entrance a part of the constructing throughout this time.
Window Procuring in Nizami Road
pedestrian space of nizami road
You may spend the late afternoon to night window purchasing alongside the pedestrian part of Nizami Road. One factor I observed about Baku is that retailers are sometimes open till late, with eating places closing even later. Many of the buildings alongside Nizami Road are floodlit at evening and make for an atmospheric scene when strolling across the space. I requested the locals who really pays for the electrical energy payments and was advised the federal government does.
Day 3 – Gobustan & Different Day Journeys Close to Baku
Gobustan Nationwide Park
On the third day of the Baku itinerary, guests can discover the Gobustan Nationwide Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Website recognized for its historic petroglyphs and dirt volcanoes. The park is situated roughly 60 km southwest of Baku and will be reached by automotive or public transportation.
The petroglyphs at Gobustan date again to the Higher Paleolithic interval and supply a glimpse into the lives of historic people. Guests can take a guided tour of the park to study extra in regards to the historical past and significance of the petroglyphs.
Along with the petroglyphs, Gobustan is residence to over 300 mud volcanoes, that are distinctive geological formations that spew mud and gasoline. Guests can take a guided tour of the mud volcanoes to find out about their formation and see them up shut.
Ateshgah Hearth Temple
After visiting Gobustan Nationwide Park, guests can head to the Ateshgah Hearth Temple, situated roughly 30 km northeast of Baku. The temple is a singular non secular web site that was as soon as utilized by Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs.
The temple is thought for its pure gasoline fires, which have been burning for hundreds of years. Guests can take a guided tour of the temple to find out about its historical past and significance.
Yanar Dag
The ultimate cease on the third day of the Baku itinerary is Yanar Dag, a pure gasoline hearth that has been burning for hundreds of years. The fireplace is situated roughly 25 km north of Baku and will be reached by automotive or public transportation, or as a last cease in a day journey that features the Ateshgah Hearth Temple.
Guests can watch the flames dance and take within the beautiful views of the encompassing panorama. The fireplace is especially spectacular at evening when it illuminates the realm.
Total, the third day of the Baku itinerary presents guests a singular alternative to discover the pure wonders and cultural websites of the area.
Day 4 – Day Journey to Shamakhi and Sheki
Apart from Baku, Sheki is one other widespread vacation spot for these visiting Azerbaijan. Being 4 hours away, some vacationers invariably select to remain in a single day. In case you have the time, staying in a single day means that you can discover Sheki at a extra leisurely tempo and to move to further locations such because the mountainside village of Lahic which is thought for crafts. That mentioned, it’s fully doable to do Sheki as a day journey and I did precisely that. From Baku, I departed at round 8AM and acquired again at 9PM. The day journey allowed me to cease at Shamakhi, the Diri Baba Mausoleum and Nohur Lake earlier than taking within the sights of Sheki.
Shamakhi
juma mosque in shamakhi
Roughly halfway between Baku and Sheki is the city of Shamakhi. It’s most recognized for the Juma Mosque, a historic place of worship and the oldest mosque in Azerbaijan. It’s thought of a major instance of Islamic structure within the Caucasus area. The mosque originates from the eighth century through the Arab invasion of Azerbaijan and was later renovated and expanded within the seventeenth century. The mosque has a particular rectangular form and options a big central corridor with a excessive ceiling and picket columns. The inside of the mosque is adorned with intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy.
inside shamakhi’s juma mosque
Some of the notable options of the Juma Mosque is its minaret, which stands at a top of 24 meters and is adorned with intricate brickwork and decorative motifs. The minaret is among the oldest surviving examples of Islamic structure within the Caucasus area and is taken into account a masterpiece of medieval brickwork.
Nohur Lake
nohur lake
An additional hour or so from Shamakhi is Nohur Lake. It’s a picturesque lake situated within the Gabala area of Azerbaijan and is surrounded by lush inexperienced forests and mountains, making it a well-liked vacation spot for nature lovers and outside fans. Throughout autumn, the bushes on the hills surrounding the lake flip right into a flurry of crimson and yellow, making it an particularly scenic spot for images.
The lake is fed by a number of mountain streams and is thought for its crystal-clear waters, which mirror the encompassing panorama and create a shocking visible impact when seen within the early morning earlier than the winds set in. The lake can also be residence to a wide range of fish species, together with trout and carp, making it a well-liked spot for fishing. Apart from fishing, guests to Nohur Lake can participate in a variety of out of doors actions together with mountaineering, tenting, and picnicking. There are a number of mountaineering trails across the lake that provide beautiful views of the encompassing mountains and forests and guests may hire boats or kayaks to discover the lake itself. Guests who’re heading to Sheki sometimes make a customary cease to admire views of the lake.
Sheki Khan’s Palace
sheki’s khan palace
Sheki Khan’s Palace is among the most well-known landmarks in Sheki. It was constructed within the 18th century and served because the residence of the native ruler, the Khan of Sheki. The palace is thought for its intricate structure and exquisite frescoes.
A typical tour of the palace takes guests to numerous rooms which might be adorned with lovely frescoes and stained glass home windows. Exterior the palace is a big backyard with fountains and a pool.
sheki khan palace
Alongside the stroll to the principle palace constructing, guests can marvel at native craft retailers, together with one which showcases simply how the stained glass home windows have been restored with out utilizing a single nail.
Guests can take a guided tour of the palace and find out about its historical past and structure. Pictures contained in the palace is prohibited.
Caravanserai
caravanserai of sheki
The Caravanserai is one other widespread historic web site in Sheki. It was constructed within the 18th century and served as resting homes for merchants and vacationers who have been passing via the town. As much as at the present time, the caravanserai is used as a spot for lodging. It has now been transformed right into a lodge. Whereas the amenities are usually not plush, the environment evokes a a lot easier time. There’s additionally an enthralling central courtyard crammed with bushes and benches for company to calm down in. The outer a part of the caravanserai is crammed with memento retailers and teahouses.
Albanian Church
albanian church in kish village, sheki
The Albanian Church in Kish Village is a historic Christian church situated within the village of Kish within the Sheki Rayon of Azerbaijan. The church is believed to have been constructed within the 1st century AD and is taken into account one of many oldest Christian church buildings within the Caucasus area. It was initially an Albanian Apostolic Church and was later transformed right into a mosque through the Islamic conquests within the eighth century.
Within the nineteenth century, the church was renovated and restored by the Russian Empire, which managed Azerbaijan on the time. It was then used as a Russian Orthodox Church till the early twentieth century. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the church was returned to the Azerbaijani authorities and was declared a nationwide historic and architectural monument.
skyline of sheki
The place to Eat in Baku
Baku presents a variety of Azerbaijani delicacies with its distinctive mix of flavors and spices. Guests can strive the standard dishes akin to plov, dolma, and kebab. Plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and greens, is a must-try for anybody visiting Azerbaijan. Dolma, stuffed grape leaves or greens, is one other widespread dish. Kebabs, grilled meat skewers, are additionally a staple of Azerbaijani delicacies.
For many who favor vegetarian choices, there are many choices obtainable. Badimjan dolma, stuffed eggplant, and lobiya choban salati, a bean salad, are among the vegetarian dishes that guests can take pleasure in. Azerbaijani delicacies additionally options a wide range of soups, together with dovga, a yogurt-based soup, and shorba, a meat-based soup.
Listed here are some really useful eating places that I’ve personally tried:
Nakchivan – This properly decked restaurant focuses on delicacies from the Azerbaijan exclave of Nakchivan. Try the Nakchivan variation of Dolma, the Hen with Pomegranate Sauce in addition to their crunchy flat walnut pies.
sumakh
Sumakh – That is one other atmospheric restaurant to take a look at in Baku for native meals with an intensive menu of native dishes. Servings are large so it is probably not splendid for solo diners. Their plov and lamb dishes are wonderful.
rooster cutlet in marivanna
Marivanna – kitschy and instagram-worthy Russian restaurant within the metropolis middle close to the coast.
Dolma – This underground restaurant could be very touristy however they serve all kinds of Azerbaijani and Caucasus dishes so if you’re pressed for time, this metropolis middle restaurant is a good possibility.
United Espresso Beans – that is most likely the closest you may get in Baku to a hipster cafe. Whereas espresso homes abound within the metropolis, the variety of institutions that provide vegan milk choices is restricted. United Espresso Beans is one in all them. In addition they have a variety of wholesome eats together with grain bowls and wraps.
Lodging
When planning a visit to Baku, discovering the proper lodging is essential. Thankfully, Baku presents a variety of choices to swimsuit each funds and choice.
Luxurious: InterContinental Baku – Situated proper within the coronary heart of the town, the InterContinental Baku is housed in a strategic location. It’s simply subsequent to Sahil Metro Station and about 10 minutes stroll away from the Icherisheher (Outdated City) and the pedestrian purchasing road of Nizami. Rooms are plush and the lighting is touch-based.
Funds: Sahil Hostel & Resort – There are a couple of hostels the place backpackers congregate in Baku and Sahil Hostel & Resort is among the extra outstanding locations of lodging. Don’t be fooled by the reasonably un-glamorous entrance – the lodge itself is fashionable and clear. Picket parquet flooring assist protect company from the chilly from autumn till spring. Personal rooms are additionally obtainable, together with people who have their very own balconies. This hostel can also be a wonderful place from which to observe the Method 1 in Baku.
Useful Suggestions for Baku & Azerbaijan
- Journey Insurance coverage: On this age of uncertainty, I’d err on the facet of warning and buy journey insurance coverage. You may try Worldnomads as they’ve fairly an intensive protection, even together with private accidents into their listing of advantages.
- Getting Round: Whereas in Baku, I exploit Bolt app which allowed to get round completely different spots within the metropolis simply regardless of realizing no Russian or Azeri language. I acquired to pay native worth and most journeys throughout the metropolis value me lower than 3 Manat (~ round 2 USD or much less).
- Greatest Time to Go to Azerbaijan: Most locations in Azerbaijan, particularly the realm close to Baku which is semi-arid, don’t get a lot rain so there’s no wet season to be cautious of. Nevertheless, don’t that it could actually get highly regarded in summer season which is in July and August.
