Baku, Azerbaijan-3-day-itinerary
3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Baku, Azerbaijan
Day 1: Old City and Waterfront
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start the day with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast at Çiçək Café, located in the heart of the old city. Try their famous piti (a hearty meat stew) or shakarpara (sweet pastries).
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Explore the Old City (İçəri Şər), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası). Learn about the city’s rich history and take in the stunning views of the Caspian Sea.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard (Də), a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a stunning example of Azerbaijan’s unique architectural style.
Evening
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Dəvəçi Restaurant, serving traditional Azerbaijani cuisine with a modern twist. Try their famous kebabs and don’t forget to order a side of pomegranate juice!
- 10:00 PM: Take a romantic evening stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the city’s beautiful lighting.
Accommodation
- Sultan Inn Boutique Hotel: A cozy boutique hotel located in the heart of the old city, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.
Day 2: Modern Baku and Fire Temple
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid, and explore its surrounding park.
- 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Stop by the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum to learn about the country’s rich carpet-weaving traditions.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Head to the Fire Temple (Atəşgah), a historic temple dedicated to fire worship.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Explore the Fountains Square, a vibrant area surrounded by shops, restaurants, and beautiful fountains.
Evening
- 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Lüks Restaurant, offering a range of international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- 10:30 PM: End the day with a visit to the Baku TV Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Day 3: Yanar Dag and Gobustan
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that has been burning continuously for thousands of years.
- 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Explore the ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes at Gobustan National Park.
Afternoon
- 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM: Return to Baku and visit the Azerbaijan State Museum of Art, featuring a collection of local and international art.
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Take some time to relax at your hotel or explore the city’s many parks and gardens.
Evening
- 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Sehrli Restaurant, offering a range of traditional Azerbaijani dishes.
- 11:00 PM: End your trip with a scenic drive along the waterfront, taking in the city’s stunning views one last time.
Things to Know
- Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country; dress modestly and respect local customs.
- The local currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN); you can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
- English is not widely spoken, but many signs are translated into English and Russian.
Transportation
- Taxi: Use official taxis with meters; you can also use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or UBER.
- Metro: Baku’s metro system is efficient and affordable; buy a token (0.20 AZN) at the station.
- Bus: City buses are a cheap option, but routes may be limited.
Tips
- Learn some basic Azerbaijani phrases, such as “salam” (hello), “teşəkkür” (thank you), and “gün aydın” (goodbye).
- Be prepared for variable weather; Baku can experience sudden rain showers or strong winds.
- Respect local traditions and customs; avoid public displays of affection and dress modestly.
Other Things to Do
- Take a day trip to the Absheron Peninsula, known for its scenic beaches and natural beauty.
- Visit the Baku Zoo, home to a range of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
- Explore the city’s many markets, such as the Taza Bazaar or Yashil Bazaar, for fresh produce, souvenirs, and local snacks.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Baku, Azerbaijan!