Baku, Azerbaijan-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

Morning

  • Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport
  • Take a taxi (approx. 20-25 AZN) or bus (1 AZN) to your hotel in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as the Hotel Azerbaijan or Sapphire Hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit the Old Town (İçəri Şər), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore the narrow streets and admire the ancient architecture
    • Visit the Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası), a 12th-century tower with stunning views of the city
    • Walk through the Shirvanshah’s Palace, a 15th-century palace complex

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine at Karavanserai Restaurant
  • Take a stroll along the Boulevard, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the Caspian Sea

Day 2: Modern Baku and the Coast

Morning

  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid
    • Explore the museum and exhibition spaces inside
    • Take in the stunning views of the city from the rooftop

Afternoon

  • Head to the Caspian Coast for some beach time or water sports
  • Take a boat tour of the Caspian Sea (optional)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Mugam Club, which serves traditional Azerbaijani cuisine with live music
  • Take a walk around the Fountain Square, a lively spot with beautiful fountains and street performers

Day 3: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the National Museum of Azerbaijan History, which showcases the country’s rich history and culture
    • Explore the exhibits on ancient civilizations, Soviet era, and independence

Afternoon

  • Head to the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, a stunning building with great performances (optional)
    • Take a guided tour of the theatre or attend a performance

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Dervish Restaurant, which serves modern Azerbaijani cuisine
  • Explore the Nizami Street, a pedestrian shopping street with local shops and cafes

Day 4: Day Trip to Gobustan

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approx. 1 hour drive)
    • Explore the ancient petroglyphs, which date back to 10,000 BCE
    • Visit the Yanar Dag (Blazing Mountains), where natural gas flames have been burning for thousands of years

Afternoon

  • Return to Baku and visit the Baku Ferris Wheel, a great spot for panoramic views of the city
  • Take a stroll around the Park Bulvar, a modern shopping mall with a beautiful park

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Lutfaliyev Restaurant, which serves traditional Azerbaijani cuisine
  • Take a walk around the White City, a modern neighborhood with beautiful architecture and scenic views

Day 5: Modern Architecture

Morning

  • Visit the Flame Towers, three iconic skyscrapers designed by HOK International
    • Take in the stunning views of the city from the observation deck (optional)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Crystal Hall, a modern conference center with impressive architecture
    • Visit the Baku Congress Centre, another example of modern Azerbaijani architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Sumuk Restaurant, which serves traditional Azerbaijani cuisine with a modern twist
  • Take a walk around the Winter Park, a beautiful park with scenic views and street performers

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Green Bazaar
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • Azerbaijan is a Muslim country, so dress modestly when visiting mosques or historical sites
  • The local currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN), although USD and EUR are widely accepted
  • Learn some basic Azerbaijani phrases, such as “Salam” (hello) and “Təşəkkür” (thank you)

Transportation

  • Taxi: approx. 10-20 AZN for a short ride
  • Bus: 1 AZN for a single ticket
  • Metro: 0.30 AZN for a single ticket

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak season (June-August) when possible
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water instead

Other Things of Interest

  • Fire Temple: a 17th-century temple dedicated to fire worship
  • Baku Zoo: a small but interesting zoo with local and exotic animals
  • Yasilik Zalov Beach: a scenic beach with clear waters and sandy shores