Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, is a stunning blend of ancient history and modern innovation. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to futuristic architecture, the city offers something for every traveler. This guide covers the top 20 attractions in Baku, complete with essential details to make your visit seamless.
1. The Flame Towers
Description: The Flame Towers are an iconic trio of skyscrapers that dominate Baku’s skyline, designed to resemble flames as a tribute to Azerbaijan’s nickname, “The Land of Fire.” At night, they light up with vibrant LED displays.
History: Completed in 2012, the towers symbolize Azerbaijan’s historical connection to fire, from Zoroastrian traditions to modern oil and gas industries.
Google Maps Link: Flame Towers
Ticket Prices & Opening Hours: Free to view from the outside. For interior visits (hotels, offices, and apartments), check individual venues.
Travel Options: Accessible by taxi or a short walk from the Icherisheher Metro Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sky Grill at Hilton Baku – Known for its fine dining and spectacular views of the Caspian Sea.
– Art Club Restaurant – Offers a mix of traditional Azerbaijani and European dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit the Flame Towers at night to experience their spectacular light show.
2. Icherisheher (Old City)
Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Icherisheher is a labyrinth of narrow streets, ancient mosques, caravanserais, and historical landmarks, including the iconic Maiden Tower.
History: Dating back to the 12th century, this walled city was a cultural and political center of the Shirvanshah Dynasty.
Google Maps Link: Icherisheher
Official Website: Icherisheher
Ticket Prices: Entry to Icherisheher is free, but individual attractions like the Maiden Tower (15 AZN) and Palace of the Shirvanshahs (15 AZN) require tickets.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm for major landmarks.
Travel Options: Accessible via Icherisheher Metro Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Karvansaray Restaurant – Serves traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov (pilaf) and dolma.
– Qaynana Restaurant – Famous for local favorites like qutab (savory pancakes).
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets, and don’t miss the panoramic views from the Maiden Tower.
3. Heydar Aliyev Center
Description: A stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Center is known for its flowing, curved structure and houses exhibitions, a museum, and cultural events.
History: Opened in 2012, the center was built to honor Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s third president, and showcases the country’s cultural and modern identity.
Google Maps Link: Heydar Aliyev Center
Official Website: Heydar Aliyev Center
Ticket Prices: 15 AZN for adults, 2 AZN for students, and free for children under 6.
Opening Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (closed on Mondays).
Travel Options: Accessible by taxi or bus routes 1, 13, and 61.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Scalini Italian Restaurant – Offers authentic Italian cuisine in a refined setting.
– Sumakh Restaurant – Serves modern Azerbaijani cuisine, including dishes like govurma (lamb stew).
Additional Tips: Allocate at least two hours to explore the exhibits and enjoy the picturesque grounds for photography.
4. The Maiden Tower
Description: One of Baku’s most recognizable landmarks, the Maiden Tower is a cylindrical stone structure offering panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.
History: Built in the 12th century, its purpose remains a mystery, with theories ranging from a defensive structure to an observatory.
Google Maps Link: Maiden Tower
Ticket Prices: 15 AZN for adults, 3 AZN for students.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located in Icherisheher, it’s a short walk from the Old City metro station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mugham Club Restaurant – Offers local delicacies in a historic setting.
– Nergiz Restaurant – Known for its shashlik (grilled meat skewers) and baklava.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
5. Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Description: This medieval palace complex in the heart of Icherisheher includes a mosque, mausoleum, and baths, showcasing the grandeur of the Shirvanshah Dynasty.
History: Built in the 15th century, it was the residence of the Shirvanshah rulers and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Google Maps Link: Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Ticket Prices: 15 AZN for adults, 2 AZN for students.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options: Within walking distance from the Maiden Tower and Icherisheher Metro Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chinar Restaurant – Offers Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist.
– Firuze Restaurant – Specializes in Azerbaijani dishes like lyula kebab and dushbara (meat dumplings).
Additional Tips: Join a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the site’s history and architecture.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.
Transportation: Baku’s metro, buses, and taxis are affordable and convenient for getting around.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss dishes like plov, lavangi, and shashlik, along with desserts like pakhlava and shakarbura.
6. Baku Boulevard (Seaside National Park)
Description: Stretching along the Caspian Sea, Baku Boulevard is a picturesque promenade featuring parks, fountains, cafes, and attractions such as the Baku Ferris Wheel and Little Venice.
History: Established in 1909, the boulevard has expanded over the years to become a beloved recreational area for locals and tourists alike.
Google Maps Link: Baku Boulevard
Ticket Prices: Free entry; attractions like the Ferris Wheel cost approximately 10 AZN.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but best visited during daylight or evening hours for a lively atmosphere.
Travel Options: Accessible by bus, metro (Sahil Station), or a short taxi ride from the city center.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Darya Fish House – Famous for Caspian seafood dishes such as grilled fish and seafood platters.
– Gunaydin Steakhouse – Offers premium steaks and Turkish-inspired dishes.
Additional Tips: Perfect for a sunset walk or a family-friendly outing. Don’t miss the light shows on the Caspian Sea at night.
7. Baku Ferris Wheel (Baku Eye)
Description: The Baku Ferris Wheel is a giant observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.
History: Opened in 2014, it stands 60 meters tall and has become a popular attraction for families and photographers.
Google Maps Link: Baku Ferris Wheel
Ticket Prices: 10 AZN for adults, 5 AZN for children.
Opening Hours: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm (hours may vary seasonally).
Travel Options: Located on Baku Boulevard; easily accessible via metro (Sahil Station) or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mangal Steak House – Known for grilled meat dishes and local kebabs.
– Dolma Restaurant – Specializes in traditional Azerbaijani dishes like dolma and govurma.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening for illuminated views of the city skyline and the Flame Towers.
8. Martyrs’ Lane and Eternal Flame Memorial
Description: A poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of Black January and Azerbaijani soldiers who lost their lives in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The site also offers breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea and Baku city.
History: Established after the events of January 1990, Martyrs’ Lane serves as a solemn reminder of Azerbaijan’s struggle for independence.
Google Maps Link: Martyrs’ Lane
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options: Take the funicular from the base of the Flame Towers, or reach it by taxi or a short walk from Baku Boulevard.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Flame Grill – A modern steakhouse with spectacular views of the city.
– Chayki Cafe – Known for tea and light snacks with scenic outdoor seating.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and allocate some time to reflect on the history of this site.
9. Little Venice
Description: A charming network of canals and bridges on Baku Boulevard, where visitors can take a gondola ride reminiscent of Venice.
History: Built in 1960 and revamped in the 2010s, Little Venice is a favorite spot for both romantic outings and family fun.
Google Maps Link: Little Venice
Ticket Prices: Gondola rides cost approximately 3 AZN per person.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located on Baku Boulevard, a short walk from other attractions like the Ferris Wheel and Flame Towers.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Qabala Fish Restaurant – Renowned for fresh seafood and traditional Azerbaijani appetizers.
– Sahil Bar & Grill – Offers a mix of international and local dishes with beautiful waterfront views.
Additional Tips: Visit during the day for gondola rides or in the evening to enjoy the lit-up canals.
10. Ateshgah Fire Temple
Description: A fascinating pentagonal temple complex used as a fire-worshipping place by Zoroastrians, Sikhs, and Hindus. Its centerpiece is the eternal flame fueled by natural gas.
History: Built in the 17th century, Ateshgah reflects Azerbaijan’s ancient ties to fire-worshipping traditions and its nickname, “Land of Fire.”
Google Maps Link: Ateshgah Fire Temple
Official Website: Ateshgah Official Site
Ticket Prices: 4 AZN for adults, 2 AZN for students and children.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located in Surakhani, approximately 30 minutes from central Baku by taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sumakh Restaurant – Known for Azerbaijani dishes such as plov and lyula kebabs.
– Nar & Sharab – Offers a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with the nearby Yanardag (Burning Mountain) for a full-day exploration of Azerbaijan’s fire-related heritage.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for Baku Boulevard and Martyrs’ Lane to avoid crowds. Evening visits to the Ferris Wheel and Little Venice provide spectacular city views.
Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or taxis for convenience. The Baku Card offers discounts on public transportation.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss dushbara (Azerbaijani dumplings), plov, and desserts like baklava while dining near these attractions.
11. Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)
Description: Yanar Dag is a natural gas fire that has been burning continuously on a hillside for decades. Known as one of Azerbaijan’s most famous natural wonders, it is a captivating sight, especially at night.
History: This phenomenon is caused by underground natural gas seeping through fissures in the rock. Marco Polo mentioned Azerbaijan’s “eternal flames” during his travels in the 13th century.
Google Maps Link: Yanar Dag
Ticket Prices: 9 AZN for adults, 4 AZN for students and children.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located 25 km from Baku, accessible by taxi, private car, or organized tours.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Gala Bazaar Cafe – Known for traditional Azerbaijani tea and snacks.
– Shirvan Restaurant – Offers local dishes like govurma and qutab.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening to see the flames at their brightest and capture stunning photos. Combine your trip with Ateshgah Fire Temple for a fire-themed day.
12. Gobustan National Park (Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape)
Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gobustan is famous for its ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and archaeological remains. The site offers a glimpse into human settlement dating back over 40,000 years.
History: Gobustan’s petroglyphs depict scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life, providing valuable insights into prehistoric life in the region.
Google Maps Link: Gobustan National Park
Official Website: Gobustan Official Site
Ticket Prices: 10 AZN for adults, 5 AZN for students.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located 64 km from Baku, accessible via taxi or guided tours.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chaykhana Gobustan – Known for fresh bread baked in a tandoor and hearty meat stews.
– Sarvan Restaurant – Offers Azerbaijani-style kebabs and plov.
Additional Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for walking and explore the mud volcanoes nearby for a unique experience.
13. National Flag Square
Description: Once home to the world’s tallest flagpole (162 meters), this square is a patriotic site offering sweeping views of the Caspian Sea and Baku’s skyline.
History: Built in 2010, the square is a symbol of Azerbaijan’s independence and national pride.
Google Maps Link: National Flag Square
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options: Easily reachable by taxi or public transport from the city center.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mangal Steak House – Known for its grilled meats and casual dining atmosphere.
– Chinar Restaurant – Offers Asian fusion cuisine with a modern touch.
Additional Tips: Visit during sunset for the best views of the flag and surrounding area.
14. Bibi-Heybat Mosque
Description: A beautiful mosque overlooking the Caspian Sea, Bibi-Heybat Mosque is an important spiritual site in Azerbaijan. It is a replica of a 13th-century mosque that was destroyed during Soviet rule.
History: Built in 1997, the current mosque was reconstructed to honor the original 13th-century structure and is considered a symbol of Islamic heritage in Azerbaijan.
Google Maps Link: Bibi-Heybat Mosque
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options: Located 8 km from central Baku, accessible by taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Zeytun Cafe – Offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes and tea with stunning sea views.
– Balik Evi – Famous for fresh fish and seafood platters.
Additional Tips: Dress modestly when visiting and allocate some time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
15. Fountains Square
Description: A lively pedestrian square in downtown Baku, Fountains Square is a hub of activity, surrounded by cafes, shops, and public art.
History: Built during the Soviet era, the square has been modernized and remains a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.
Google Maps Link: Fountains Square
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options: Easily accessible on foot from central Baku or by metro (Nizami Station).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Dolma Restaurant – Known for authentic Azerbaijani dishes like stuffed grape leaves and plov.
– Cafe City – Offers a mix of European and local cuisine.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife and enjoy live performances in the square.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: Yanar Dag and Gobustan are best visited in cooler weather (spring or fall) to avoid the summer heat. Evening visits to Flag Square and Fountains Square are recommended for a lively atmosphere.
Transportation: Consider hiring a private taxi for Gobustan and Yanar Dag as they are located outside the city. For city attractions, taxis and public transport are convenient.
Local Cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like dushbara (meat dumplings) and badimjan dolmasi (stuffed eggplant) at nearby restaurants.
16. Miniature Books Museum
Description: This one-of-a-kind museum is home to an extraordinary collection of over 5,600 miniature books from 66 countries, including rare editions and tiny literary treasures.
History: Founded in 2002 by Zarifa Salahova, the museum celebrates the art of bookmaking in miniature form and is the only museum of its kind in the world.
Google Maps Link: Miniature Books Museum
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Mondays).
Travel Options: Located within Icherisheher (Old City), easily accessible by foot or metro (Icherisheher Station).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sehirli Tendir – Known for traditional tandir bread and hearty Azerbaijani dishes.
– Old City Restaurant – Offers a mix of local cuisine and Caspian seafood.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 30 minutes to browse the unique collection. Photography is allowed but without flash.
17. Nizami Street (Targovaya)
Description: A bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings, Nizami Street is a vibrant hub for shopping and entertainment in Baku.
History: Named after Nizami Ganjavi, a 12th-century Persian poet, the street showcases European-style architecture from the early 20th century.
Google Maps Link: Nizami Street
Ticket Prices: Free to explore.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but shops typically operate from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Travel Options: Accessible via Nizami Metro Station or a short walk from central Baku.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Hard Rock Cafe Baku – Offers international favorites like burgers and steaks with live music.
– Chayki Cafe – Serves tea, snacks, and desserts in a cozy atmosphere.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening to enjoy the street’s lively ambiance and illuminated buildings.
18. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
Description: This museum showcases an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets, weaving techniques, and textile traditions, housed in a building shaped like a rolled-up carpet.
History: Established in 1967, the museum preserves Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-making heritage, which is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Google Maps Link: Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
Official Website: Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
Ticket Prices: 7 AZN for adults, 3 AZN for students, and free for children under 6.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (closed on Mondays).
Travel Options: Located on Baku Boulevard, easily accessible by metro (Sahil Station) or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sahil Bar & Grill – Known for seafood and contemporary Azerbaijani dishes.
– Mangal Steak House – Offers premium steaks and local kebabs.
Additional Tips: Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits.
19. Upland Park
Description: Upland Park offers panoramic views of Baku’s skyline, the Caspian Sea, and landmarks such as the Flame Towers and Baku Boulevard. It’s a peaceful spot for relaxation and photography.
History: This hilltop park has been a favorite viewing spot for decades and features landscaped gardens, monuments, and the Martyrs’ Lane Memorial.
Google Maps Link: Upland Park
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options: Take the funicular from the base of the Flame Towers, or walk up the stairs for a more scenic experience.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Panorama Restaurant – Offers Mediterranean and Azerbaijani dishes with stunning views.
– Nar & Sharab – Known for traditional dishes and a serene ambiance.
Additional Tips: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.
20. Zaha Hadid’s SOCAR Tower
Description: The SOCAR Tower is an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, serving as the headquarters for the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan. The sleek, wave-like design is a symbol of modern Baku.
History: Completed in 2016, the tower showcases cutting-edge design and reflects Azerbaijan’s prominence in the energy industry.
Google Maps Link: SOCAR Tower
Ticket Prices: Not open to the public for interior visits, but the exterior is worth viewing.
Travel Options: Located near the Heydar Aliyev Center, accessible by taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Meating Point – Known for premium steaks and gourmet burgers.
– Sumakh Restaurant – Offers modern interpretations of Azerbaijani cuisine.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with the nearby Heydar Aliyev Center for a full day of architectural exploration.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: Visit Upland Park during sunset and Nizami Street in the evening for the best atmosphere.
Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or public transport for convenience. Walking is recommended within the Old City and Nizami Street areas.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss dishes like lyula kebab, dovga (a yogurt soup), and pakhlava while dining near these attractions.
