Azerbaijan

Why Visit Baku?

Baku is where ancient Silk Road roots meet bold futuristic design. With a stunning seaside promenade, flame-shaped skyscrapers, a UNESCO-listed Old City, and hearty local cuisine, Baku offers a unique blend of Europe and the Middle East, all at a surprisingly affordable price.

📸 Image suggestion: The Flame Towers lit up against the night sky

📍 Top Places to Visit in Baku

1. Icherisheher (Old City): History Woven into Stone

Baku’s ancient walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with winding cobblestone alleys, 12th-century architecture, and local artisans.

🏰 Must-see spots:

• Maiden Tower – Climb for panoramic views

• Palace of the Shirvanshahs

• Local carpet shops and hidden courtyards

2. Flame Towers & Highland Park: Modern Icons

The Flame Towers are Baku’s most iconic structures, visible from almost every point in the city. Head to Highland Park and the Martyrs’ Alley for incredible views of the Caspian Sea and city skyline.

🛥️ Tip: Visit at sunset or after dark to see the towers’ LED display

3. Baku Boulevard & The Caspian Promenade

Stretching over 5 km along the waterfront, the Baku Boulevard is perfect for walking, cycling, or grabbing ice cream with a view.

🌊 Don’t miss:

• The Baku Eye (Ferris wheel)

• Mini Venice boat rides

• Carpet Museum (shaped like a rolled carpet)

4. Heydar Aliyev Center: Futuristic Beauty

Designed by Zaha Hadid, this wave-like building is one of the most striking architectural sites in the world. Inside, it hosts rotating art exhibits and Azerbaijani cultural displays.

🎟️ Entry tickets available on-site or online
📸 Instagram hotspot: Curved white structure with no right angles

5. Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes: Day Trip from Baku

Just an hour outside Baku lies Gobustan National Park, famous for its prehistoric petroglyphs, bizarre mud volcanoes, and Mars-like landscapes.

🍽️ What to Eat in Baku: Flavors of the Caucasus

Azerbaijani food is hearty, flavorful, and filled with herbs, spices, and slow-cooked meats.

• 🥩 Plov (saffron rice with lamb, dried fruits, or herbs)

• 🥟 Dushbara (tiny lamb dumplings in broth)

• 🍢 Lyulya kebab (minced meat grilled on skewers)

• 🍇 Sharbat (homemade fruit-based drink)

📍 Eat at:

• Şirvanşah Museum Restaurant (fine dining in the Old City)

• Çay Bağı 145 – Rooftop tea house with views

✈️ Baku Travel Tips

💡Local etiquette :Dress modestly in religious sites. Tipping 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants.

Final Thoughts: Why Baku Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

Baku is a city of contrasts—where ancient walls meet futuristic buildings, and cozy tea houses exist alongside upscale rooftop lounges. Whether you’re after culture, cuisine, or coastal walks, Baku is bold, beautiful, and surprisingly affordable.