Baku Travel Guide: What to See, Do & Eat in the Capital City

Baku, Azerbaijan's capital, is a popular tourist destination that blends the past with the current. Baku is a place that has something to offer to anyone, whether you are interested in the architecture that is centuries old or you want to relax by the Caspian Sea promenade. Visitors intending to visit the country should plan their first trip by acquiring their Azerbaijan Visa beforehand to ensure that they have a smooth trip. 

It is the right moment to get your documents in order in case you are planning to get your Azerbaijan visa from Oman or you are seeking a fast and dependable Azerbaijan travel visa. Baku is a beautiful city with a rich history, a modern-looking skyline, and a friendly local culture that will make the city an unforgettable experience both in leisure and adventure. Read on to get to know the best things to see, do and eat in this intriguing city. 

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What to See in Baku 

1. Icherisheher (Old City) 

Icherisheher or, in other words, the Old City of Baku is a living museum. Surrounded by old fortress walls, it has a lovely cobblestone street, small artisan stores, mosques, and old architectural structures such as the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs Palace. When you wander down its back streets, you can get a flavor of the rich history of Baku and the cultural traditions that have survived.  

2. Flame Towers 

The most recognizable buildings of Baku are the Flame Towers that can be observed almost everywhere in the city. These three flame-like skyscrapers are a reminder of the historical relation that Azerbaijan has with fire. At night, they are illuminated with brilliant LED screens that go on and off like fire to provide a dramatic background to the skyline.  

3. Heydar Aliyev Center 

The Heydar Aliyev Center is a structure with a wave-like design, which makes it unique and interesting to look at due to its designer, Zaha Hadid, who is a famous architect worldwide. It is not only beautiful to the eye on the outside, but it has a modern art display, cultural events and historical collections on the inside.  

4. Baku Boulevard 

Baku Boulevard provides a magnificent reprieve as it runs along the Caspian Sea. This beachfront promenade has it everything, whether you want to go for a walk, take a boat trip, or ride the Baku Eye (Ferris wheel). The park is beautifully designed, with cafes, fountains, and areas to rest. 

What to Do in Baku 

1. Ride the Funicular to Martyrs’ Lane 

Take a funicular railway to Martyrs Lane in Baku that is a short yet pleasant journey. After getting to the top, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the city and the Caspian Sea. The memorial site is in honor of the people who gave up their lives to ensure the independence of Azerbaijan.  

2. Visit the Carpet Museum 

The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum is a must-visit even in case you are not a fan of textiles. Its peculiar shape in the form of a rolled-up carpet attracts your attention at first sight. There are gorgeous rugs that have been woven and traditional weaving equipment and a feel of centuries-old craft.  

3. Take a Day Trip to Gobustan 

Only one hour drive outside Baku, Gobustan National Park has thousands of prehistoric rock carvings and mud volcanoes. The petroglyphs are over 10,000 years old, and they show the scenes of ancient life, animals and rituals. It is surrounded by a lunar-like terrain, which adds to the site's mystery. 

What to Eat in Baku 

1. Plov 

Plov or Azerbaijani rice pilaf is a national favourite. Every family has its own recipe, but it usually includes saffron-flavored rice that is combined with tender meat, some dried fruits, nuts, and even herbs. The combination of savory and sweet tastes makes it a pleasant and comforting meal, which is usually used to celebrate or gather the family.  

2. Dolma 

Dolma is a classic cuisine that consists of grape leaves loaded with minced meat, rice, onions, and seasonings. This dish is both healthy and tasty as it is served with yogurt or a light tomato sauce. It is common in restaurants and homes and it is a traditional taste of Azerbaijani hospitality.  

3. Qutab 

Qutab is a very thin pan fried flat bread filled with different fillings such as minced lamb, pumpkin, greens or cheese. It is commonly prepared by slicing it and accompanies it with some yogurt or a sour dipping sauce. Qutab is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and makes a nice snack or light meal.  

4. Dushbara 

Dushbara is a soothing Azerbaijani soup with small dumplings made of meat, in a broth. The process of crafting them by hand is an art form and each dumpling is folded into tiny perfection. It is popular with locals particularly in cooler seasons and usually served with vinegar with garlic.  

Conclusion 

The city of Baku is the one where the ancient charm and futuristic design are put together, and where every corner has its own story to tell. The capital of Azerbaijan offers a wide range of activities such as strolling around the ancient Old City to tasting mouth-watering traditional cuisine, and there are no dull moments in Baku. To get the best out of your journey, you can book one of our Azerbaijan Tour Packages to smoothly, guide you through your trip. 

If you are thinking to make a quick city getaway or a complete cultural trip, Azerbaijan Holiday Packages are convenient, comfortable, and are tailored to suit all kinds of travelers. Therefore, it is time to pack your bags and be prepared to learn the magic of Baku, which is going to remain with you long after your journey.