I visited Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, and it truly amazed me. This city effortlessly blends the charm of its ancient history with ultra-modern architecture. From the narrow streets of the Old City to the iconic Flame Towers lighting up the skyline, Baku has a character like no other in the Caucasus region.
Where is Baku Located?
Baku is located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, on the Absheron Peninsula. It’s the largest city in the Caucasus and serves as the cultural, industrial, and political heart of Azerbaijan.
How to Reach Baku
- By Air: I arrived via Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
- By Land: Baku is connected to cities like Tbilisi (Georgia) and regions in Russia and Iran by road and train.
- By Bus/Train: You can take buses or trains from places like Ganja, Sheki, or Gabala within Azerbaijan.
Where I Stayed in Baku
I recommend staying near Fountain Square, Nizami Street, or the Old City (Icherisheher). These areas are walkable and close to most of the major attractions. There are a variety of options from luxury to budget.
Top – 3 Best Rating and Budget Friendly Hotel in Baku
Top Places to Visit in Baku
1. Icherisheher (Old City) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful narrow lanes, ancient mosques, caravanserais, and palaces.
2. Maiden Tower – A mysterious tower with panoramic views over the Old City and Caspian Sea.
3. Flame Towers – Baku’s famous trio of skyscrapers shaped like flames; they light up in mesmerizing colors at night.
4. Heydar Aliyev Center – Designed by the late Zaha Hadid, this futuristic building is one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in the world.
5. Baku Boulevard – A long promenade along the Caspian Sea with parks, cafes, the Baku Eye (Ferris Wheel), and boat rides.
6. Upland Park – Offers the best panoramic view of Baku, especially at sunset.
7. Fountain Square & Nizami Street – A great place to shop, eat, and enjoy local street life.
Day Trips From Baku
- Gobustan National Park – See ancient petroglyphs carved into rocks over 40,000 years ago.
- Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) – A hill with a continuous natural gas fire burning on its surface.
- Ateshgah Fire Temple – A historic Hindu-Zoroastrian fire temple located in the suburbs.
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What to Eat in Baku
Azerbaijani food is flavorful and hearty. Some of the dishes I enjoyed were:
- Piti – A traditional meat stew cooked in clay pots.
- Dolma – Grape leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice.
- Kebab & Shashlik – Grilled meats served with lavash bread.
- Dovga – A yogurt-based soup with herbs and rice.
Also, don’t forget to try saffron tea and the delicious pakhlava (Azerbaijani baklava).
Best Time to Visit Baku
The best months to visit Baku are April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot, and winters are generally chilly but not extreme.
How to Get Around
- Taxi apps like Bolt or Uber work well and are affordable.
- Walking is the best way to explore the central part of the city, especially the Old Town and Boulevard area.
- The Baku Metro is efficient and connects major parts of the city.
Baku felt unique—different from anywhere else I had been. It’s a city of contrasts: ancient fort walls on one side, glass skyscrapers on the other. The local people were warm and curious, and I never felt out of place. The food was rich, the streets were clean, and the vibe was welcoming.
If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!
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