Travel Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Baku travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this wonderful capital in the country of Azerbaijan.

Baku is a city consist of some of the most popular destinations and landmarks in Azerbaijan. Boasting with glamorous tourist attractions, you could never go wrong here. You’ll enjoy wandering in the city both at night and during the day. So if you want to know more about this city, just continue reading as we made a Baku travel guide for its future visitors.

Baku Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Baku, Azerbaijan

1. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center

This is one of the most interesting attractions in Baku. It is designed by the world-renowned Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. Both the exterior and interior are unrealistically beautiful. The exhibits will blow your mind as well. Inside, you’ll find a collection of cars and computers telling stories. A must visit when you’re in Baku.

Suggested Tour: Baku: 3-Hour Private Night Tour (Yanardag & More)

2. Baku Old City

Of course, the Old City is the center of the historical and cultural attraction of Baku. The colorfulness of the old city is impressive against the backdrop of new skyscrapers. Only at first, it seems huge and confusing. But walking for about 20 minutes will help you navigate the place. Everything is clean, beautiful, and highlighted. Wander through the streets and alleys of this Old Town. You will feel that the spirit of the old city is preserved. Evening walks are also recommended.

Suggested Tour: Baku: Old City Walking Tour

3. Baku Boulevard

A really nice boulevard where you can walk and ride a bike, you can rent them right there. The boulevard is well-groomed, there are a lot of trees, beautiful music that is being played, there are various sculptures, outlandish trees and cacti, and many benches. You can also find plenty of cafes and small restaurants here. Be sure to take a walk on it in the evening as well, it is very beautiful.

Suggested Tour: Baku Panoramic Night Tour

4. Flame Towers

The tower itself is absolutely gorgeous. You can climb to the tower by funicular or by stairs. From the square go to the observation deck, which offers stunning views of the city. Take a lot of photos in the evening when the color of the illumination changes.

5. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

The Carpet Museum is located on the promenade near the Ferris wheel. It features carpets from various schools and regions. You can see the most expensive carpet of Azerbaijan woven in the 17th century and bought from an Italian collector. Witness how real artwork is created manually. You’d have a unique experience here.

6. Fountain Square

A place for walking, talking, watching people and kids playing, enjoying delicious food, contemplating, or just relaxing. Give yourself this pleasure!

Suggested Tour: Full-Day City Tour of Baku with Azerbaijani Lunch

7. Highland Park

As elsewhere in Baku, it is striking in its ideal cleanliness, well-maintained area. The observation deck offers a wonderful view of the whole of Baku. Great place for photos of the beautiful scenery of the whole city at a glance. It’s near the famous Flame Towers.

8. Ateshgah – Fire Temple

It is an ancient place with centuries of history. This place gave Azerbaijan the name “Land of Lights”. A well-preserved temple of fire-worshippers – Zoroastrians, who came here for many centuries to bow to a flame escaping from the earth. If you’re interested in this type of history, then you must go here.

Suggested Tour: Baku: Burning Mountain & Zorastrian Temple Private Tour

9. Maiden Tower

The Maiden’s Tower, a precious gem in the shell of the metropolis, is a former fortification, now the current museum and one of the most important components of the “seaside” facade of Baku. Here you can get acquainted with the history of the tower. You can join the tour or book an individual tour but an audio guide is the best option.

Suggested Tour: Baku: Historic and Modern Baku Tour

Baku Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Baku, Azerbaijan

Day 1 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku Old City – Start your tour by wandering around the old city of Baku. Explore everything here, eat at any restaurants or cafes, you’d get to travel back in the ancient Baku.

Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum – See how carpets are made, even the most expensive carpet of Azerbaijan.

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center – Be amazed and stunned with the amazing architecture of this center. Designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, it offers a lot of great photo opportunities.

Flame Towers – You can go here by funicular or stairs. Anyhow, you’ll surely have a good time enjoying the view it offers from the observation deck.

Highland Park – Since it’s near the Flame Towers, why not spend your time here as well?

Ateshgah – Fire Temple – Discover and learn more about the interesting history of Zoroastrianism.

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku Boulevard – Rent a bike and stroll around this boulevard for a relaxing last day in Baku.

Maiden Tower – Before you leave Baku, never miss the chance to visit the iconic Maiden Tower.

Baku Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re a Backpacker

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel

Check-in Baku Hotel & Hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and private parking. The units come with air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the hostel, every room has a seating area.

Price: Starts at $25 per night for Twin Room with Private External Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and free cancellation.

Check-in Old City Aparts

Check-in Old City Aparts features sea views and free WiFi. Every unit has a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a microwave. A fridge and kettle are also available.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Deluxe Apartment, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and free cancellation.

Drop Inn Baku

Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Budget Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you’re on a Budget

ATFK Hotel Baku

ATFK Hotel Baku offers a gym. Free WiFi and free private parking are also available on site. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a flat-screen TV, fridge and electric kettle. The private bathroom includes free toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and hairdryer.

Price: Starts at $32 per night for Standard Double Room, includes taxes and charges, add $6 for breakfast (optional), and it offers a free cancellation.

Sahil Hostel & Hotel

Units at the Sahil Hostel and Hotel are air-conditioned and soundproofing. Grand Prix Formula 1 Race track turn 4 and 5 are visible from some rooms of the hotel and from the main balcony. Guests can also find free toiletries and hairdryers for their comfort.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Twin Room with Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, add $5 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Old East Hotel

Old East Hotel boasts a restaurant, bar, and free WiFi throughout the property. Every room at this hotel is air-conditioned and comes with a TV. Guests will also find a kettle in the room. Each room has a private bathroom. The hotel also provides tour desk services and car hire.

Price: Starts at $72 per night for Standard Double Room, add $2 for taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Baku, Azerbaijan if you want Luxury

JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel

This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, on the Freedom Square. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel feature a flat-screen TV, iPod dock, work desk, and a laptop safe. Guests will find a bath, shower, bathrobe, and slippers in each luxury bathroom. WiFi is available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $156 per night for Deluxe, Guest Room, 2 Double, City View, add $2 for taxes and charges, add $22 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Hilton Baku

Featuring a revolving rooftop bar, a pool, and a gym, this seafront hotel is an 8-minute walk from Baku’s Old City. Air conditioning, hot drinks facilities, and a 32-inch flat-screen TV are featured in all rooms and suites at the grand Hilton Baku. Rooms are spacious and bright and feature king-sized beds. Cocktails and wonderful views can be enjoyed in the Hilton’s 360 Bar.

Price: Starts at $161 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $2 for taxes and charges, add $19 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Dinamo Hotel Baku – Adult Only

Dinamo Hotel Baku offers a unique experience with its spacious bedrooms, free WiFi, exquisite International cuisine, and classic afternoon teas. The rooms designed in Art Deco style feature exclusively commissioned fabrics, exceedingly comfortable beds, and marble bathrooms with designer toiletries. In-room mini-bar, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres are available at a surcharge.

Price: Starts at $160 per night for King Guest Room with Mobility Access, add $28 for taxes and charges, add $18 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Baku Travel Guide: List of restaurants that you can try while in Baku, Azerbaijan

Passage 145

If you’re for great food with a great atmosphere and ambiance, Passage 145 is the place for you. Popular for both tourists and locals, especially their Shisha.

Operating hours: 00:00 AM – 11:59 PM (Sun-Sat)
Address: Nigar Rafibeyli St., b37 145 Group, Baku Azerbaijan

Fireworks Urban Kitchen

Fireworks Urban Kitchen serves steaks, chops, and seafood that are absolutely delicious. They also have whiskey, handcrafted cocktails, and wines.

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun-Sat)
Address: 674, Azadliq Square JW Marriott Absheron Baku, Baku AZ1010 Azerbaijan

Pivnaya Apteka

The beer and cocktail selection here at Pivnaya Apteka is impressive. You’ll be served delicious food with excellent service.

Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun-Sat)
Address: Neftchilar 147, Baku 1010 Azerbaijan

Nergiz Restaurant

Traditionally designed restaurant, the ambiance here is very lovely. Try their mouthwatering local cuisine. Diners especially love their Kutabs and Kebabs.

Operating hours: 12:00 AM – 00:00 AM (Sun-Sat)
Address: T. Aliyarbeyov St. 9 Fountain Square, Baku 1000 Azerbaijan

Dolma Restaurant

“Dolmа” is a family restaurant that specializes in European and Azerbaijani cuisines. Serves appetizing dishes, diners would love eating here. Try their traditional Mangal salad too!

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 00:00 AM (Sun-Sat)
Address: M.Rasulzada kuc 8, Baku 1000 Azerbaijan

And that’s our Baku travel guide for you! We hope we’re able to give you enough insights about this city. Have you been here? Or are you planning to go here? Share with us your experience!

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About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.