10 Unmissable Things To Do In Baku: The Ultimate Travel Guide   Recently updated!


Block
BAKU
AZERBAIJAN TRAVEL GUIDE

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

A VAGABOND LIFE

STAY IN TOUCH
10 Unmissable Things To Do In Baku
1. Explore the Old City (Icherisheher)

The UNESCO-listed Old City is the historic soul of Baku. This walled medieval town with narrow cobblestone streets, ancient caravanserais, mosques, and traditional houses feels like stepping back in time while being right in the centre of the modern city. It is one of the most atmospheric places in the Caucasus.

History

Continuously inhabited for over 1,500 years, it was a key Silk Road trading post and reached its golden age under the Shirvanshah dynasty in the 15th century.

Highlights
  • Maiden Tower
  • Palace of the Shirvanshahs
  • Ancient caravanserais and hammams
  • Juma Mosque
  • Traditional teahouses
Location: Central Baku, next to the modern city centre
When to Go: Early morning or late afternoon
Getting There: Icherisheher Metro station or short walk
Visit early in the morning for peaceful streets and beautiful light. Try tea and pakhlava at a traditional çay evi inside the Old City.
2. Climb the Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower is Baku’s most iconic symbol. This ancient stone tower stands tall in the Old City and offers incredible 360-degree views over the Caspian Sea and the modern skyline.

History

Built between the 8th and 12th centuries, its exact purpose remains a mystery. It may have served as a defensive tower, fire temple, or astronomical observatory.

Highlights
  • Panoramic viewing terrace
  • Internal historical exhibition
  • Superb photo opportunities
Location: Southeastern part of the Old City
When to Go: Morning for best light
Getting There: Inside Icherisheher Old City
Buy the combined ticket with the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Go early to avoid queues.
3. Visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

This elegant 15th-century royal complex is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani medieval architecture and one of Baku’s most important historical sites.

History

Built during the peak of the Shirvanshah dynasty, it served as the royal residence and survived multiple earthquakes due to its exceptional construction.

Highlights
  • Divankhana (court building)
  • Royal tomb
  • Intricate stone carvings
  • Peaceful courtyard
Location: Central Old City
When to Go: Any time
Getting There: Short walk from Maiden Tower
Take the audio guide for deeper understanding of the site.
4. Walk Baku Boulevard

This beautiful 3.5 km seaside promenade is Baku’s favourite public space. Lined with trees, fountains, cafés, and sculptures, it runs alongside the Caspian Sea and connects the Old City with modern Baku.

History

First laid out in 1909 and greatly expanded in recent years as part of the city’s modernisation.

Highlights
  • Beautiful fountains and sculptures
  • Little Venice area
  • Carpet Museum
  • Great views of the Flame Towers
Location: Along the Caspian Sea waterfront
When to Go: Late afternoon and sunset
Getting There: Easy walk from Old City
Rent a bike or walk slowly while enjoying people-watching and sea views.
5. See the Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are Baku’s most dramatic modern landmark. These three flame-shaped skyscrapers dominate the skyline and light up with spectacular LED shows at night.

History

Completed in 2012, they symbolise Azerbaijan’s oil wealth and the eternal fire of the Land of Fire.

Highlights
  • Night-time LED fire shows
  • Best views from Highland Park
  • Iconic skyline presence
Location: Visible from most of central Baku
When to Go: Sunset and evening
Getting There: Funicular to Highland Park
Go to Highland Park or Martyrs’ Lane at blue hour for the best photos.
6. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center

Designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, this flowing, wave-like building is one of the most architecturally impressive structures in the world and a symbol of modern Baku.

Highlights
  • Striking contemporary architecture
  • Excellent exhibitions and events
  • Iconic photo spots outside
Location: Northern part of the city centre
When to Go: Any time (indoor attraction)
Getting There: Taxi or bus from city centre
Walk around the building — the curves look different from every angle.
7. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

Housed in a unique building shaped like a rolled carpet, this museum boasts the world’s largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets with over 14,000 pieces on display.

Highlights
  • Ancient and modern carpets from all regions
  • Live weaving demonstrations
  • Excellent explanations of techniques
Location: On Baku Boulevard
When to Go: Any time
Getting There: Easy walk along the Boulevard
Watch the live weaving demonstration — it is very impressive.
8. Fountain Square & Evening Vibes

The bustling heart of modern Baku, Fountain Square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, shops, and street performers. It is the perfect place to experience local nightlife and energy.

Location: Central Baku
When to Go: Evening
Getting There: Short walk from Old City
Great spot for people-watching and trying local street food like qutab.
9. Highland Park & Martyrs’ Lane

Located on a hill above the city, this park offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Baku, the Flame Towers, and the Caspian Sea.

Location: Above the Old City
When to Go: Sunset or blue hour
Getting There: Funicular from Baku Boulevard
Best place for iconic photos of the Flame Towers at sunset.
10. Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

A natural gas fire that has been burning continuously on a hillside for thousands of years. The flames can reach up to 3 metres high and are especially impressive after dark.

Location: 25 km north of Baku
When to Go: Evening for dramatic effect
Getting There: Taxi or day tour from Baku
Visit at night to see the flames glowing beautifully against the dark sky.