Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a fascinating juxtaposition of old-world elegance and ultra-modern sophistication. The city is divided between skyscraper wonders that rival the most futuristic designs in Dubai and stone walls that have stood the test of time since the 12th century. Here you'll find opportunities for cross-cultural exchange through museums, architectural wonders, and ancient traditions, as well as the exhilaration of modern entertainment and pleasant outdoor activities. The city has long been a major center of the Silk Road, contributing to a rich and diverse culture that includes influences from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: Fly into Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which receives flights from many international destinations and is about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Taxis, buses, and airport shuttles will take you to your accommodation.
• Getting Around: Public transportation, including buses and the Baku Metro, is efficient and inexpensive. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also easily accessible, and for a more unique experience, you can opt for a boat ride across Baku Bay.
• Where to Stay: Consider staying in the city center for its proximity to historical sites and entertainment. A stay near Fountains Square lets you quickly access restaurants, cafes, and shopping, while areas near Icherisheher put you close to historical landmarks.
• How Long to Visit: If you're eager to explore the highlights, plan at least three days to absorb the city's rich historical and modern essence. But Baku has enough activities to offer to easily fill a full week's itinerary.
• When to Visit: The months of May through September bring warm weather ideal for outdoor activities. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals during this time, creating an energetic atmosphere.
• Similar Destinations: Within the region, Istanbul is another fascinating metropolis in which the contemporary is interspersed with magnificent historic sites. Around the globe, Seoul also effortlessly contrasts the old and the new, with skyscrapers and neon lights alongside traditional villages.

Highlights:

Icherisheher (The Old Town):

Icherisheher is the historic town center of Baku, with labyrinthine alleyways and ancient buildings. The quarter is protected by 12th-century fortification walls, which still stand to this day. They also are a popular photo subject, as the modern Baku skyline can be seen in the background. Perhaps the most iconic structure within these walls is the Maiden Tower, whose history is shrouded in mystery. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has served various purposes throughout its over 800-year lifetime, including as a defensive stronghold, observatory, and a beacon for ships. The Shirvanshah Palace, another important landmark, was once the royal seat. The palace complex features several components, including courtyards, living quarters, a mosque, and a mausoleum. Architecturally, it is characterized by intricate stone carvings and domed ceilings that add a sense of grandiosity to the entire complex. The final major sight in the Old Town is the Muhammad Mosque, which dates back to the 11th century and is a prime example of medieval Islamic architecture. Overall, a visit to Icherisheher is an experience that showcases the diverse cultural and historical richness of Azerbaijan.

The Modern City:

Towering over the historic areas, the skyscrapers of Baku's modern districts and wide boulevards scream progress and grandeur. The Flame Towers, three flame-shaped skyscrapers, are impossible to miss and have become a symbol of the city's rapid modernization. For an unparalleled view of the Flame Towers and the city beyond, head to Highland Park, especially at dusk when the towers are lit by the setting sun. Fountains Square is another focal point of the city. It serves as a central meeting point where both locals and tourists gather for leisure and entertainment. The square borders Nizami Street, the city's main shopping street, which is lined by luxury and budget stores. The street is also filled with local vendors offering traditional Azerbaijani crafts and food, as well as restaurants serving global cuisines. And lastly, no seaside metropolis would be complete without a waterfront! Baku Boulevard runs along the shores of the Caspian Sea, dotted with green spaces, shopping malls, and even an amusement park.

Museums:

Baku is home to many museums that showcase the country's history and culture. The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum displays the woven art of Azerbaijan's carpet weavers. Its shape features a modern, rolled-up carpet design, making it also an architectural landmark in the city. Inside, you can explore an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets and rugs, each with distinct patterns, techniques, and historical contexts, as well as other related artifacts like traditional Azerbaijani costumes and textiles. The Heydar Aliyev Center is another masterpiece of contemporary architecture, designed by Zaha Hadid. The venue hosts a range of exhibitions spanning art, science, and cultural history, all aiming to educate its visitors on Azerbaijani heritage. Though Baku is home to many other interesting museums, a particularly noteworthy Museum is the Museum of Miniature Books, the only one of its kind in the world. It is not a gimmick, but takes its subject seriously, presenting books from a variety of languages and genres, all in tiny sizes.

Bibiheybat Mosque:

Set near Baku Bay, the Bibiheybat Mosque features a stunning interior and a scenic backdrop of the Caspian Sea. The internal space of the mosque is decorated with detailed tilework and calligraphy, creating a sense of serenity and devotion. Rebuilt in the 1990s, the mosque remains true to its 13th-century roots and serves as an important pilgrimage site for many.

Yanar Dag:

To be found just an hour's drive from the city center is Yanar Dag, which is the site of an unusual natural spectacle of flames erupting from the ground due to natural gas reserves. Legend has it that a shepherd accidentally lit the fire, which has been burning ever since. The sight is especially impressive at night, when the flames dance in the darkness, and illuminate the night.

Heydar Mosque:

Built in 2014, the Heydar Mosque is an example of modern Islamic architecture while still incorporating traditional elements. With its four soaring 95-meter (311 ft) minarets, the mosque is an imposing structure visible from many parts of Baku. Its elegant interior features Turkish tiles and can accommodate up to 4,000 worshippers at a time, making it one of the largest in the region.