10 Things To Do In Baku For A Europe Like Vacation

To get engulfed by some really cool and unique architecture, Heydar Aliyev Centre is a must-visit and a widely known popular tourist destination in the city. Designed by Iraqi-British Architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Centre is a 57,500-meter square complex, showcasing a curved style structure with eschews sharp angles. The space was specially created to hold the nation's biggest cultural programs, breaking away from the Soviet architecture that is greatly present in the city. It represents the nation's hope and optimism for the future, and we know that one would be absolutely thrilled to visit there. 

Timings: 11 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: INR 738

Baku Boulevard runs parallel to the Azerbaijan seafront and is a popular place to visit in Baku for locals as well as tourists. This promenade stretches for quite a few kilometres, consisting of majestic gardens and fountains, offering the best view of the Caspian Sea. You can also opt to catch great views from Baku Eye, which just costs around INR 492, and is located in the area itself. 

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Entry Fee: Free

Travel back to the 12th century and visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs from the Palaeolithic period. It's a renowned UNESCO heritage site featuring remnants of Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman, and Russian presence in cultural continuity. The palaces belong to the rulers of Shirvanshahs, who later built and developed a lot of regions in Baku. It spreads over 22 hectares, encapsulating over 500 historical monuments and spaces like mosques, caravanserais, bath complexes, and residential buildings, boasting tales of medical glory, culture, science, and arts. A must-visit for history buffs especially.

Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: INR 492

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum first opened in 1972 and has been operating as a site of comprehensive research of traditional carpet weaving art, which has contributed towards its popularity globally. Initially built to be a repository of the art of carpet weaving, the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum now stands as a research, training, cultural, and educational centre where major exhibitions, international symposiums, and conferences take place. They now expansively collaborate with influential international organizations, such as the European Textile Network (ETN), the European Museum Forum (EMF), the International Council of Museums (ICOM), UNESCO, and the Council for Humanitarian Cooperation of the Member States of the CIS (IFESCO) to promote the art of carpets, history, and textiles. 

Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: INR 492

This popular name among the places to visit in Baku is another UNESCO heritage site and one of the located in the centre of Azerbaijan. It consists of three areas of a plateau of rocky boulders and more than 40,000 engravings representing the long history of rock art that includes figurines of hunting, fauna, flora, and lifestyles in prehistoric times. One can also spot numerous caves, settlements, and burial sites, relaying more history and fascinating facts. 

Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: INR 197

Baku Old City is also known as the walled city because of the defence walls surrounding it. Dating back to the 12th century, the city offers a glimpse of many influences, like Ottoman and Russian, that still pervade its streets. This ancient town is steeped in history, and you will also find the Palace of the Shirvanshahs here.

Must-Visit: Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Maiden Tower, Muhammad Mosque, Arcades on Bazaar Square.

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Entry Fee: Free

Though there are a number of historical sites to visit in Baku, Flame Tower boasts the city's modernity in full swing. It is a group of three skyscrapers owned by actors linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family. During the night, you get an extraordinary sight of the lit-up towers. They are not only home to more than 300 luxury apartments but also embody the city's history of fire worship and natural gas resources.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

To catch the most picturesque and breathtaking view of the city, Highland Park is the place to be. It is the highest point in Baku, essentially an elevated terrace that is known for its panoramic view of the city, Caspian Sea, and Flame Towers. We highly recommend visiting this vantage point for some 'gram-worthy pictures. Highland Park is definitely on the list of things to do in Baku. 

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Entry Fee: Free

As we said, Azerbaijan reminds everyone of Europe. There is literally a Mini Venice here that will definitely throw you off for a loop. Mini Venice is a hidden gem of Baku, featuring a beautiful canal, charming buildings, and super cute bridges. It is adjacent to Baku Boulevard and is the perfect romantic experience that every visitor should indulge in for fairly minimal prices. 

Timings: 11 AM - 9 PM

Entry Fee: INR 492

Among things to do in Baku, visiting the Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature is an absolute must for literature enthusiasts. Located in the centre of ancient Baku, this building is named after Nizami Ganjavi, who was a genius poet and thinker of Azerbaijan. The museum possesses the greatest treasuries of Azerbaijani culture, displaying several pieces of research, books, and monographs that contain some gems of knowledge. You'll find it fascinating and way ahead of their time.

Timings: 11 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: INR 492

Metro is the best mode of transportation for longer distances and reaching outlying areas. It's cheap, efficient, and avoids traffic. Look for stations near your destination.

Their bus services are a vast network covering most of the city, making it useful if the metro doesn't go where you need. However, it can be crowded and routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Walking is preferred by many for exploring the central areas like the Old City and Fountain Square. Baku is quite walkable, and you'll discover hidden gems along the way.

With a taxi, allow yourself for a plentiful and convenient, journey, especially for shorter trips or when you're in a hurry. Be sure to negotiate the fare upfront or ensure the meter is used to avoid overcharging.

Do I need a visa to visit Baku? 

Visa requirements vary by nationality, check your country's specific regulations.

What currency is used in Baku? 

The Azerbaijani Manat (AZN).

What are some must-try Azerbaijani dishes? 

Plov, Dolma, Qutab, and Dushbara.

What are the best souvenirs to buy in Baku? 

Carpets, ceramics, copperware, and traditional scarves.

Is Baku a safe city for tourists? 

Yes, Baku is generally safe with a low crime rate.

What language is spoken in Baku? 

Azerbaijani, but English is increasingly spoken in tourist areas.

It is highgly recommended for travelers to get a BakuCard- a reusable card that you can top up.for easy payment on the metro and buses.