Baku, Azerbaijan-4-day-itinerary

Baku Adventure: 4-Day Itinerary

This itinerary caters to a mix of history, culture, modernity, and delicious Azerbaijani cuisine.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Fairmont Baku, Four Seasons Hotel Baku
  • Mid-range: Hilton Baku, JW Marriott Absheron Baku
  • Budget: Baku Guesthouse, Caspian Sea Hostel

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable for navigating the city center.
  • Taxis: Widely available, but negotiate prices beforehand or use ride-hailing apps like Bolt.
  • Walking: Baku’s Old City is easily explorable on foot.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
  • Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Many countries can enjoy visa-free entry for a limited period.
  • Language: Azerbaijani is the official language, but Russian and English are spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in Old Baku

  • Morning: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Icheri Sheher (Old City). Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, admire ancient mosques like the Juma Mosque, and visit historical landmarks such as the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch at Nargiz Restaurant in Old City. Try dishes like “plov” (rice pilaf), “dolma” (stuffed grape leaves), and “qutab” (savory pancakes).
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea. Enjoy street performers, cafes, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 2: Modern Marvels & Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Heydar Aliyev Center, a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. Explore its exhibitions and admire the unique design.

  • Afternoon: Delve into Azerbaijani culture at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. Admire intricate handwoven carpets and learn about their history and significance.

  • Evening: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Sumakh Restaurant, known for its contemporary interpretations of Azerbaijani cuisine.

Day 3: Fire Mountain & Mud Volcanoes

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the mesmerizing Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain), where natural gas flames eternally erupt from the ground.
  • Afternoon: Explore the otherworldly landscape of Gobustan National Park, home to ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes – a truly unique geological phenomenon.

Day 4: Shopping & Departure

  • Morning: Shop for souvenirs at the Nizami Street, Baku’s main shopping boulevard. Find local handicrafts, carpets, silk scarves, and spices.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the Baku Park Bulvar, enjoying the Caspian Sea views and indulging in a final Azerbaijani meal at a café overlooking the water.

Tips:

  • Learn basic Azerbaijani phrases for greetings and courtesy.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Bargain for souvenirs, especially in local markets.
  • Try Azerbaijani tea served with “shekerbura” (sweet pastries).
  • Enjoy the hospitality of the Azerbaijani people!

This itinerary is just a starting point – customize it to your interests and enjoy your Baku adventure!