Baku Azerbaijan 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Baku Itinerary: Exploring the City of Winds

This itinerary assumes you’re arriving in Baku with a desire to experience its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history. It’s designed for flexibility and can be adapted based on your interests.

Where to Stay:

  • For luxury: The Fairmont Baku, Four Seasons Hotel Baku, or the JW Marriott Absheron are excellent choices with breathtaking city views.
  • For a boutique experience: Consider the stylish Shah Boutique Hotel or the elegant Villa Venice Hotel for a unique stay.
  • For budget-conscious travelers: Baku offers numerous hostels and guesthouses in its central areas.

Day 1: Arrival & Old City Charm

  • Morning: Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku.
    • Transportation: Take a taxi from the airport to your chosen accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icheri Sheher) and its historic landmarks:
    • Maiden Tower: This iconic 12th-century tower offers panoramic views of the city.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani meal at Nargiz Restaurant, located in the heart of the Old City. Try their “Plov” (rice pilaf) or “Dolma” (stuffed grape leaves).
  • Dinner: Savor delicious street food like piti (meat and vegetable stew cooked in a clay pot) or qutab (savory pancakes) at Nizami Street, the city’s bustling promenade.

Day 2: Modern Architecture & City Life

  • Morning: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Baku Boulevard, enjoying the Caspian Sea views and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Evening: Take a walk through Fountain Square, the heart of modern Baku, and enjoy its beautiful fountains and bustling cafes.

Day 3: History & Culture Immersion

  • Morning: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icheri Sheher), a historical and architectural gem with stunning views from the Shirvanshah’s Palace.
  • Afternoon: Discover the ancient history of Azerbaijan at the Azerbaijan History Museum, which houses artifacts from the Stone Age to the present day.
  • Evening: Enjoy an evening performance at the Baku Opera and Ballet Theatre, a renowned venue on Fountain Square.

Day 4: Fire Mountain & Ancient History

  • Morning: Travel to Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain), a hillside that naturally burns due to burning gas emanating from it.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Carpet Museum to learn about the history and artistry of Azerbaijani carpets.
  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional meal at Shahzade Restaurant, known for its authentic cuisine and ambiance.

Day 5: Departure & Reflection

  • Morning: Enjoy a final stroll through Fountain Square, taking in the sights and sounds one last time.

  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy some last-minute shopping on Nizami Street. This is a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs like a silk scarf, tea set, or local spices to take home with you.

  • Evening: Savor a final meal at one of the restaurants in the Flame Towers Complex, enjoying stunning views and a delicious Azerbaijani dinner as you reflect on your experiences.

  • Departure: Enjoy your last moments in Baku while reminiscing about the city’s beauty and history.

Things to know:

  • The official currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN).
  • Azerbaijan uses a different voltage than many other countries. Ensure you have an adapter for 220V outlets.
  • The best time to visit Baku is in spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the city isn’t as crowded as it can be in summer.

Things to do:

  • Wander through the historic streets of the Old City (Icheri Sheher) and marvel at its ancient architecture.

  • Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center and learn about the history of Azerbaijan’s national identity.

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed Gobustan National Park, a prehistoric site with petroglyphs and mud volcanoes.

  • Experience the unique atmosphere of the Old City (visit Nizami Street at night for a different perspective).

  • Enjoy a cup of tea: Tea culture is deeply ingrained in Azerbaijani society. Sip on traditional black tea with sugar and a variety of local herbs and spices.

  • Savor the local cuisine: Enjoy delicious dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves), plov (rice pilaf), qutab (savory pancakes) and lavash, a thin, flatbread.

  • Take a cooking class: Learn to make some of these dishes yourself!

  • Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: Explore the intricate designs and history of this art form.**

  • Experience the modern Baku nightlife: Enjoy live music, bars, and clubs along Nizami Street, the city’s vibrant social hub.

  • Visit the Maiden Tower: This ancient structure is a must-see for any tourist visiting Baku.

Day 5: Departure & Memories

  • Shop for souvenirs at the local bazaar: Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Old City while browsing through traditional crafts, artwork, and delicacies.

  • Enjoy a final meal with a view:

Things to remember:

  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning views.

  • Explore the city’s architecture and history:

  • Experience the modern Baku nightlife:

  • Savor a cup of tea, a traditional symbol of hospitality in Azerbaijan.

Tips for exploring:

  • Take a trip to the ancient city of Shamakhi:

  • Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine:

Remember to enjoy the experience! Immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the delicious flavors of this ancient land.**