Baku Azerbaijan 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Baku Itinerary: Exploring the Jewel of the Caspian

This itinerary balances historical exploration with modern experiences, showcasing the unique blend of old and new that makes Baku so captivating.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive in Baku (GYD). Settle into your hotel. Things to know:
    • Azerbaijan uses the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) as its currency.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming streets of the Old City (Icheri Sheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore historical landmarks like the Maiden Tower, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and the Nizami Street for souvenirs and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Nargiz Restaurant on the bustling Nizami Street, known for its traditional Azerbaijani cuisine (think kebabs, dolma, and plov) in a charming setting.

Where to stay:

  • Old City (Icheri Sheher): Immerse yourself in the heart of Baku’s history and culture with hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Baku, the Hilton Baku, or the Boutique Hotel Shahzade for a luxurious stay within the walls of the Old City.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid, and marvel at its futuristic curves and innovative design.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Carpet Museum to learn about the history and artistry of Azerbaijani carpets. These are not just floor coverings in Azerbaijan - they’re considered a national treasure and high art form!

Day 3:

  • Morning: Take a walk along the Baku Boulevard, enjoying the views of the Caspian Sea and the city’s skyline.
  • Afternoon: Explore the modern architecture of Baku, including the Flame Towers and the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. The modern cityscape offers stunning contrasts with the historical elements.
  • Dinner: Sample the local cuisine at Shehir Restaurant in the Old City.

Things to do:

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icheri Sheher): This walled city is a must-see for any visitor to Baku, filled with historic mosques, palaces, and traditional markets.
  • Visit the modern architecture along the Caspian: From the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Center to the elegant buildings lining Nizami Street, Baku offers a fascinating blend of old and new architectural styles.
  • Stroll through the National Park: This beautiful park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

Where to eat:

  • Shehir Restaurant (Nizami Street): Traditional Azerbaijani cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Local Tea Houses: Experience the local tea culture with delicious tea, sweets, and snacks.

Things to know:

  • Language: The official language is Azerbaijani, but Russian is also widely spoken.
  • Currency: The Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Day 4:

  • Explore the modern city: Visit the Flame Towers, a complex of three skyscrapers that symbolize the modernity and progress of Azerbaijan.

Day 5:

  • Enjoy a cultural experience: Spend the day strolling through the bustling streets of Baku, soaking in the historical architecture of the Old City and learning about the history of the region at the Azerbaijan History Museum.

Day 6:

  • Experience a modern Azerbaijani art scene: Explore the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, a stunning architectural complex designed by Zaha Hadid.

Transportation:

  • Walking: The Old City and the city center are easily explored on foot.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available and affordable in Baku. Consider using reputable taxi apps like Bolt or Uber for convenience and transparent pricing.
  • Bus: Baku has a good bus network, but it can be crowded and confusing for those unfamiliar with the city.

Things to know about transportation:

  • Metro: The cheapest and most efficient way to travel around the city is by the Baku Metro. It’s clean, modern, and runs frequently.
  • Taxi Apps: Using taxi apps like Bolt or Uber will be your best bet for navigating around the city, especially if you don’t speak Azerbaijani or Russian.

Day 7:

  • Explore beyond the city: Consider a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient petroglyphs and explore the mud volcanoes.

Things to do outside of Baku:

  • Take a boat tour: See the city from the Caspian Sea and admire the architecture, take photos of the city’s skyline.

  • Explore the Heydar Aliyev Park: This modern park is a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.

Day 8:

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Baku with its bustling bars, clubs and restaurants.**

Things to know about transportation in Baku:

  • Buses: Buses are an affordable option for getting around within the city.
  • Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to travel longer distances, but be aware that traffic can be heavy.
  • Metrobus: For locations outside the city center, the Metrobus system offers dedicated bus routes connected to the metro.

Day 6 and Beyond:

  • Exploring: Explore the modern architecture along the Caspian: From the futuristic curves of the Heydar Aliyev Center to the unique designs found in other parts of the city, you’ll be amazed by the architectural diversity.
  • Beyond the City: Consider a day trip to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings and a fascinating landscape.

Things to know about transportation beyond:

  • Bus Routes: Take advantage of the bus routes to explore surrounding areas.
  • Car Sharing:

Driving in Baku is not for the faint of heart, traffic can be incredibly chaotic.

  • Walking Tours: If you’re adventurous, consider exploring by bicycle. The city has a growing bike lane infrastructure and it’s a great way to see the sights while getting some exercise.

  • Travel Tips:

  • Plan your itinerary in advance: This will help you make the most of your time and avoid any last-minute surprises.

  • Learn basic Azerbaijani phrases: While English and Russian are spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few words like “salam” (hello) or “tessekur” (thank you) can go a long way with locals.

Remember:

  • Things to consider: This is just a starting point for your itinerary.
  • You can adjust the order and add more stops based on your interests and time.

For example, if you’re interested in history, here are some things to consider adding:

  • Icheri Sheher (Day 1 & 7): The “Old City” is a must-see for any visitor.
  • Explore the historical streets of Baku. Wander through the narrow alleys and admire the ancient architecture and landmarks.

Other options for your trip:

  • Baku Eye: Take a ride on this Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of the city and the Caspian Sea.
  • Heydar Aliyev Mosque: Visit this modern mosque, known for its stunning white marble facade.

Remember to:

  • Research the opening hours and entrance fees for attractions.
  • Check the weather forecast before your trip:

The weather in Baku can be unpredictable.

  • Book a tour or guide ahead of time: Especially if you’re visiting during peak season, it’s best to book tours or guides in advance to ensure you have a spot and avoid any disappointment.
  • Consider your budget: Some attractions and activities are free, while others require an entrance fee or other costs.

Enjoy the local cuisine!

  • Explore history: Visit the “Old City” (Nizami Street) for a taste of Baku’s rich past.

Other things to consider:

  • Transportation: Consider using public transportation or taxis for travel within Baku.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Respect: Remember that Azerbaijan is a Muslim-majority country. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs.

Enjoy your time in Baku!