Explore Baku, Azerbaijan in Just One Day

Baku, Azerbaijan

1 days

Tourist

Mushroom-shaped salt formation in the Masazir lake

About Baku, Azerbaijan

Experience the unique blend of East and West in Baku, Azerbaijan's vibrant capital. This city offers a captivating mix of medieval architecture and modern skyscrapers, including the iconic Flame Towers. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old City, Icheri Sheher, with its ancient Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Enjoy the city's rich culinary scene, offering delicious Azeri cuisine. Take a stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade, Baku Boulevard, and visit the Carpet Museum. Venture outside the city to witness the natural phenomenon of Yanar Dag, a mountain that has been continuously aflame for centuries. Baku, a city of contrasts, offers a unique travel experience that combines history, culture, and modernity.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic and Modern Sides of Baku

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old City, also known as Icheri Sheher. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with narrow lanes, historic buildings, and charming courtyards. Don't miss the Maiden Tower, an iconic symbol of Baku, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a 15th-century royal retreat.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch in a local restaurant in the Old City. Try dishes like plov, a saffron-flavored rice dish, or dolma, stuffed vine leaves.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a promenade established in the 1900s which runs parallel to Baku's seafront. Here you can visit the Miniature Book Museum and the Baku Ferris Wheel, also known as the Baku Eye.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a restaurant in the city center where you can try Azerbaijani kebabs and other local specialties. Enjoy the view of the city's modern architecture, including the Flame Towers, Baku's tallest skyscrapers.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Nizami Street, a large pedestrian and shopping street in downtown Baku. It's a perfect place to shop for souvenirs, enjoy a cup of Azerbaijani tea, or simply soak in the vibrant nightlife of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

1
Maiden Tower

A 12th-century monument, it is one of Azerbaijan's most distinctive national emblems.

Attractions

Monuments

Landmarks

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

2
Palace of the Shirvanshahs

A 15th-century palace built by the Shirvanshahs and described by UNESCO as 'one of the pearls of Azerbaijan's architecture'.

Attractions

Monuments

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

3
Miniature Book Museum

The Miniature Book Museum in Baku is a unique museum that houses a vast collection of miniature books from various countries and periods. It was founded by Zarifa Salahova and is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to miniature books.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

4
Baku Ferris Wheel

Also known as the Baku Eye, it is a Ferris wheel on Baku Boulevard in the Seaside National Park of Baku.

Attractions

Entertainment

5
Flame Towers

The tallest skyscraper in Baku, it consists of apartments, a hotel and office blocks.

Attractions

Landmarks

Architecture

6
Nizami Street

A large pedestrian and shopping street in downtown Baku, named after classical poet Nizami Ganjavi.

Shopping

Food and Drink

Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Plov

Plov is a popular Azerbaijani dish made from saffron-covered rice, and often served with various herbs, vegetables, and meat. It's a staple food in Baku and a must-try for any visitor.

Dolma

Dolma is a traditional Azerbaijani dish made by stuffing grape leaves with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs. It's a common dish in Baku and is often served during special occasions.

Qutab

Qutab is a thin, crescent-shaped flatbread filled with ground meat or spinach. It's a popular street food in Baku and is often served with a side of yogurt.

Dushbara

Dushbara is a traditional Azerbaijani soup made with tiny dumplings filled with ground meat and spices. It's a common comfort food in Baku, especially during the colder months.

Shirin Plov

Shirin Plov is a sweet version of the traditional Azerbaijani Plov. It's made with saffron rice, dried fruits, and nuts, and is often served as a dessert in Baku.

Kebab

Kebab is a popular dish in Baku, made by grilling marinated meat, usually lamb or chicken, on skewers. It's often served with flatbread and a side of fresh vegetables.

Baliq

Baliq is a traditional Azerbaijani dish made with fish, usually sturgeon, grilled or baked with a variety of spices. It's a common dish in Baku, especially given its location on the Caspian Sea.

Choban Salat

Choban Salat is a traditional Azerbaijani salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs, dressed with vinegar and oil. It's a common side dish in Baku and is often served with main courses.

Pakhlava

Pakhlava is a traditional Azerbaijani dessert made with layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a popular treat in Baku, especially during the Nowruz holiday.

Shor Gogal

Shor Gogal is a traditional Azerbaijani pastry made with a mixture of flour, sugar, and spices, and often decorated with sesame seeds. It's a popular snack in Baku, especially during the Novruz holiday.

Ayran

Ayran is a traditional Azerbaijani drink made from yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt. It's a popular refreshment in Baku, especially during the hot summer months.

Chai

Chai is the Azerbaijani word for tea, and it's a staple drink in Baku. It's often served in a traditional pear-shaped glass, and is typically consumed throughout the day.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Baku, Azerbaijan is during the spring months (April to June) and the fall months (September to October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. The summer months can be quite hot and winters can be cold and windy. Spring and fall also offer the opportunity to experience local festivals and events.

How to get around

Public Bus

Baku has an extensive public bus network. Buses are a common way to get around the city, and they cover most areas. They usually operate from early morning until late at night.

Metro

The Baku Metro is a rapid transit system serving Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. It's a convenient and fast way to travel around the city. The metro operates from early morning until midnight.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Baku and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. They are metered, and the fare is usually reasonable. It's a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Bolt, operate in Baku. These services can be booked via their respective apps and offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Bicycle

Baku has a growing network of bicycle lanes, and bike rentals are available. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially the scenic seaside boulevard.

Foot

Many of Baku's attractions are located close together, making walking a viable option. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian zones.

Car Rental

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Baku. However, traffic can be heavy in the city, and parking can be challenging. International driving permits are accepted.

Train

For longer distances, such as trips to the suburbs or other cities in Azerbaijan, trains are a comfortable and scenic option. Baku's central railway station offers connections to various destinations.

Funicular

The Baku Funicular is a fun way to travel up to the city's higher areas. It offers stunning views over Baku Bay and the city skyline.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency AZN

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 03; Fire: 01; Police: 02

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Baku, Azerbaijan as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Azerbaijani, but English and Russian are also widely spoken.

2

The currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

3

Baku is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

4

The city has a semi-arid climate, with hot and dry summers and cool and occasionally wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75-95°F (24-35°C), while winter temperatures range from 28-46°F (-2-8°C).

5

Baku is a mix of Eastern and Western cultures, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's considered polite to refuse a meal or gift at least once before accepting.

6

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. A tip of 10% is generally acceptable in restaurants.

7

Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive. Baku has a metro system, buses, and taxis. You can also rent a car, but be aware that driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic.

8

The power sockets are of type F, the same as in Europe, and the standard voltage is 220 V.

9

Baku is on Azerbaijan Standard Time, which is 4 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+4).

10

The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

11

Azerbaijani cuisine is a must-try. Popular dishes include plov (a rice dish), kebabs, and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).

12

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available and recommended for those with sensitive stomachs.

13

Baku has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late. However, public drunkenness is frowned upon.

14

It's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should carry a scarf to cover their heads.

15

Smoking is prohibited in public places, including restaurants and cafes.

16

The emergency number in Azerbaijan is 112. It's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

17

Baku has a rich history and culture, so it's worth learning a bit about the city and the country before your visit.

18

The city is very walkable, especially in the city center. However, be aware that Baku is known for its strong winds, which can make walking difficult at times.

19

Baku has a range of shopping options, from modern malls to traditional markets. Bargaining is common in markets, but not in shops or malls.

20

Internet access is widely available in Baku, with many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi.

Basic Azerbaijani to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Salam	sah-lahm	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Hədəf	heh-def	Leaving or saying goodbye
Please	Zəhmət olmasa	zeh-met ol-ma-sa	Making a request
Thank you	Təşəkkür edirəm	teh-shehk-kur eh-di-rem	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Bəli	be-li	Agreeing or confirming
No	Xeyr	khe-yr	Disagreeing or denying
Excuse me	Üzr istəyirəm	uzr is-te-yi-rem	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Mən bağışlayın	men ba-ghish-layin	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Siz ingilis dilində danışırsınız?	siz in-gilis di-lin-de da-ni-shir-si-niz	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	Mən başa düşmürəm	men ba-sha du-shmu-rem	Not understanding something
How much does this cost?	Bu nə qədərdir?	bu ne qe-der-dir	Asking for the price
Where is the bathroom?	Tualet haradadır?	tu-a-let ha-ra-da-dir	Looking for the bathroom
I need help	Mənə kömək lazımdır	me-ne ko-mek la-zyim-dir	Needing assistance
Can you help me?	Mənə kömək edə bilərsiniz?	me-ne ko-mek e-de bi-le-rsi-niz	Asking for help
I'm lost	Mən itmişəm	men it-mi-shem	Lost or needing directions
Can I have the menu, please?	Menyunu ala bilərəm, zəhmət olmasa?	men-yu-nu a-la bi-le-rem, zeh-met ol-ma-sa	At a restaurant
Water	Su	su	Asking for water
Beer	Pivo	pi-vo	Ordering a beer
Check, please	Hesabı, zəhmət olmasa	he-sa-bi, zeh-met ol-ma-sa	Asking for the bill
Good night	Gecəniz xeyrə qalsın	ge-che-niz khe-ye-re qal-sin	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Sunglasses
Hat or cap for sun protection
Swimwear (if planning to visit the Caspian Sea)

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Travel-size body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications (if applicable)

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel reservation confirmation
Local currency (Azerbaijani manat)
Credit and debit cards
Emergency contact information

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank for charging devices on the go
Headphones
Camera (if not using a smartphone camera)
Adapter for Azerbaijan's power outlets

Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook or map of Baku
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for the journey
Travel pillow and blanket for the flight
Earplugs and eye mask for the flight
A book or magazine for the flight

Weather Conditions

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, experiences a semi-arid climate with warm and dry summers, cool and occasionally wet winters, and strong winds all year round. During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures can rise up to 86°F (30°C), so it's advisable to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. However, the city is known as the 'City of Winds', so even in summer, a light jacket or sweater for the evenings might be useful. In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can drop to as low as 28°F (-2°C). Therefore, if you're planning to visit Baku during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Despite the cold, winter can be a great time to visit as the city is less crowded and the snow-covered landscapes can be quite beautiful. The city is also quite windy throughout the year, hence its nickname. This can make the temperature feel colder than it actually is, so it's always a good idea to have a windbreaker or a sturdy umbrella on hand. Rainfall is relatively low in Baku, but when it does rain, it can be heavy. So, packing a waterproof jacket or an umbrella would be a wise decision. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Enjoy your trip to Baku!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	7° / 1°	January is the coldest month in Baku, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather, but pack warm clothes.
February	7° / 1°	February is still quite cold in Baku, with temperatures similar to January. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.
March	12° / 4°	March sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still relatively cool. The city starts to come alive with the onset of spring.
April	18° / 8°	April is a pleasant month to visit Baku, with moderate temperatures and the city in full bloom. It's a great time for outdoor activities.
May	23° / 13°	May is a warm month in Baku, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. The weather is usually sunny and clear.
June	28° / 18°	June is the start of the summer season in Baku, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s. It's a great time to visit the beaches.
July	31° / 21°	July is the hottest month in Baku, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for the heat.
August	31° / 21°	August is another hot month in Baku, similar to July. It's a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the city's outdoor activities and nightlife.
September	26° / 16°	September sees a decrease in temperature, but it's still quite warm. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds.
October	21° / 11°	October is a pleasant month in Baku, with moderate temperatures and the city in full autumn colors. It's a great time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
November	16° / 6°	November is a cooler month in Baku, with temperatures often dropping to the low teens. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather.
December	9° / 3°	December is a cold month in Baku, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities and holiday festivities.