3-Day Local Experience: Sightseeing and Shopping in Baku
Baku, Azerbaijan
3 days
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient city walls, the Maiden Tower, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. The cobblestone streets and historical buildings offer a glimpse into Baku's past.
Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch in a local restaurant in the Old City. Try dishes like plov, kebabs, and dolma.
Afternoon
Head to the modern part of Baku for a shopping spree. Visit the high-end boutiques and local designer stores. Don't miss the carpet shops for a unique souvenir.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Try Azerbaijani wine and local delicacies.
Evening
End your day with a stroll along the Baku Boulevard. Enjoy the cool sea breeze and the stunning night view of the Flame Towers.
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Day 2
Gobustan National Park and Contemporary Architecture
Morning
Visit the Gobustan National Park, home to ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes. It's a short drive from Baku and offers a unique insight into the region's history.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch in the park. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.
Afternoon
Return to Baku and visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. Explore the exhibitions and enjoy the stunning design of the building.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner in a restaurant near the Caspian Sea. Try the local caviar and fish dishes.
Evening
Spend the evening in the vibrant Nizami Street. Explore the shops, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Day 3
Ateshgah Fire Temple and Absheron Peninsula
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a unique religious site with a history dating back to the 17th century.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant near the temple. Try the local bread, cheese, and tea.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Absheron Peninsula. Visit the Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside.
Dinner
Have dinner in a traditional Azerbaijani restaurant. Try the local lamb dishes and sweet pastries.
Evening
Return to Baku and spend the evening in the Fountain Square. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and the beautiful fountains.
Attractions in Itinerary (11)
1Old City
The historical core of Baku, known as Icheri Sheher, has a labyrinth of narrow streets, caravanserais, mosques, and palaces from the 12th century.
2Maiden Tower
A 12th-century monument, it is one of Azerbaijan's most distinctive national emblems.
3Palace of the Shirvanshahs
A 15th-century palace built by the Shirvanshahs and described by UNESCO as 'one of the pearls of Azerbaijan's architecture'.
4Baku Boulevard
A promenade established in 1909 which runs parallel to Baku's seafront.
5Gobustan National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is famous for its rock carvings dating back to 40,000 years.
6Heydar Aliyev Center
Designed by Zaha Hadid, this building is noted for its distinctive architecture and houses a museum, gallery hall, and auditorium.
7Nizami Street
A large pedestrian and shopping street in downtown Baku, named after classical poet Nizami Ganjavi.
8Ateshgah Fire Temple
The Ateshgah Fire Temple is a Zoroastrian temple built during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Zoroastrians, who revered fire as a symbol of their faith.
9Yanar Dag
A natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside on the Absheron Peninsula on the Caspian Sea.
10Fountain Square
Fountain Square is a popular public square in downtown Baku. It's named after the fountains that were built here during the Soviet rule. The square is a popular gathering place, known for its shops, restaurants, and cafes.
11Modern Baku
Modern Baku refers to the newer parts of the city, which features a blend of contemporary and Soviet-era architecture. It's a bustling area with high-rise buildings, shopping centers, and parks.
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
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.
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
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or Jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear
Scarf or shawl (for visiting religious sites)
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and Conditioner
Body wash
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)
Credit and Debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for travel
Travel guidebook
Map of Baku
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Reusable shopping bag
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Baku, Azerbaijan
Gobustan National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock carvings dating back to 40,000 years.
Mud Volcanoes
A unique geological phenomenon, Azerbaijan holds the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world.
Shamakhi
The city is rich in historical and cultural monuments such as the Shamakhi Juma Mosque, the oldest mosque in Azerbaijan.
Quba
A city known for its beautiful landscapes, apple orchards and the famous Khinalug village.
Sheki
A city known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. It is home to the Sheki Khan's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gabala
Known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient history, and the Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex.
Ismailli
A region known for its natural beauty, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls.
Ganja
Azerbaijan's second largest city, known for its historical buildings, parks, and the Goygol National Park.
Qabala
A city known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient history, and the Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex.
Lankaran
Known for its subtropical climate, tea plantations, and the Lankaran National Park.
