Solo 3-Day Culinary & Outdoor Adventure in Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku, Azerbaijan

3 days

City panorama from the water
Azerbaijan carpet museum
Heydar Aliyev Center
Street in the old town
Skyscrapers of Baku at night

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

Day 1

Exploring the Old City and Baku Boulevard

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old City, also known as Icheri Sheher. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with historic buildings, including the 12th-century Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch in a local restaurant. Try dishes like plov, a saffron-infused rice dish, or dolma, vine leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a promenade established in the early 20th century. The boulevard offers stunning views of the Caspian Sea.

Dinner

For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant. The Caspian Sea offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood, including sturgeon and caviar.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that are the tallest structures in Azerbaijan. At night, the towers are illuminated with LED screens that display the movement of a fire, visible from the farthest points of the city.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Gobustan National Park, home to more than 6,000 rock engravings dating back between 5,000 and 40,000 years.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by its stunning natural beauty.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Mud Volcanoes. These geological wonders are a must-see, as Azerbaijan holds the record for the highest number of Mud Volcanoes in the world.

Dinner

Back in Baku, enjoy a dinner in a restaurant offering a fusion of Azerbaijani and international cuisine.

Evening

Spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife of Baku. The city is known for its lively bars and nightclubs.

Morning

On your last day, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a cultural complex designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The center houses a museum, a library, and a concert hall.

Lunch

Have lunch in a café near the center, where you can try traditional Azerbaijani pastries and tea.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Nizami Street, a large pedestrian and shopping street in downtown Baku. It's named after classical poet Nizami Ganjavi and is home to various boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.

Dinner

For your last dinner, choose a restaurant offering a panoramic view of Baku. Enjoy the city's skyline while savoring local delicacies.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Baku Ferris Wheel, also known as the Baku Eye. Enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Old City

1
Old City

The historical core of Baku, known as Icheri Sheher, has a labyrinth of narrow streets, caravanserais, mosques, and palaces from the 12th century.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Maiden Tower

2
Maiden Tower

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

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Palace of the Shirvanshahs

3
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
Baku Boulevard

4
Baku Boulevard

A promenade established in 1909 which runs parallel to Baku's seafront.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Flame Towers

5
Flame Towers

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Gobustan National Park

6
Gobustan National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is famous for its rock carvings dating back to 40,000 years.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences
Tours
Mud Volcanoes

7
Mud Volcanoes

Azerbaijan holds the record for the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world. These unique geological phenomena are a must-see for any visitor.

Attractions
Natural Landmarks
Tours
Heydar Aliyev Center

8
Heydar Aliyev Center

Designed by Zaha Hadid, this building is noted for its distinctive architecture and houses a museum, gallery hall, and auditorium.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Nizami Street

9
Nizami Street

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

Shopping
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Baku Ferris Wheel

10
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

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Plov

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

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

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

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

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

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.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

Day off for World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year's Holiday

January 20

Sat

Martyrs’ Day

January 22

Mon

Day off for Martyrs’ Day

March 8

Fri

Women's Day

March 20

Wed

Nowruz

March 21

Thu

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 22

Fri

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 23

Sat

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

March 24

Sun

Nowruz/Spring Holiday

April 10

Wed

Ramadan holiday

April 11

Thu

Ramadan holiday

May 9

Thu

Victory Day over Fascism

May 28

Tue

Republic Day

June 15

Sat

Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People

June 17

Mon

Feast of the Sacrifice

June 17

Mon

Day off for Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People

June 18

Tue

Feast of the Sacrifice Holiday

June 26

Wed

Azerbaijan Armed Forces Day

November 8

Fri

Victory Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan

November 9

Sat

State Flag Day of Azerbaijan

November 11

Mon

Day off for State Flag Day of Azerbaijan

December 31

Tue

World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Power socket type CPower socket type F

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!

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is the largest city on the Caspian Sea and of the Caucasus region?

1 of 10

Places near by Baku, Azerbaijan

Gobustan National Park

Gobustan National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock carvings dating back to 40,000 years.

1h
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How to get there
Mud Volcanoes

Mud Volcanoes

A unique geological phenomenon, Azerbaijan holds the highest number of mud volcanoes in the world.

1.5h
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How to get there
Shamakhi

Shamakhi

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Quba

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Ganja

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How to get there
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