7-Day Itinerary in Baku, Azerbaijan

Friday, September 15: Arrive in Baku

Welcome to Baku! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, visit the Maiden Tower and admire its architectural marvel. In the afternoon, head to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, an impressive medieval palace complex. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, enjoying the waterfront views.

• Old City: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Maiden Tower: Cost estimate - AZN 10 (approximately $6), Time spent - 1 hour
• Palace of the Shirvanshahs: Cost estimate - AZN 15 (approximately $9), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Baku Boulevard: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Baku, head to Samovar Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries, omelettes, and traditional Azerbaijani dishes. The average cost for a breakfast here is about 15 AZN per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, visit Firuze Restaurant. Located in the heart of the Old City, this restaurant serves up authentic Azerbaijani cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss trying their mouthwatering kebabs and flavorful pilaf. The average cost for a lunch here is about 30 AZN per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Art Club Restaurant. Known for its elegant ambiance and panoramic views of Baku, this restaurant offers a fusion of Azerbaijani and international dishes. Indulge in their gourmet seafood or succulent steaks. The average cost for a dinner here is about 50 AZN per person.

Saturday, September 16: Explore Modern Baku

Discover the modern side of Baku. In the morning, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the Flame Towers, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city. As the evening approaches, make your way to the Fountain Square, the vibrant heart of the city, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Heydar Aliyev Center: Cost estimate - AZN 20 (approximately $12), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Flame Towers: Cost estimate - Free (viewing platform may have a small fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Fountain Square: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 17: Day Trip to Gobustan National Park

Embark on a day trip to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock carvings and mud volcanoes. In the morning, explore the ancient rock art, dating back thousands of years. In the afternoon, venture into the mesmerizing mud volcanoes and experience their unique natural phenomenon. Return to Baku in the evening.

• Gobustan National Park: Cost estimate - AZN 20 (approximately $12) for entrance fee, Time spent - 4-5 hours

Monday, September 18: Discover Ateshgah Fire Temple

Today, visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a historical and religious site. In the morning, learn about the fascinating history behind the temple and its significance to Zoroastrianism. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Return to Baku in the evening.

• Ateshgah Fire Temple: Cost estimate - AZN 15 (approximately $9), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 19: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center

Delve into the cultural side of Baku by visiting the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. In the morning, admire the innovative architecture and explore the exhibitions showcasing Azerbaijani culture. In the afternoon, indulge in local cuisine at nearby restaurants. As the evening sets in, experience the vibrant nightlife of Baku.

• Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center: Cost estimate - AZN 10 (approximately $6), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, September 20: Explore Absheron Peninsula

Take a trip to the beautiful Absheron Peninsula. In the morning, visit the Yanar Dag, the burning hillside that emits natural flames. In the afternoon, explore the historical Ateshgah Temple and learn about its religious significance. As the evening approaches, relax at one of the peninsula's scenic beaches.

• Yanar Dag: Cost estimate - AZN 5 (approximately $3), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ateshgah Temple: Cost estimate - AZN 10 (approximately $6), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Absheron Peninsula Beaches: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, September 21: Departure from Baku

Wrap up your trip to Baku by exploring the modern districts. In the morning, visit the Baku Crystal Hall, an architectural gem and concert venue. In the afternoon, explore the shopping malls in the city, such as Park Bulvar and Ganjlik Mall, for some last-minute souvenirs. Bid farewell to Baku and depart in the evening.

• Baku Crystal Hall: Cost estimate - Free (unless attending an event), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Park Bulvar/Ganjlik Mall: Cost estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Baku, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Carpet Museum to appreciate the art of Azerbaijani carpet weaving. Taste traditional Azerbaijani cuisine at local restaurants, such as Firuze or Mugham Club. For a unique experience, take a boat tour on the Caspian Sea to enjoy stunning views of the city skyline from the water.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.