Welcome to Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and taking some time to relax. In the afternoon, head to the iconic Baku Boulevard, a picturesque waterfront promenade. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Caspian Sea, taking in the beautiful views. As the evening sets in, explore the narrow streets of Baku's Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and indulge in delicious Azerbaijani cuisine.
Baku Boulevard: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Baku Old City: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café City located near Baku Boulevard. Enjoy a variety of pastries, fresh juices, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
For lunch, visit Firuze Restaurant located in Baku's Old City. Indulge in traditional Azerbaijani dishes such as plov and dolma. The average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
For dinner, try Art Garden Restaurant located in Baku Boulevard. Experience a delightful fusion of Azerbaijani and European cuisine while enjoying live music. The average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Sunday, September 17: Gobustan National Park
Embark on a morning trip to Gobustan National Park, known for its ancient rock art and mud volcanoes. Explore the fascinating petroglyphs, which date back thousands of years and provide insights into the region's history. In the afternoon, visit the nearby mud volcanoes, where you can witness the unique natural phenomenon. Return to Baku in the evening and enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani tea ceremony.
Gobustan National Park: Cost: $10 (entrance fee), Time Spent: 4-5 hours
Mud Volcanoes: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Art Cafe Baku, located near Gobustan National Park. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, from freshly baked pastries to hearty omelets. The average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
For lunch, try the authentic Azerbaijani cuisine at Qala Baku. This restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes, such as dolma, kebabs, and plov. Enjoy a flavorful lunch in a charming setting. The average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
For dinner, dine at Firuze Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes. Located in Baku, this restaurant offers a variety of seafood options, including grilled fish and shrimp. The average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Monday, September 18: Absheron Peninsula
Discover the beautiful Absheron Peninsula, starting with a visit to Yanar Dag, the "Burning Mountain" that continuously burns natural gas. Marvel at the flames that never go out. In the afternoon, explore Ateshgah, a unique fire-worshipping temple complex. Learn about the ancient Zoroastrian traditions and enjoy the serene atmosphere. End the day with a visit to the stunning Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a historical site revered by locals.
Yanar Dag: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Ateshgah: Cost: $5 (entrance fee), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Bibi-Heybat Mosque: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café City, located in the heart of Baku. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Firuze Restaurant, known for its authentic Azerbaijani cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes such as dolma and plov while enjoying the cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at Firuza Partition, a stylish restaurant offering a fusion of Azerbaijani and international flavors. Savor their signature grilled kebabs and decadent desserts. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Tuesday, September 19: Baku Modern District
Explore the modern side of Baku, starting with a visit to Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece. Admire the innovative design of this cultural center and explore the exhibitions inside. In the afternoon, head to the Flame Towers, iconic skyscrapers that dominate the city's skyline. Take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Baku. End the day by shopping at Park Bulvar, a modern shopping mall.
Park Bulvar: Cost: Free (shopping expenses vary), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe City. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, such as fresh pastries, eggs, and traditional Azerbaijani dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
For lunch, head to Firuze Restaurant for a taste of traditional Azerbaijani cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering kebabs, savory soups, and flavorful rice dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Mado Restaurant, known for its modern ambiance and delicious Turkish cuisine. Experience the rich flavors of kebabs, mezes, and decadent desserts. The average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Wednesday, September 20: Gabala Day Trip
Take a day trip to Gabala, a picturesque city nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. Start with a visit to the Tufandag Mountain Resort, where you can ride the cable car for breathtaking views. Explore the beautiful Nohur Lake and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit the Gabala Shooting Club and try your hand at shooting sports. Return to Baku in the evening.
Tufandag Mountain Resort: Cost: $20 (cable car fee), Time Spent: 3-4 hours
For breakfast, try Café City located in the heart of Baku. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options, including traditional Azerbaijani dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
For lunch, head to Dolma Restaurant which serves authentic Azerbaijani cuisine. They are known for their delicious dolma, a traditional dish made of stuffed grape leaves. The average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at Sahil Restaurant, a waterfront eatery with stunning views of the Caspian Sea. They offer a diverse menu including seafood and traditional Azerbaijani dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Thursday, September 21: Ateshgah and Yanar Dag
Revisit two fascinating sites today. Begin with a morning trip to Ateshgah, the fire-worshipping temple complex. Immerse yourself in the historical ambiance and learn more about the ancient rituals. Afterward, head to Yanar Dag to witness the ever-burning flames. Spend the evening exploring Baku's famous Fountain Square and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Ateshgah: Cost: $5 (entrance fee), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Yanar Dag: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Fountain Square: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at City Park Baku, a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
Lunch: For a satisfying lunch, head to Dolma Restaurant which offers a wide range of traditional Azerbaijani dishes, including their specialty, dolma. Indulge in flavorsome meals made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
Dinner: For dinner, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old City Restaurant. This restaurant serves a mix of international and local cuisines, providing a unique dining experience. Try their succulent kebabs or seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Friday, September 22: Baku Shopping and Departure
Indulge in some retail therapy on your last day in Baku. Start by visiting the Taza Bazaar, a vibrant market where you can find local produce, spices, and traditional crafts. In the afternoon, explore the Nizami Street, Baku's main shopping district, and browse through various shops and boutiques. Finally, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before departing from Baku.
Taza Bazaar: Cost: Free (shopping expenses vary), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Nizami Street: Cost: Free (shopping expenses vary), Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Farewell Dinner: Cost: $20-30, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Baku, make sure to visit the picturesque Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a medieval palace complex filled with history. For a unique experience, try traditional Azerbaijani tea at a local tea house. Don't miss out on trying pomegranate juice, a popular local beverage. If you have time, venture outside of Baku to visit Sheki, a charming city known for its stunning architecture and silk production.