Exploring Baku in 4 Days

Thursday, October 26: Arrival and Old City Exploration

Start your trip by arriving in Baku. After checking into your hotel, head to the heart of the city, the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher). In the morning, wander through narrow, winding streets as you explore historical landmarks such as the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Stop by the famous Juma Mosque and enjoy panoramic views from the ancient city walls.

• Old City (Icherisheher): Cost: Free, Time: 3-4 hours
• Maiden Tower: Cost: AZN 20 (approx. $11), Time: 1 hour
• Palace of the Shirvanshahs: Cost: AZN 15 (approx. $8), Time: 1-2 hours
• Juma Mosque: Cost: Free, Time: 30 minutes

Friday, October 27: Modern Baku and Absheron Peninsula

Start your day with a visit to Heydar Aliyev Center, an iconic modern architecture marvel. Explore the interactive exhibits and galleries showcasing Azerbaijani culture and history. Afterward, take a short trip to the Absheron Peninsula. Visit the Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain), an eternal flame burning from natural gas vents. Continue to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a historic Hindu and Zoroastrian pilgrimage site with fascinating flame phenomena. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a renowned spiritual landmark.

• Heydar Aliyev Center: Cost: AZN 15 (approx. $8), Time: 2 hours
• Yanar Dag: Cost: AZN 5 (approx. $3), Time: 1 hour
• Ateshgah Fire Temple: Cost: AZN 10 (approx. $6), Time: 1-2 hours
• Bibi-Heybat Mosque: Cost: Free, Time: 30 minutes

Saturday, October 28: Gobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes

Embark on an adventure to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient petroglyphs. Marvel at the prehistoric rock carvings depicting primitive life and various animals. Afterward, venture into the unique landscape of the Mud Volcanoes. Witness the intriguing bubbling mud pools and miniature volcanoes formed by geological activity. Complete the day with a relaxing evening stroll along Baku Boulevard, enjoying the scenic Caspian Sea views.

• Gobustan National Park: Cost: AZN 20 (approx. $11), Time: 3-4 hours
• Mud Volcanoes: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Baku Boulevard: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 29: Modern Baku and Shopping

Spend your last day exploring the modern side of Baku. Start with a visit to the Flame Towers, a trio of illuminated skyscrapers offering panoramic views of the city. Then, head to the Genclik Mall, one of Baku's largest shopping centers, for some retail therapy and delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Heydar Aliyev Avenue, lined with elegant shops and cafes. End your trip with a relaxing evening at the Crystal Hall, a multifunctional concert venue famous for hosting Eurovision Song Contest in 2012.

• Flame Towers: Cost: Free to visit, Time: 1-2 hours
• Genclik Mall: Cost: Free to enter, Time: 2-3 hours
• Heydar Aliyev Avenue: Cost: Free to explore, Time: 2-3 hours
• Crystal Hall: Cost: Depends on the event, Time: Varies

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When you have some extra time, consider visiting the Taza Pir Mosque, a stunning mosque known for its intricate architecture. For nature lovers, a day trip to the stunning Guba region is highly recommended, where you can explore picturesque forests and visit the stunning Afurja Waterfall. Additionally, indulge in Azerbaijani cuisine by trying local specialties like dolma (stuffed vegetables) and plov (spiced rice dish) at traditional restaurants like Mugam Club or Nizami Restaurant. Don't forget to enjoy a cup of aromatic Azerbaijani tea at a tea house!

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.