Saturday, October 21: Exploring Baku's Historic Center
Begin your trip in Baku's historic center, known as the Old City or Icherisheher. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Maiden Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers panoramic views of the city. Afterward, explore the narrow streets and alleyways filled with historical landmarks, such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Juma Mosque. In the afternoon, make your way to the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, where you can learn about the country's rich carpet-weaving traditions. As evening falls, take a leisurely stroll along the Baku Boulevard, enjoying the scenic views of the Caspian Sea.
Maiden Tower: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Palace of the Shirvanshahs: Cost estimate - AZN 15 ($9), Time spent - 2 hours
Juma Mosque: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Baku Boulevard: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café City, a charming breakfast spot in the heart of Baku's historic center. Indulge in their delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 8 AZN per person.
For lunch, head to Firuze Restaurant, located near the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine and friendly service in a cozy setting. Average cost for a meal is about 20 AZN per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Sultan Inn, a restaurant known for its exquisite Azerbaijani and Persian dishes. With a splendid view of the city, you can savor the flavors of the region. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Sunday, October 22: Modern Baku and Cultural Delights
On the second day, explore the modern side of Baku. Start your morning by visiting the Flame Towers, an architectural marvel that dominates the city skyline. Head to the Heydar Aliyev Center, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, housing exhibitions on Azerbaijani culture and history. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the charming streets of Nizami Street, the city's main shopping district, where you can find a mix of international brands and local boutiques. In the evening, indulge in Azerbaijan's delicious cuisine at a traditional restaurant, trying local specialties such as plov (rice pilaf) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).
Nizami Street: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Restaurant: Cost estimate - AZN 40 ($24) per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe City, located near the Flame Towers. With its cozy atmosphere and wide range of options, this cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal to kick off your day. Average cost for a meal is about 15 AZN per person.
For lunch, try the local flavors at Firuze Restaurant. Situated near Nizami Street, this restaurant offers a variety of Azerbaijani dishes, including kebabs, soups, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about 25 AZN per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Shirvan Shah, a traditional restaurant known for its authentic Azerbaijani cuisine. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring local favorites like lamb kebabs and saffron-infused rice. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AZN per person.
Monday, October 23: Day Trip to Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes
On your final day, take a day trip to explore the natural wonders surrounding Baku. Start your morning by visiting the Gobustan National Park, home to ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years. Explore the park's fascinating archaeological site before heading to the nearby mud volcanoes, a unique geological phenomenon found in the area. In the afternoon, you can opt to visit the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a historical mosque located on the outskirts of Baku. As the evening approaches, return to Baku and relax at a traditional hammam to unwind before your departure.
Gobustan National Park: Cost estimate - AZN 10 ($6), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Hammam: Cost estimate - AZN 30 ($18), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Ateshgah Fire Temple, located on the outskirts of Baku. This ancient temple was a place of worship for Zoroastrians and features natural gas vents that have been burning for centuries. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is Yanar Dag, or the "Burning Mountain," where natural gas reserves create everlasting flames on the hillside. Locals also enjoy spending time at the seaside town of Quba, known for its beautiful nature, fresh mountain air, and delicious apples.