Nestled along the shores of the Caspian Sea, Baku, Azerbaijan, is a city where remnants of the Soviet era meet modern architectural wonders. Known for its blend of old and new, Baku offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and innovation. From its ancient streets to its futuristic skyline, Baku is a fascinating destination that invites exploration. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of 48 hours in this dynamic city.
Day 1: Discover the Heart of Baku
Morning: Explore the Old City
Start your journey in Baku’s Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by ancient walls. Passing through the Double Gate, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a different world, with historic caravanserais and grand mansions that have been transformed into restaurants, hotels, and galleries. Marvel at the Maiden Tower, a 12th-century stone structure that has long protected the city. Just nearby, you’ll find the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a sandstone complex that is one of Baku’s most treasured cultural sites.
Lunch: Traditional Cuisine in the Old City
For a taste of local Azerbaijani cuisine, stop at Qaynana Restaurant near the Double Gate. Try qutab, a savory turnover filled with meat or vegetables, and enjoy a fresh, spicy salad alongside it. The flavors here reflect the blend of cultures and culinary influences that define Azerbaijani cuisine.
Afternoon: Fountains Square and Beyond
Leaving the Old City, head down to Fountains Square, a bustling commercial and social hub of modern Baku. The square is dotted with fountains and public art, including a life-sized bronze statue of a woman talking on her cell phone—symbolizing the city’s mix of tradition and modernity. The square is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with plenty of cafes and shops nearby.
Just a few blocks from Fountains Square is the Government House, a grand architectural structure that served as the Dom Soviet during the Soviet era. As you walk around this part of Baku, you’ll notice a unique architectural blend, with modern buildings standing beside historical structures.
Evening: The Flame Towers and Night Views
As the sun sets, make your way to the Flame Towers, Baku’s most iconic modern architectural structures. These three flame-shaped towers are designed to represent the natural gas resources of Azerbaijan, and their lighting display at night is mesmerizing. The towers glow with colors that transform them into a dazzling spectacle, visible from many parts of the city.
For dinner, head to Nakhchivan, a restaurant by Beat Group that captures the essence of Azerbaijan’s ancient, culturally rich region of Nakhchivan. Known for its dedication to traditional cuisine, the restaurant offers an authentic taste of Nakhchivani flavors right in Baku.
The decor reflects the late 19th century, evoking the era when Baku thrived as a world oil center. Divided into cozy sitting and dining areas, with VIP rooms adorned with luxurious artwork, it’s perfect for an elegant meal. Don’t miss their famed Nakhchivani kebabs, xingal, mangal salad, qutabs, and 15 varieties of pilaf—a true Azerbaijani culinary experience.
Day 2: Discover Baku’s Natural Wonders
Morning: Journey to the Fire Temple
Begin your second day with a trip to the Fire Temple (Ateshgah), located on the outskirts of Baku. Take bus 184 from the city, passing through the Suraxani oil fields on your way. The Fire Temple was built on the site of a natural gas vent, and its eternal flame has been burning for centuries. The temple, which was created by Indian merchants, showcases Zoroastrian and Hindu influences, making it a unique cultural landmark.
Lunch: Local Flavors near the Fire Temple
For lunch, visit Ateshgah Restaurant, located near Baku’s ancient fire-worshipping temple. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience where you can savor traditional Azerbaijani cuisine in an authentic, atmospheric setting.
Afternoon: Yanar Dag and Mud Volcanoes
After lunch, head to Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that has been burning continuously since a careless shepherd’s cigarette ignited it in the 1950s. This site is now a protected tourist attraction and offers a viewing platform where you can witness the mesmerizing, unceasing flames.
For a unique outdoor experience, consider visiting the nearby mud volcanoes, known for their bizarre landscapes and bubbling mud pools, which provide insight into Azerbaijan’s geological activity.
Guided tours are available if you’d like to explore these attractions with an English-speaking guide who can offer more in-depth historical and cultural insights.
Evening: Caspian Sea Views at Bibi-Heybat Mosque
End your day at the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a reconstructed historical site overlooking the Caspian Sea. Originally built in the 13th century, the mosque was destroyed in the Soviet era and was only restored in 1998. You’re welcome to enter and explore the mosque’s interior (note: shoes must be removed, and wraps are provided for covering heads and arms). From the mosque’s grounds, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and surrounding landscapes—a perfect way to conclude your day.
For dinner, book a table at Muzey Shirvanshah – a must-visit for traditional Azeri cuisine and ambiance, set in a historic two-story building that once served as a caravansary. Its museum-like decor is rich with artifacts, from old theater posters to vintage crockery and musical instruments, making every corner a delight to explore. Enjoy traditional mugam music as you dine, with options for both larger hall seating and intimate private rooms. Don’t miss the Shah pilaf—a delicious pastry filled with rice, lamb, and dried apricots—paired with local wine or beer. Reservations are recommended for this memorable experience.
Additional Activities
Shopping: Port Baku and Emporium Mall
For a glimpse of the city’s wealth, head to Port Baku, a high-end shopping center filled with designer boutiques. Nearby, the Emporium Mall offers luxury brands and even includes showrooms for Bentley and Ferrari. While Baku retains traces of its Soviet past, places like Port Baku reflect the city’s modernization and economic growth.
Architectural Highlights: From the Airport to the Waterfront
On the drive into the city from the airport, keep an eye out for the innovative architecture that lines the route. Notable buildings include the nearly completed tax office, resembling stacked Rubik’s Cubes, and the water utility headquarters, a striking glass structure shaped like a teardrop. Near the Flame Towers, the Caspian Waterfront building, inspired by the Sydney Opera House, is another architectural marvel. Its flower-like design and waterfront location make it a sight to behold.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Currency: Azerbaijan’s currency is the manat, and prices in Baku are relatively affordable. Major credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is handy for smaller purchases.
- Transport: Taxis and buses are the primary modes of transport within Baku. If you’re heading out to see the mud volcanoes or Yanar Dag, organized tours or hired vehicles are recommended.
How To Get There: Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is the largest city in the Caucasus region. Indigo Airlines operates daily direct flights from New Delhi to Baku. Azerbaijan Airlines operates direct flights between the two cities on certain days of the week.
Baku is a city of contrasts—where ancient history and cutting-edge modernity coexist. Its blend of cultures, architectural styles, and natural wonders make it a truly unique destination. Whether you’re drawn to its historic Old City, intrigued by its modern skyline, or captivated by its unusual natural attractions, Baku promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.
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