Top 7 Places To Visit In Baku For An Incredible Travel Experience

Baku, the capital and the largest city of Azerbaijan, is situated on the western coast of the Caspian Sea and is home to some of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan. The town has two name theories, the first being that Baku is derived from the Persian word 'Bad-Kube', which translates to 'wind-pounding city'. The other belief comes from the old word 'Baghkuy', meaning 'God's town'. There are some incredible Baku sightseeing places that you must explore while planning your trip to Azerbaijan.

Make sure you carry your cameras to capture the sights, making memories of a lifetime!

Baku is the capital and biggest city in Azerbaijan. It is known worldwide as the lowest-lying national capital, located 28 meters below sea level, and must be included in your Baku Travel Guide. This fantastic city lies on the shores of the Caspian Sea, precisely on the southern coast of the Absheron peninsula, alongside the Bay of Baku.

Baku in Azerbaijan is surrounded by the mountains of the Caucasus, which adds a spark to its beauty. It has a medieval heart and soul but is surrounded by contemporary infrastructure; although the town has welcomed modernisation, its medieval heritage is safe and sound. It is home to some of the best Baku attractions worth exploring with family and friends. It is fascinating that the ancient city has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Want to know some Interesting Facts about Baku Tourist Attractions?  

• The World's Lowest Capital Above Sea Level

Baku is the lowest-lying national capital, approximately 28 meters above  sea level. This geographical rarity adds to its mystique and houses some of the must-visit places in Baku.

• The Legendary Land of Fire

Azerbaijan, often called the 'Land of Fire', lives up to its name in Baku. Eternal flames at Yanar Dag and the ancient Ateshgah Fire Temple echo the region's deep-rooted Zoroastrian legacy.

• Where Antiquity Is Avant-Garde

Baku is a striking tapestry of time, where 12th-century stone towers coexist with futuristic masterpieces, which must be included in your Baku Travel guide, like the Heydar Aliyev Centre, designed by the legendary Zaha Hadid.

• Fueled by a Rich Oil Heritage

Baku was once the epicentre of the world's first oil boom. The wealth generated during this era shaped the city's skyline and impacted its metropolitan culture.

• Timeless Beauty of Icherisheher

The ancient city of Icherisheher is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the best places to visit in Baku, is a maze of ancient walls, minarets and palaces t hat transport visitors to a bygone era of Silk Road grandeur.

• A Culinary Symphony

Baku's culinary landscape is a flavourful mix of East and West. Savour signature dishes worth exploring for Baku sightseeing, such as saffron-scented plov, aromatic dolma, chargrilled kebabs, and traditional sweets in elegant tea houses and local eateries.

• A Seaside City with a Twist

Bordering the Caspian Sea, Baku enjoys stunning waterfront views. Though called a sea, this is the world's largest inland body of water, lending a unique maritime charm. It is one of the best Baku tourist attractions you must explore.

7 Incredible Baku Sightseeing In Azerbaijan

Do you have a time crunch when searching for sightseeing options? Do not worry; we have prepared a well-curated list of the seven best places to visit in Baku for your upcoming trip.

 

1. Museum of Miniature Books

The first and only museum dedicated to miniature editions of books, the Museum of Miniature Books holds a Guinness World record as the biggest private museum of miniature books. With over 7000 miniature books in 35 showcases, the books written in various languages are divided according to categories. The museum, one of the top Baku tourist attractions, houses the three smallest books in the world, which can only be viewed with a magnifying glass. Undoubtedly, the Museum of Miniature Books is one of the unique places to visit in Baku.

• Location- 28 Kichik Qala, Baku, Azerbaijan
• Timings- 11 am to 5 pm, closed on Mondays and Thursdays
• Entry fee- Free

2. Nizami Street

Situated in the heart of the capital, Nizami Street, which is best for sightseeing in Baku, is a popular pedestrian and shopping street for its nightlife. It is named after the classical Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi; Nizami Street is called Torgovaya Street by the locals. The street has historic buildings with noteworthy architectural details and houses shopping centres, restaurants, coffee shops, cafes, and bars. Apart from this, the popular Fountain Square and the statue of Shah Ismail are the main highlights here, one of the top Baku tourist att ractions. With lights at night, the street looks brighter, and the crowd increases multifold.

• Location- Tarqovi, Baku City, Azerbaijan
• Timings- 9 am to 10 pm
• Entry Fee- Free

3. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, one of the best places to visit in Baku, received national status in 2019 for its contributions to promoting and popularising Azerbaijan Carpet Weaving Art. Housing the biggest and oldest carpets dating back to the 17th century, the museum's main aim was to preserve the art of carpet weaving through storage, research, and demonstration. Events, symposiums, conferences, and exhibitions are regularly conducted on the museum premises, making the carpet museum one of the significant Baku tourist attractions.

• Location- Mikkayil Huseynov Street 28, Baku, Azerbaijan
• Timings- 10 am to 6 pm (Tuesdays to Fridays), 10 am to 8 pm (Saturdays and Sundays)
• Entry fee- AZN 3 for school children and students, AZN 7 for adults, AZN 12 for guided tours

 

4. Highland Park

Want to witness a bird's-eye view of the entire city? Head to Highland Park, the highest point, one of the best places to visit in Baku. The park is also addressed as Dagustu Park by the locals, meaning Upland Park, and people come here to take a stroll, enjoy enchanting views or simply relax. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of popular locations like the Radio Tower, Flame Towers, a giant Ferris wheel and Deniz Mall. This park, best for Baku sightseeing, is popular for its funicular ride, which takes you to the complex within a few minutes.

• Location- UN 50th Anniversary Street 3, Baku Electronic Zone
• Timings-24x7
• Entry Fee- Free

5. Palace of Shirvanshahs

The destination is located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, and the Palace of Shirvanshahs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle complex, one of Baku's top tourist attractions, dates back to the 15th century and remains incomplete. Construction was halted when Shirvanshah Khalilulla I's son Faruk was killed in a battle in 1501. The premises house the palace mosque, the Seyyid Yehya Bakuvi tomb, and the Shirvanshah mausoleum, one of the best Baku attractions. The highlights of the Palace are its intricate inscriptions and authentic structures.

• Location- Muslim Maqoomaya donga 76, Baku, Azerbaijan
• Timings- 10 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fee- AZN 10 for foreigners and AZN 2 for locals

6. Central Botanical Garden

The Central Botanical Garden is one of the famous and best places to visit in Baku City. It is spread across 16 hectares and houses intriguing flora with over 2000 species of plants worldwide. This garden has themed sections like the Cactus House, the Japanese Garden and the Orchid Pavilion, where various homegrown and foreign plant species are preserved for great Baku sightseeing. Additionally, the authorities conduct guided tours and workshops so that the visitors can dive deeper into the world of botany.

• Location- Mikayil Mushfig St 103, Baku 1004
• Timings- 9 am to 6 pm
• Entry fee- Free

 

7. Baku Eye

Initially built for the European Song Contest hosted by Azerbaijan in 2012, Baku Eye has become one of the places to visit in Baku to experience thrills. Also known as the Baku Ferris Wheel, it stands tall at 60 metres with 30 cabins that can accommodate up to 200 passengers at a time. Once at the top, onlookers are in for a treat with panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea. The wheel becomes illuminated at night with colourful lights, making it great for a Baku sightseeing experience.

• Location- Neftyanikov Ave, Baku
• Timings-10 am to 11 pm
• Entry Fee- AZN 5 for kids and AZN 10 for adults 

5 Fun Things To Do In Baku in 2025

If you are ready to set out to visit Baku in Azerbaijan, here are the top 5 fun things to do in Baku

1. Visit the Most Astonishing Flame Towers

The people of Baku, Azerbaijan, used to worship fire. The flame tower is a set of three buildings shaped like flames and covered with LED screens that display fire movements. Located on a hilltop, this tower is one of the best Baku tourist attractions and symbolises Baku's mythological history. It is so massive that it can be seen on Baku's skyline from almost any part of the city.

2. Experience the Royalty Of Shirvanshahs

If you love historical sites, this is a must-visit place. The Shirvanshah's Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the must-visit places in Baku. According to history, the Palace was the home of the Shirvannshahs, the rulers of Azerbaijan. The sandstone complex is inside the ancient city, right behind the fortress walls built by a similar kingdom in the 12th century when Baku became the capital. The architecture of the Old City is one of the best places to visit in Baku, and it has influenced the art of the Medieval Islamic civilisation. The Palace houses a palace building, two mosques, the East Gate, the mausoleum of King Khaillullah buried with his mother and sons, a bath house and Sufi scientist and philosopher Sayid Yahya Bakuvi.

3. Watch Bubbling Mud Volcanoes At the Gobustan National Park

The Gobustan National Park, a top Baku tourist attraction in Azerbaijan, has around 300 mud volcanoes, which make up around 30% of the world's volcanoes. Thousands of tourists from all across the globe are attracted to this destination to see these amazing fields speckled with bubbling mud volcanoes, anthropological sites, and sizzling lakes, making Baku an incredible sightseeing experience. Now, you have another mesmerising reason to visit the city of Baku. Also, do not miss the chance to see the Gobustan National Museum to learn all about the Mesolithic period. 

4. Watch Sunset From Maiden Tower

Situated in the Old City, the Maiden Tower is essential in history and one of Baku's best places to visit. It was part of the city's walls, which were supposed to protect it from foreign invasions. The Shirvanshahs also built this tower. The locals call it Giz Galasi, the virgin tower, as it was impossible to penetrate. Among the top 10 things to do in Baku is watching the sunset from the top of this tower.

5. Witness the architecture of Bibi Heybat Mosque

It is known for its architectural beauty. The mosque was initially built in the 13th century by Shirvanshah and was restored in 1998. This is because Stalin eradicated it in 1936. The three-domed structure of the mosque, one of the best places to visit in Baku, follows the traditional Islamic shape of the old mosque and two minarets. The mosque's dome is decorated with turquoise and green mirrors bordered with gilded inscriptions from the Holy Quran.

What is the Best Time To Visit Baku 

1. May to September is the Peak Season

What To Expect

• Pleasant and cool weather.
• Ideal months for Baku sightseeing
• Celebrations: Novruz Bayram (Persian New Year)
• Temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius
• Moderate hotel prices 

2. Oct- Nov is the Moderate Season

What To Expect

• Warm weather
• Outdoor activities and beach visits
• Celebrations: Gobustan festival
• Temperatures ranging from 22 to 35 degrees Celsius
• Slightly higher hotel rates must be included in your Baku Travel Guide. 

3. Dec to Feb is Off-season

What To Expect

• Cold and windy weather
• Fewer tourists
• Celebrations: New Year's Eve
• Temperatures ranging from -3 to 10 degrees Celsius
• Budget-friendly stays due to lower demand 

Things To Know Before Visiting Baku

• Turkish, Azerbaijani and Russian are spoken in the country.
• Credit cards are widely used, but cash is also needed elsewhere.
• There are exchange offices in many parts of the city when exploring some of Baku's best places to visit.
• Smoking is only allowed in closed spaces.
• In Baku, also known as the windy city, strong winds are effective throughout the year. 
  
  Visa Requirements

The first thing to consider before travelling to any foreign country is its visa requirements. Travel has become more accessible than ever, and the advent of e-visas makes the procedure easier and faster. One such country that is embracing this change is Azerbaijan. With its rich history, stunning landscape, and cheerful culture, this Eurasian country has become a must-visit place in Baku for travellers. 

• Language In Baku

While initiating your journey to this fascinating land, one crucial aspect that can prominently enhance your travel experience is understanding the local language.

In this blog, we will explore the language dynamics of Azerbaijan and offer valuable insights and tips for travellers to explore some of Baku's top attractions. 

• Get To Know Basic Phrases

Before your trip, learn a few basic phrases in Azerbaijan or Russian. These can include greetings, asking for directions, and common courtesy phrases.

• Use Translation apps

Translation Apps can be a lifesaver when travelling abroad. Download a reliable app that includes Azerbaijan and ensure it works offline when internet access might be unreliable for exploring Baku tourist attractions.   

• Body Language and Gestures

Nonverbal communication can be constructive when language barriers exist. Use universal gestures and expressions to communicate basic needs and responses.

• Language Guide or Phrasebook

Carry a small language guide or phrasebook for quick reference. This can be particularly useful when you travel to communicate specific needs, when shopping in local markets, or when exploring some of the best places to visit in Baku.

• Currency

When travelling to Azerbaijan, it is essential to understand the country's monetary system to ensure smooth financial transactions during your stay. This article will provide an in-depth look at the currency used in Azerbaijan, where to exchange your money and other essential information.

• Using Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Azerbaijan, and they are used to explore some of the best places to visit in Baku, especially in larger cities like Baku. Some major international cards, like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are commonly accepted. However, having cash on hand for small purchases or in places where card usage is less common is always a good idea.

• Tipping culture in Baku, Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, tipping is usually expected for good service when exploring some of the top Baku tourist attractions.  A tip of around 10% of the bill is generally adequate in restaurants. However, tipping is not mandatory, and the amount you give should reflect the quality of service you received.

• Weather and Best Time to Visit

Travelling to a new destination is always exciting, but a little pre-planning can make a difference. This is especially true when identifying the weather conditions and deciding the best time to visit a place. In this Baku Travel Guide, we will dive into the weather patterns in Azerbaijan and discuss the optimal time for your visit.

• Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country, and while it is quite liberal compared to other Muslim countries, it is essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, some of the top places to visit in Baku. Also, observe local etiquette, such as not photographing people without permission.

• Health and Safety

Azerbaijan is generally a safe country for tourists. However, like anywhere else, being aware of your surroundings and taking basic precautions is essential. Healthcare facilities in Baku are good, but can be limited in rural areas, so travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is recommended when exploring some of the top Baku tourist attractions.

• Vaccination and Health Checks

Before travelling to any foreign country, it's crucial to be up to date with routine vaccinations. Check with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive all necessary immunizations. While no specific vaccinations are required for Azerbaijan, it is advisable to be vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Typhoid. All these vaccination details should be included in your Baku Travel Guide. This can be transmitted through contaminated food or water in a few parts of Azerbaijan.

• Shopping

Shopping in Azerbaijan can be a unique experience. From modern shopping malls in Baku to traditional bazaars, you can find a variety of goods. Carpets, pottery, silk scarves, and local sweets are popular souvenirs for tourists exploring Baku's tourist att ractions. The Taza Bazaar, the biggest open-air market in Baku, is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods.

• Outdoor Activities

Azerbaijan offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking in the Caucasus Mountains, exploring the Gobustan National Park, taking a boat trip on the Caspian Sea, and bird watching in the Ag Goi National Park are just a few examples. Respect the environment and follow local regulations when exploring Baku sightseeing destinations.

• Festivals and Events

Azerbaijan hosts annual festivals and events that showcase the country's rich culture and traditions. The Novruz Festival, a celebration of the Persian New Year, is one of the most important and colourful events. The Gobustan Festival, which is excellent for Baku sightseeing and celebrates the country's music and dance traditions, is another event not to be missed. 

• What are the emergency numbers in Baku? 

• Ambulance/ Emergency-103
• Fire- 101
• Police- 102

• Nightlife in Baku

Nightlife in Baku is quite colourful. The centre of Baku's nightlife is in the Old Town and Fountain Square near Nizami Street. From here, you can easily see the nightlife in some of Baku's best places to visit.

• What To Eat in Baku?

Azerbaijan's food and culinary culture are as rich as its geography. Soups, kebabs, and desserts are among the most prominent dishes in Azerbaijani cuisine, which was influenced by Caucasian, Turkish, Iranian, Arabic, Chinese, and Indian cuisines.

• Baku Cuisine

Do not return without tasting these flavours while exploring some of the top Baku tourist attractions -

• Lavangi
• Piti
• Dolma
• Qutub
• Kebab
• Fisinjan
• Dushbara
  
  
  Baku Best Restaurants

• Elvet Steakhouse
• Paul's Baku Steakhouse
• Sumakh
• Nergiz Restaurant
• Da Massimo

What's Next?

Now that you have a list of places to visit in Baku, you can explore the destination like a local. Plan a trip to Baku and indulge in a sightseeing spree to these major tourist attractions, each offering a unique experience from the other. We bet that you won't be disappointed!