Summer getaway - Baku

Places to visit

1. Flame Towers

Witness the mesmerizing light show at night created by the Flame Towers, a trio of striking skyscrapers that dominate Baku's skyline. The illuminated towers are a symbol of Azerbaijan's mythological history.

2. Old Town

Wander through the ancient streets of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire well-preserved medieval architecture at the various historical sites. Visit the iconic Maiden Tower and watch the sunset from its top. Explore the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a sandstone complex representative of medieval Islamic civilization.

3. Heydar Aliyev Centre

Explore the futuristic and innovative architecture of the Heydar Aliyev Centre. This cultural hub hosts art exhibitions and events, offering insights into Azerbaijani art and culture.

4. Carpet Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of Azerbaijani craftsmanship at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. Visitors can wander through the well-curated halls and witness an impressive collection of items reflecting the nation's colourful history. Exquisite carpets and rugs from the Shusha Museum steal the show.

5. Baku Boulevard

Stretching for approximately 5.6 km along the Caspian Sea, this picturesque promenade offers fresh air and stunning views of the Caspian Sea. Engage in biking, skateboarding, or simply relaxing on a bench while enjoying the cool sea breeze. You can ride the Baku Ferris Wheel and visit the Park Bulvar Shopping Mall along the Boulevard.

6. Fountains Square

Explore the vibrant Fountains Square, which sits in the heart of downtown Baku. The tree-lined plaza gets its name from numerous fountains throughout the square, and it’s the city's central hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Day trips from Baku

1. Gobustan National Park

Embark on a journey to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just an hour's drive from Baku. Marvel at the ancient rock art and petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. Explore the rocky landscapes, mud volcanoes, and sizzling lakes and witness the intriguing art left behind by early human civilizations.

2. Ateshgah Fire Temple

Azerbaijan is known as the "Land of Fire" due to numerous natural gas vents in the region. Visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple, an ancient Zoroastrian pilgrimage site located about 30 km from Baku. This pentagonal Temple is built over a gas vent, and the place is known for its unique eternal flames.

Near the Temple lies Yanar Dag, also known as the "Burning Mountain". Witness the natural flames that perpetually burn on the hillside due to the presence of natural gas. It's a spectacular sight, especially in the evening when the fire lights up the night sky.

Azerbaijani cuisine

Every trip is complete with indulging in the local cuisine. Baku's cuisine is a delightful mix of Azerbaijan's rich flavours and traditional recipes.

Try traditional dishes like Plov (a rice pilaf dish), Dolma (stuffed vegetables), and succulent kebabs. For dessert, savour a slice of Shekerbura, a sweet pastry filled with nuts and spices, often enjoyed during special occasions like the Novruz festival. Azerbaijani tea and freshly baked Lavash (flatbread) complete the culinary journey in this vibrant city.

Adventure sports

If you're seeking an adrenaline rush during your visit, here are some exciting adventure sports activities in Baku.

Experience the exhilarating feeling of flying like a bird while paragliding over the beautiful landscapes surrounding Baku. Paragliding operators offer tandem flights with experienced pilots, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.

Rent an ATV or go on a guided tour to explore rugged terrains through mountains, forests, and off-beat trails of Azerbaijan's countryside. Gobustan National Park offers fantastic opportunities to test your rock-climbing skills on natural formations.

Take to the skies in a hot air balloon and enjoy breathtaking views. Hot air balloon rides are particularly popular during sunrise and sunset and are one of the best things to do in Baku.