How to Enjoy Baku Old Town Walking Tour

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the world. With its ancient walls, interesting architecture, and rich history, Baku grabs the attention of many tourists each year. One of the must-see spots in Baku is the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with many historic mosques, bath complexes, palaces, and caravanserais. To make the most of your visit to Baku, it is highly recommended to take the Baku Old Town walking tour, which is a perfect way to explore the area and learn about its rich history. Here is your ultimate Baku Old Town Walking Tour guide:

Overview of the Tour

The Baku Old Town walking tour is a 3-hour tour that immerses visitors in the rich history of Baku spanning centuries of kings and ancient empires. During the tour, visitors learn about Baku’s legacy of historic mosques, trading squares, bath complexes, palaces, and caravanserais as they explore this UNESCO World Heritage-listed district. Among the many highlights of the tour are the old city walls, Shirvanshahs’ Palace, and the Maiden Tower. The tour includes bottled water, entrance fees, and a local guide.

Highlights of the Tour

The Baku Old Town Walking Tour offers visitors an authentic experience of the culture, heritage, and history of Baku. Here are some of the tour highlights:

The Old City Walls

The ancient walls of Baku are one of the major attractions of the Old Town. Visitors can explore the old neighborhoods, narrow alleys, and streets that date back centuries. The walls were built to protect the city from invaders, and they offer a glimpse into the past of Baku.

The Shirvanshahs’ Palace

The Shirvanshahs’ Palace is a must-see attraction in Baku. The palace was the royal residence of the Shirvanshahs, the rulers of Shirvan. Visitors can tour the palace and see the impressive architecture, intricate designs, and rich history of the palace.

The Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower is a famous landmark in Baku, and it is situated on the edge of the Old Town. The tower is about 30 meters high and 15 meters wide, and it has a mysterious history that has intrigued visitors for centuries. Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

The Mosques

The Old Town has numerous mosques and religious structures that reflect the Islamic heritage of Baku. Many of these structures date back to the 12th and 14th centuries and are still used by the locals for prayers.

The Bathhouses

The bath complexes in the Old Town are a fascinating attraction for visitors. The bathhouses were once the center of social gatherings and a significant part of the city’s culture. Visitors can see the intricate designs and experience the authentic bath culture of Baku.

The Caravanserais

Caravanserais are traditional inns for travelers and their animals. These structures played a vital role in the trade and commerce of Baku, and many of them have been restored and are open to visitors.

How to Book the Tour

To book the Baku Old Town walking tour, visit the Viator website or check out other tour operators who provide the same tour. The tour is highly recommended for visitors who want to explore the rich history and culture of Baku, and prices vary depending on the operator.

What’s Included and What’s Not Included

The Baku Old Town Walking Tour includes bottled water, entrance fees, and a local guide. The price does not include food and drinks unless specified and gratuities.

Book Your Tour Now

Baku is an exciting destination to visit, and the Old Town walking tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the city. The tour is highly recommended for visitors who want to learn about the Islamic heritage and see the ancient structures of Baku. Remember to book the tour in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and dress appropriately for the weather. So, don’t waste any more time and book the tour now to experience the rich history of Baku. Book the tour here

FAQ about Baku

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is situated on the Caspian Sea coast. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. If you are planning to visit Baku, you might have some questions about the city, its culture, history, and tourist attractions. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the commonly asked questions about Baku.

1. What is the best time to visit Baku?

Baku has a warm climate, with summer temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C. The best time to visit Baku is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May, and from September to November. During this period, the weather is mild, and the crowds are less.

2. What language is spoken in Baku?

The official language of Baku is Azerbaijani, but Russian and English are also widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas.

3. Is Baku a safe city?

Baku is considered a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should exercise common sense and take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.

4. What currency is used in Baku?

The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in Baku, and ATMs are readily available.

5. What are the top tourist attractions in Baku?

Baku has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with many attractions to explore. Some of the top tourist attractions in Baku are:

1. Old City (Icheri Sheher)

Old City is the historical core of Baku and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several historical landmarks, including the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.

2. Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are a trio of skyscrapers that have become an iconic symbol of modern Baku. They are illuminated at night and offer a spectacular view over the city.

3. Baku Boulevard

Baku Boulevard is a seaside promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea. It is a popular destination for leisure activities, with many cafes, restaurants, and amusement parks.

4. Heydar Aliyev Center

The Heydar Aliyev Center is a cultural center and museum designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. It houses exhibitions on Azerbaijani history, culture, and art.

5. Gobustan National Park

Gobustan National Park is located about 60 km from Baku and is known for its ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes. It is a popular day trip destination from Baku.

6. What is the food like in Baku?

Azerbaijani cuisine is a fusion of Turkish, Persian, and Russian influences, and Baku has a vibrant food scene. Some of the must-try dishes in Baku are:

1. Plov

Plov is a traditional Azerbaijani rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices.

2. Dolma

Dolma is a stuffed vegetable dish, usually made with grape leaves, filled with meat and rice.

3. Kebab

Kebabs are skewered meat dishes that are grilled or roasted over an open fire.

4. Azerbaijani pastries

Azerbaijani pastries, such as baklava and shekerbura, are made with honey, nuts, and dried fruits and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

7. How do I get around in Baku?

Baku has a well-connected transportation system, with buses, metro, and taxi services. The metro is the quickest and easiest way to travel around the city, with a flat fare of 0.20 AZN per trip. Taxis are also readily available, but visitors should negotiate the fare beforehand.

8. What souvenirs can I buy in Baku?

Baku has a vibrant shopping scene, with many traditional markets and modern shopping malls. Some of the popular souvenirs to buy in Baku are:

1. Carpets

Azerbaijani carpets are known for their intricate designs and are a popular souvenir item.

2. Oil-related souvenirs

As Azerbaijan is known for its oil production, visitors can buy souvenirs such as oil lamps and oil bottles.

3. Traditional Azerbaijani clothing

Traditional Azerbaijani clothing, such as the national dress called chokha, is a unique souvenir item.

4. Handicrafts

Handicrafts, such as pottery and woodcarvings, are also popular souvenir items in Baku.

Book Your Tour Now

Baku is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and many tourist attractions. In this FAQ, we have answered some of the commonly asked questions about Baku, including the best time to visit, top tourist attractions, and what souvenirs to buy. Whether you are interested in history and culture or modern architecture and shopping, Baku has something to offer for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Baku

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a beautiful and fascinating destination for tourists. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture, it offers something for everyone. This guide will provide you with a detailed plan to make the most of your time in Baku.

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Baku’s Old City, also known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and must-visit destination. Start your day here by exploring the narrow streets and alleys that are lined with historic buildings and ancient mosques. 1. Maiden Tower: Begin your tour by visiting the Maiden Tower, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Baku. This iconic tower dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the city. 2. Shirvanshahs’ Palace: The Shirvanshahs’ Palace was the home of Azerbaijan’s ruling dynasty in the Middle Ages. The palace complex consists of several buildings, including a mosque, baths, and mausoleums. 3. Palace of the Shirvanshahs Museum: After visiting the palace, explore the Palace of the Shirvanshahs Museum, which is also located within the complex. Here, you can learn about the history of Azerbaijan and see a collection of artifacts and exhibits. 4. Caravanserai: Before leaving the Old City, stop by the Caravanserai, which was once a roadside inn for traders and travelers. Today, it serves as a cultural center where you can attend performances and exhibitions.

Day 2: Exploring the Modern City

After a day of exploring the Old City, it’s time to see what the rest of Baku has to offer. Spend your second day checking out the city’s modern side. 1. Flame Towers: The Flame Towers are undoubtedly one of the most iconic buildings in Baku, with their three flame-shaped towers towering over the city skyline. These towers are a symbol of Azerbaijan’s energy industry and offer stunning views of the city. 2. Upland Park: Next, head to Upland Park, which is one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll through the park, and enjoy the views of Baku Bay. 3. Fountain Square: No trip to Baku is complete without a visit to Fountain Square, which is located in the heart of the city. This bustling square is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping. 4. Heydar Aliyev Center: Finally, make your way to the Heydar Aliyev Center, which is one of Baku’s most striking modern buildings. This cultural center hosts concerts, exhibitions, and performances.

Day 3: Day Trips from Baku

On your third day, take a break from the city and explore the surrounding area. There are several fantastic day trip options to choose from. 1. Gobustan National Park: Gobustan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to thousands of ancient petroglyphs that date back to the Stone Age. Here, you can also see the famous mud volcanoes for which Azerbaijan is known. 2. Absheron Peninsula: The Absheron Peninsula is located just outside of Baku and is home to several historic sites, including the Ateshgah Fire Temple and the Yanar Dag Fire Mountain. 3. Qobustan: Another great option for a day trip is the town of Qobustan, which is located about an hour outside of Baku. Here, you can visit the Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to thousands of rock engravings.

Book Your Tour Now

Baku is a city that has a lot to offer tourists. From its ancient history to its modern architecture, and from its cultural landmarks to its beautiful natural scenery, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. By following this guide, you’ll have a plan for three days that will allow you to experience the best that Baku has to offer.