How to Explore Baku’s Oil Rich History on the Oil Heritage Walking Tour

If you are interested in exploring Baku’s oil-rich history and learning about everyday life in the city, then the Oil Heritage Walking Tour is the perfect choice for you. With this half-day walking tour, you will have the opportunity to see some of the top highlights of Baku and gain insight into the social, cultural, and economic history of the city. In this guide, we will provide you with all you need to know about this enjoyable and informative tour.

Overview

The Oil Heritage Walking Tour is a private tour that takes you on a journey through Baku’s rich history. During the tour, you will have a personal guide to take you to some of the most significant sites in the city, including the Oil Barons’ mansions and the old town. You will also learn about the influence of the Soviet era on the city and the role of oil in the history of Baku.

What’s Included

The Oil Heritage Walking Tour is an all-inclusive tour that includes bottled water, lunch, and private transportation. This means that you don’t need to worry about anything during your tour, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights of the city.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is in front of KFC/Pizza Hut at Fountains Square. Your guide will carry a red umbrella to recognize. The tour ends back at the meeting point, making it easy to navigate for travelers.

What to Expect

1. Fountain Square – The tour starts at Fountain Square, where you will get an introduction to Baku’s history and learn about the role of oil in shaping the city. The tour guide will explain the significance of the fountains and statues in the square and their historical importance. 2. Nizami Street – Walking down Nizami street, you’ll get to see the architectural styles that are characteristic of Baku. The street is known for its high-end shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as for its eye-catching buildings from the Soviet era. 3. Maiden Tower – Maiden Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Baku. The tour guide will take you through the inside of the tower, where you can examine the different rooms and floors and learn about its historical significance. 4. Old City – The Old City of Baku is packed with historical sites, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Caravanserai. Your guide will take you through the narrow streets of the old town, providing you with insight into the architecture, history, and culture of the area. 5. Baku Boulevard – After exploring the old city, the tour heads to Baku Boulevard. This promenade along the Caspian Sea shoreline provides stunning views and numerous panoramic photo opportunities. 6. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center – The last stop on the tour is at the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. The post-modernist building is an architectural masterpiece and houses exhibitions that showcase the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan.

The Benefits

The Oil Heritage Walking Tour is an excellent way to experience Baku’s oil-rich history and explore the city’s most prominent landmarks. With a personal guide leading the way, you will get to see the highlights of the city and learn about its culture and history. The tour is all-inclusive, meaning you don’t have to worry about anything during your excursion. The tour is a private tour, allowing you to avoid waiting on other visitors, and you can also benefit from your guide’s undivided attention.

Book the Tour Here

If you want to experience the Oil Heritage Walking Tour, you can easily book it through Viator. This tour is an excellent choice for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to gain insight into Baku’s culture and history. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore Baku’s oil heritage, book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baku

Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, situated on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. It’s a popular destination for tourists from around the world due to its rich culture, history, and architecture. Here are some frequently asked questions about the city of Baku.

1. What is the best time to visit Baku?

Baku has a semi-arid climate and experiences hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is between April and June or September and November when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, if you’re interested in attending the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix or the Baku International Jazz Festival, it’s best to visit in late April or early May.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Baku?

There are several must-see attractions in Baku that you should add to your itinerary, which include:

• The Old City of Baku, also known as Icheri Sheher, which features many historical monuments, including the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
• The Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that resemble flames and offer a stunning view of the city, particularly at night when the towers are lit up.
• Baku Boulevard, a long promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea and offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and attractions, including the Baku Eye, a Ferris wheel that offers amazing views of the sea and the city.
• Heydar Aliyev Center, a unique architectural masterpiece that houses a museum, art gallery, and concert hall.
• The modern and recently renovated Fountains Square, which is known for its lively entertainment and nightlife.

3. What are the best accommodations in Baku?

Baku has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best accommodations include:

• Four Seasons Hotel Baku, a five-star hotel located in the heart of the city with a great view of the Caspian Sea.
• Winter Park Hotel Baku, a four-star hotel that offers a modern and comfortable stay at an affordable price.
• JW Marriott Absheron Baku, a luxurious five-star hotel with an amazing rooftop pool and unbeatable views of the city.
• Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard, a centrally located hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
• Hostel Inn Baku, a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the Old City with a charming atmosphere and helpful staff.

4. What is the currency used in Baku?

The currency used in Baku and throughout Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN), which is subdivided into 100 qəpik. You can exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, and hotels. ATMs are also widely available throughout the city.

5. What is the food like in Baku?

Baku has a rich culinary tradition that features a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine. Traditional Azerbaijani dishes include plov (a rice dish with meat and vegetables), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and qutab (a type of stuffed pancake). Baku is also known for its seafood, particularly its grilled fish dishes. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes throughout the city that offer a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Chinese, and Turkish.

6. Is Baku a safe city?

Baku is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like any major city, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt, and avoid unmarked taxis.

7. What is the transportation like in Baku?

Baku has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, metro, and trams. The metro is the most popular mode of transportation and is a convenient and cheap way to get around the city. Taxis are also widely available and affordable. If you’re up for it, you can also rent a bicycle and explore the city on two wheels.

8. What are some cultural events in Baku?

Baku has a vibrant cultural scene that includes many festivals, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. Some popular events include:

• Baku International Jazz Festival, which features world-renowned jazz musicians from around the world.
• Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, an adrenaline-fueled event that takes place on a street circuit in the heart of the city.
• Baku International Film Festival, which showcases the best in Azerbaijani and international cinema.

9. What is the language spoken in Baku?

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, which is a Turkic language similar to Turkish. Russian and English are also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

10. What are the customs and traditions in Baku?

Azerbaijan has a rich cultural heritage that includes many customs and traditions that are still observed today. Hospitality is highly valued in Azerbaijani culture, and visitors are often welcomed into people’s homes and offered a cup of tea or a meal. Azerbaijanis also have a strong appreciation for music and dance, and traditional Azerbaijani music can often be heard at weddings and other celebrations. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Baku

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a fascinating place with a rich history and a unique culture. Nestled on the Caspian Sea, Baku has everything from ancient Old Town and modern skyscrapers to sprawling parks and cultural destinations. As a tourist, there’s so much to see and do in Baku that it can be overwhelming to plan your visit. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to spend your time in Baku.

1. Explore Old Town (Icherisheher)

Old Town, or Icherisheher as it’s known in Azerbaijani, is the historic heart of Baku and one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The UNESCO-listed site is home to a maze of narrow streets, charming cafes, and traditional Azerbaijan architecture. In Old Town, you can visit the Maiden Tower, built in the 12th century, which offers excellent views of the surrounding area. You can also visit the Juma Mosque, the Palace of Shirvanshahs, and the Caravanserai.

2. Visit the Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are a striking modern landmark in Baku. These three towers are covered in LED screens that showcase flames, hence their name. Many travelers report that they look best at night when the lights create a stunning display across the city. You can go up to the observation deck of one of the towers for some of the best views of the city.

3. Discover the Baku Boulevard

The Baku Boulevard is a 3.5-kilometer promenade that runs along the Caspian Sea. There’s something for everyone here, from street performers and cafes to amusement parks and sports facilities. There are also plenty of public art installations here that add to the atmosphere. The Baku Ferris Wheel is also located here, and it’s worth a ride for the views.

4. Check out the Heydar Aliyev Center

The Heydar Aliyev Center is a cultural center designed by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, and it’s worth a visit even if you’re not interested in the exhibitions inside. However, the center is also home to a rotating roster of art exhibitions, music performances, and other cultural events.

5. Visit the Carpet Museum

Carpet weaving is a significant part of Azerbaijani culture, and the Carpet Museum is the perfect way to explore this. The museum houses an impressive collection of Azerbajian carpets and rugs, with some of them dating back to the 17th century. If you’re interested in textiles or cultural history, this is a must-visit destination in Baku.

6. Take a Walk Through Fountain Square

Fountain Square is a popular tourist destination in Baku, located in the heart of the city. It’s a pedestrian area surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The square is home to several fountains, including the iconic Seasons Fountain, which displays its water patterns based on the seasons.

7. Visit the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

The National Museum of History of Azerbaijan is an excellent place to learn more about the country’s rich history. The museum’s collection spans from prehistoric times to the 20th century, with displays that cover everything from cultural artifacts to military history. One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the bronze “Lion’s Head,” which was excavated in Baku and dates back to the 1st century.

8. Take a Trip to Gobustan National Park

Gobustan National Park is located just outside of Baku and is home to an impressive collection of rock art. These petroglyphs are estimated to be around 12,000 years old and provide valuable insight into the region’s prehistoric cultures. The area is also home to several mud volcanoes, which are another unique natural phenomenon that Azerbaijan is known for.

Book Your Tour Now

Baku is a city that truly has something for everyone, from ancient history to modern architecture, and everything in between. Use this guide to plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or just beautiful views, Baku won’t disappoint.