How to Plan Your Old City Walking Tour in Baku

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is a city filled with history and culture. One of the best ways to explore the city’s rich heritage is through an Old City Walking Tour. In this guide, we will detail how to plan for this amazing tour.

Overview of the Old City Walking Tour

The Old City Walking Tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Baku’s Old City or Ichari Shahar. The tour lasts for approximately 2 hours and is led by a professional licensed English-speaking tour guide. You will visit a number of historic and cultural sites including Qoşa Qala Qapısı, Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Maiden Tower, Juma Mosque, and the Carpet Museum.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The Old City Walking Tour includes a professional licensed English-speaking tour guide who will take you through the city’s historic and cultural sites. Admission to Qoşa Qala Qapısı is free, while other sites such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs require an additional admission ticket. The tour does not include any meals or personal expenses.

Meeting Point and Time

The meeting point for the Old City Walking Tour is Qoşa Qala Qapısı which is located in the Old City. The address is 9R9P+GF6 Əziz Əliyev küçəsi Bakı Azerbaijan. The tour starts at 10:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Old City Walking Tour takes you through some of the most historic and cultural sites in Baku. You will start at Qoşa Qala Qapısı, where you will see the entrance gates that once protected the city from invaders. Next, you will visit the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a magnificent palace that dates back to the 15th century. The architecture and intricate designs are testament to the rich cultural heritage of the city. Afterward, you will visit the Maiden Tower, an iconic landmark that has been standing for over 800 years. Inside the tower, you can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city. You will then visit Juma Mosque, the largest mosque in the Old City. The mosque has been in continuous use since the 12th century and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Finally, you will visit the Carpet Museum, which showcases the rich history of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan. Here, you will be able to admire some of the most beautiful carpets from across the region.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the tour will be received at the time of booking. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The meeting point for the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.

Cancellation Policy

If for any reason you can no longer go on the tour, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start of the tour, you will not be eligible for a refund.

Booking the Old City Walking Tour

If you are interested in booking the Old City Walking Tour, you can do so by clicking on this link: book the tour here. This activity is a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate.

Book Your Tour Now

The Old City Walking Tour is an amazing opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Baku. With a professional licensed English-speaking guide, you will be able to discover some of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks in the city. Make sure to book your tour in advance and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

FAQ – Baku City Guide

1. What is the best time to visit Baku?

Baku has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Baku is between March and June or September and November when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

2. How to reach Baku?

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport is the primary gateway to Baku, with connections to major cities worldwide. Alternatively, you can also reach Baku by train or road from neighboring countries like Turkey, Georgia, and Russia.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Baku?

Baku is a city rich in history and culture, with plenty of attractions to explore. Some of the top tourist attractions include the Old City (Icherisheher), Baku Boulevard, Flame Towers, Maiden Tower, Fountains Square, National Flag Square, and Gobustan National Park.

4. Is Baku a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Baku is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it’s always best to take necessary precautions like keeping your valuables safe, avoiding unlit areas at night, and being vigilant while using public transport.

5. What is the currency used in Baku?

The currency used in Baku is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). ATMs and exchange bureaus are widely available in the city.

6. What are the best places to stay in Baku?

Baku has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best areas to stay in Baku include the Old City (Icherisheher), Baku Boulevard, and the city center.

7. What is the local cuisine in Baku?

Azerbaijani cuisine is known for its rich flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Baku include dolma (stuffed grape leaves), plov (pilaf), kebabs, and baklava (sweet pastry).

8. Are there any traditional festivals in Baku?

Baku hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year, including the Novruz Spring Festival, Baku Jazz Festival, and the International Mugham Festival.

9. What is the nightlife like in Baku?

Baku has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the popular nightlife spots in Baku include the Fountain Square area, Nizami Street, and the Baku Boulevard.

10. Is English widely spoken in Baku?

English is not widely spoken in Baku, but most tourist areas and hotels have English-speaking staff. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Azerbaijani phrases to communicate with locals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Baku

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan, located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. This magnificent city offers visitors a lot to see and explore, from its rich ancient history to its modern architecture, and it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. In this guide, we will take you through a step-by-step process of everything you need to see and do while exploring this ancient city.

Getting Around Baku

Before diving into the must-see places in Baku, you need to know the various ways to get around the city. Baku has an adequate transportation system consisting of buses, taxis, and a metro system. If you’re on a tight budget, taking the bus is an easy and affordable way to get around town. Taxis are also reasonably priced, and you can find them everywhere around the city. The metro in Baku is similar to most metro systems worldwide and is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city.

Old City

Old City, also known as Baku’s Inner City, is one of the most ancient and distinct places to see while in Baku. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features many historical landmarks, medieval alleys, and old-style architecture. It will take you hours to walk around this magnificent place, but once you step into the antique walls of this town, you will immediately feel the essence of the past. You can find a lot of shops, cafes, and restaurants around Old City, offering local food and souvenirs.

Flame Towers

Flame Towers is a must-visit destination in Baku, that stands tall in the heart of the city. These three skyscrapers have a height of 190 meters and are visible from almost all corners of the city. The towers are designed like flames, and at night, they light up with LED lights, making them a unique sightseeing location for anyone visiting Baku.

Yanar Dag

Yanar Dag, also known as the Burning Mountain, is an awe-inspiring place to visit while in Baku. This phenomenal mountainside has been burning continuously from the natural gas underground, creating a sight to behold for visitors. At Yanar Dag, you can watch the natural flames flicker, light torches, and even roast marshmallows on the fiery mountain.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Palace of the Shirvanshahs, built in the 15th century, is a magnificent palace located in Baku’s old city. It’s an enormous historical landmark of Azerbaijan, showcasing the architectural achievements of the Shirvanshah civilization. The palace once served as their residence and has complex building structures, including the Divanhane, tomb, mosque, and courtyards. Inside the palace, you can see several preserved artifacts, including stone baths, porcelain ware, and even ancient coins.

Maiden’s Tower

Maiden’s Tower is located in Baku and is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The tower is a historical landmark, and there are many tales behind its construction, serving different purposes throughout history. The tower was built in the 12th century and is considered one of the most ancient structures in the city. Visitors can admire the tower’s distinct cylindrical shape, and the interior showcases a museum dedicated to various eras of Baku’s history.

Sabail Beach

Sabail Beach is one of Baku’s most beautiful locations, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning golden sands. The beach is located on the Caspian seafront and is an ideal spot for anyone looking to relax from the bustling city. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, parasols, and a variety of water activities, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more.

Nizami Street

Nizami Street is the main street of Baku and located in the heart of the city. It is one of the busiest streets in the city and has many shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a perfect place to walk around and spend your evenings enjoying the city’s welcoming atmosphere. Nizami Street is also an ideal place to sample Azerbaijani cuisine, sweets, and pastries.

Culinary Adventures in Baku

While visiting Baku, you can’t miss the chance to enjoy the local Azerbaijani cuisine. Azerbaijani cuisine is famous for its meat dishes, and you can find lamb, beef and chicken dishes in almost all the local restaurants. Don’t forget to try the popular Plov, a traditional Azerbaijani dish made with rice and lamb. Azerbaijani sweets like Baklava and Shekerbura are also a must-try while in Baku.

Book Your Tour Now

Baku is an enchanting city that has something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a city full of history, natural wonders, and delicious food. This guide has outlined some of the must-see and must-experience places and things to do while in the city. By following this guide, you will have everything you need to make an unforgettable trip to the beautiful city of Baku.