"Cosmopolitan Spirit of Azerbaijan"
Baku Tourism
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is its biggest and most populous city. Located in the South Caucasus region at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Baku is one of the most ancient cities of the East. It is a fascinating city with a rich history that features a juxtaposition of old and new, with modern skyscrapers alongside well-preserved historic buildings.
Witness the iconic Baku Flame Towers rising above the city and dominating the skyline day and night. Baku is a hub of cultural experiences, hosting a myriad of events, from music festivals and dance performances to art exhibitions. The Old City, known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains many ancient landmarks, including the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
You can also explore the modern attractions of Baku, such as the Flame Towers, the Seaside Boulevard, and the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural marvel. Baku's theaters, museums, and galleries provide windows into Azerbaijani culture and the contemporary art scene.
Explore Azerbaijani cuisine, which includes dishes like kebabs, plov (pilaf), dolma, and baklava. Try local restaurants and street food stalls to savor authentic flavors. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of clubs and bars.
Visit Taza Pir Mosque and take a day trip to Ateshgah to explore the rich religious history of the region, or admire the exquisite craftsmanship of the Russian Revival Architecture of Holy Myrrhbearers Cathedral. Baku, with its urban landscapes and heritage monuments, offers a great blend of history, culture and modernity to the visitors.
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Must Know Before You Travel to Baku
- Essentials to carry: Carry smaller bills in cash for small purchases while visiting local markets and bars as some places might overcharge you by not returning change. Carry your passport or its photocopy when visiting tourist areas as police officials can sometimes check the travel documents of tourists.
- Climate: The city experiences hot summers and chilly winters, so pack accordingly. Baku also experiences high gusts of wind that can hinder driving and outdoor activities.
- Public transport: Bolt is the most popular taxi app in Baku. Its services cover a vast part of the Baku city. The taxis from the airport are not metered. Make sure to negotiate before sitting in the taxi. You can also take the Aero Express bus that connects the airport directly to Baku Central Railway Station. These buses run from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM and a ride costs 1.50 AZN.
- Baku Card: The BakuCard, a transport smart card, is required to pay for metro rides. A few buses across the city also accept it as a mode of payment. You can get BakuCard for 2 AZN from metro stations or download the mobile app to buy QR tickets.
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Nightlife in Baku
Nightlife in Baku offers a vibrant and diverse scene, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. From trendy rooftop bars with stunning city views to bustling nightclubs pulsating with music and energy, Baku has something for everyone. The waterfront promenade along the Caspian Sea is a popular spot for leisurely strolls and waterfront dining, especially during the warmer months. The night tours of the city give a chance to explore the famous landmarks in vibrant colourful lights.
Shopping in Baku
Shopping in Baku is a delightful experience, with an array of options ranging from modern malls to traditional bazaars. You can explore luxury boutiques and international brands at shopping centers like Park Bulvar and Ganjlik Mall, or wander through the winding streets of the Old City to discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. For a taste of authentic Azerbaijani shopping, head to the Nizami Street pedestrian boulevard, known for its boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street life.
Transportation in Baku
Transportation in Baku is convenient and accessible, with a range of options for getting around the city and exploring its surrounding areas. The Baku Metro offers a fast and efficient way to travel within the city, with three lines serving key neighborhoods and attractions. Additionally, buses, minibusses (marshrutkas), local taxis, and app-based cab services like Bolt provide affordable and convenient transportation options for navigating Baku's streets. For longer journeys and day trips, car rentals and private drivers are available.
Daily Budget for Baku
When planning a daily budget for Baku, travelers should consider various factors such as accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities. While prices can vary depending on personal preferences and travel style, a moderate daily budget for a comfortable stay in Baku might range from $30 to $80 per person. This budget would typically cover expenses such as accommodation in a mid-range hotel or Airbnb, meals at local restaurants or cafes, public transportation, entrance fees to attractions, and occasional shopping or entertainment costs.
History of Baku
The history of Baku is rich and diverse, shaped by centuries of cultural influences, economic development, and geopolitical changes. The city's origins date back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human habitation in the area as far back as the Stone Age. Over the centuries, Baku has been ruled by various empires and civilizations, including the Persian, Roman, and Ottoman empires, each leaving their mark on the city's architecture, culture, and traditions. During the latter half of the 1980s, a combination of political and economic turmoil began reshaping the landscape of Soviet Azerbaijan and its capital, Baku. On October 18, 1991, Azerbaijan declared its independence and Baku was established as the capital of the newly sovereign nation of Azerbaijan.
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How to Reach Baku
How to Reach Overview
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is often hailed as the gateway to Azerbaijan. To reach Baku, the primary international gateway is Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), offering convenient access from around the world. This airport is located 25 km from the city center. Major airlines like Azerbaijan Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and British Airways have regular connections to Baku. Additionally, Baku is well-connected to nearby countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Moscow through rail connections. The centrally located Baku City Circuit is easily accessible from most parts of the city, making Baku an accessible destination for travelers from various starting points.
You can opt for the most budget-friendly transportation option from the airport to the city center, which is the Aero Express Line. This service operates throughout the day, with departures every half-hour or hourly, depending on the time. The fare for a ticket is 1.50 AZN, and the bus conveniently transports you to the 28 May Metro Station, providing you with easy access to your onward journey.
You can opt for the most budget-friendly transportation option from the airport to the city center, which is the Aero Express Line. This service operates throughout the day, with departures every half-hour or hourly, depending on the time. The fare for a ticket is 1.50 AZN, and the bus conveniently transports you to the 28 May Metro Station, providing you with easy access to your onward journey.
How to reach Baku by flight
Baku is primarily accessible by air through Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), situated 25 km from the city center. International flights connect Baku to destinations worldwide. Flight duration and costs vary depending on your departure location, but major airlines like Azerbaijan Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and British Airways offer regular services.
How to reach Baku by road
If you prefer traveling by road, Baku can be reached through well-maintained highways. For example, from Tbilisi, Georgia, take the E60/S1 highway, covering about 570 km in approximately 7-8 hours by car. From Istanbul, Turkey, the distance is around 1,800 km along the E80 and E117 highways, taking around 24 hours.
How to reach Baku by train
Baku can be conveniently accessed by rail through various international connections. Major rail operators, such as Russian Railways and Azerbaijan Railways, provide services connecting Baku to cities like Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Istanbul via Georgia. Depending on the route and operator, different classes of service are available, ranging from standard seating to more luxurious sleeper compartments. To book train tickets, travelers can visit the official websites of the respective railway companies, use third-party ticketing platforms, or visit local railway stations. It's essential to check train schedules, ticket availability, and visa requirements when crossing international borders, as train travel offers both comfort and scenic views of the landscapes and cultures along the way.
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