Things to Do in Baku

About Baku

Where ancient fire temples meet gleaming skyscrapers and the Caspian Sea whispers tales of silk road merchants, Baku emerges as a captivating paradox wrapped in Caucasian mystique. This 'City of Winds' breathes with an intoxicating blend of Persian elegance, Soviet grandeur, and modern ambition, where cobblestone alleys of the UNESCO-listed Old City yield to the futuristic curves of Zaha Hadid's Flame Towers. Here, the eternal flames of Yanar Dag have burned for millennia, mirroring the enduring spirit of Azerbaijani hospitality that welcomes travelers with steaming glasses of armudu tea and the haunting melodies of mugham music. Every corner tells a story – from the medieval Maiden Tower standing sentinel over ancient walls to the contemporary Heydar Aliyev Center's flowing architecture that defies gravity and convention. In Baku, East truly meets West in the most unexpected ways, creating an urban symphony where calls to prayer harmonize with the bustle of oil-wealthy modernity.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the efficient Baku Metro (0.30 AZN per ride) or official yellow taxis with meters. Download the BiTaksi app for reliable rides. The BakuCard works for metro and buses, available at stations for 2 AZN plus credit.

Money: Azerbaijan Manat (AZN) is the currency. Many places accept cards, but carry cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are widespread in the city center. Tipping 10% at restaurants is customary but not mandatory.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques (headscarves for women, long pants for all). Remove shoes before entering homes. Avoid public displays of affection. Friday prayers draw crowds, so plan accordingly when visiting religious sites.

Food Safety: Tap water is generally safe but bottled water is recommended. Try traditional plov, dolma, and kebabs at local restaurants. Street food is usually safe from busy vendors. Avoid raw vegetables at cheaper establishments.

When to Visit

Baku shines brightest during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures hover between 15-25°C and rainfall stays minimal at 20-40mm monthly. These shoulder seasons offer 20-30% lower accommodation prices than peak summer months. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat reaching 35°C+ and strong Caspian winds, but also vibrant outdoor life and extended daylight until 8 PM – expect peak pricing and crowds. Winter (December-March) sees temperatures drop to 5-10°C with occasional rain, offering the best deals (40-50% savings) and fewer tourists, perfect for museum exploration and cozy tea house visits. March celebrates Novruz (Spring Equinox) with spectacular festivities from March 20-24, while the Baku Jazz Festival occurs in mid-October. Formula 1 fans should book well ahead for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix (typically late April/early May), when prices skyrocket 200-300%. Culture enthusiasts will love the mild October-November period for walking the Old City, while beach lovers should target late May-June for pleasant Caspian coastline weather before the summer heat peaks.