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Highland Park, Azərbaycan - Things to Do in Highland Park

Things to Do in Highland Park

Highland Park, Azərbaycan - Complete Travel Guide

Highland Park (Dağüstü Park) in Baku, Azerbaijan, stands as one of the city's most iconic and scenic destinations, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and the capital's stunning skyline. This elevated park serves as both a memorial complex and recreational area, featuring the Eternal Flame monument dedicated to those who died in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and January 20 tragedy, making it a place of both natural beauty and historical significance. The park's strategic location on a hill overlooking Baku Bay provides visitors with unparalleled vantage points for photography and sightseeing, particularly spectacular during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle below. Beyond its memorial significance, Highland Park offers peaceful walking paths, well-maintained gardens, and several cafes where visitors can relax while taking in the magnificent views of the Flame Towers and Baku's modern architectural marvels.

Top Things to Do in Highland Park

Visit the Eternal Flame Memorial

Pay respects at this solemn memorial dedicated to Azerbaijan's fallen heroes, featuring an eternal flame that burns continuously. The memorial complex includes the Alley of Martyrs with individual graves and monuments, creating a moving tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the country. The site offers a profound cultural experience while providing stunning views over the city.

Booking Tip: Entry is free and the memorial is open 24/7, though visiting during daylight hours (9 AM - 6 PM) is recommended for safety and better photography. Consider hiring a local guide for $15-25 to learn about the historical significance and stories behind the memorial.

Sunset Photography at the Viewing Platform

Capture breathtaking panoramic photographs from the main viewing platform, especially during golden hour when the Caspian Sea and city skyline are bathed in warm light. The platform offers unobstructed 360-degree views of Baku, including the iconic Flame Towers, Baku Boulevard, and the sprawling urban landscape. This is considered one of the best photography spots in all of Azerbaijan.

Booking Tip: Access is free, but arrive 1-2 hours before sunset for the best lighting and to secure a good spot. Professional photography tours cost $40-60 and include transportation and guidance to the best viewpoints within the park.

Explore the Memorial Park Gardens

Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring local flora, peaceful walking paths, and several smaller monuments scattered throughout the park. The gardens provide a tranquil escape from the city bustle while offering multiple scenic spots for relaxation and contemplation. Various seasonal flowers and well-maintained green spaces make this perfect for leisurely walks.

Booking Tip: Free to explore at any time, though the gardens are best appreciated during spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October). Guided botanical walks are available for $20-30 and provide insight into local plant species and garden design.

Dine at Highland Park Restaurants

Experience fine dining with spectacular views at one of several restaurants located within or adjacent to the park, offering both traditional Azerbaijani cuisine and international dishes. Many establishments feature outdoor terraces that maximize the panoramic city views, creating an unforgettable dining atmosphere. The combination of excellent food and stunning vistas makes for a perfect romantic or special occasion meal.

Booking Tip: Reservations recommended, especially for window or terrace tables, with dinner prices ranging from $25-60 per person. Book sunset dinner slots (6-8 PM) well in advance, and specify you want a view table when making reservations.

Take the Funicular Railway

Ride the historic funicular railway that connects the lower city to Highland Park, offering a unique and scenic transportation experience with gradually unfolding views as you ascend. This vintage railway system has been operating for decades and provides an authentic local experience while serving as an attraction in itself. The journey offers great photo opportunities and a gentle introduction to the park's elevated position.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost approximately 1-2 AZN ($0.60-1.20) and the funicular operates daily from 7 AM to 11 PM. During peak tourist season, expect short waits, and consider riding both up and down for the full experience rather than walking the steep paths.

Getting There

Highland Park is easily accessible from central Baku via multiple transportation options. The most scenic route is taking the funicular railway from the lower station near the Old City (Icherisheher), which provides a gradual ascent with beautiful views. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available throughout Baku and cost approximately 3-8 AZN ($2-5) depending on your starting location. Public buses also serve the area, though the funicular or taxi options are more convenient for tourists. The park is about 10-15 minutes by car from most central Baku locations.

Getting Around

Once at Highland Park, most attractions are within easy walking distance as the park covers a relatively compact area on the hilltop. Well-maintained paved paths connect all major points of interest, including the memorial sites, viewing platforms, and restaurants. The terrain includes some gentle slopes and stairs, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Electric carts are occasionally available for those who prefer not to walk, and the funicular provides easy access back down to the city center. Most visitors can explore the entire park area on foot within 2-3 hours.

Where to Stay

Old City (Icherisheher)
Nizami Street area
Flame Towers vicinity
Sahil district
28 May district
Yasamal district

Food & Dining

Highland Park and its immediate vicinity offer several excellent dining options that capitalize on the spectacular views. Upscale restaurants within the park serve traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov, kebabs, and fresh Caspian Sea fish, alongside international cuisine, with most featuring outdoor terraces for optimal city viewing. Several cafes and tea houses provide more casual dining options with lighter meals, traditional Azerbaijani tea service, and local pastries. For the full experience, time your meal with sunset to enjoy the city lights coming alive below, and don't miss trying local specialties like dolma and baklava while taking in the panoramic vistas.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Baku

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Firuze restaurant

4.5 /5
(7344 reviews) 2

Bake&Roll Sushi Bar

4.8 /5
(1710 reviews) 2
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SUSHI ROOM BAKU

4.7 /5
(1484 reviews)
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Dolce Far Niente (Crescent Mall)

4.7 /5
(556 reviews)

Voodoo Roof

4.9 /5
(299 reviews)
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Trattoria L'Oliva

4.6 /5
(253 reviews)

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Highland Park is during spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for walking around the outdoor memorial and gardens. Summer months can be quite hot, making early morning or evening visits preferable, though the elevated location provides some relief from the city heat. Winter visits are possible but can be windy and cold due to the exposed hilltop location. For the best photographic conditions and most pleasant experience, plan visits during the golden hour before sunset year-round, when the lighting is spectacular and temperatures are most comfortable.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and have the memorial and viewing areas mostly to yourself
Bring a light jacket even in summer as the hilltop location can be windy and cooler than the city below
The park's ATMs and facilities are limited, so bring cash and use restrooms at restaurants or before ascending via funicular

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