Home › Destinations › National Museum of History of Azerbaijan
National Museum of History of Azerbaijan, Azərbaycan - Things to Do in National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

Things to Do in National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

National Museum of History of Azerbaijan, Azərbaycan - Complete Travel Guide

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern innovation situated on the western shores of the Caspian Sea. This dynamic city showcases centuries of cultural heritage through its UNESCO World Heritage Old City (Icherisheher) with medieval walls and narrow cobblestone streets, while simultaneously embracing the future with iconic contemporary architecture like the Flame Towers that dominate the skyline. The city serves as a cultural and economic hub where East meets West, offering visitors a unique experience of Silk Road history, oil boom legacy, and Azerbaijani traditions. The National Museum of History of Azerbaijan stands as one of Baku's premier cultural institutions, housing over 300,000 artifacts that chronicle the rich history of the region from ancient times to the present day. Located in the heart of the city, this magnificent museum offers visitors an comprehensive journey through Azerbaijan's past, featuring archaeological treasures, ethnographic collections, medieval manuscripts, and exhibits showcasing the country's role in regional trade routes and its transformation into a modern nation.

Top Things to Do in National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

Explore Baku's Old City (Icherisheher)

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Old City with its medieval walls, ancient mosques, and historic palaces including the iconic Maiden Tower. This atmospheric quarter features narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional architecture, artisan workshops, and charming cafes where you can experience authentic Azerbaijani culture.

Booking Tip: Entry to the Old City is free, but individual attractions like Maiden Tower cost around 2-5 AZN. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Look for guided tours that include multiple sites.

Visit the Flame Towers and Modern Architecture

Marvel at Baku's modern skyline dominated by the iconic Flame Towers, three skyscrapers that light up the night sky with LED displays resembling flames. Take in panoramic city views from the observation areas and explore the contemporary architectural marvels that showcase Azerbaijan's modern development.

Booking Tip: Access to viewing areas is typically 10-15 AZN. Best visited during sunset for spectacular views. Many city tours include this stop, which can be more economical than individual visits.

Discover Gobustan Rock Art and Mud Volcanoes

Venture outside Baku to explore the ancient petroglyphs at Gobustan National Park, featuring over 6,000 rock engravings dating back 40,000 years. Combine this UNESCO site with a visit to the nearby mud volcanoes, a unique geological phenomenon where small volcanic cones bubble with cool mud.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 40-80 AZN including transport and guide. Book through reputable operators that provide air-conditioned vehicles. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for this outdoor excursion.

Experience Azerbaijani Cuisine and Tea Culture

Immerse yourself in Azerbaijan's rich culinary traditions by sampling local specialties like plov (pilaf), dolma, and fresh Caspian Sea caviar. Visit traditional tea houses where you can experience the elaborate tea ceremony with jam, sweets, and the distinctive pear-shaped glass cups called armudu.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from 30-60 AZN per person. Look for tours that include both restaurant visits and local markets. Evening tours often provide the most authentic experience with traditional music and cultural performances.

Walk Along Baku Boulevard and Caspian Waterfront

Stroll along the scenic Baku Boulevard (National Park), a beautifully landscaped promenade stretching along the Caspian Sea coastline. This popular gathering place features parks, fountains, cafes, and entertainment venues, offering stunning views of the bay and city skyline, especially beautiful during sunset.

Booking Tip: The boulevard is free to access and perfect for self-guided exploration. Bike rentals available for 5-10 AZN per hour. Consider joining evening walking tours that combine the waterfront with Old City visits for 25-40 AZN.

Getting There

Heydar Aliyev International Airport serves as the main gateway to Baku, located about 25 kilometers northeast of the city center with regular international flights from major European, Middle Eastern, and regional destinations. The airport is connected to the city by bus (Route 116), taxi (approximately 15-25 AZN), or ride-sharing services, with the journey taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. For overland travel, Baku is accessible by train from Tbilisi, Georgia, and by bus from various regional destinations, though flight connections are generally more convenient for international visitors.

Getting Around

Baku offers an efficient and affordable public transportation system including a modern metro with two lines covering major city areas, buses, and abundant taxis. The metro is the fastest way to navigate the city, costing just 0.30 AZN per ride, while buses and marshrutkas (shared minivans) provide extensive coverage for 0.20-0.30 AZN. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, with ride-sharing apps like Bolt being popular and reliable. The city center and Old City are easily walkable, and many major attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient to explore on foot combined with occasional public transport use.

Where to Stay

Old City (Icherisheher)
City Center and Fountains Square
Seaside Boulevard Area
Nizami Street District
White City
Sahil Metro Area

Food & Dining

Baku's dining scene offers an excellent mix of traditional Azerbaijani cuisine and international options, with the Old City and Nizami Street areas featuring the highest concentration of restaurants. Traditional restaurants serve hearty dishes like kebabs, plov, and fresh fish from the Caspian Sea, while modern establishments offer contemporary takes on local cuisine alongside European and Middle Eastern options. Don't miss trying authentic Azerbaijani tea culture at traditional chaikhanas (tea houses), and be sure to sample local specialties like Shah plov, qutab, and if budget allows, some of the world's finest Caspian Sea caviar. Most restaurants are reasonably priced, with traditional meals costing 15-30 AZN per person, while upscale dining typically ranges from 40-80 AZN per person.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Baku

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

View all food guides →

Firuze restaurant

4.5 /5
(7344 reviews) 2

Bake&Roll Sushi Bar

4.8 /5
(1710 reviews) 2
meal_delivery

SUSHI ROOM BAKU

4.7 /5
(1484 reviews)
meal_delivery

Dolce Far Niente (Crescent Mall)

4.7 /5
(556 reviews)

Voodoo Roof

4.9 /5
(299 reviews)
bar

Trattoria L'Oliva

4.6 /5
(253 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Baku is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing, ranging from 15-25°C. Summer months (June-August) can be quite hot and windy with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, though the Caspian Sea breeze provides some relief, and this is peak tourist season with longer daylight hours. Winter (December-March) is relatively mild compared to other regional destinations, with temperatures around 5-15°C, making it suitable for indoor attractions like museums, though some outdoor activities may be less appealing. Spring is particularly beautiful when the city's parks and boulevards are in bloom, while autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at official exchange offices or banks rather than street vendors for better rates and security, and note that many places accept credit cards but cash is still preferred for small purchases and local transport
Learn a few basic Azerbaijani or Russian phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas, though younger people in hotels and restaurants often speak some English
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove shoes before entering mosques, and be aware that Friday prayers may affect visiting hours at some religious attractions

Explore Activities in National Museum of History of Azerbaijan