Things to Do in Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Baku sits where the Caspian meets centuries of conquest. The city tells its story through architecture—ancient stone towers from the 12th century stand beneath flame-shaped Flame Towers that dominate the night sky. Palace of the Shirvanshahs anchors the Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site where narrow cobblestone streets wind between medieval walls that have absorbed Persian, Arab, and Russian influence. The oil boom transformed Baku into a regional Dubai, complete with gleaming modern architecture and luxury hotels, but the heart still beats strongest in these ancient quarters. You can feel it. The weight of history lives in those worn stone steps.

The food scene here blends Persian, Turkish, and Russian influences into something distinctly Azerbaijani. Expect grilled meats, fresh herbs, and Caspian seafood to dominate most menus worth visiting. The Old City hides several excellent traditional restaurants where you can try plov (the national rice dish), dolma, and sturgeon from the Caspian Sea, though tourist-focused spots can disappoint. For real feels, head to neighborhoods around Fountain Square where locals eat, or try tea houses scattered throughout the city. The tea ritual comes complete. Baklava and local sweets accompany the ceremony, making it worth the time investment. Oil money brought international cuisine and upscale dining, particularly around the Flame Towers area, though prices in these spots reflect Baku's expensive reputation.

April through June and September through November offer the most comfortable weather. Warm days and cool evenings make walking around Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Old City genuinely pleasant during these months. Summer can be brutal. Temperatures regularly hit 35°C+ while the Caspian adds sticky humidity that makes midday sightseeing uncomfortable. Winter brings cool, often windy weather that won't kill you but makes waterfront areas less appealing than they could be. The shoulder seasons coincide with fewer tourists. You'll have more space to appreciate historical sites and better chances of engaging with locals.