Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Baku with a gentle introduction along the famous Caspian Sea waterfront, enjoying the sea breeze and getting your bearings in this cosmopolitan capital.
Morning
Hotel check-in and orientation walk
After arriving at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, transfer to your accommodation in central Baku. Take time to freshen up and orient yourself with the neighborhood. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a cafe near your hotel, sampling traditional Azerbaijani tea served in armudu glasses and fresh pastries. Begin to adjust to the local rhythm and currency.
2-3 hours
$30-40
Arrange airport transfer in advance through your hotel for convenience, typically $15-25
Lunch
A casual eatery along the waterfront serving fresh Caspian fish
Azerbaijani seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Baku Boulevard exploration
Stroll along Baku Boulevard, the stunning waterfront promenade stretching several kilometers along the Caspian Sea. This beautifully landscaped park features fountains, sculptures, and recreational areas. Walk at a relaxed pace, stopping to watch locals enjoying the space. The boulevard offers your first views of the iconic Flame Towers in the distance and the modern skyline juxtaposed against the sea.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Evening
Sunset at Baku Boulevard and welcome dinner
Continue along the boulevard as the sun sets over the Caspian, then dine at a traditional restaurant nearby serving plov (pilaf) and kebabs
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Baku Boulevard (Mid-range hotel with Caspian or city views)
Central location provides easy access to the waterfront and serves as an excellent base for exploring the city throughout your stay
Baku Boulevard is particularly beautiful in the early evening when locals come out for their daily promenade; join them for an authentic experience
Day 1 Budget: $70-85
Dive deep into the UNESCO-listed Old City, wandering through narrow cobblestone streets and discovering medieval monuments within the ancient fortress walls.
Morning
Old City Baku exploration
Enter the walled Old City through one of its historic gates and lose yourself in the labyrinth of narrow alleyways. This medieval core dates back at least to the 12th century and retains its authentic atmosphere. Explore the atmospheric streets lined with honey-colored stone buildings, artisan workshops, and hidden courtyards. The compact area is perfect for wandering without a strict plan, discovering unexpected architectural details and local life.
3-4 hours
$15-20
Consider hiring a local guide for the first morning to understand the historical context, typically $30-40 for a group
Lunch
A traditional courtyard restaurant within the Old City walls serving dolma and dushbara
Traditional Azerbaijani
Mid-range
Afternoon
Saat Qülləsi and Old City landmarks
Visit Saat Qülləsi, the historic clock tower that stands as one of the Old City's notable landmarks. Continue exploring the medieval architecture, visiting caravanserais that once hosted Silk Road merchants, and browsing the Workshop Ali Shamsi to see traditional crafts being created. The afternoon light creates beautiful shadows in the narrow streets, perfect for photography.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Old City by twilight and dinner
Experience the Old City as it transitions to evening, with atmospheric lighting illuminating the ancient walls, then dine at a rooftop restaurant with views over the historic quarter
Where to Stay Tonight
Old City or adjacent downtown area (Boutique hotel in a restored historic building)
Staying near the Old City allows you to experience its quiet morning and evening atmosphere when day-trippers have departed
Visit Workshop Ali Shamsi to watch artisans at work and purchase authentic handmade souvenirs directly from the craftspeople
Day 2 Budget: $65-80
Immerse yourself in
Azerbaijan's cultural heritage through world-class museums showcasing the nation's carpet-weaving artistry and literary traditions.
Morning
Spend the morning at the
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, housed in a striking modern building shaped like a rolled carpet. The collection spans centuries of Azerbaijani carpet-weaving tradition, displaying exquisite examples from different regions and periods. Learn about the symbolism, techniques, and cultural significance of this UNESCO-recognized art form. The museum provides excellent context for understanding
Azerbaijan's artistic heritage.
2-3 hours
$8-12
Audio guides are typically available for a small additional fee and enhance the experience significantly
Lunch
A modern cafe near the museum district with both local and international options
Contemporary Azerbaijani fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature
Explore the Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature, dedicated to the nation's rich literary heritage. The building itself is architecturally significant, featuring statues of prominent Azerbaijani writers in its facade niches. Inside, discover manuscripts, personal effects of famous poets and writers, and exhibitions covering
Azerbaijan's literary development from medieval times to the present. Even non-literature enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful presentation.
2 hours
$5-8
Evening
Philarmonia Garden stroll and dinner
Walk through Philarmonia Garden, a pleasant green space in the city center, then enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant specializing in qutab (stuffed flatbreads)
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Comfortable mid-range hotel)
Central location continues to provide easy access to museums and cultural sites while being well-connected to restaurants and cafes
The Carpet Museum's building is particularly photogenic at sunset when the golden light reflects off its distinctive facade
Day 3 Budget: $60-75
Ascend to Baku's most spectacular viewpoints for sweeping panoramas of the city, the Flame Towers, and the Caspian Sea stretching to the horizon.
Morning
Take the Funicular Baku, a historic cable railway that climbs from near the Old City up to
Highland Park. The short journey offers increasingly impressive views as you ascend.
Highland Park sits on a hill overlooking the entire city and bay, providing the most spectacular panoramic vista in Baku. From this vantage point, you can see the Flame Towers, the Old City, Baku Boulevard, and the vast Caspian Sea.
1-2 hours
$3-5
Visit in the morning for clearer views before afternoon haze develops
Lunch
Light meals and refreshments
Mid-range
Afternoon
Martyrs' Lane and extended viewpoint exploration
Walk through Martyrs' Lane, a memorial and cemetery honoring those who died in the struggle for
Azerbaijan's independence and sovereignty. The site is deeply meaningful to Azerbaijanis and maintained with great reverence. The location also offers continued spectacular views across the city. Spend time taking in the panorama from different angles, understanding the city's layout from this elevated perspective.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Return via funicular and evening in Officers Park
Descend back to the city and spend the evening relaxing in Officers Park, a green space popular with locals, then dine at a nearby traditional restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Same or similar centrally-located hotel)
Maintaining a central base minimizes time spent checking in and out while maximizing exploration time
Return to
Highland Park at night when the Flame Towers are illuminated with their spectacular LED light show, creating a completely different atmosphere
Day 4 Budget: $55-70
Discover the full length of Baku Boulevard, from Mini
Venice to State Flag Square, experiencing the city's modern development along the Caspian shore.
Morning
Visit Mini
Venice, a charming network of small canals and bridges along Baku Boulevard inspired by the Italian city. Gondola-style boats navigate the waterways, and the area is beautifully landscaped with bridges, walkways, and greenery. The attraction is particularly popular with families and provides a whimsical contrast to Baku's ancient sites. Enjoy the peaceful water features and take a boat ride through the canals.
2 hours
$10-15
Boat rides are typically available throughout the day; weekday mornings are less crowded
Lunch
A waterfront cafe near Mini
Venice with outdoor seating and Caspian views
International and Azerbaijani light meals
Mid-range
Afternoon
State Flag Square and Baku Eye
Walk along the boulevard to State Flag Square, home to one of the world's tallest flagpoles flying the massive Azerbaijani flag. The square represents national pride and offers excellent photo opportunities. Nearby, ride the Baku Eye, a large Ferris wheel providing aerial views of the boulevard and Caspian Sea. The slow rotation allows ample time to photograph the cityscape from a unique perspective.
2-3 hours
$8-12
Evening
Boulevard evening promenade and I Love Baku sign
Join locals for the evening promenade along the boulevard, stopping at the I Love Baku sign for the obligatory photo, then dine at a seafood restaurant along the waterfront
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center or Boulevard area (Mid-range hotel with easy boulevard access)
Proximity to the waterfront allows for spontaneous evening walks along the illuminated boulevard
The I Love Baku sign is most photogenic at dusk when it's illuminated but there's still some natural light in the sky
Day 5 Budget: $65-80
Delve deeper into Baku's museums and discover lesser-known corners of the historic center, uncovering layers of history through specialized collections.
Morning
Stone Chronicle Museum exploration
Visit the Stone Chronicle Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of ancient stone carvings, petroglyphs, and archaeological artifacts. The museum provides insight into
Azerbaijan's prehistoric and medieval periods through these stone testimonies. The collection includes gravestones, architectural fragments, and carved stones that tell stories of the region's past civilizations and artistic traditions.
2 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A small family-run eatery in the Old City serving home-style Azerbaijani dishes
Traditional home cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Old City Baku deeper exploration
Return to Old City Baku to explore areas you may have missed earlier in your trip. Seek out the quieter alleys, hidden courtyards, and lesser-visited corners of the walled city. Visit small galleries, browse antique shops, and observe daily life in this living historic quarter. Take time to simply sit in a courtyard cafe and absorb the atmosphere of this ancient urban fabric.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Traditional tea house experience
Spend the evening at a traditional tea house in or near the Old City, sampling various Azerbaijani teas with preserves and sweets, then enjoy a light dinner nearby
Where to Stay Tonight
Old City vicinity (Boutique guesthouse in historic building)
Staying close to the Old City allows you to experience its peaceful early morning and atmospheric evening character
Many Old City courtyards have small workshops where artisans work; don't hesitate to peek in respectfully and watch craftspeople at their trades
Day 6 Budget: $55-65
Experience Baku as locals do, spending a leisurely day in the city's parks, gardens, and public squares where residents gather and socialize.
Morning
Philarmonia Garden and surrounding area
Spend a relaxed morning in Philarmonia Garden, one of Baku's central green spaces where locals gather for morning walks and socializing. The garden is well-maintained with shaded pathways, benches, and fountains. Observe daily life, perhaps joining elderly men playing backgammon or families enjoying the morning air. The area around the garden features elegant architecture from Baku's oil boom era.
2 hours
$0-5
Lunch
A popular local lunch spot near Azneft Square frequented by office workers
Quick Azerbaijani meals and sandwiches
Budget
Afternoon
Azneft Square and Officers Park
Explore Azneft Square, a central urban space in Baku's downtown area, then walk to Officers Park. This green space offers shade and respite from the urban environment, with walking paths, benches, and a peaceful atmosphere. The park is popular with locals and provides insight into everyday Baku life away from major tourist sites. Enjoy people-watching and the slower pace.
3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Swans Fountain and evening stroll
Visit Swans Fountain, a decorative fountain in the city, then enjoy an evening stroll through the downtown area, dining at a local restaurant popular with Baku residents rather than tourists
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Comfortable mid-range hotel)
Central location provides easy access to multiple parks and public spaces
Parks are most lively in the late afternoon and early evening when locals finish work; this is the best time to observe authentic daily life
Day 7 Budget: $50-60
Reflect on
Azerbaijan's complex history through its monuments and memorials, understanding the nation's journey to independence and national identity.
Morning
Monument To Richard Sorge and historical context
Visit the Monument To Richard Sorge, commemorating the famous Soviet intelligence agent who was born in Baku. The monument provides an entry point to understanding Baku's Soviet-era history and its role in the broader geopolitical context of the 20th century. The area around the monument offers opportunities to observe Soviet-era architecture and urban planning still evident in parts of the city.
1-2 hours
$0-5
Lunch
A casual cafe in a neighborhood near the monument serving local favorites
Azerbaijani comfort food
Budget
Afternoon
Return to Martyrs' Lane for deeper reflection
Return to Martyrs' Lane for a more contemplative visit, taking time to understand the memorial's significance to Azerbaijani national identity. The site honors those who died during Black January in 1990 and in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Walk among the graves, reading the dates and reflecting on recent history. The eternal flame and the panoramic views create a powerful atmosphere for understanding
Azerbaijan's path to independence.
2 hours
$0
Evening
Quiet evening reflection and dinner
After an emotionally significant day, enjoy a quiet evening at a calm restaurant, perhaps one with views over the city, reflecting on
Azerbaijan's complex history
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Comfortable hotel with good amenities)
A comfortable base allows you to relax after a day focused on historical reflection
Dress respectfully when visiting Martyrs' Lane; it's an active memorial site where locals come to honor the dead, particularly on significant anniversaries
Day 8 Budget: $50-65
Dedicate an entire day to enjoying Baku Boulevard at a relaxed pace, experiencing it as a local would during a weekend.
Morning
Morning walk on Baku Boulevard
Begin with a morning walk along Baku Boulevard when the air is fresh and the waterfront is peaceful. Watch locals exercising, elderly people doing morning calisthenics, and families beginning their day. The morning light on the Caspian creates beautiful photographic conditions. Stop at waterfront cafes for breakfast and tea, taking your time to simply enjoy the atmosphere without rushing to specific attractions.
3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A boulevard-side restaurant with outdoor seating and fresh seafood specialties
Caspian seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Boulevard activities and relaxation
Spend the afternoon enjoying various boulevard activities at your leisure. Rent a bicycle to cover more distance, or simply find a comfortable spot to read, people-watch, or enjoy the sea breeze. Visit any boulevard attractions you haven't fully explored yet, or revisit favorites. The key is to move at a relaxed pace without a strict schedule, embracing the promenade culture that defines Baku life.
4-5 hours
$15-25
Evening
Sunset and evening boulevard atmosphere
Watch the sunset over the Caspian from the boulevard, then join the evening promenade as locals come out in numbers, followed by dinner at a waterfront restaurant with live music
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Baku Boulevard (Hotel with sea views)
Staying near the boulevard allows you to maximize your time along the waterfront and easily return to your room for breaks
The boulevard has different sections with distinct characters; explore beyond the main tourist areas to find quieter stretches where locals prefer to spend time
Day 9 Budget: $70-85
Focus on
Azerbaijan's artisan traditions and contemporary shopping, seeking authentic crafts and souvenirs while supporting local craftspeople.
Morning
Workshop Ali Shamsi and artisan exploration
Return to Workshop Ali Shamsi and other artisan workshops in the Old City for a focused exploration of traditional crafts. Watch craftspeople creating copperware, miniature paintings, ceramics, and other traditional items. Many workshops welcome visitors to observe the creative process. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase authentic, handmade souvenirs directly from the artists, ensuring quality and supporting traditional crafts.
2-3 hours
$30-50
Mornings are typically when artisans are most actively working; visit early to see them at their crafts
Lunch
A courtyard restaurant in the Old City with traditional decor and atmosphere
Traditional Azerbaijani
Mid-range
Afternoon
Shopping and souvenir hunting
Explore the Old City's shops and the surrounding downtown area for souvenirs and local products. Look for quality carpets and kilims, traditional textiles, spices from the local markets, Azerbaijani tea, pomegranate products, and handicrafts. Take time to browse without rushing, comparing quality and prices. Many shopkeepers are happy to explain their products and the traditions behind them.
3-4 hours
$40-80
Evening
Cultural evening and dinner
If available, attend a traditional music or dance performance, or visit a restaurant offering live mugam music with dinner, experiencing
Azerbaijan's musical heritage
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Comfortable hotel with secure storage for purchases)
Central location allows easy access to shopping areas while providing safe storage for your acquired treasures
When buying carpets or expensive crafts, don't hesitate to negotiate respectfully; it's expected and part of the cultural exchange
Day 10 Budget: $90-120
Venture beyond the main tourist circuit to discover quieter neighborhoods and lesser-visited spots that reveal different facets of Baku life.
Morning
Exploring residential neighborhoods
Take time to walk through residential neighborhoods away from the main tourist areas. Observe daily life in local markets, neighborhood bakeries, and small parks where residents gather. These areas provide authentic glimpses of contemporary Baku life. Notice the architectural diversity, from Soviet-era apartment blocks to newer developments, understanding how the city has evolved and how different eras coexist.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Lunch
A neighborhood eatery in a residential area where tourists rarely venture
Home-style Azerbaijani cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Revisiting favorite locations
Use this afternoon to return to locations that particularly resonated with you earlier in the trip. Perhaps the Old City at a different time of day, a museum you'd like to see again, or a park where you felt especially comfortable. This unstructured time allows you to deepen your connection with places rather than constantly seeking new sights. Take photographs, journal, or simply sit and observe.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Local dining experience
Seek out a restaurant popular with local families for weekend dinners, experiencing Azerbaijani hospitality and cuisine in an authentic setting rather than a tourist-oriented venue
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Familiar hotel or guesthouse)
Returning to a familiar accommodation provides comfort and allows you to focus on exploration rather than logistics
Some of the best local food is found in simple neighborhood restaurants; don't judge by appearances, and follow where locals are eating
Day 11 Budget: $55-70
Dedicate the day to seeing Baku from above, visiting viewpoints at different times to understand how light transforms the cityscape.
Morning
Return to
Highland Park via the Funicular Baku for a morning visit when the light is different from your previous visit. Morning clarity often provides the best visibility across the city and the Caspian Sea. Bring a good camera or simply enjoy the view. Consider having breakfast at a cafe with panoramic views, watching the city wake up below. The morning is also typically less crowded than afternoons.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A restaurant with elevated views over the city or bay
Contemporary Azerbaijani
Mid-range
Afternoon
Exploring different elevated perspectives
Seek out other elevated viewpoints around the city. This might include rooftop cafes, higher floors of public buildings with viewing areas, or hillside neighborhoods that offer different angles on the cityscape. Each vantage point reveals different aspects of Baku's geography and architecture. Spend time understanding the city's layout and how its different areas relate to each other spatially.
3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Return to
Highland Park after dark to see the city illuminated, particularly the Flame Towers' light show, then descend for dinner in the downtown area
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center (Hotel with city or sea views if possible)
After a day focused on panoramic perspectives, a room with a view allows you to continue enjoying Baku's visual appeal
The Flame Towers light display changes throughout the evening; the show typically runs continuously from dusk until late, with different patterns and colors
Day 12 Budget: $65-80
Spend your penultimate day deepening your understanding of Azerbaijani culture through museums and cultural experiences you may have missed.
Morning
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum revisit or extended exploration
Return to the
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum for a more detailed exploration, or if you haven't visited yet, spend a thorough morning understanding this important art form. Focus on specific regions or periods that interest you. Many visitors find that a second visit allows them to appreciate details they missed initially. The museum also typically has temporary exhibitions worth seeing. Consider the museum shop for high-quality carpet and textile purchases.
2-3 hours
$8-12
Lunch
A modern restaurant near the museum quarter with innovative takes on traditional dishes
Contemporary Azerbaijani fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final Old City exploration
Make a final visit to Old City Baku, walking through the areas that have become familiar over your two weeks. Notice details you missed before, say goodbye to shopkeepers you've chatted with, and perhaps make any last-minute purchases. Visit favorite spots one more time, taking final photographs and absorbing the atmosphere you've come to know. This is a time for reflection and appreciation.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
Farewell dinner and evening
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of your favorite restaurants from the trip, or try a final new venue you've been saving, perhaps with traditional music and a celebratory atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near airport transfer routes (Comfortable hotel with convenient departure access)
Positioning yourself for easy departure while still being central enough to enjoy your final evening
Use this final evening to organize your purchases, especially carpets or fragile crafts, ensuring they're properly packed for your journey home
Day 13 Budget: $75-95
Your final morning in Baku allows for last impressions and a leisurely departure, carrying memories of this fascinating Caspian capital.
Morning
Final Baku Boulevard walk and breakfast
Rise early for a final walk along Baku Boulevard, watching the morning light on the Caspian Sea one last time. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a waterfront cafe, reflecting on your two weeks in this captivating city. Take final photographs of favorite views and perhaps write down your impressions while they're fresh. This quiet morning allows you to say a proper goodbye to Baku at your own pace.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
Light meal at a cafe near your hotel or at the airport depending on flight time
Azerbaijani or international
Budget
Afternoon
Hotel checkout and airport transfer
Check out of your hotel, ensuring you have all your purchases and souvenirs properly packed. Transfer to Heydar Aliyev International Airport, allowing plenty of time for check-in and security. If time permits before your flight, the airport has shops selling last-minute Azerbaijani products, though prices are higher than in the city. Reflect on your journey through this unique destination where East meets West.
Varies by flight time
$20-30
Arrange airport transfer through your hotel the previous evening to ensure smooth departure
Evening
Departure
Depart Baku with memories of ancient walled cities, Caspian sunsets, warm hospitality, and the fascinating blend of cultures that defines
Azerbaijan's capital
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some Azerbaijani manat cash until the very end for airport tips and any last-minute purchases; exchange rates at the airport are less favorable
Day 14 Budget: $50-70