Things to Do in Baku in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Baku
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect autumn weather with temperatures averaging 21°C (70°F) - ideal for walking the Old City's cobblestone streets without summer's 35°C (95°F) heat
- Pomegranate season arrives in September - local markets overflow with fresh Azerbaijani pomegranates at 2-3 AZN per kg, and pomegranate wine tastings begin at local vineyards
- Caspian Sea is still warm from summer (22°C/72°F) but coastal crowds have thinned, making beach clubs like Sahil Park and Amburan actually enjoyable
- Pre-Novruz cleaning season means many attractions get maintenance updates, and hotel rates drop 25-30% from peak summer pricing
Considerations
- Occasional Khazri winds from the north can reach 40-60 km/h (25-37 mph), making Flame Towers observation deck visits unpleasant and canceling some Caspian boat tours
- September rain comes in sudden bursts - expect 10 days with brief but intense downpours that flood Fountains Square within 15 minutes
- Many rooftop restaurants close their outdoor sections by late September as evenings drop to 15°C (59°F), limiting dining options
Best Activities in September
Old City Archaeological Walking Tours
September's mild temperatures make the 4-5 hour Old City exploration comfortable. Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) are perfect for climbing the narrow stairs to Maiden Tower's top levels without the summer sweat. The autumn light creates stunning photography conditions through the ancient alleyways, and you'll avoid the shoulder-to-shoulder summer crowds.
Gobustan Rock Art and Mud Volcano Expeditions
September weather is ideal for this outdoor adventure - summer heat makes the 1-hour desert drive unbearable, but September's 25°C (77°F) highs are perfect. The mud volcanoes are most active after summer, and you'll have better chances of seeing the bubbling activity. Clear autumn skies offer excellent visibility for the 40,000-year-old petroglyphs.
Caspian Sea Sunset Cruises
September offers the last chance for comfortable boat trips before winter winds arrive. Sea temperature remains at 22°C (72°F), and September sunsets create dramatic backdrops behind the Flame Towers. Fewer tourists mean more space on deck, and you might spot Caspian seals migrating south.
Absheron Peninsula Fire Temple Tours
Cooler September temperatures make the journey to Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag comfortable. Summer's 40°C (104°F) heat makes these outdoor sites miserable, but September's pleasant weather lets you fully appreciate the eternal flames. The natural gas fires appear more dramatic against September's clearer, less hazy skies.
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and Traditional Craft Workshops
September's occasional rain days make indoor cultural activities essential. The newly renovated carpet museum offers hands-on weaving workshops, and September marks the beginning of winter preparation season when local artisans demonstrate traditional felt-making and silk production techniques.
Shirvan Wine Region Day Trips
September is harvest season in Azerbaijan's wine regions, 2 hours (120 km/75 miles) from Baku. Grape picking season means active vineyards, fresh juice tastings, and traditional harvest festivals. Cooler temperatures make the drive pleasant, and you'll experience authentic rural Azerbaijan during its most productive season.
September Events & Festivals
Baku Jazz Festival
International jazz performers take over venues across the city including Heydar Aliyev Center and intimate Old City locations. Three-day festival features both world-renowned artists and emerging Azerbaijani talent, with outdoor performances in Fountains Square when weather permits.
Pomegranate Harvest Celebrations
Local markets and restaurants celebrate Azerbaijan's signature fruit with special menus, fresh juice stands, and traditional preservation demonstrations. Goychay region (famous for pomegranates) holds weekend festivals with music, dancing, and fruit tastings.