8 day itinerary for Bakou

Itinerary

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends modernity with rich history. Here’s an ideal 8-day itinerary that will let you soak in the culture, architecture, and delicious cuisine of this fascinating city. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Baku

• Morning: Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to the Baku Boulevard (National Park) along the Caspian Sea. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the views, and maybe grab a coffee at one of the cafes.
• Evening: Visit the Flame Towers for a stunning view of the city at sunset. Have dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov (rice pilaf) or dolma (stuffed grape leaves).

## Day 2: Old City Exploration

• Morning: Start your day in the Old City (Icherisheher). Visit the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. The architecture here is simply mesmerizing!
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in the Old City. Afterward, explore the narrow streets, artisan shops, and maybe pick up some souvenirs.
• Evening: Head to Nizami Street for some shopping and people-watching. Have dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Old City.

## Day 3: Modern Baku

• Morning: Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid. The exhibits inside are fascinating!
• Afternoon: Explore the Fountain Square area, where you can find shops and cafes. Grab lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Check out the Baku Crystal Hall and the Baku Eye (Ferris wheel). Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the area.

## Day 4: Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes

• Morning: Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park (about 64 km from Baku). Explore the ancient rock carvings and learn about the history of the area.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby mud volcanoes—a unique natural phenomenon! Have a picnic lunch or return to Baku for a meal.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore a local bar for some nightlife.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Sheki

• Morning: Take a day trip to Sheki, a charming town about 4 hours from Baku. Visit the Sheki Khan’s Palace and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
• Afternoon: Have lunch in Sheki and try the local piti (a traditional dish). Explore the local markets and artisan shops.
• Evening: Return to Baku and unwind after a day of exploration.

## Day 6: Cultural Immersion

• Morning: Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum to learn about the country’s rich carpet-making tradition.
• Afternoon: Head to the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Attend a performance at the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater or check out a local music venue for some live music.

## Day 7: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning: Take a trip to Quba (about 2 hours from Baku). Explore the beautiful landscapes and visit the Quba Genocide Memorial Complex.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in Quba and visit the nearby Quba Mosque. If time permits, explore the Quba Carpet Museum.
• Evening: Return to Baku and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Caspian Sea.

## Day 8: Last Day in Baku

• Morning: Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed. Consider visiting the Taza Bazaar for local produce and goods.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café. Take a final stroll along the Boulevard or visit the Baku Museum of Modern Art.
• Evening: Head to the airport for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of Baku!

Tips:

• Transportation: Baku has a good public transport system, including buses and the metro. Taxis are also readily available.
• Language: While Azerbaijani is the official language, many people in Baku speak English, especially in tourist areas.
• Currency: The currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 8 days in Baku! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✈️