Baku

Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Baku that will allow you to explore the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine while spending quality time with your friends:

Day 1:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the city's many cafes. I recommend trying Azerbaijani-style pancakes called "qutab" or "shekerbura," a sweet pastry filled with nuts and sugar.
• After breakfast, head to the Old City, also known as Icherisheher. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many historical landmarks, including the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Take a guided tour to learn more about the city's rich history and architecture.
• For lunch, head to the nearby Fountain Square, where you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisine.
• In the afternoon, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning modern building designed by the late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. The center houses a museum, exhibition halls, and a concert hall.
• End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade that stretches along the Caspian Sea. You can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at one of the many cafes along the way.

Day 2:

• Start your day with a visit to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a unique Hindu temple that was once a place of worship for Zoroastrians. The temple is located on the outskirts of Baku and can be reached by taxi or public transportation.
• For lunch, head to the nearby Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that has been burning for centuries. There are several restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal while admiring the flames.
• In the afternoon, visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, which showcases the country's rich tradition of carpet weaving. You can also try your hand at weaving your own carpet.
• End your day with a visit to the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that are illuminated at night to resemble flames. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the observation deck.

Day 3:

• Start your day with a visit to the Baku Modern Art Museum, which houses a collection of contemporary art from Azerbaijan and around the world.
• For lunch, head to the nearby Nizami Street, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• In the afternoon, visit the Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the park's history and geology.
• End your day with a visit to the Baku Crystal Hall, a concert venue that has hosted many international artists. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants or cafes.