8 day itinerary for Baku

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Welcome to Baku! After checking into your hotel, start your exploration of the city by visiting the iconic Maiden Tower. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about its history. Next, head to the nearby Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its stunning architecture. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Baku Boulevard, enjoying the sea breeze and stopping at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a delicious Azerbaijani meal.

Day 2: Old City and Modern Baku

Today, dive deeper into the heart of Baku by exploring the charming Old City (Icherisheher). Wander through its narrow streets, lined with ancient buildings, mosques, and shops selling traditional crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Carpet Museum, which showcases the rich history of Azerbaijani carpet weaving. In the afternoon, head to the modern part of the city and visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece. End the day with a visit to the Flame Towers, where you can witness the mesmerizing light show after sunset.

Day 3: Absheron Peninsula

Embark on a day trip to the Absheron Peninsula, located just outside of Baku. Start by visiting the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a unique religious site where natural gas has been burning for centuries. Continue to Yanar Dag, the "Burning Mountain," where flames continuously burn on the hillside. Enjoy the scenic drive along the coast and make a stop at the picturesque Bibi-Heybat Mosque. Return to Baku in the evening and relax at one of the city's trendy rooftop bars.

Day 4: Gobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes

Today, venture out of the city to explore the ancient rock carvings of Gobustan National Park. Take a guided tour to learn about the prehistoric petroglyphs and the history of the region. Afterward, visit the nearby mud volcanoes, a unique natural phenomenon. You can even take a mud bath for a fun and rejuvenating experience. In the evening, head back to Baku and indulge in a traditional Azerbaijani dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Gabala Day Trip

Take a break from the city and embark on a day trip to Gabala, a charming town nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Kabala, visit the Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourism Complex for breathtaking views and outdoor activities, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the beautiful Nohur Lake. Don't forget to try some local cuisine, such as piti (a traditional meat stew) or qutab (stuffed pancakes).

Day 6: Wine Tasting in Shamakhi

Today, head to the city of Shamakhi, known for its winemaking traditions. Visit one of the local wineries and indulge in a wine tasting session, learning about the unique grape varieties and production methods. Afterward, explore the historical sites of Shamakhi, including the Juma Mosque and the Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum. Return to Baku in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city.

Day 7: Shopping and Cultural Experiences

Spend the day exploring Baku's vibrant markets and shopping districts. Start at the Taza Bazaar, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Continue to the Nizami Street, the city's main shopping avenue, lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Modern Art to admire contemporary Azerbaijani artworks. Wrap up the day with a visit to the National Museum of History, where you can learn about the country's rich cultural heritage.

Day 8: Relaxation and Farewell

On your last day in Baku, take some time to relax and unwind. Head to one of the city's hammams (traditional bathhouses) for a rejuvenating spa experience. Alternatively, you can spend the day at one of the city's beautiful parks, such as the Philharmonic Park or the Sahil Park, enjoying a picnic or simply soaking up the atmosphere. In the evening, bid farewell to Baku with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant, reminiscing about your wonderful time in this fascinating city.