Baku , Azerbaijan

Modern Baku Guided Tour

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About this experience

In this tour, you will have a change to get to know modern parts of Baku and learn how the city and country have developed in the past few years to become "Dubai of Caucasus". Tour covers Seaside Boulevard, Mugham Center, Carpet Museum, "Venice of Baku", view of Flag Square, Crystal Hall, Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Center and Fountain Square. The tour includes entrance fees to the museums and transportation to the Heydar Aliyev Center by private car/minivan.

Available options

Modern Baku Guided Tour

What's included

Local English speaking tour guide

0.5 Lt bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Tour starts at the exit of Icharishahar. We will utilize private car to reach to our first stop: Heydar Aliyev Center, dedicated to former president of Azerbaijan and created by American-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid who was famous for her strangely-shaped, interesting buildings in all over the world. Trump Tower which is also located nearby has become a forsaken building after the president of the US ended his licensing contracts in Azerbaijan.

Stop 2

Our second stop, the Fountain Square, was one of the first ever parks created in Azerbaijan and was full of mansions of oil magnates. It's located in the central street of Baku and was called "Torgovaya", translated as the trading street. Until 90s this street was full of merchants trading souvenirs, vintage accessories and clothings.

Little Venice, restored into a new grand look, will be our third stop. It's not a long stop, but a view of the small oasis in Baku Boulevard.

Stop 4

Our stop at the Carpet Museum will be a juxtaposition of ancient art and the modern. You will discover the beauty of carpets like a newborn discovering the art of walking. A true gem that won't be missed in our Modern Baku Tour.

Our short stop at Mugham Center will give you a chance to see how and why this traditional folk music is always under the radar of everyday life.

We'll utilize newly renovated funicular to reach to the Flame Towers. You'll truly appreciate serene view of the city while in funicular.

The waiting time for funicular is between 5 to 20 minutes.

The ride is 3 minutes approximately.

Stop 7

According to the main construction plan of the city, Baku was built as an amphitheater. At the top of this “amphitheater” locates the highest and the most illuminated building of Azerbaijan – Flame Towers – symbol of modern Baku.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off (can be requested as a special requirement)

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Tour departs from the exit of Icharishahar metro station. Your guide will have a badge with their name and Baku Tours logo on it. See the image for the exact meeting point: http://bit.ly/IchariMeet

About Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it's known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient Maiden Tower and the iconic Flame Towers.

Top Attractions

Maiden Tower

A 12th-century monument that is a symbol of Baku. Its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (5 AZN)

Flame Towers

Three futuristic skyscrapers that are landmarks of modern Baku. The towers are designed to resemble flames, a reference to Baku's ancient history as a center of the fire-worshipping Zoroastrian religion.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to view from outside

Old City (Icheri Sheher)

The historic core of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, attractions within have varying costs

Baku Boulevard

A scenic park along the Caspian Sea with walking paths, cafes, and entertainment options.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, activities have varying costs

Heydar Aliyev Center

A stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. The center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and conferences.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (depends on the event)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and vegetables. It's often served at special occasions and is considered a national dish.

Main course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Dushbara

Tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and served in a broth. It's a popular street food in Baku.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Piti

A traditional soup made with lamb, chickpeas, and noodles, served in a clay pot.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Dolma

Grapes leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

Appetizer Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gobustan National Park Exploring mud volcanoes Visiting the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory Strolling along Baku Boulevard Enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse Relaxing at a local hammam (bathhouse) Exploring the Old City Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Baku with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are moderate, and the city hosts several festivals during these months.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Azerbaijani
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Baku is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Heydar Aliyev International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Baku Railway Station

By bus

Baku International Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bina Taxi, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City (Icheri Sheher) Nizami District Khatai District

Day trips

Gobustan National Park

60 km from Baku • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and a unique desert landscape. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.

Lankaran

220 km from Baku • Full day or overnight

A city in southern Azerbaijan known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and the nearby Hirkan National Park. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Shamakhi

120 km from Baku • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient Juma Mosque, the Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleums, and the nearby Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. It's a great place for history lovers and those interested in astronomy.

Festivals

Baku International Jazz Festival • October Baku International Film Festival (BAFTA) • October Novruz Bayrami • March 20-21 (or around the spring equinox)

Pro tips

Visit the Flame Fountain in Baku Boulevard, a unique attraction where natural gas flames continuously burn from a stone fountain
Try traditional Azerbaijani tea in a local teahouse, such as Sazaghan Teahouse or Chaykhana #1
Explore the Old City on foot, taking in the narrow streets, historic sites, and local markets
Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid