Baku , Azerbaijan

Old Baku tour with Azada

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is unique because it takes place in an open-air museum. Icherisheher is the heart of the city. Here you will feel the real atmosphere of Baku.

Available options

Old Baku tour with Azada

What's included

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The Maiden Tower (Qız qalası in Azerbaijani) is a structure from the 12th century located in Baku, Azerbaijan's Old City. It is one of a group of historic monuments that were included in the 2001 UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments as cultural property, Category III, together with the 15th-century Shirvanshahs' Palace. Because it is one of Azerbaijan's most recognizable national symbols, it appears on government letterheads and bank notes.

The Juma Mosque is a Shiite Juma Mosque located in the historical part of Icheri Sheher, 49 Asaf Zeynalli Street. Over the years, the mosque has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions. The mosque is adjoined by a 15th-century minaret. We will explore the mosque both from the outside and inside.

This is a bust of Aliaga Vahid, an Azerbaijani poet and Honored Artist of the Azerbaijan SSR. The poet's full name is Aliaga Mammadgul oglu Iskenderov. Vahid is his literary pseudonym. His ghazals were very popular among the people, and he was even nicknamed "Ghazal Khan." Vahid was also friends with the poet Sergei Yesenin, who lived in Baku from 1924 to 1925. If you look closely at the monument, you will notice that Vahid's body and hair are made up of characters from the poet's works.

This is a private collection of miniature books from all over the world. From 2014 to 2016, the museum was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest collection of miniature books in the world.

Gosha Gala Gapisi, also known as the Double Gate or Gates of Shah Abbas, was historically the sole entry point to Baku Old City. This imposing structure with its wide arches used to be traversed by caravans and traders seeking refuge in the hans and conducting business in the streets of Baku. The gate is often described as a formidable fortress due to its impressive architecture.

The Museum was founded on the "House with Chains" built in the early 20th century. In 1920, the building belonged to Haji Mammadguseyn Mammadov. In 1928, the house was acquired by the Melikov brothers, who were merchants. In 1930, the Baku Customs Department confiscated and nationalized the building. It was later transformed into the Nariman Narimanov Garment Factory.

The Multani Caravanserai was built in the 14th century. It is located opposite the Bukhara Caravanserai.
The Multani Caravanserai was built for Indian fire-worshipping merchants who came from the city of Multan in India

Available languages

Audio guide

DE FR ES

Guide guide

RU EN IT

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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