12 Amazing Places to Visit in Baku on Your Next Trip

Nestled along the sparkling shores of the Caspian Sea, Baku is a city full of contrasts! Also known as the ‘City of Winds’, Azerbaijan’s capital invites you to experience a rich blend of culture, modern architecture and adventure. From its UNESCO-listed Old City to futuristic skyscrapers, charming streets and scenic waterfronts, the city promises unforgettable experiences at every corner. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie or an adventurer, here’s our guide to the most iconic places to visit in Baku for a spectacular trip. Read on…

Top Places to Explore in Baku for an Unforgettable Experience

Here’s a list of the must-visit places in Baku to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Icherisheher (Old City)

Icherisheher is the heart of Baku, which takes you back in time! This UNESCO-listed walled area features narrow cobblestone alleys, historic mosques and charming caravanserais that offer a glimpse into medieval Azerbaijani life. The Old City is famous for its well-preserved defensive walls and iconic landmarks like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Visitors can wander in the hidden courtyards, explore art galleries and small cafes, and visit a traditional hammam (bathhouse) for an authentic and relaxing experience.

Opening Hours: 24/7 (attractions vary)

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon

Local Tips to Explore Icherisheher

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and are best explored on foot
• Bargain at the local souvenir shops but be respectful and smile
• Hire a local guide to hear the stories and legends behind the ancient walls and buildings
• Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for fewer crowds

2. Flame Towers

Dominating the city’s skyline, the Flame Towers are Baku’s modern architectural icon. This trio of skyscrapers is designed to resemble flames, a nod to Azerbaijan’s history as the “Land of Fire.” By day, their reflective blue-green glass mirrors the sky and sea, but by night, they come alive with a spectacular LED light show that displays dancing flames, the Azerbaijani flag, and other dynamic visuals. You can see the towers from almost anywhere in the city, but for the best view, head to Upland Park. The towers house a hotel, apartments, and offices, symbolizing Baku’s rapid modernization and ambition. They are a must-see, especially after sunset.

Opening Hours: N/A (viewable 24/7)

Best Time to Visit: At night for the light show

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Flame Towers

• Arrive early to secure a good spot at Upland Park or along the Baku Boulevard
• The light show typically starts at dusk and cycles through different animations, so wait a few minutes to see them all
• Consider having a drink at the Fairmont Baku’s rooftop bar for a close-up view of the towers

3. Heydar Aliyev Center

Designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Center is a masterpiece of fluid, futuristic architecture. Its sweeping curves and the complete absence of sharp angles make it a true architectural marvel, symbolizing Baku’s forward-thinking cultural aspirations. The building flows seamlessly from the ground up, creating an organic and almost alien-like structure that invites exploration. Inside, the center hosts a variety of world-class exhibitions, a museum dedicated to the former president Heydar Aliyev, a concert hall, and gallery spaces. It’s not just a building but a cultural hub that embodies the nation’s cultural development.

Opening Hours: 11 AM–7 PM (Tue to Fri), 11 AM–6 PM (Sat to Sun)

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon

Travel Tips for Heydar Aliyev Center:

• Explore the park surrounding the center
• Check the center’s official website for temporary exhibitions
• Allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore both the interior exhibits and the exterior architecture fully
• Take photos in front of the fully illuminated building

4. Baku Boulevard (Denizkenari Milli Park)

Stretching for miles along the Caspian Sea, Baku Boulevard is the city’s favorite promenade. It’s a beautifully landscaped park perfect for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or simply relaxing by the sea. The boulevard is lined with cafes, amusement rides, and attractions like the Baku Eye (a Ferris wheel) and Little Venice, where you can take a gondola ride through man-made canals. It’s a social hub for locals and tourists alike, buzzing with energy from morning until late at night. The fresh sea breeze and panoramic views of the skyline make it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Opening Hours: 24/7

Best Time to Visit: Evening

Things to Do at Baku Boulevard

• Rent a bike or an electric scooter to cover more ground and explore the full length of the boulevard
• Take a ride on the Baku Eye Ferris wheel just before sunset for spectacular views of the city and the sea
• Enjoy a gondola ride in “Little Venice,” a charming and surprisingly fun attraction perfect for families and couples
• Stop for a cup of tea at one of the many seaside cafes and simply watch the world go by

5. Palace of the Shirvanshahs

Located within the walls of Icherisheher, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a stunning 15th-century palace complex and a masterpiece of Azerbaijani architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the seat of Northeast Azerbaijan’s ruling dynasty during the Middle Ages. The complex includes the main palace building, a mosque, a mausoleum, and the Divankhana (courtyard). Each structure is an architectural gem, showcasing intricate stone carvings and historical significance. Exploring the palace offers deep insights into the life of the shahs and the region's rich history. It stands as a testament to the skill of medieval Azerbaijani craftsmen.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: Morning

Must-try Activities at the Palace of the Shirvanshahs

• Join a guided tour to understand the history and purpose of each building within the complex
• Don’t miss the mausoleum, which features beautiful and intricate portal decorations
• Climb to the upper floors for a unique perspective of the Old City’s rooftops and the surrounding area

6. Maiden Tower (Giz Galasi)

One of Baku’s most enigmatic landmarks, the Maiden Tower is an ancient stone tower located in the Old City. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, with historians debating whether it was a defensive structure, a Zoroastrian temple, or an astronomical observatory. The tower’s unique cylindrical shape and solid stone construction have helped it withstand centuries of history. Climbing the internal spiral staircase to the top rewards you with panoramic views of Icherisheher and the Caspian Sea. The tower also houses a museum that showcases its history and the various theories about its purpose, making it a fascinating and essential place to visit in Baku.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: Morning

Insider Tips for Visiting the Maiden Tower

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the view from the top in relative peace
• Read the displays on each floor as you ascend; they tell the story of the tower and Baku’s history
• The staircase is narrow and can be steep in places, so be prepared for a bit of a climb

7. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

Instantly recognizable for its unique design, the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum is shaped like a giant, rolled-up carpet. This modern architectural wonder celebrates the country's rich carpet-weaving heritage, an art form so significant it’s been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage. Inside, you’ll find a stunning collection of Azerbaijani carpets from various regions and time periods, showcasing a dazzling array of patterns, colors, and techniques. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the history and artistry of carpet weaving, explaining its cultural significance and the stories woven into each piece. It’s a visually stunning and culturally enriching experience.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on Monday)

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon

Local Tips for Visiting Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

• Look for the live carpet-weaving demonstrations to see the incredible skill and patience required to create these masterpieces
• The museum is located on the Baku Boulevard, making it easy to combine with a walk along the seafront
• Use the audio guide to get detailed explanations of the different carpet schools and the symbolism behind the patterns

8. Gobustan National Park

For a trip into deep history, head to Gobustan National Park, located just an hour’s drive from Baku. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient rock carvings (petroglyphs) dating back 5,000 to 20,000 years. These carvings depict scenes of prehistoric life, including ritual dances, hunting scenes, and animals. The park is also home to a fascinating landscape of bubbling mud volcanoes, which create a unique, almost lunar-like environment. The combination of ancient human history and bizarre natural phenomena makes Gobustan an unforgettable day trip from Baku. The on-site museum is excellent and provides context before you explore the petroglyphs.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM

Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid heat

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gobustan National Park

• Hire a taxi or join a tour from Baku, as public transport options are limited
• Definitely visit the mud volcanoes; you can get surprisingly close to the bubbling mud pots
• Start at the indoor museum before heading out to the petroglyphs to better understand what you’re looking at

9. Ateshgah Fire Temple

Located on the Absheron Peninsula, the Ateshgah Fire Temple is a fascinating site of religious history. This castle-like temple was once a sacred center for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs who worshipped the natural eternal flame that once burned here. The flame was due to a natural gas vent, which has since been extinguished and is now fed by a pipeline. The pentagonal complex has a central altar where the flame burns and is surrounded by cells for pilgrims and ascetics. Visiting Ateshgah provides a unique window into Azerbaijan’s ancient history as the “Land of Fire” and its historical role as a crossroads of different cultures and religions.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: Late Afternoon

Travel Tips for Ateshgah Fire Temple:

• Combine your visit with a trip to Yanar Dag
• The displays in the cells offer detailed information about the temple’s history and the Zoroastrian faith
• The flame is most impressive at dusk when the natural light begins to fade

10. Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

Yanar Dag, which translates to “Burning Mountain,” is a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside near Baku. This mesmerizing natural phenomenon is the result of gas reserves leaking through the porous sandstone, creating a wall of fire that burns year-round, regardless of the weather. It is said to have been burning for thousands of years and was mentioned by Marco Polo in his travels. The sight of flames dancing endlessly from the earth is both hypnotic and surreal, especially at night. It’s a powerful reminder of why Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire and offers a truly unique photo opportunity.

Opening Hours: 24/7

Best Time to Visit: After Dark

Insider Tips for Visiting Yanar Dag

• The best time to visit is at night when the flames stand out dramatically against the dark sky
• There is a small teahouse overlooking the fire, where you can sit and watch the flames while enjoying a hot drink.
• A visit doesn’t take long—about 30 minutes is enough to take in the sight and snap some photos.

11. Fountains Square

Fountains Square is a bustling public space in downtown Baku, filled with—as the name suggests—numerous beautiful fountains. It’s a popular gathering spot for locals and a hub of activity day and night. The square is surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect place to start an evening out. The architecture around the square is a pleasant mix of classical and modern styles. It’s a great area for shopping, dining, or simply people-watching. In the evenings, the illuminated fountains create a lively and enchanting atmosphere.

Opening Hours: 24/7

Best Time to Visit: Evening

Must-try Activities in Fountains Square

• Explore the surrounding streets, which are part of a larger pedestrianized shopping area known as Torgovaya Street
• Grab an outdoor seat at one of the many cafes to soak up the vibrant atmosphere
• The square is beautifully decorated during holidays, especially for Novruz (Persian New Year) and New Year’s Eve

12. Bibi-Heybat Mosque

The Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a stunning recreation of a 13th-century mosque that was destroyed by the Soviets in 1936. Rebuilt in the 1990s, the modern structure is a magnificent example of classic Shirvan architecture, featuring three domes and perfectly crafted minarets. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate decorations of colorful turquoise tiles and gold inscriptions. The mosque holds significant spiritual importance, as it contains the tomb of a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Located on the coast overlooking the Caspian Sea, its picturesque setting adds to its beauty.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: Morning

Insider Tips for Visiting Bibi-Heybat Mosque

• Dress modestly; women will be provided with a headscarf and a robe to wear upon entry if needed
• The mosque is an active place of worship, so be respectful of prayer times and those praying
• The view of the Caspian Sea and the nearby oil fields from the mosque’s grounds is quite unique

Travel Tips for Your Baku Trip

• Check entry rules in advance and apply for an e-Visa online
• Visit in spring or autumn for mild, pleasant weather
• Carry some cash in Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) although credit cards are accepted widely
• Dress modestly while visiting mosques
• Learn a few Azerbaijani or Russian words and phrases
• Use the metro or ride-hailing apps for fair prices.

Baku is a city that defies expectations and rewards every traveler with unforgettable memories. It’s a place where you can wander through ancient caravanserais in the morning and dine in a skyscraper by night. Don’t just stick to the popular places to visit in Baku, but take time to explore the hidden alleys, chat with locals over a cup of tea and embrace the unique energy of this Caspian gem. Baku is not just a place but an experience that will stay with you long after you have departed from here. Book our Azerbaijan tour packages today and get ready to dive into the rich culture and warm hospitality of Baku!

FAQ’s - Places to Visit in Baku