Set on the shores of the Caspian Sea, the captivating capital of Azerbaijan is a place where ancient history intertwines with futuristic architecture. Baku, often referred to as the “Dubai of the Caucasus,” presents an unforgettable mix of medieval charm and modern sophistication. From historical landmarks and striking architectural marvels to fascinating natural wonders, this comprehensive Baku travel guide will lead you through the best attractions in this remarkable destination.
Book Your Baku Adventure with White Sky Travel – Experience hassle-free exploration with our expertly curated tours. Pay conveniently using Tabby or Tamara for all our services including customized tours and day trips.
Why Visit Baku, Azerbaijan?
Baku stands as one of the most fascinating destinations in the Caucasus region, offering travelers:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Old City with 12th-century architecture
- Cutting-edge modern buildings designed by world-renowned architects
- Affordable travel experiences with excellent value for money
- Rich cultural heritage spanning ancient Silk Road history to Soviet influences
- Unique natural phenomena including mud volcanoes and eternal flames
- Safe, welcoming environment for international visitors
- Strategic location for exploring the wider Caucasus region
Top 15 Must-Visit Places in Baku
1. Baku Old City (Icherisheher) – The Historic Heart
The walled Old City, known as Icherisheher, is where your Baku journey should begin. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to at least the 7th century and encompasses approximately 50 acres of winding cobblestone alleys, traditional homes with iron-wrought balconies, historic mosques, and ancient caravanserais.
What to See:
- Maze-like streets lined with carpet shops and artisan boutiques
- Centuries-old fortification walls
- Traditional Azerbaijani restaurants in converted caravanserais
- Medieval market squares with archaeological exhibitions
- Hidden courtyards and sunny plazas
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours White Sky Travel Tip: Book our guided Old City walking tour to discover hidden gems and hear fascinating stories about Silk Road traders and oil barons. Split payments available through Tabby and Tamara.
2. Maiden Tower (Qiz Qalasi) – Baku’s Iconic Symbol
This mysterious 29-meter cylindrical tower is one of Azerbaijan’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in the 12th century over structures dating back to the 5th-6th centuries, the Maiden Tower has never been breached – hence its name.
Highlights:
- Climb the spiral staircase for panoramic views of the Old City
- Small museum showcasing Baku’s history across different eras
- Legendary stories of brave princesses and ancient commanders
- Perfect photography opportunities, especially at sunset
Entry Fee: Approximately 20 AZN Pro Tip: Consider dining at Sultan Inn Terrace Garden restaurant nearby for similar views while enjoying traditional Azerbaijani cuisine
3. Palace of the Shirvanshahs – Royal Magnificence
This 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage complex served as the royal residence of the Shirvanshah dynasty for over 200 years. The palace showcases stunning Islamic architecture and offers insights into Azerbaijan’s medieval nobility.
Complex Includes:
- Main palace building with intricate stone carvings
- Shah’s mosque with beautiful tile work
- Royal burial vaults and mausoleums
- Bathhouse showcasing medieval engineering
- Divankhana (royal court building)
Historical Significance: The palace appears on Azerbaijan’s 10 manat banknote Best For: History enthusiasts and architecture lovers White Sky Travel Tours: Our expert guides bring the palace’s 800-year history to life with engaging narratives about the Shirvanshah dynasty.
4. Heydar Aliyev Center – Architectural Masterpiece
Designed by legendary architect Zaha Hadid, this flowing white structure won the Design Museum’s 2014 Design of the Year Award. The building’s wave-like form, devoid of any corners or hard edges, represents a stark contrast to traditional Soviet architecture.
Features:
- Eight floors of exhibition spaces
- Treasures of Azerbaijan permanent collection
- Modern art exhibitions and cultural programs
- Conference facilities and auditorium
- Colorful giant sculptures (snails and bunnies) in surrounding gardens
Architecture Highlight: The fluid form continues seamlessly inside, creating an otherworldly experience Entry Fee: 10 AZN for museum access Getting There: 15-30 minute taxi ride from city center Photography: Spend time walking around the exterior – every angle offers a unique perspective
Book with White Sky Travel: Our tours include transportation and guided visits to this architectural wonder. Flexible payment through Tabby and Tamara available.
5. Flame Towers – Modern Baku’s Signature
These three flame-shaped skyscrapers dominate Baku’s skyline at 182 meters high. The towers symbolize Azerbaijan’s historical connection to fire worship and its modern identity as an energy-rich nation.
Experience:
- Visible from virtually anywhere in the city
- Spectacular LED light show every evening
- Best views from Highland Park or Baku Boulevard
- Represents the perfect blend of symbolism and modern architecture
Best Viewing Spots:
- Highland Park for panoramic perspectives
- Baku Funicular ride for close-up views
- Sultan Inn rooftop for dinner with a show
- Seaside Boulevard for distance shots
Cultural Context: Azerbaijan means “protector of fire” in Persian, referencing the country’s Zoroastrian heritage and natural gas reserves.
6. Baku Boulevard (Seaside Promenade) – Caspian Coastal Beauty
This expansive waterfront promenade stretches over 5 kilometers along the Caspian Sea (with plans to extend to 26 kilometers). Dating back to 1909 when oil barons built mansions along the shore, it’s now a vibrant public space perfect for leisurely walks.
Attractions Along the Boulevard:
- Mini Venice gondola rides through canal system
- Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum
- Crystal Hall (Eurovision 2012 venue)
- Second largest flagpole in the world
- Numerous cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Historical oil drilling machinery displays
Activities:
- Evening strolls with spectacular sunset views
- Family-friendly parks and playgrounds
- Boat rides and water activities
- People-watching at trendy cafes
Best Time: Late afternoon through evening when locals and tourists gather White Sky Travel Recommendation: Combine your boulevard walk with our evening city lights tour.
7. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum – Cultural Heritage
Housed in a building shaped like a rolled carpet, this museum showcases Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-weaving tradition spanning centuries. The collection features carpets from different historical periods and regional styles.
Museum Highlights:
- Extensive carpet collection with English descriptions
- Live demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques
- Historical photographs and videos showing carpet production
- Educational exhibits about patterns and symbolism
- Interactive displays about regional carpet styles
Entry Fee: 10 AZN (photo fee: 10 AZN for cameras, free for phones) Duration: Plan for 1-2 hours Architecture: The building itself is an Instagram-worthy landmark
8. Highland Park (Upland Park) – Panoramic City Views
Accessible via funicular, taxi, or foot, Highland Park offers the best panoramic views of Baku’s skyline, the Flame Towers, and the Caspian Sea. This peaceful green space is popular with both locals and tourists.
Features:
- Stunning viewpoint terraces
- Shahidlar Monument (Martyrs’ Lane) honoring those who died during Black January and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
- Cafes and restaurants with scenic views
- Photo opportunities showcasing Baku’s skyline
- Pleasant walking paths through landscaped gardens
Funicular Experience:
- Departs from near the Carpet Museum
- Costs only 1 AZN round trip
- Offers beautiful views during ascent
- Unique architectural design
Best Time: Afternoon for sunlight on the city, or sunset for magical golden hour photos White Sky Travel Tip: Our evening tours include Highland Park visits timed perfectly for the best light and Flame Tower illumination.
9. Fountain Square – Vibrant City Center
Located in downtown Baku between the Boulevard and Nizami Street, Fountain Square is the bustling heart of the city. This pedestrianized public space features numerous fountains, cafes, and shops.
Atmosphere:
- Lively gathering place for locals and tourists
- Street performers and musicians
- Outdoor dining options
- Shopping opportunities
- People-watching paradise
Surrounding Area:
- Traditional restaurants serving Azerbaijani cuisine
- International fashion boutiques
- Historic buildings with beautiful architecture
- Easy access to major attractions
Evening Scene: The square comes alive after sunset with illuminated fountains and vibrant nightlife
10. Nizami Street – Premier Shopping District
This 3.5-kilometer pedestrian street is Baku’s main shopping thoroughfare, named after the renowned Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi. The street beautifully blends historic architecture with modern retail.
Shopping Experience:
- International fashion brands
- Local boutiques and artisan shops
- Jewelry stores featuring traditional designs
- Souvenir shops with unique Azerbaijani crafts
Architectural Beauty:
- Buildings illuminated beautifully at night
- Historic structures alongside modern facades
- Wide pedestrian walkways perfect for strolling
Dining & Entertainment:
- Numerous cafes and restaurants
- Late-night shopping opportunities (shops often open until 10 PM)
- Street food vendors and ice cream parlors
White Sky Travel Shopping Tour: Let us guide you to the best local shops and help you navigate authentic souvenir purchasing. Book now with Tabby or Tamara payment options.
11. Bibi-Heybat Mosque – Spiritual and Architectural Wonder
This stunning mosque, originally built in the 13th century by the Shirvanshah dynasty, was destroyed during Soviet rule and reconstructed after independence. It surrounds the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad.
Significance:
- Important pilgrimage site for Azerbaijani Muslims
- Example of Shirvan architectural style
- Spiritual center for the region
- Symbol of religious revival post-Soviet era
Location: En route to Gobustan, making it perfect for combined tours Architecture: Intricate tile work and elegant minarets Cultural Respect: Modest dress required; scarves provided for women
12. Juma Mosque – Ancient Place of Worship
Built on the site of an ancient Zoroastrian fire temple, the current Juma Mosque dates from 1899. This historic mosque has been rebuilt several times throughout its long history.
Historical Layers:
- Original Zoroastrian fire temple foundation
- Medieval Islamic architecture elements
- Late 19th-century reconstruction
- Beautiful interior with traditional decorations
Quick Visit: Worth a brief stop while exploring the Old City
13. Mini Venice (Little Venice) – Romantic Canal Experience
Located near the Carpet Museum on the Boulevard, this charming canal system offers a taste of Venice in Baku. The attraction features bridges, walkways, and gondola rides through picturesque waterways.
Experience:
- Motorized gondola rides (approximately 7 AZN)
- Replicas of Venice’s Bridge of Sighs
- Beautiful views of the Flame Towers
- Tunnel passages and landscaped surroundings
- Perfect for families with children
Best For: Couples, families, and photography enthusiasts Duration: Quick 15-20 minute ride
14. Deniz Mall – Entertainment Hub
This modern shopping center offers more than just retail therapy. Located near the waterfront, Deniz Mall provides unique entertainment options.
Attractions:
- Iron Tunnel slide (popular with kids and adults)
- Indoor karting track
- F1 racing simulators
- International shopping brands
- Restaurants and cafes
- Cinema complex
Best For: Families seeking indoor entertainment, rainy day activities
15. Traditional Hamams – Authentic Wellness Experience
Experience Azerbaijan’s ancient bathhouse tradition in beautifully restored historic hamams. These communal bathhouses have roots in Persian culture and offer a unique cultural immersion.
Popular Hamams:
- Yeralti Hamam (Underground Bath Museum) – 17th century, now a museum
- Gasimbey Bath Complex – features old brick domes
- Modern luxury hamams with traditional services
Services:
- Traditional bathing rituals
- Massage and spa treatments
- Saunas and steam rooms
- Scrubbing and cleansing ceremonies
Cultural Experience: Perfect for winter visits when temperatures drop Tip: Book in advance during peak tourist season
Unmissable Day Trips from Baku
Gobustan National Park & Mud Volcanoes – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Distance: 70 km southwest of Baku (1 hour drive)
This extraordinary destination combines ancient human history with unique geological phenomena. Gobustan is Azerbaijan’s most popular day trip, and for good reason.
Gobustan Rock Art:
- Over 6,000 petroglyphs dating back 40,000 years
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007
- Open-air museum with marked walking paths
- Fascinating indoor museum with contextual exhibits
- Ancient caves and boulder formations
- Insights into prehistoric human life
Mud Volcanoes:
- Azerbaijan has nearly 400 of the world’s 800 mud volcanoes
- Otherworldly landscape resembling moon-like terrain
- Cold mud you can touch and feel
- Small eruptions creating gurgling sounds
- Unique photo opportunities
- Accessible via Soviet-era 4WD vehicles (Lada) for adventurous journey
Entry Fee: 10 AZN for Gobustan (1 AZN for students) Duration: Half-day (5-6 hours) or combine with other sites for full-day tour Best Time: Spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures
White Sky Travel Gobustan Tours: We offer comprehensive guided tours with English-speaking experts, transportation, and multiple site combinations. Book easily with Tabby or Tamara payment plans.
Ateshgah Fire Temple – Ancient Zoroastrian Site
Distance: 30 km northeast of Baku
This unique temple complex, sacred to Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs, showcases Azerbaijan’s multicultural religious history. Built around a natural eternal flame powered by underground gas.
Highlights:
- 18th-century pentagonal temple structure
- Natural gas-fed eternal flames
- Museum exhibits about fire worship
- Caravanserai architecture
- Historical significance to multiple religions
Combined Tours: Often paired with Yanar Dag and Gobustan for comprehensive day trip
Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) – Nature’s Eternal Flame
Distance: 25 km north of Baku
This natural phenomenon has been burning continuously for centuries, possibly millennia. The hillside fire is fueled by natural gas seeping from underground.
Experience:
- Natural flames stretching across mountainside
- Particularly spectacular at night
- Symbol of Azerbaijan’s “Land of Fire” identity
- Small museum explaining Zoroastrian connections
- Mystical atmosphere
Local Belief: The burning springs have curative powers Best Viewing: Evening visits offer the most dramatic experience Access: Bus 217 from Koroglu metro station
Sheki – Historic Silk Road City
Distance: 340 km northwest (4-5 hours drive)
This charming mountain town deserves an overnight stay but can be done as a long day trip. Sheki offers a refreshing contrast to Baku’s metropolitan energy.
Must-See Attractions:
- Palace of Sheki Khans (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with stunning stained glass
- Caravanserai accommodations where ancient traders rested
- Juma Mosque in nearby Shamakhi
- Albanian Church in Kish Village (1st century)
- Nohur Lake scenic beauty
- Traditional craft workshops
Culinary Highlight: Try Sheki Piti, the regional specialty dish, and famous Sheki Halva
White Sky Travel Extended Tours: We offer comfortable full-day and overnight Sheki experiences with hotel pick-up, professional guides, and all transportation. Flexible payment through Tabby and Tamara.
Gabala (Qabala) – Mountain Resort Destination
Distance: 225 km northwest (3-4 hours)
Azerbaijan’s premier resort area offers year-round activities in stunning natural settings.
Activities:
- Tufandag Mountain Resort cable car rides
- Skiing and snowboarding (winter)
- Nohur Lake relaxation
- Gedi Yozel Waterfall hikes
- Lavender fields (summer season)
- Wine tasting tours
Best Season: Summer for lavender and hiking; winter for snow sports
Shamakhi – Mosque and Wine Country
Distance: 120 km west (2 hours)
Located between Baku and Sheki, Shamakhi makes an excellent addition to your itinerary.
Attractions:
- Juma Mosque – oldest mosque in Azerbaijan (8th century, rebuilt multiple times)
- Diri Baba Mausoleum – carved into cliff face
- Local wineries offering tastings
- Scenic mountain roads
Perfect Combination: Stop here en route to Sheki for a comprehensive day trip
Khinaliq (Xinaliq) – Europe’s Highest Mountain Village
Distance: 180 km northwest (4-5 hours)
At 2,335 meters elevation, this ancient village offers spectacular mountain scenery and unique cultural experiences.
Experience:
- Remote mountain setting in Lesser Caucasus
- Traditional architecture and lifestyle
- Stunning panoramic views
- Unique local language and customs
- Hiking opportunities
Difficulty: Long drive on mountain roads; best with experienced driver Best Season: Summer months when roads are clear
Lahij (Lahic) – Artisan Craft Village
Distance: 180 km northwest (3-4 hours)
Famous for copper crafts and traditional metalwork, this mountain village preserves ancient crafting techniques.
Activities:
- Watch artisans create copper items
- Purchase authentic handmade souvenirs
- Explore cobblestone streets
- Experience traditional village life
- Forest picnic locations nearby
Combination Tours: Often paired with Shamakhi and Gabala
White Sky Travel Day Trip Packages: All our day trips include hotel pick-up, professional English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and comfortable transportation. Book multiple tours and save with our packages – pay conveniently using Tabby or Tamara.
Best Time to Visit Baku
Spring (April to June) HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Temperature: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- Conditions: Mild, pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing
- Advantages: Fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers
- Best For: Walking tours, outdoor activities, photography
Summer (July to September)
- Temperature: 25-35°C (77-95°F)
- Conditions: Hot and dry, high humidity
- Advantages: Long daylight hours, beach activities possible
- Considerations: Can be uncomfortably hot for extensive walking
- Best For: Indoor attractions, evening activities, Caspian Sea visits
Autumn (September to November) HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Temperature: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- Conditions: Mild temperatures, comfortable humidity
- Advantages: Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, September is ideal
- Best For: All activities, especially day trips to mountains
Winter (December to March)
- Temperature: 4-10°C (39-50°F)
- Conditions: Cool, rainy, rarely snows
- Advantages: Lowest prices, authentic local experience, hamam season
- Considerations: Cold and damp, highest chance of rain
- Best For: Budget travelers, indoor attractions, cultural immersion
White Sky Travel operates year-round with seasonal tour adjustments to ensure optimal experiences regardless of when you visit.
Practical Travel Information for Baku
Getting to Baku
- By Air: Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) – 24 km from city center
- Flight Connections: Direct flights from Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Russia
- Airport Transfer:
- Airport bus (1.30 AZN using BakiKart)
- Bolt/Uber ride (approximately 15-20 AZN)
- White Sky Travel airport transfer service available
Visa Requirements
- E-Visa: Available for most nationalities
- Processing Time: Typically 3 days (can be longer during peak seasons)
- Validity: 30 days single entry
- Cost: Approximately $20 USD
- Application: Online through official Azerbaijan e-visa portal
Currency and Payments
- Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
- Exchange Rate: Approximately 1.7 AZN = 1 USD (rates vary)
- ATMs: Widely available throughout Baku
- Credit Cards: Accepted at most hotels and restaurants in tourist areas
- Best Exchange: Airport offers less favorable rates; exchange in city for better deals
- Recommended Banks: ASB Bank, Republica Bank
Local Transportation
Metro System:
- 3 lines covering major areas
- Cost: 0.30 AZN per ride
- BakiKart required (2 AZN card purchase)
- Clean, efficient, Soviet-era architecture
Buses:
- Extensive network throughout city
- BakiKart compatible
- Low cost but less tourist-friendly
Taxis:
- Bolt and Uber available
- Avoid airport taxi scams – use apps instead
- Typical short ride: 3-5 AZN
- Long rides (Heydar Aliyev Center): 10-15 AZN
Walking:
- City center and Old Town highly walkable
- Most attractions within comfortable walking distance
- Pedestrian-friendly streets and boulevards
White Sky Travel Transportation: Let us handle all logistics with our private tours, eliminating navigation stress. Book with Tabby or Tamara payment options.
Language
- Official Language: Azerbaijani (Azeri)
- English Proficiency: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
- Russian: Still commonly used, especially among older generation
- Turkish: Mutually intelligible with Azerbaijani
Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels (100-300 AZN):
- Four Seasons Hotel Baku
- JW Marriott Absheron
- Fairmont Baku (Flame Towers)
Mid-Range Hotels (50-100 AZN):
- The Merchant Baku
- Sahil Inn Hotel
- Boutique hotels in Old City
Budget Options (20-50 AZN):
- Hostels near Old City
- Guesthouses
- Budget chain hotels
White Sky Travel Hotel Packages: We partner with quality accommodations at all price points. Ask about our hotel + tour combination deals.
Dining Costs (Average)
- Budget Meal: 10-20 AZN
- Mid-Range Restaurant: 30-50 AZN per person
- Fine Dining: 80-150 AZN per person
- Street Food: 3-10 AZN
- Tea/Coffee: 2-5 AZN
Daily Budget Estimates
- Budget Travel: 50-80 AZN ($30-50 USD)
- Mid-Range Travel: 120-200 AZN ($70-120 USD)
- Luxury Travel: 300+ AZN ($180+ USD)
Safety Tips
- Overall Safety: Baku is very safe for tourists
- Petty Crime: Rare, but stay vigilant in crowded areas
- Taxi Scams: Use Bolt/Uber to avoid overcharging
- Women Travelers: Generally safe, though may receive attention
- Photography: Avoid photographing military/government buildings, oil infrastructure
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress Code: Relaxed for a Muslim country; modest dress appreciated
- Mosque Visits: Remove shoes, women cover hair (scarves usually provided)
- Bargaining: Expected in markets, not in established shops
- Hospitality: Azerbaijanis are famously welcoming
- Tea Culture: Tea is offered everywhere and refusing is impolite
- Alcohol: Available in restaurants and shops despite Muslim majority
Connectivity
- SIM Cards: Available at airport and throughout city
- Providers: Azercell, Bakcell, Nar Mobile
- Cost: 10-20 AZN for tourist plans
- WiFi: Available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes
- eSIM: Airalo offers convenient digital SIM options
Top Restaurants and Cuisine in Baku
Traditional Azerbaijani Restaurants
Firuze Restaurant
- Specialty: Authentic Azerbaijani cuisine in cozy atmosphere
- Must-Try: Plov (rice pilaf), dolma, kebabs
- Ambiance: Traditional decor, friendly staff
- Location: City center
- Price Range: Mid-range (30-50 AZN per person)
Xezer Restaurant
- Specialty: Regional dishes and traditional ambiance
- Highlights: Extensive menu of local favorites
- Best For: First-time visitors wanting authentic experience
Dolma Restaurant
- Specialty: Named after their signature dish – stuffed grape leaves
- Atmosphere: Traditionally decorated, tourist-friendly
- Service: Exceptionally friendly staff
- Popular: Often busy during high season
Chef Baku
- View: Overlooks pedestrian shopping mall
- Offerings: Both tea service and full meals
- Atmosphere: Modern with traditional touches
Fisincan Restaurant
- Famous For: Pilaf (Azerbaijan’s national dish)
- Menu: Comprehensive selection of regional favorites
- Popular Items: Kebabs, dolma, fresh bread
International and Fusion Cuisine
Merci Baku
- Style: Café with international breakfast options
- Menu: Avocado toast, syrniki (cheese pancakes), Turkish menemen
- Best For: Brunch lovers
- Atmosphere: Cozy, Instagram-worthy
Must-Try Azerbaijani Dishes
Plov (Pilaf):
- National dish featuring rice with saffron, dried fruits, and meat
- Regional variations exist across Azerbaijan
- Always served with fresh herbs
Dolma:
- Grape leaves stuffed with rice and meat
- Variations using vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants)
- Vegetarian versions available
Kebabs:
- Lula kebab (minced meat)
- Lamb and chicken varieties
- Served with fresh vegetables and flatbread
Piti:
- Traditional lamb stew with chickpeas
- Regional specialty from Sheki
- Cooked in individual clay pots
- Served in two courses
Dushbara:
- Small dumplings in lamb broth
- Garnished with mint and vinegar
- Comfort food favorite
Qutab:
- Thin stuffed flatbread
- Fillings include meat, cheese, herbs, or pumpkin
- Pan-fried until crispy
Azerbaijani Breakfast:
- Various white cheeses
- Cream and honey
- Soft tandoor bread
- Eggs prepared multiple ways
- Always accompanied by black tea
Desserts:
- Pakhlava (layered pastry with nuts and honey)
- Sheki Halva (multilayered sweet)
- Various nut-based confections
Tea Culture
- National Beverage: Black tea served everywhere
- Preparation: Brewed in ceramic pot, diluted with hot water from samovar
- Serving Style: Pear-shaped glass called armudu
- Accompaniments: Sugar cubes, jam, lemon
- Social Ritual: Never refuse tea when offered
White Sky Travel Food Tours: Experience authentic Azerbaijani cuisine with our guided culinary tours. Visit local markets, try street food, and dine at the best traditional restaurants. Book with flexible Tabby or Tamara payment options.
Shopping in Baku
Traditional Souvenirs
- Carpets: Azerbaijan’s most famous export, ranging from small to room-sized
- Copper Items: Lahij copperware, decorative plates
- Spices: Saffron, sumac, and local spice blends
- Tea: Azerbaijani tea from Lankaran region
- Pottery: Traditional designs and patterns
- Artwork: Miniature paintings and calligraphy
- Musical Instruments: Tar (traditional string instrument)
Shopping Areas
- Nizami Street: International brands and boutiques
- Old City Markets: Handicrafts, carpets, souvenirs
- Torgovaya: Main shopping district
- Taza Bazaar: Fresh produce and local food items
- Park Bulvar Mall: Modern shopping center
- Deniz Mall: Entertainment and shopping combined
Bargaining Tips
- Expected in traditional markets and carpet shops
- Not typical in modern stores with posted prices
- Start at 60-70% of asking price
- Be polite and friendly during negotiations
- Walking away often brings better prices
Why Choose White Sky Travel for Your Baku Adventure?
Our Comprehensive Services
✅ Expert Local Guides: English-speaking professionals with deep knowledge of Azerbaijani history and culture
✅ Flexible Tours: Customizable itineraries to match your interests and schedule
✅ Comfortable Transportation: Modern vehicles with air conditioning and experienced drivers
✅ All-Inclusive Packages: Entry fees, meals, and activities included as specified
✅ Small Group Tours: Intimate experiences with maximum 15 people
✅ Private Options: Exclusive tours for families and groups
✅ Airport Transfers: Hassle-free arrival and departure services
✅ Hotel Coordination: Partnerships with quality accommodations at all price points
Convenient Payment Options
Pay Your Way with Flexibility:
- Tabby: Split payments into 4 installments
- Tamara: Flexible payment plans available
- All major credit cards accepted
- Secure online booking system
Tour Packages Available
Half-Day Tours (4-5 hours):
- Old City Heritage Walk
- Modern Baku Architecture Tour
- Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes Express
- Absheron Peninsula Highlights
Full-Day Tours (8-10 hours):
- Complete Baku City Experience
- Gobustan, Mud Volcanoes & Fire Sites
- Sheki Silk Road Adventure
- Gabala Mountain Resort Day Trip
- Shamakhi & Lahij Artisan Journey
Multi-Day Packages:
- 3-Day Baku Essentials
- 5-Day Azerbaijan Discovery
- 7-Day Complete Caucasus Experience
- Customized Extended Tours
Special Interest Tours
- Photography Tours for Instagram-worthy shots
- Culinary Tours with market visits and cooking classes
- Architecture Tours focusing on Zaha Hadid and historic buildings
- Art and Culture Tours visiting galleries and workshops
- Family-Friendly Tours with kid-appropriate pacing
- Wine Tasting Tours in Azerbaijan’s emerging wine regions
What Our Clients Say
“White Sky Travel made our Baku trip absolutely unforgettable! Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodated all our requests. The ability to pay through Tabby made booking so much easier!” – Sarah M., UAE
“The day trip to Gobustan and mud volcanoes was the highlight of our Azerbaijan visit. Everything was perfectly organized, and we learned so much about the country’s history.” – Ahmed K., Saudi Arabia
“As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and well-cared for throughout my tours with White Sky Travel. The guides were professional and the experiences authentic.” – Lisa P., UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many days should I spend in Baku?
A: Minimum 2-3 days to see main attractions; 4-5 days ideal including day trips to Gobustan and Sheki.
Q: Is Baku expensive to visit?
A: No, Baku offers excellent value. Budget travelers can manage on $30-50/day; mid-range $70-120/day.
Q: Do I need a visa for Azerbaijan?
A: Most nationalities can obtain e-visa online (3-day processing, ~$20 USD, 30-day validity).
Q: Is it safe to travel to Baku?
A: Yes, Baku is very safe for tourists with low petty crime rates. Use ride-hailing apps to avoid taxi scams.
Q: What language is spoken in Baku?
A: Azerbaijani is official; English widely spoken in tourist areas; Russian also common.