The capital of Azerbaijan on the Caspian Sea combines an old medieval town with European palaces from the 19th century and the ultra-modern roofs of today. Formerly notoriously expensive and now affordable, this relatively unknown travel destination has something to satisfy everyone – from history buffs to food connoisseurs. Here are 20 of Baku’s best attractions.
1. Icheri Sheher (Baku’s Old Town)
The old fortified city of Baku, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the medieval capital of the Shirvan Shahs. Today it is the heart of the capital with Maiden Tower, traditional carpet weavers, bars and restaurants. Traders visiting a bygone era often called Icheri Sheher the Baku Acropolis.
2. Maiden’s Tower
The cylindrical tower has a mysterious history. Dating back over 1,000 years, experts believe that the UNESCO-listed Virgin’s Tower served as a Zoroastrian temple before becoming a watchtower in the 18th century. Follow the spiral staircase to the top of the 29-meter (95.1-foot) structure for the best views of Ischeri Sheher.
3. The Palace of the Shirvan Shahs
The palace of the Shirvan Shahs, the dynasty in power for 800 years, is on the back of the 10 manat banknote. The 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage complex has a palace, mosque, burial vaults and a mausoleum, making it one of Baku’s main attractions in Icheri Sheher.
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4. Museum of History of Azerbaijan
Travel gives you the opportunity to learn more about the world and to see exhibits and objects that you would otherwise have missed. The History Museum, inside an Italian Renaissance-style mansion, has more than 300,000 objects. The exhibits cover everything from ancient history to modern ethnography, making it the largest museum in Azerbaijan and one of the main attractions in Baku.
5. Nizami Street
Named after the former Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi, the 3.5-kilometer (2-mile) street forms the main shopping district. As you stroll, pay close attention to the architecture that goes from Baroque, neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance facades to more mundane Stalinist styles.
6. House of Government
The lavish Baroque government house on Neftchiler Avenue was built in 1952 by the Soviets. The offices of the ministry occupy the space inside. The main attraction is architectural beauty, especially when it lights up at night.
7. Fountain Square
The pedestrian Fountain Square, formerly Parapet, is one of Baku’s must-see attractions. Dozens of fountains fill the area from Nizami Street to the eastern walls of Icheri Scherer. Several bars, cafes and restaurants with outdoor terraces occupy the lower floors.
8. The Flame Towers
The tallest of the three flame towers reaches 182 meters (597 feet) and is perched majestically above Baku Bay. From a distance, the trio looks like flames. And at night, the outside lights up in the colors of fire.
9. National Flag Square
The tallest of the three flame towers reaches 182 meters (597 feet) and is perched majestically above Baku Bay. From a distance, the trio looks like flames. And at night, the exterior lights up in the colors of fire.
10. Baku Boulevard
The tallest of the three flame towers reaches 182 meters (597 feet) and is perched majestically above Baku Bay. From a distance, the trio looks like flames. And at night, the outside lights up in the colors of fire.
