Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan. It is a city with a long history and a rich cultural heritage, making it a significant cultural and economic centre in the area. Baku is a fascinating tourist destination with old-world charm and modern innovation. It is a dynamic city that continues to evolve and grow. In this blog article, we'll explore some of the best places there and what makes them special.
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What not to miss?
Old City - Icherisheher
This is the historical center of Baku and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its winding lanes, historic fortifications, and countless architectural wonders like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, it is an interesting destination to explore.
Flame Towers
Due to their distinctive flame-shaped form and vibrant LED lighting, these three modern skyscrapers are one of the most recognizable landmarks in Baku. They're especially impressive at night when they're lit up against the dark sky.
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
This museum displays the amazing artistry and history of Azerbaijani carpet-making in a one-of-a-kind, wave-shaped structure. The displays are exquisitely designed and provide fascinating details about the local textile traditions.
Heydar Aliyev Center
This remarkable futuristic structure, created by the late architect Zaha Hadid, has a museum, exhibition spaces, and a conference centre. Fans of architecture must see the curved, white building, which is in and of itself an artistic creation.
What else to visit?
Gobustan National Park
About an hour's drive from Baku, Gobustan is a prehistoric rock art site that's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the rugged desert landscape and see thousands of ancient petroglyphs that depict everything from hunting scenes to mythical creatures. It's a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Azerbaijan's ancient past.
Ateshgah Fire Temple
One of the most significant religious structures in the area is this ancient temple, which is located on the outskirts of Baku. Zoroastrian worshippers initially constructed the temple, which later used by Hindu and Sikh pilgrims. The main feature of the temple is the central fire pit, which has been burning for centuries and is considered sacred by many. Visitors are welcome to wander the grounds, discover the background of the temple, and even watch the priests in residence perform the fire ceremony.
How to travel there?
By air
The Heydar Aliyev International Airport is located just outside the city and is served by numerous airlines from around the world.
By train
Baku is well-connected to neighboring countries by train. Baku Railway Station is the main train station in Baku and is located in the city center, close to the metro station Sahil. It serves long-distance trains to destinations.
By road
Baku is accessible by road from neighboring countries and the city is also connected to other parts of Azerbaijan by a network of highways and roads.
By ferry
Baku has a port that connects the city with other ports on the Caspian Sea.
When to travel there?
Spring
Spring is a pleasant time to visit Baku, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the summer months. The weather can be unpredictable, however, with occasional rain and wind.
Summer
The summer is the busiest travel season due to the pleasant weather and lengthy daylight hours. Be ready for crowds and increased expenses if you plan to engage in outdoor pursuits like sightseeing, hiking, or swimming during this period.
Autumn
Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Baku, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. This is a good time to explore the city's museums and cultural attractions, as well as to sample local cuisine.
Winter
Winter can be cold and snowy in Baku, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. However, this is also a good time to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.
Average costs
Baku's cost of living is often less expensive than that of several large cities in North America and Europe. Yet, depending on your lifestyle and tastes, the cost of living can change. Here are some examples of typical Baku costs for various items.
Accommodation
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between 600 and 800 AZN (350 and 470 USD) a month to rent. The monthly cost is lower outside of the city center, ranging between 400 and 600 AZN (235 and 350 USD).
Food
Food costs between 10-15 AZN (6-9 USD) for a dinner at a low-cost restaurant and 30-40 AZN (30-40 USD) for a meal at a mid-range restaurant (18-24 USD). One person's groceries for a week can run between 50 and 70 AZN (30-40 USD).
Transportation
A one-way ticket on public transportation costs 0.30 AZN (0.18 USD), while a monthly pass costs around 22 AZN (13 USD). Taxis are relatively inexpensive, with an average fare of 1.20 AZN (0.70 USD) per kilometer.
Attraction and activities
The price of a cinema ticket is approximately 10-15 AZN (6-9 USD), whereas a concert or theater performance ticket might range from 20–50 AZN (12-30 USD).
Events
Baku Marathon
An annual May event encourages active living and charitable causes by having participants race through the streets of the city.
Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Baku hosts the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in April or May, which is a part of the Formula 1 World Championship.
International Mugham Festival
An annual event held in March that celebrates the traditional Azerbaijani music form, Mugham, with performances by musicians from around the world.
Novruz Bayram
It is a traditional spring festival held in March that includes live music, street performances, and regional cuisine.
We've reached the end of the article about Baku. This city has a fantastic atmosphere, and we believe you will love it as much as we did! In the meantime, you can read other articles on our website. Remember to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on the new releases. We will be back soon with a new article!