About Baku
Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, located on the Absheron Peninsula along the Caspian Sea. Known as the “City of Winds,” Baku is a fascinating blend of ancient history and ultra-modern architecture, making it one of the most unique capital cities in the Caucasus region.
Getting to Baku
By Air
Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is the main gateway.
- Direct flights from – Istanbul, Dubai, London, Moscow, Frankfurt, Tel Aviv, Beijing, and many more
- Airlines – Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, and others
- Airport to city – 25 km, taxi (~20 AZN) or bus (1.5 AZN)
Visa for Baku
Most visitors need a visa. The eVisa is the easiest option:
- Apply online at evisa.gov.az
- Fee: $20 (standard) or $50 (urgent)
- Processing: 3 hours to 3 business days
- Validity: 90 days, 30-day stay
See our application guide for step-by-step instructions.
Top Attractions in Baku
Old City (Icherisheher)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of historic Baku. Wander through narrow medieval streets, visit the Maiden Tower (12th century), and explore the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
Flame Towers
Three skyscrapers shaped like flames, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s fire-worshipping history. Best viewed at night when LED displays create spectacular light shows.
Heydar Aliyev Center
Designed by Zaha Hadid, this flowing, curved building is an architectural masterpiece. Houses a museum and exhibition space.
Baku Boulevard
A 6-km promenade along the Caspian Sea, perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying waterfront cafes. Features the Baku Eye ferris wheel and Carpet Museum.
Carpet Museum
Shaped like a rolled carpet, this museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Azerbaijani carpets and rugs.
Highland Park (Dagustu Park)
Offers panoramic views of Baku, the Flame Towers, and the Caspian Sea. Accessible by funicular railway.
Where to Stay
- Old City – Boutique hotels in historic buildings, best for culture lovers
- Fountain Square area – Central location, restaurants and nightlife
- Near Flame Towers – Modern hotels with city views
- Boulevard area – Seafront hotels, quieter atmosphere
Getting Around Baku
- Metro – Clean, efficient, and affordable (0.30 AZN per ride)
- Taxis – Use Bolt or Uber apps for reliable pricing
- Buses – Extensive network, very affordable
- Walking – Old City and Boulevard are best explored on foot
Food and Dining
Azerbaijani cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Baku:
- Plov – Saffron rice with meat and dried fruits (national dish)
- Dolma – Stuffed grape leaves with meat and rice
- Kebab – Various grilled meat preparations
- Piti – Slow-cooked lamb and chickpea stew
- Pakhlava – Sweet pastry with nuts and honey
- Black tea – Served with jam and sugar cubes (Azerbaijani tradition)
Day Trips from Baku
- Gobustan – Ancient rock art and mud volcanoes (60 km)
- Absheron Peninsula – Fire Temple (Ateshgah) and burning mountain (Yanar Dag)
- Quba – Mountain scenery and carpet-weaving villages (170 km)
- Lahij – Ancient copper-working village in the Caucasus (200 km)
Budget
- Budget traveler – $40-60/day (hostel, local food, public transport)
- Mid-range – $100-150/day (3-star hotel, restaurants, taxis)
- Luxury – $250+/day (5-star hotel, fine dining, private tours)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Baku?
2-3 days is sufficient to see the main attractions. Add 1-2 more days for day trips to Gobustan or the Absheron Peninsula. A week allows you to explore at a relaxed pace and take multiple day trips.
Is Baku expensive?
Baku is moderately priced compared to European capitals. Accommodation ranges from $15-200/night. Meals cost $5-30. Public transport is very affordable. Overall, it is cheaper than most Western European cities.
Do I need a visa to visit Baku?
Yes, most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Azerbaijan and visit Baku. The eVisa is the easiest option, available online for $20-50. Citizens of visa-free countries (Georgia, Russia, Turkey, etc.) do not need a visa.
Last updated: July 2026. The information in this article has been verified against official sources.
