Have you ever come across Azerbaijan while browsing the world map? If Azerbaijan’s image on the map resembles a bird flying towards the sea, then its beak is the Absheron Peninsula, where Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, lies on the southwestern coast of this peninsula. Baku is a city that combines both old and modern elements, making it a unique and vibrant destination.
Tourism in Baku is a blend of Soviet-era architecture, modern glass buildings, UNESCO historical sites such as the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, romantic seaside streets, active nightlife, and culturally significant religious sites. Tourism in Azerbaijan offers an irresistible mix of East and West, combining tradition and modernity, the bustle of urban areas, and unchanged village life. Each region offers a unique touch of Azerbaijani culture, while the country as a whole provides cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the Caucasus. The tourism offerings in Azerbaijan are diverse, filled with bold adventures, and showcase meticulously preserved history in a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Top Tourist Places in Baku
If you are one of those inspired by the love of exploring historical cities and cultural tourism experiences, then you are in for a journey not to be missed: the experience of tourism in Baku. Let’s discover the top Baku tourist places and how to have an enjoyable trip in this wonderful historical and cultural city.
1- Maiden Tower
This 29-meter stone tower is the most important historical icon in Baku, offering rooftop views of the Baku Bay and the Old City. Its construction likely dates back thousands of years, though much of the current structure appears to be from the 12th century. The tower is named the Maiden Tower, referring to its military impregnability. It was undoubtedly an incredibly massive structure in its era, with walls five meters thick at the base and a distinctive buttress.
2- Palace of the Shirvanshahs
This magnificent complex of sandstone walls and domes was the seat of the ruling dynasty in northeastern Azerbaijan during the Middle Ages, mainly dating back to the 15th century, and was painstakingly restored in 2003. The site includes artifacts and a few entertaining audio-visual surprises. You can explore the palace’s rooms and gardens, which reflect the architecture, art, and culture of medieval Baku.
3- National History Museum
This museum offers insights into the history and culture of Azerbaijan, showcasing curiosities here and there. It’s worth taking a short tour to enjoy the luxurious palace built between 1895-1901 by H.Z. Taghiyev, one of Baku’s greatest oil barons of the late 19th century. Don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning “Eastern Hall” with its Neo-Moorish style and the Art Nouveau-styled reconstructed bedroom of Taghiyev.
4- Flame Towers
Among the top tourist attractions in Baku, these three blue-glass skyscrapers were completed in 2012 and represent the contemporary architectural boom of Baku. The three towers range from 28 to 33 stories high and are so immense that they can be impressively seen from a distance, especially at night when they display a wide screen of light effects, blending fire, water, and the national flag. A great photo spot is near the Bahram Gur statue, close to the lower funicular station, offering a good vantage point to approach the towers.
5- Fountain Square
This tree-filled square, popular with families and kids, serves as a natural hub in downtown Baku. The square features a large central fountain illuminated at night, enhancing the area’s atmosphere. It’s bustling with locals and visitors, making it the perfect place to enjoy drinks, live music, and dancing. Don’t miss photographing the beautiful façade of the Nizami Literature Museum adorned with statues, best captured at night.
6- State Museum of Art
Baku’s premier collection of classic art is housed in palaces dating back two centuries due to the oil boom. It includes a range of artworks from 17th-century French landscapes to Meiji-era Japanese ceramics, Russian portraits, and a remarkable collection of Azerbaijani drawings.
7- Heydar Mosque
Among the top tourist spots in Baku, the Heydar Mosque is a must-visit for its stunning architecture. Built in 2014 in memory of former Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev, the mosque is a true marvel of modern architecture, located on the busy Heydar Aliyev Street. It boasts a striking white façade and a shimmering dome that beautifully catches the sunlight. The mosque’s interior is equally breathtaking, featuring intricate geometric patterns and designs. It is both a place of worship and an architectural wonder, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
8- Shikhov Beach
Shikhov Beach is the closest beach to downtown Baku, offering the most picturesque spot for photographers looking to capture swimmers playing on the sand against the romantic backdrop of giant offshore oil rigs.
9- Bilgah Beach
Bilgah Beach is one of the best Baku tourist spots for those who love sun and surf. Located on the outskirts of Baku, it’s the perfect place to escape the city’s noise and pollution. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the Caspian Sea, or simply relaxing amidst the surrounding greenery. The beach offers everything you need, from sun loungers to restaurants, making it an ideal activity for families or groups exploring the outdoors of Baku.
10- Miniature Books Museum
A unique museum in Baku, the Miniature Books Museum houses over 6,500 miniature books from more than 70 countries, featuring fictional works, non-fiction, and religious texts, all in miniature form, making it an exciting attraction for book lovers. Visitors can explore the intricately displayed exhibits, read the miniature books up close, and learn about the art of miniature bookmaking. The museum is a treasure trove of literature and a fascinating way to learn about the history and significance of books in Azerbaijani culture.
It’s Not All About Tourism in Baku
Visitors to Baku will find that the beaches of Bilgah and the Absheron Peninsula combine mainstream Azerbaijani culture with coastal life, while New Year celebrations, museum visits, and hammam baths keep you warm and busy during winter. Visitors, especially from the Arab world, enjoy every moment by visiting museums, ancient monuments, beaches, and wellness resorts, all of which imaginatively express the delight of tourism in Baku.
