Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan is rapidly being developed into the Dubai of The Caucasus. Flight links between Europe and Asia are expanding, so you might find yourself on a layover here. Keep reading to find out how to spend your time in this unique metropolis.
Stroll around the Old Town
Filled with coffee shops, quaint alleys and all things old. You can’t go wrong with spending a few hours here.
Heydar Aliyev Center
This building is a museum and also an architectural gem. It’s worth visiting the building alone, even if you don’t enter the museum.
Tip: There is a nice spot to drink a coffee or enjoy a tea set nearby. You can order dried fruit and nuts to accompany your delicious tea, which is a common way to pass the time in Azerbaijan.
The Carpet Museum
Rugs may not be your thing, but this is another unique building worth seeing.
Little Venice
Just in front of the Carpet Museum is a small water way with bridges, gondola rides and some cafes to relax in. You might feel like stopping for a drink after your magical carpet ride.
The Flame Towers
Just behind Mini Venice are the Flame Tours. These iconic towers look different depending on where you are in the city and the time of day.
Stroll along the Milli Park Promenade
This area is a walkable promenade running alongside the Caspian Sea. It’s a great place to people watch, grab an ice cream or sit down for a drink.
Eat!
Before I came to Azerbaijan I read bad things about the food. I found this to be untrue and ended up in many food comas in this delicious city.
Try:
1) The amazing freshly baked bread
2) Dushbara – Lamb dumpling soup in a minty broth.
3) Kyufta Bozbash – Small lamb meatballs in a minty broth served with vegetables, typically potatoes. The minty broth with lamb is like an English Sunday roast in a stew. Simply delicious!
4) Fresh salads – The veggies are so fresh and crunchy in this part of the world.
5) Wash everything down with a Turkish coffee or local glass of Azerbaijani wine.
Tip: I always use the ‘Near Me Now’ function on the Trip Advisor app to help me locate the best places to eat.
Visas for Azerbaijan
Many nationalities can apply online for a visa. Normal application take about 5 days. There is also a rushed visa which will be issued within 24 hours. This costs more at approximately $50.
You can travel to Azerbaijan if you have been to Armenia (I did this), but you will be refused entry if you have been to the disputed territory in Armenia.
Simply put; if you travel to the Nagorno-Karabakh region in Armenia, then don’t bother trying to get into Azerbaijan. Sorry.
Heading to Armenia or Georgia afterwards? You might like my Yerevan or Georgia blog posts. Follow me on Instagram for more travel tips and inspiration.
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