First Time in Baku? Where to Start?

Are you a first time Visitor in Baku? And you literally don't know where to start, right? Baku is usually the first stop for most of the people visiting Azerbaijan, and yes, it is easy to understand why. It is The Capital. The city is combined with an old historic centre and modern buildings, a long waterfront and busy streets filled with restaurants, shops and people.

Here is a short look at some of the main places in Baku that can help you get an idea of the city before making a proper plan for your trip.

Icherisheher

Icherisheher, also known as the Old City, is the historic heart of Baku and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by medieval walls and contains narrow streets, historic buildings, museums, cafes and restaurants.

The Maiden Tower is one of the main sights of the old city. Its original purpose and exact date of construction are still uncertain, although it has been connected with different historical explanations and legends. The Shirvanshahs' Palace is another important site inside the Old City. The 15th-century complex was the residence of the Shirvanshah dynasty and includes a palace, mosque, mausoleum and other historic structures.

The Old City is more than just a place with two famous landmarks. Its streets and buildings give a clear picture of Baku's older side.

Baku Boulevard

Baku Boulevard is located beside the Caspian Sea and is one of the city's main waterfront areas. It has a wide waterfront promenade with views of the Caspian Sea and the city. Several attractions are located along or near the boulevard, including the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, the Baku Ferris Wheel and the YARAT Contemporary Art Centre.

The waterfront is also useful for understanding Baku's geography.

Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are the most recognisable buildings in Baku. The group of three modern skyscrapers stands above the city and has become closely associated with its contemporary skyline.

Their flame-shaped design connects with Azerbaijan's long association with fire. The towers are particularly noticeable from elevated parts of the city, including Highland Park.

Heydar Aliyev Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Centre is another completely different part of Baku's architecture. Designed by Zaha Hadid, the building opened in 2012 and is recognised for its flowing, wave-like form rather than traditional straight lines.
The centre is also a cultural complex, with exhibitions, museum collections and other events. One of its permanent attractions is Mini Azerbaijan, which displays miniature versions of important landmarks from around the country.

Its architecture alone makes the centre easy to recognise, but the exhibitions give visitors another reason to include it when getting to know modern Baku.

Highland Park

Highland Park is one of the higher points in Baku and provides views over the city centre, the Caspian Sea and the Flame Towers. It is listed by Azerbaijan's tourism authority as an observation point overlooking downtown Baku.

It gives a different perspective from seeing the city at street level. The contrast between the waterfront, dense city centre and modern skyline is particularly clear from this part of Baku.

Planning Ahead

A first trip is easier to organise when the basic entry requirements are checked before booking everything. Azerbaijan's official e-visa system currently lists the nationalities eligible for an electronic visa. For eligible travellers, the standard e-visa is normally processed within three working days. It allows a stay of up to 30 days and is issued as a single-entry visa.

Anyone arranging an Azerbaijan visa should check the current requirements before finalising travel plans, as visa conditions can change.