Top Tourist Attractions in Baku

Last updated on January 2025

Baku's Old City, known as Icherisheher, is a must-see for anyone interested in history and culture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval walled city takes you back in time with its winding cobblestone streets, centuries-old structures, and remarkable architectural gems, offering a real sense of Azerbaijan's vibrant past. Discover the vibrant charm of Azerbaijan’s capital city! From the iconic Flame Towers to the historic Old City, explore the must-visit spots that make Baku a true gem. Don’t forget, you’ll need an Azerbaijan eVisa read this blog for all the details and start planning your adventure today!

1. Baku Old City (Icherisheher)

Aerial view of Old City or Inner City İçərişəhər

Baku Old City (Icherisheher) is the historic heart of Baku and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by ancient city walls, it’s a maze of narrow, cobbled streets, mosques, palaces, and traditional bazaars. Key landmarks include the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. This area is a captivating blend of history, culture, and architecture, offering visitors a journey through Azerbaijan's rich past amidst the lively atmosphere of local shops and cafés.

2. Maiden Tower

The Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası) is one of Baku’s most iconic and mysterious landmarks, located in the heart of the Old City (Icherisheher). This 12th-century cylindrical tower rises 29 metres (95 feet) high and has long fascinated locals and visitors alike with its unique design and purpose, which remains somewhat of a mystery.

The tower’s origins are surrounded by legends, with stories ranging from its use as a fire temple to a watchtower, and even a tale of a tragic princess. Today, the Maiden Tower offers a historical museum inside, showcasing its evolution and significance. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of Baku, including the Caspian Sea, the surrounding Old City, and the modern skyline.

It’s not just a monument; it's a symbol of Baku’s rich history, blending ancient and modern elements in the city.

3. Palace of the Shirvanshahs

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a 15th-century royal residence located in Baku’s Old City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a palace, mosque, mausoleum, and bathhouse, showcasing exquisite medieval Azerbaijani architecture. Once the seat of the Shirvanshah dynasty, it now functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. The palace’s elevated location also provides beautiful views of Baku.

4. Ateshgah (Fire Temple)

The Ateshgah (Fire Temple) is a unique temple located just outside of Baku, known for its historical significance and ties to fire worship. Built in the 17th century, this pentagonal structure was a sacred site for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs, who revered the natural gas flames that once burned from the ground.

Now a museum, Ateshgah offers visitors insight into ancient religious practices and Azerbaijan’s role along the Silk Road. Though the natural flames have ceased, the temple’s spiritual atmosphere and historical significance remain, making it a fascinating cultural landmark to explore.

5. Heydar Aliyev Center

The Heydar Aliyev Center is an architectural masterpiece in Baku, designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Completed in 2012, its fluid, futuristic design is known for its sweeping curves and lack of sharp angles, symbolising the country's forward-thinking vision.

Inside, the centre hosts cultural exhibitions, conferences, and performances, serving as a hub for the arts and innovation. The building’s striking form and dynamic interior make it one of Baku’s most iconic modern landmarks and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

6. Flame Towers

The Flame Towers are a trio of skyscrapers that dominate Baku’s skyline, symbolising modern Azerbaijan. Their unique flame-shaped design reflects the country's historic connection to fire worship, as well as its energy-rich future. At night, the towers are illuminated with dynamic LED displays that mimic flickering flames, creating a striking visual spectacle.

The Flame Towers house luxury apartments, offices, and a hotel, and offer stunning views of the city and the Caspian Sea. These iconic towers are a symbol of Baku’s blend of tradition and modernity.

7. Baku Boulevard

Baku Boulevard, also known as the Seaside National Park, is a scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea. Stretching over several kilometres, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stroll, relax, and enjoy views of the sea and Baku's modern skyline.

The boulevard features lush gardens, fountains, cafes, and attractions like the Baku Eye Ferris wheel and the Mini-Venice canals. It’s the perfect place to unwind, take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, and experience a mix of natural beauty and urban life.

8. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

The Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum is dedicated to the rich tradition of Azerbaijani carpet weaving. Housed in a striking building designed to resemble a rolled-up carpet, the museum showcases an extensive collection of intricately woven carpets and rugs, along with textiles and related artefacts.

Visitors can explore the history, techniques, and artistry behind Azerbaijani carpets, which are renowned for their craftsmanship and unique designs. The museum offers insights into the cultural significance of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan and is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional arts and crafts.

9. Museum of Miniature Books

The Museum of Miniature Books in Baku is a charming and unique attraction showcasing an impressive collection of tiny books. Despite their small size, these books cover a wide range of genres, from literature to art and science. The museum highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating these miniature volumes and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of bookmaking.

CAN ADD AN INTERIOR IMAGE OF THE MUSEUM

Each book is carefully displayed in glass cases, allowing visitors to appreciate the detail and artistry of these miniature treasures. It's a delightful stop for book lovers and those interested in unusual and intricate collections.

10. Baku Opera House

The Baku Opera House, officially known as the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, is a grand cultural venue in Baku. Built in the early 20th century, its stunning architecture features a blend of classical and oriental styles, with ornate details and a majestic facade.

Inside, the opera house hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and classical music concerts. It’s a key cultural hub in Baku, known for its elegant interiors and high-quality productions. Attending a performance here offers a taste of Azerbaijan's vibrant arts scene in a historic and beautiful setting.

11. Highland Park

Highland Park is a scenic and expansive park located on one of Baku’s hills, offering some of the best panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea. The park features well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and several monuments, including the towering Flame Towers and the imposing statue of the Azerbaijani leader, Heydar Aliyev.

It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply take in the stunning vistas of Baku. The park’s elevated position makes it an ideal place for capturing memorable photos of the cityscape and experiencing Baku’s natural beauty.

12. Gobustan State Reserve

Gobustan State Reserve is an archaeological and geological wonder located about 64 kilometres southwest of Baku. Famous for its ancient rock carvings, the site features over 6,000 petroglyphs that date back to the Stone Age, depicting scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life.

In addition to the rock engravings, Gobustan is known for its mud volcanoes, which create a dramatic landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life and is a must-visit for those interested in ancient history and natural phenomena.

13. Mud Volcanoes

The Mud Volcanoes near Baku are a unique and fascinating natural phenomenon. Located in the Gobustan region and along the Absheron Peninsula, these volcanoes emit a mixture of mud and gas, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

Unlike traditional lava volcanoes, mud volcanoes erupt thick, viscous mud that bubbles and spurts from the earth, often forming striking, irregular shapes. This area is home to one of the highest concentrations of mud volcanoes in the world and provides an intriguing glimpse into the geological forces at work beneath the surface. It’s a must-see for nature enthusiasts and those interested in Earth’s unusual natural features.

14. Bibi-Heybat Mosque

Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a significant religious and historical site located in Baku. Originally built in the 13th century, it was an important centre of worship and a prominent example of Islamic architecture in the region. The mosque is renowned for its beautiful tilework, intricate calligraphy, and grand domes.

The mosque was extensively renovated and rebuilt in the early 1990s after being damaged during the Soviet era. Today, it stands as a symbol of Baku’s rich cultural and religious heritage. The site also includes the mausoleum of Ukeyma Khanum, adding to its historical significance.