Hello Lykkers! Are you ready to visit a city that’s 92 feet below sea level but sky-high in charm? Welcome to Baku — the capital of Azerbaijan and the largest city along the Caspian Sea.
Whether we’re fans of ancient architecture, modern design, or sea views, Baku has something unique waiting for us. Let’s explore the highlights, get all the practical travel info, and find out why this city is worth adding to our bucket list.
Getting There and Getting Around
We can fly directly into Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD). Once we land, here’s how we can get into the city center (about 16 miles away):
- Airport Express Bus (H1): Runs every 30 minutes to 28 May Metro Station.
- Cost: About $0.75 USD
- Taxi or Bolt app: Ride takes 25–30 minutes.
- Cost: Around $12–$18 USD
Inside the city, the Baku Metro is clean, affordable, and reliable. A metro ride costs around $0.25 USD. For extra convenience, we can buy a BakuCard, which gives unlimited public transport rides and discounts at some attractions.
Must-See Spots and Ticket Info
1. Icherisheher (Old City)
- Entry: Free to walk around
- Museum entries: Around $6–$9 USD (for places like the Palace or museums inside)
- Hours: Most sites open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Tip: Go early in the day for quiet, cool streets and better light for photos.
2. Palace of the Shirvanshahs
- Ticket: About $9 USD
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Why go: It’s a beautiful medieval palace and part of a UNESCO site.
3. Maiden Tower
- Ticket: About $9 USD
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Tip: Climb to the top for amazing views over the Caspian Sea and Old City rooftops.
4. Flame Towers & Highland Park
- Ticket: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Around sunset
- Highlight: The towers light up in flame patterns at night; Highland Park offers fantastic city views.
5. Heydar Aliyev Center
- Ticket: Around $9–$15 USD, depending on the exhibitions
- Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, closed on Mondays
- Tip: The building was designed by Zaha Hadid and is as stunning on the outside as inside.
Best Time to Visit Baku
We’ll enjoy Baku most from April to June and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable and there’s less wind. Summer (July–August) can get hot — up to 95°F (35°C) — and winters, though mild, can be windy and wet.
Local Eats to Try
Baku has tons of tasty traditional dishes. Don’t miss:
- Plov (saffron rice with dried fruits and meat)
- Dushbara (tiny dumplings in broth)
- Qutab (crispy stuffed flatbread)
Meals at local restaurants typically cost $6–$15 USD per person. For snacks and sweets, check out Taza Bazaar, one of the city’s oldest markets.
Helpful Travel Tips
1. Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), but we’ve listed all prices in USD for ease.
2. Language: Azerbaijani is official. English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas, especially by young people.
3. Payment: Credit cards are accepted in most places. Still, it’s smart to carry some cash.
4. Safety: Baku is considered safe, even at night. Just be cautious of pickpockets in busy spots.
5. Dress Code: Dress is modern and casual. In cultural or historic sites, it’s respectful to cover shoulders and knees.
What Makes Baku So Special?
So Lykkers, now you know — Baku isn’t just a city beneath sea level, it’s a place full of life, color, and culture. From walking ancient streets in the Old City to watching the city lights from Highland Park, every part of this trip will leave us with something to remember.
Are you adding Baku to your travel list? Or have you been there already? Share your travel dreams or tips with us — let’s plan the next journey together!
4K Baku, Azerbaijan City Tour | World's Next Dubai - UHD Drone / Time-lapse (Dook Travels)
Video by Dook International
