Things to do in Baku based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku
Overview: The Heydar Aliyev Center is a striking cultural complex in Baku known for its flowing, futuristic architecture and its role as a venue for exhibitions, events, and cultural programs.
History: Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the center was built to symbolize modern Azerbaijan and to host major cultural and international events.
Since When: The center officially opened to the public in 2012.
Review: Visitors praise its iconic design, impressive exhibitions, and photogenic exterior, though entry fees apply for indoor galleries.
When to Go: Late afternoon is ideal for photography of the illuminated exterior, while mornings are quieter for exhibitions.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Ganjlik Station, taxi, or bus from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can explore art and cultural exhibitions, attend events, photograph the architecture, and relax in the surrounding park.
Free or Paid: Exterior grounds are free; interior exhibitions require a paid ticket.
Baku Boulevard, Baku
Overview: Baku Boulevard is a scenic seaside promenade stretching along the Caspian Sea, featuring parks, cafés, attractions, and entertainment venues.
History: Established in the early 20th century, the boulevard has expanded over time to become one of Baku’s most popular recreational areas.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 1909.
Review: Visitors enjoy walking along the waterfront, relaxing in green spaces, and experiencing lively evening atmospheres.
When to Go: Evenings are ideal for cooler temperatures and beautiful sea views, especially during sunset.
How to Go: Easily accessible by foot, taxi, or metro to Sahil Station.
What to Do: Guests can stroll, cycle, ride attractions, dine at cafés, and enjoy waterfront views.
Free or Paid: Access is free; attractions and activities require payment.
Highland Park, Baku
Overview: Highland Park is an elevated viewpoint offering panoramic views of Baku’s skyline, the Caspian Sea, and the Flame Towers.
History: Developed as a memorial and observation area, it includes monuments and landscaped gardens honoring national history.
Since When: The park has been accessible in its modern form since the late 20th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate the breathtaking city views, peaceful atmosphere, and evening illumination of nearby landmarks.
When to Go: Sunset and nighttime are ideal for dramatic skyline views and photography.
How to Go: Accessible by funicular from the boulevard, taxi, or walking up stairways from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can photograph the skyline, explore memorials, relax in gardens, and enjoy panoramic vistas.
Free or Paid: Access is free.
Ganjlik Mall, Baku
Overview: Ganjlik Mall is one of Baku’s largest shopping centers, offering international brands, dining options, entertainment, and a cinema complex.
History: Built to provide a modern retail and leisure destination for residents and tourists in Azerbaijan’s capital.
Since When: The mall has been operating since 2016.
Review: Visitors enjoy the wide selection of stores, clean facilities, and family-friendly entertainment options.
When to Go: Weekdays are ideal for a quieter shopping experience, while evenings are lively.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Ganjlik Station, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Guests can shop, dine, watch movies, and enjoy indoor entertainment activities.
Free or Paid: Entry is free; shopping and entertainment require payment.
Mini Venice, Baku
Overview: Mini Venice is a charming canal area within Baku Boulevard featuring small waterways, bridges, and boat rides.
History: Inspired by the canals of Venice, it was developed as a leisure attraction to enhance the seaside promenade experience.
Since When: The attraction has been open since the 1960s, with renovations completed in the 2010s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the picturesque setting and short boat rides, though it is a small attraction compared to the original Venice.
When to Go: Evenings are ideal for a romantic atmosphere and illuminated canals.
How to Go: Accessible by walking along Baku Boulevard or by taxi from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can take a boat ride, photograph the canals and bridges, and relax at nearby cafés.
Free or Paid: Entry to the area is free; boat rides require payment.
Park Bulvar Mall, Baku
Overview: Park Bulvar Mall is a modern waterfront shopping and entertainment complex located along Baku Boulevard featuring retail stores, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
History: Developed to complement the revitalized Caspian Sea promenade, it was built as part of Baku’s urban modernization projects.
Since When: The mall has been operating since 2010.
Review: Visitors appreciate its central seaside location, variety of shops, and cinema, though it is smaller than some newer malls in Baku.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are lively, while weekdays offer a quieter shopping experience.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Sahil Station, taxi, or walking along Baku Boulevard.
What to Do: Guests can shop, dine, watch movies, and enjoy sea views from nearby promenade areas.
Free or Paid: Entry is free; shopping, dining, and entertainment require payment.
Fairmont Baku Flame Towers, Baku
Overview: Fairmont Baku Flame Towers is a luxury five-star hotel located within the iconic Flame Towers complex offering panoramic city and Caspian Sea views.
History: Built as part of the Flame Towers development to symbolize modern Baku and elevate the city’s luxury hospitality sector.
Since When: The hotel has been welcoming guests since 2013.
Review: Visitors praise the elegant rooms, exceptional service, and skyline views, though rates reflect its premium status.
When to Go: Year-round stays are ideal, with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant weather for city exploration.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or car from central Baku, with nearby access to Highland Park.
What to Do: Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, dine at upscale restaurants, relax in spa facilities, and admire city views.
Free or Paid: Accommodation and hotel facilities require payment.
Baku Old City, Baku
Overview: Baku Old City, also known as Icherisheher, is the historic heart of Baku featuring ancient walls, narrow streets, palaces, and mosques.
History: Dating back to the 12th century, it served as a fortified medieval settlement and later became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Since When: The area has existed since medieval times and has been protected as a heritage site since 2000.
Review: Visitors love its preserved architecture, cultural atmosphere, and landmarks like Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace.
When to Go: Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable walking through the historic streets.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Icherisheher Station, taxi, or walking from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can explore historical monuments, shop for souvenirs, dine at traditional restaurants, and photograph ancient architecture.
Free or Paid: Entry to the Old City is free; specific monuments require paid tickets.
MALACANNES – Shisha Lounge, Baku
Overview: MALACANNES Shisha Lounge is a stylish lounge in Baku offering flavored shisha, beverages, and a relaxed social atmosphere.
History: Established as part of Baku’s growing nightlife and café culture scene to provide a modern leisure space.
Since When: The lounge has been operating since the 2010s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the cozy ambiance, variety of shisha flavors, and central location, though it can be busy on weekends.
When to Go: Evenings are ideal for socializing and enjoying the nightlife atmosphere.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or walking within central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can smoke shisha, enjoy drinks, socialize with friends, and relax in a lounge setting.
Free or Paid: Entry is generally free; food and drinks require payment.
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, Baku
Overview: The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum is a distinctive building shaped like a rolled carpet showcasing Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-weaving heritage and textile art.
History: Founded to preserve and promote traditional Azerbaijani carpet craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Since When: The museum was established in 1967 and moved to its current modern building in 2014.
Review: Visitors admire the unique architecture, detailed exhibits, and educational displays about traditional weaving techniques.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are ideal for a quieter museum experience.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Sahil Station, taxi, or walking along Baku Boulevard.
What to Do: Guests can explore carpet exhibitions, learn about weaving traditions, and photograph the iconic exterior design.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket.
Azerbaijan Travel International, Baku
Overview: Azerbaijan Travel International is a Baku-based tour company offering guided city tours, day trips, and customized travel experiences across Azerbaijan.
History: Founded to promote Azerbaijan’s tourism industry, the company has grown by providing multilingual guides and professionally organized excursions.
Since When: The agency has been operating since the 2010s.
Review: Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itineraries, and reliable customer service.
When to Go: It is ideal to book tours year-round, with spring and autumn being the most comfortable seasons for sightseeing.
How to Go: The office is accessible by taxi or public transport within central Baku, while most tours include hotel pickup.
What to Do: Guests can book city tours, cultural excursions, nature trips, and private guided experiences.
Free or Paid: Services require payment depending on the selected tour package.
Baku Zoological Park, Baku
Overview: Baku Zoological Park is a family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of animal species in landscaped enclosures.
History: Originally established during the Soviet era, the zoo has undergone renovations and modernization to improve animal habitats.
Since When: The zoo first opened in 1928 and reopened in a renovated form in 2021.
Review: Visitors enjoy the clean facilities and diverse animal exhibits, especially for children and families.
When to Go: Spring and autumn mornings are ideal for comfortable weather and active animals.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Nariman Narimanov Station, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Guests can observe wildlife, take photographs, and enjoy educational experiences about different species.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket.
Dəniz Mall, Baku
Overview: Dəniz Mall is a modern seaside shopping and entertainment complex known for its curved architectural design overlooking the Caspian Sea.
History: Built as part of Baku’s waterfront redevelopment to expand retail and leisure options along the boulevard.
Since When: The mall has been operating since 2020.
Review: Visitors appreciate the contemporary design, variety of brands, and scenic sea views from its terraces.
When to Go: Evenings are ideal for enjoying sea views and dining, while weekdays are less crowded.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or walking along Baku Boulevard from central areas.
What to Do: Guests can shop, dine, relax in cafés, and enjoy panoramic waterfront scenery.
Free or Paid: Entry is free; shopping and dining require payment.
Flame Towers, Baku
Overview: Flame Towers are three iconic skyscrapers dominating Baku’s skyline, symbolizing the country’s historic connection to fire.
History: Designed as a landmark development to reflect Azerbaijan’s identity as the “Land of Fire,” the towers became a symbol of modern Baku.
Since When: The complex was completed in 2012.
Review: Visitors admire the dramatic LED light displays at night and panoramic views from nearby observation points.
When to Go: Evening is ideal to see the illuminated flame animations across the towers.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi, car, or walking from Highland Park.
What to Do: Guests can photograph the skyline, stay in the hotel within the complex, or enjoy nearby parks and viewpoints.
Free or Paid: Viewing from outside is free; hotel and interior services require payment.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Baku
Overview: The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a 15th-century royal complex located within Baku Old City, showcasing medieval Azerbaijani architecture.
History: Built during the reign of the Shirvanshah dynasty, it served as the residence of the rulers of Shirvan.
Since When: The palace dates back to the 1400s and has been preserved as a museum since the 20th century.
Review: Visitors praise its historic atmosphere, intricate stone carvings, and cultural significance within Icherisheher.
When to Go: Spring and autumn mornings are ideal for comfortable exploration.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Icherisheher Station, taxi, or walking within the Old City.
What to Do: Guests can explore palace chambers, courtyards, mausoleums, and learn about medieval Azerbaijani history.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket.
Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Baku
Overview: Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple is a pentagonal 17th–18th century fire-worship temple complex known for its eternal natural gas flames and spiritual heritage.
History: Built by Indian and Persian traders in the 17th century on a site of ancient fire worship, it became an important pilgrimage center for Zoroastrians and Hindus.
Since When: The current structure dates to the 1600s–1700s and has functioned as a museum since 1975.
Review: Visitors appreciate its mystical atmosphere, preserved courtyards, and historical insight into ancient fire-worship traditions.
When to Go: Spring and autumn mornings are ideal for comfortable exploration.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or guided tour about 30 minutes from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can explore temple chambers, view the central flame altar, and learn about Zoroastrian history through museum exhibits.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket.
Karavan Rent A Car in Baku, Baku
Overview: Karavan Rent A Car in Baku is a vehicle rental service offering short-term and long-term car hire options for tourists and business travelers.
History: Established to support Azerbaijan’s growing tourism and corporate travel needs with flexible rental services.
Since When: The company has been operating since the 2010s.
Review: Customers value the competitive pricing, convenient booking process, and variety of vehicle options.
When to Go: Rentals are available year-round, though booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
How to Go: Accessible via online booking, phone reservation, or visiting their office in Baku.
What to Do: Clients can rent vehicles for city exploration, countryside trips, airport transfers, or business travel.
Free or Paid: Car rental services require payment based on duration and vehicle type.
Tufandag Mountain Resort, Baku
Overview: Tufandag Mountain Resort is a year-round mountain destination offering skiing, cable car rides, and scenic alpine views.
History: Developed to promote winter sports and eco-tourism in Azerbaijan’s mountainous regions.
Since When: The resort has been operating since 2014.
Review: Visitors enjoy modern ski facilities, breathtaking landscapes, and well-maintained cable cars, though it is located several hours from Baku.
When to Go: Winter is ideal for skiing, while summer offers hiking and scenic cable car experiences.
How to Go: Accessible by car or organized tour from Baku, approximately a 3–4 hour drive to Gabala.
What to Do: Guests can ski, snowboard, ride cable cars, hike mountain trails, and enjoy resort accommodations.
Free or Paid: Activities and cable car rides require payment.
Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, Baku
Overview: Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO-listed archaeological site featuring ancient petroglyphs, mud volcanoes, and prehistoric settlements.
History: The carvings date back up to 40,000 years, documenting early human life, rituals, and hunting scenes in the region.
Since When: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.
Review: Visitors are fascinated by the prehistoric carvings and dramatic desert scenery, though the area can be hot in summer.
When to Go: Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable exploration.
How to Go: Accessible by car or guided tour about one hour from Baku.
What to Do: Guests can view ancient rock carvings, explore the museum, and visit nearby mud volcanoes.
Free or Paid: Entry to the protected site requires a paid ticket.
Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, Baku
Overview: Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center is a landmark architectural masterpiece known for its flowing design and cultural exhibitions.
History: Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, it was constructed to represent modern Azerbaijan and host international cultural events.
Since When: The center officially opened in 2012.
Review: Visitors praise its futuristic design, rotating exhibitions, and photogenic exterior spaces.
When to Go: Late afternoon is ideal for photography, while mornings are quieter for exhibitions.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Ganjlik Station, taxi, or bus from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can explore art exhibitions, attend cultural events, and photograph the iconic architecture.
Free or Paid: Exterior grounds are free; exhibitions require a paid ticket.
Mari Vanna, Baku
Overview: Mari Vanna is a cozy Russian-style restaurant in Baku offering traditional home-cooked Eastern European cuisine in a vintage apartment-themed setting.
History: Inspired by the famous Mari Vanna restaurant concept originating in Moscow, it was introduced in Baku to bring authentic Slavic flavors and nostalgic décor to the city.
Since When: The Baku branch has been operating since the 2010s.
Review: Guests praise the warm atmosphere, authentic dishes, and attentive service, making it popular for both locals and tourists.
When to Go: Evenings are ideal for a relaxed dinner experience, while reservations are recommended on weekends.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or walking within central Baku near Fountain Square.
What to Do: Visitors can enjoy traditional Russian dishes, desserts, and tea while experiencing the charming vintage interior.
Free or Paid: Dining requires payment based on menu selection.
Sheki Sweet Home, Baku
Overview: Sheki Sweet Home is a restaurant specializing in Azerbaijani cuisine, particularly traditional sweets and dishes from the Sheki region.
History: Established to introduce Baku visitors to the rich culinary traditions of Sheki, one of Azerbaijan’s historic cities.
Since When: The restaurant has been operating since the 2010s.
Review: Customers appreciate the authentic flavors, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere.
When to Go: Lunchtime and early evenings are ideal for enjoying freshly prepared regional dishes.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or on foot within central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can sample traditional Azerbaijani sweets, piti stew, and regional specialties.
Free or Paid: Dining requires payment.
Bibi-Heybat Mosque, Baku
Overview: Bibi-Heybat Mosque is a grand religious complex overlooking the Caspian Sea, known for its elegant Islamic architecture and spiritual significance.
History: Originally built in the 13th century and destroyed during the Soviet era, it was reconstructed in the 1990s to restore its historical importance.
Since When: The reconstructed mosque reopened in 1997.
Review: Visitors admire its intricate interior design, peaceful ambiance, and scenic coastal setting.
When to Go: Weekdays outside of prayer times are ideal for quiet visits and photography.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or bus approximately 15–20 minutes from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can admire Islamic architecture, observe prayer rituals respectfully, and enjoy views of the Caspian coastline.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, though modest dress is required.
Tea Garden 145, Baku
Overview: Tea Garden 145 is a traditional Azerbaijani tea house located in Baku Old City offering tea, local sweets, and light meals in a courtyard setting.
History: Established to preserve Azerbaijan’s tea culture and provide a relaxing gathering space within Icherisheher.
Since When: The venue has been operating since the 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the authentic ambiance, traditional tea service, and central historic location.
When to Go: Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for enjoying tea in a relaxed atmosphere.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Icherisheher Station or walking within Baku Old City.
What to Do: Guests can drink Azerbaijani tea served in armudu glasses, taste local jams and sweets, and relax in the courtyard.
Free or Paid: Orders require payment based on menu selection.
Baku Eye, Baku
Overview: Baku Eye is a large Ferris wheel located along Baku Boulevard offering panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and city skyline.
History: Built as part of Baku’s waterfront development to enhance tourism and leisure attractions along the boulevard.
Since When: The attraction opened in 2014.
Review: Visitors enjoy the smooth ride, air-conditioned cabins, and scenic views, particularly at sunset.
When to Go: Late afternoon or evening is ideal for sunset and illuminated skyline views.
How to Go: Accessible by walking along Baku Boulevard or by taxi from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can ride the Ferris wheel, photograph panoramic views, and explore nearby promenade attractions.
Free or Paid: Riding the Ferris wheel requires a paid ticket.
Yeddi Gozel Waterfall, Baku
Overview: Yeddi Gozel Waterfall is a scenic multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by forested hills, offering fresh mountain air and picturesque natural views.
History: Known locally as “Seven Beauties,” the waterfall has long been a natural attraction associated with regional legends and folklore.
Since When: It has been accessible to visitors as a tourism site since the early 2000s with developed pathways and stairs.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting and refreshing atmosphere, though climbing the steps can be physically demanding.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal when water flow is strongest and the greenery is vibrant.
How to Go: Accessible by car or organized tour approximately 3–4 hours from Baku in the Gabala region.
What to Do: Guests can hike the stairways, photograph the cascades, enjoy picnics, and relax in the natural surroundings.
Free or Paid: Entry typically requires a small paid ticket.
Gabaland Amusement Park, Baku
Overview: Gabaland Amusement Park is a family-friendly entertainment complex offering rides, games, and attractions set against a mountain backdrop.
History: Developed to enhance Gabala’s tourism appeal as a recreational destination for families and young visitors.
Since When: The park has been operating since 2013.
Review: Visitors appreciate the variety of rides and scenic location, though some attractions may operate seasonally.
When to Go: Late spring through early autumn is ideal for full ride availability and pleasant weather.
How to Go: Accessible by car or guided tour from Baku to Gabala, approximately a 3–4 hour drive.
What to Do: Guests can enjoy roller coasters, family rides, arcade games, and outdoor entertainment areas.
Free or Paid: Entry and rides require payment.
Maiden Tower, Baku
Overview: Maiden Tower is a UNESCO-listed medieval monument in Baku Old City offering panoramic views and housing a historical museum.
History: Dating back to the 12th century, the tower’s origins remain partly mysterious, serving various defensive and ceremonial purposes over time.
Since When: The structure has stood since medieval times and has functioned as a museum since the 20th century.
Review: Visitors admire its ancient architecture, historical significance, and rooftop city views.
When to Go: Spring and autumn mornings are ideal for comfortable exploration and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by metro to Icherisheher Station or walking within Baku Old City.
What to Do: Guests can climb to the top for panoramic views and explore exhibits detailing Baku’s history.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket.
Port Baku Mall, Baku
Overview: Port Baku Mall is a luxury shopping destination featuring high-end international brands, fine dining, and modern design.
History: Developed as part of the Port Baku business and residential complex to provide upscale retail experiences in the capital.
Since When: The mall has been operating since 2014.
Review: Visitors praise its premium brand selection, elegant atmosphere, and quality service.
When to Go: Weekdays are ideal for relaxed shopping, while evenings offer a vibrant dining scene.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi, car, or bus from central Baku.
What to Do: Guests can shop luxury brands, dine at gourmet restaurants, and enjoy stylish surroundings.
Free or Paid: Entry is free; shopping and dining require payment.
Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers, Baku
Overview: Fairmont Baku at the Flame Towers is a five-star luxury hotel offering panoramic city views, upscale dining, and premium spa facilities.
History: Built within the iconic Flame Towers complex to symbolize modern Azerbaijan and elevate the city’s luxury hospitality sector.
Since When: The hotel opened to guests in 2013.
Review: Visitors commend the luxurious rooms, exceptional service, and spectacular skyline views, though it is among the city’s most expensive hotels.
When to Go: Year-round stays are ideal, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable weather for sightseeing.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or car from central Baku, near Highland Park.
What to Do: Guests can enjoy luxury accommodation, fine dining, spa treatments, and panoramic city views.
Free or Paid: Accommodation and hotel services require payment.