Cheap Flights to Baku Jazeera Airways Tickets from KWD 22*

Discover Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, sits on the Caspian Sea, bridging the gap between Eastern Europe and West Asia. The medieval walled city, once a Persian capital, is home to the spectacular 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs. However, the modern skyscrapers that fill the skyline remind you that this is a vibrant modern city, too.

Once part of the Soviet Union, Baku is now a thriving, dynamic and creative city. The oil boom in the 19th century has seen it grow from strength to strength. In recognition, it was appointed to host the Eurovision contest and more recently the Grand Prix of Europe.

Baku is changing quickly and is a perfect blend between the West and the East. Visitors can feast their eyes on the illuminated architecturally-rich buildings and pedestrianised streets packed with shops and boutiques. Today many modern towers have replaced the old apartment blocks, bringing a fresh, new look to the city. The city has a population of around 2.2 million and is welcoming more and more visitors every year.

Flame Towers

It is one of the primary museums in Mashhad, which contains collections of Islamic art and historical artifacts. Well worth a visit if you want to find out more about the history and culture of the region.

Little Venice 

These charming waterways along the Boulevard come as a total surprise. They resemble Venice with its arched bridges and ancient colonnades.

Maiden’s Tower

Another must-see is the Maiden’s Tower, which reaches 29m up into Baku’s skyline. Climb it to enjoy beautiful views over the bay and old city. Although its origins date back many centuries, the existing construction is said to be from the 12th century.

Sirvanshahs' Palace

Considered ‘a pearl’ of eastern architecture, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs is on practically every sight-seeing itinerary to the city. This was once the celebrated centre of power of north-eastern Azerbaijan’s ruling dynasty.

Shopping

A great starting point is Torgovaya (or Trade Street). This is a popular shopping area with its quirky street chandeliers. From here you can move on to the shopping centres and exclusive boutiques in the Bulvar district in particular Park Bulvar Mall, and Port Baku Mall. The latter is the largest Shopping Centre in the City. The 3-storeyed complex covers an area of 32,000 sq. metres, specialising in fashion and beauty products in the latest styles.

Looking for something authentically local? Check out the carpets, copperware, Azeri hats and traditional copperware sold at quaint shops. Be warned, however, that antique carpets cannot leave the country without special permission.

Put aside a few hours for a visit to the Old City and fill your shopping bag with cheap souvenirs. You’ll also find these in the underground shops beneath Fountains Square. Nizami Street is another place where you can definitely pick up traditional souvenirs.

Food And Drink

From fine dining to affordable street vendors, you’ll find plenty of choice if you're looking for good food in Baku. The local cuisine has many Iranian influences and kebab is very popular. You’ll also find restaurants serving international flavours and western-style fast-food outlets too.

You can find good middleweight restaurants serving value meals for AZN 10 or less. On a better level is Chinar, Baku’s popular fine-dining restaurant offering pan-Asian dishes. The Old City Restaurant near the southern gates to the old city, is quite modest in appearance but the food is exceptional (and award-winning).

If you want to go upmarket there are several swanky restaurants in the Marriott Absheron Hotel. There’s also the dining strip at the new Port. The large food court at Park Bulvar Mall serves as a perfect stop over on your day out shopping.