Samir’s guidebook
Sightseeing
Haydar Aliyev Center - The Heydar Aliyev Center is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The center is named after Heydar Aliyev, the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
65 locals recommend
Heydar Aliyev Centre
1 Heydər Əliyev prospektiHaydar Aliyev Center - The Heydar Aliyev Center is a 57,500 m2 (619,000 sq ft) building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The center is named after Heydar Aliyev, the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982, and president of Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003.
The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a 15th-century palace built by the Shirvanshahs and described by UNESCO as "one of the pearls of Azerbaijan's architecture". It is located in the Inner City of Baku, Azerbaijan and, together with the Maiden Tower, forms an ensemble of historic monuments inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments. The complex contains the main building of the palace, Divanhane, the burial-vaults, the shah's mosque with a minaret, Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's mausoleum (the so-called "mausoleum of the dervish"), south of the palace, a portal in the east, Murad's gate, a reservoir and the remnants of a bath house. Earlier, there was an ancient mosque, next to the mausoleum. There are still ruins of the bath to the west of the tomb.
30 locals recommend
Palace of The Shirvanshahs
The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a 15th-century palace built by the Shirvanshahs and described by UNESCO as "one of the pearls of Azerbaijan's architecture". It is located in the Inner City of Baku, Azerbaijan and, together with the Maiden Tower, forms an ensemble of historic monuments inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments. The complex contains the main building of the palace, Divanhane, the burial-vaults, the shah's mosque with a minaret, Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's mausoleum (the so-called "mausoleum of the dervish"), south of the palace, a portal in the east, Murad's gate, a reservoir and the remnants of a bath house. Earlier, there was an ancient mosque, next to the mausoleum. There are still ruins of the bath to the west of the tomb.
The Maiden Tower is a 12th-century monument in the Old City, Baku, Azerbaijan. Along with the Shirvanshahs' Palace, dated to the 15th century, it forms a group of historic monuments listed in 2001 under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments as cultural property, Category III. It is one of Azerbaijan's most distinctive national emblems, and is thus featured on Azerbaijani currency notes and official letterheads.
110 locals recommend
Maiden Tower
The Maiden Tower is a 12th-century monument in the Old City, Baku, Azerbaijan. Along with the Shirvanshahs' Palace, dated to the 15th century, it forms a group of historic monuments listed in 2001 under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments as cultural property, Category III. It is one of Azerbaijan's most distinctive national emblems, and is thus featured on Azerbaijani currency notes and official letterheads.
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum - (Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Milli Xalça Muzeyi, formerly called the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum) is a museum located in Baku that displays Azerbaijani carpets and rugs of various weaving techniques and materials from various periods. It has the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets in the world. First opened on Neftchiler Avenue in 1967, it moved to a new building on the Baku's seafront park in 2014
45 locals recommend
Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
28 Mikayıl Hüseynov ProspektiAzerbaijan Carpet Museum - (Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Milli Xalça Muzeyi, formerly called the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum) is a museum located in Baku that displays Azerbaijani carpets and rugs of various weaving techniques and materials from various periods. It has the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets in the world. First opened on Neftchiler Avenue in 1967, it moved to a new building on the Baku's seafront park in 2014
Old City or Inner City is the historical core of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The Old City is the most ancient part of Baku, which is surrounded by walls which were easily defended. In 2007, the Old City had a population of about 3000 people. In December 2000, the Old City of Baku, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower, became the first location in Azerbaijan to be classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
142 locals recommend
Icherisheher
Old City or Inner City is the historical core of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The Old City is the most ancient part of Baku, which is surrounded by walls which were easily defended. In 2007, the Old City had a population of about 3000 people. In December 2000, the Old City of Baku, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower, became the first location in Azerbaijan to be classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Baku Ateshgah often called the "Fire Temple of Baku", is a castle-like religious temple in Surakhany town (in Surakhany raion), a suburb in Baku, Azerbaijan. Based on Persian and Indian inscriptions, the temple was used as a Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian place of worship. "Ātash" is the Persian word for fire. The pentagonal complex, which has a courtyard surrounded by cells for monks and a tetrapillar-altar in the middle, was built during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was abandoned in the late 19th century, probably due to the dwindling of the Indian population in the area. The natural eternal flame went out in 1969, after nearly a century of exploitation of petroleum and gas in the area, but is now lit by gas piped from the nearby city.
23 locals recommend
Ateshgah of Baku
The Baku Ateshgah often called the "Fire Temple of Baku", is a castle-like religious temple in Surakhany town (in Surakhany raion), a suburb in Baku, Azerbaijan. Based on Persian and Indian inscriptions, the temple was used as a Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian place of worship. "Ātash" is the Persian word for fire. The pentagonal complex, which has a courtyard surrounded by cells for monks and a tetrapillar-altar in the middle, was built during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was abandoned in the late 19th century, probably due to the dwindling of the Indian population in the area. The natural eternal flame went out in 1969, after nearly a century of exploitation of petroleum and gas in the area, but is now lit by gas piped from the nearby city.
Baku Funicular is a funicular system in Baku, Azerbaijan. It connects a square on Neftchilar Avenue and Martyrs' Lane. It is the first and remains the only funicular system in the country.
Baku Funicular
Baku Funicular is a funicular system in Baku, Azerbaijan. It connects a square on Neftchilar Avenue and Martyrs' Lane. It is the first and remains the only funicular system in the country.
This park is located close to flame towers. It can easily be reached by catching the funicular. The park, like the rest of Baku is immaculately kept and has lots of different things to see and do. It provides a wonderful elevated view of Baku Boulevard and of the Caspian Sea. It also provides a fantastic view of flame towers. It is worth visiting here both in the daytime and at nighttime, as the views look different. At night the park is beautifully lit, especially the long set of stairs leading up from the road (near to Highland Park), each step being individually lit up.
The walk back down to Baku Boulevard is an easy and pleasant one. I’d highly recommend a visit to this park, if only for some amazing photo opportunities.
22 locals recommend
Dağüstü park
This park is located close to flame towers. It can easily be reached by catching the funicular. The park, like the rest of Baku is immaculately kept and has lots of different things to see and do. It provides a wonderful elevated view of Baku Boulevard and of the Caspian Sea. It also provides a fantastic view of flame towers. It is worth visiting here both in the daytime and at nighttime, as the views look different. At night the park is beautifully lit, especially the long set of stairs leading up from the road (near to Highland Park), each step being individually lit up.
The walk back down to Baku Boulevard is an easy and pleasant one. I’d highly recommend a visit to this park, if only for some amazing photo opportunities.
Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve is located west of the settlement of Gobustan, about 40 miles (64 km) southwest of the centre of Baku. It was established in 1966, when the area was declared a national historical landmark of Azerbaijan in an attempt to preserve the prehistoric rock carvings, mud volcanoes and musical stones in the region. Gobustan State Reserve is very rich in archeological monuments. Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape within the reserve, which covers an area of 537 ha, has more than 6,000 rock carvings, which depict people, animals, battle-pieces, ritual dances, bullfights, boats with armed oarsmen, warriors with lances in their hands, camel caravans, pictures of sun and stars, on the average dating back to 5,000-20,000 years. Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve acquired national status in 2006, and Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007. As of 2011, the Petroglyph Museum functions in the reserve.
Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape
Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve is located west of the settlement of Gobustan, about 40 miles (64 km) southwest of the centre of Baku. It was established in 1966, when the area was declared a national historical landmark of Azerbaijan in an attempt to preserve the prehistoric rock carvings, mud volcanoes and musical stones in the region. Gobustan State Reserve is very rich in archeological monuments. Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape within the reserve, which covers an area of 537 ha, has more than 6,000 rock carvings, which depict people, animals, battle-pieces, ritual dances, bullfights, boats with armed oarsmen, warriors with lances in their hands, camel caravans, pictures of sun and stars, on the average dating back to 5,000-20,000 years. Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve acquired national status in 2006, and Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007. As of 2011, the Petroglyph Museum functions in the reserve.
There are many. It is up to you to choose the most interesting one for you.
11 locals recommend
Mud Volcano
There are many. It is up to you to choose the most interesting one for you.
YARAT is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing an understanding of contemporary art and creating a hub for artistic practice, research and thinking in the Caucasus, Central Asia and the surrounding region. Based in Baku, Azerbaijan, YARAT (meaning Create in Azerbaijani) was founded by Aida Mahmudova in 2011. YARAT realises its mission through an on-going program of exhibitions, education events and festivals. YARAT facilitates exchange between local and international artistic networks including foundations, galleries and museums.
6 locals recommend
YARAT Contemporary Art Centre
YARAT is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing an understanding of contemporary art and creating a hub for artistic practice, research and thinking in the Caucasus, Central Asia and the surrounding region. Based in Baku, Azerbaijan, YARAT (meaning Create in Azerbaijani) was founded by Aida Mahmudova in 2011. YARAT realises its mission through an on-going program of exhibitions, education events and festivals. YARAT facilitates exchange between local and international artistic networks including foundations, galleries and museums.
Yanar Dagh (Azerbaijani: Yanar Dağ, meaning "burning mountain") is a natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside on the Absheron Peninsula on the Caspian Sea near Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan (a country which itself is known as "the Land of Fire"). Flames jet into the air 3 metres (9.8 ft) from a thin, porous sandstone layer. Administratively, Yanar Dagh belongs to Absheron District of Azerbaijan.
Unlike mud volcanoes, the Yanar Dagh flame burns fairly steadily, as it involves a steady seep of gas from the subsurface. It is claimed that the Yanar Dagh flame was only noted when accidentally lit by a shepherd in the 1950s. There is no seepage of mud or liquid, which distinguishes it from the nearby mud volcanoes of Lokbatan or Gobustan.
On the territory of Yanar Dagh, the State Historical-Cultural and Natural Reserve was established by the Presidential decree dated 2 May 2007 which operates under the control of State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan. After major overhaul between 2017-2019, Yanar dagh Museum and Yanar dagh Cromlech Stone Exhibition were launched in the area of the Reserve.
In the first millennium BCE, the fire played a role in the Zoroastrian religion, as the link between humans and the supernatural spheres.
Yanar dağ
Yanar Dagh (Azerbaijani: Yanar Dağ, meaning "burning mountain") is a natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside on the Absheron Peninsula on the Caspian Sea near Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan (a country which itself is known as "the Land of Fire"). Flames jet into the air 3 metres (9.8 ft) from a thin, porous sandstone layer. Administratively, Yanar Dagh belongs to Absheron District of Azerbaijan.
Unlike mud volcanoes, the Yanar Dagh flame burns fairly steadily, as it involves a steady seep of gas from the subsurface. It is claimed that the Yanar Dagh flame was only noted when accidentally lit by a shepherd in the 1950s. There is no seepage of mud or liquid, which distinguishes it from the nearby mud volcanoes of Lokbatan or Gobustan.
On the territory of Yanar Dagh, the State Historical-Cultural and Natural Reserve was established by the Presidential decree dated 2 May 2007 which operates under the control of State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan. After major overhaul between 2017-2019, Yanar dagh Museum and Yanar dagh Cromlech Stone Exhibition were launched in the area of the Reserve.
In the first millennium BCE, the fire played a role in the Zoroastrian religion, as the link between humans and the supernatural spheres.
Azerbaijan National Museum of Art (Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Milli İncəsənət Muzeyi) is the biggest art museum of Azerbaijan. It was founded in 1936 in Baku and in 1943 was named after Rustam Mustafayev,[1] a prominent Azerbaijani scenic designer and theater artist. The museum consists of two 19th century buildings standing next to each other. The museum's total collection includes over 15,000 artworks. There are over 3,000 items in 60 rooms on permanent display. About 12,000 items are kept in storage. The museum changes the exhibits periodically so that more of these artworks can be displayed temporarily.
Azerbaijan State Museum of Art
9/11 NiyaziAzerbaijan National Museum of Art (Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Milli İncəsənət Muzeyi) is the biggest art museum of Azerbaijan. It was founded in 1936 in Baku and in 1943 was named after Rustam Mustafayev,[1] a prominent Azerbaijani scenic designer and theater artist. The museum consists of two 19th century buildings standing next to each other. The museum's total collection includes over 15,000 artworks. There are over 3,000 items in 60 rooms on permanent display. About 12,000 items are kept in storage. The museum changes the exhibits periodically so that more of these artworks can be displayed temporarily.
Baku Zoo (Azerbaijani: Bakı zooloji parkı) is a state zoological park in Baku, Azerbaijan. Established in 1928, it is the country's oldest zoo. It is owned and managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan and the Mayoralty of Baku City. The total area of the zoo is 4.25 hectares (10.5 acres).
8 locals recommend
Baku Zoological Park
Baku Zoo (Azerbaijani: Bakı zooloji parkı) is a state zoological park in Baku, Azerbaijan. Established in 1928, it is the country's oldest zoo. It is owned and managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan and the Mayoralty of Baku City. The total area of the zoo is 4.25 hectares (10.5 acres).
(Filarmonia Park or Philharmonia Garden), sometimes called Gubernator's or Governor's Park, is a park in Baku, Azerbaijan, next to Baku fortress.
The park was established beginning in 1830; ship's captains coming from Iran were asked to bring a sack of soil to add to it. It was extended in the 1860s and 1870s to 4.6 hectares (11 acres) and originally called Mixaylov bağı, Mikhaelovsky Garden, after the governor. In the early 20th century, there were plans to create a concert hall in the park, but the necessary felling of trees led to objections. A summer pavilion was built. The park was renovated in the 1970s and then further renovated beginning in 2007 on orders of President Ilham Aliyev. An old-fashioned fountain designed by the French company Inter Art has been added.
15 locals recommend
Filarmoniya parkı
(Filarmonia Park or Philharmonia Garden), sometimes called Gubernator's or Governor's Park, is a park in Baku, Azerbaijan, next to Baku fortress.
The park was established beginning in 1830; ship's captains coming from Iran were asked to bring a sack of soil to add to it. It was extended in the 1860s and 1870s to 4.6 hectares (11 acres) and originally called Mixaylov bağı, Mikhaelovsky Garden, after the governor. In the early 20th century, there were plans to create a concert hall in the park, but the necessary felling of trees led to objections. A summer pavilion was built. The park was renovated in the 1970s and then further renovated beginning in 2007 on orders of President Ilham Aliyev. An old-fashioned fountain designed by the French company Inter Art has been added.
Mini-Venice
73 Neftchilar AveThe "War Trophies Park" aims to exhibit defensive barriers built by the Armenian army and the war trophies seized as a result of the defeat of the invader Armenia on the battlefisceld by the glorious Azerbaijani army. The war booty was captured during the 44 - day Patriotic War conducted from September 27 to November 10, 2020 to restore the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan!!!
Military Trophies Park
6 8 Noyabr AveThe "War Trophies Park" aims to exhibit defensive barriers built by the Armenian army and the war trophies seized as a result of the defeat of the invader Armenia on the battlefisceld by the glorious Azerbaijani army. The war booty was captured during the 44 - day Patriotic War conducted from September 27 to November 10, 2020 to restore the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan!!!
City/town information
It is located just south-west of Quba in the middle of the Greater Caucasus mountains that divide Russia and the South Caucasus. Khinalug is also the highest, most remote and isolated village in Azerbaijan and among the highest in the Caucasus. The weather changes dramatically during summer and winter, ranging from −20 °C to 18 °C. Khinalug has a population of about 2,000 people. This small group of people speaks the Khinalug language, which is an isolate within the Northeast Caucasian language family, although many speak Azerbaijani as well.
Khinaliq
It is located just south-west of Quba in the middle of the Greater Caucasus mountains that divide Russia and the South Caucasus. Khinalug is also the highest, most remote and isolated village in Azerbaijan and among the highest in the Caucasus. The weather changes dramatically during summer and winter, ranging from −20 °C to 18 °C. Khinalug has a population of about 2,000 people. This small group of people speaks the Khinalug language, which is an isolate within the Northeast Caucasian language family, although many speak Azerbaijani as well.
Lahıc (Lahij, Tat: Löhij) is a village and municipality on the southern slopes of Greater Caucasus within the Ismailli Rayon of Azerbaijan. Population is approximately 860 people who speak the Tat language, also known as Tati Persian, a Southwestern Iranian language spoken by the Tats of Azerbaijan and Russia.
Lahij is a notable place in Azerbaijan, with its authentic handicrafts traditions, particularly related to copper. The village's carpet and rug crafts are also well known in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus. Lahij has an old sewage system (some experts claim that it was built 1000–1500 years ago). Due to frequent earthquakes local people have developed sophisticated and authentic construction techniques.
8 locals recommend
Lahich
Lahıc (Lahij, Tat: Löhij) is a village and municipality on the southern slopes of Greater Caucasus within the Ismailli Rayon of Azerbaijan. Population is approximately 860 people who speak the Tat language, also known as Tati Persian, a Southwestern Iranian language spoken by the Tats of Azerbaijan and Russia.
Lahij is a notable place in Azerbaijan, with its authentic handicrafts traditions, particularly related to copper. The village's carpet and rug crafts are also well known in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus. Lahij has an old sewage system (some experts claim that it was built 1000–1500 years ago). Due to frequent earthquakes local people have developed sophisticated and authentic construction techniques.
The Palace of Shaki Khans (Azerbaijani: Şəki xanlarının sarayı) in Shaki, Azerbaijan was a summer residence for the Shaki Khans. It was built in 1797 by Muhammed Hasan Khan. The palace was intended to house the Khans who were in charge of controlling Sheki, as viceroys of the ruling Zand and later Qajar Persian dynasties around 1750 until the time when these territories were annexed by the Russian Empire per treaty of Gulistan in 1813 after the Russo-Persian War (1804–1813).
The Palace of Shaki Khans was nominated for List of World Heritage Sites, UNESCO in 1998 by Gulnara Mehmandarova — president of Azerbaijan Committee of ICOMOS—International Council on Monuments and Sites.
On 7 July 2019, the Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
15 locals recommend
Sheki
The Palace of Shaki Khans (Azerbaijani: Şəki xanlarının sarayı) in Shaki, Azerbaijan was a summer residence for the Shaki Khans. It was built in 1797 by Muhammed Hasan Khan. The palace was intended to house the Khans who were in charge of controlling Sheki, as viceroys of the ruling Zand and later Qajar Persian dynasties around 1750 until the time when these territories were annexed by the Russian Empire per treaty of Gulistan in 1813 after the Russo-Persian War (1804–1813).
The Palace of Shaki Khans was nominated for List of World Heritage Sites, UNESCO in 1998 by Gulnara Mehmandarova — president of Azerbaijan Committee of ICOMOS—International Council on Monuments and Sites.
On 7 July 2019, the Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Qabala (Gabala; Azerbaijani: Qəbələ) is a city and the administrative centre of the Qabala District of Azerbaijan. The municipality consists of the city of Gabala and the village of Küsnat.[3] Before the city was known as Kutkashen, but after the Republic of Azerbaijan's independence the town was renamed in honour of the much older city of Gabala, the former capital of Caucasian Albania, the archaeological site of which is about 20 km southwest.
24 locals recommend
Gebele
Qabala (Gabala; Azerbaijani: Qəbələ) is a city and the administrative centre of the Qabala District of Azerbaijan. The municipality consists of the city of Gabala and the village of Küsnat.[3] Before the city was known as Kutkashen, but after the Republic of Azerbaijan's independence the town was renamed in honour of the much older city of Gabala, the former capital of Caucasian Albania, the archaeological site of which is about 20 km southwest.
The ancient town of Shemakha is located at the foothills of the Big Caucasus Mountains Chain. The general elevation of Shemakha is 800 meters over the sea level.
One of the most ancient oriental trading cities, for a long period Shemakha knew a very active commercial life, being one of the basic points in the region the Silk Route was going through.
Mild climate of this temperate zone, rich soil, abundant forests, alpine meadows are distinctive features of this part of Azerbaijan. The population of this district works mostly in viticulture, vine growing and wine making (Shemakha is famous for excellent wines produced both in wineries and privately at homes), cultivation of fruit and vegetables, cattle-breeding and carpet weaving. Visitors can tour carpet factories and local vineyards (which produce sweet fortified wines). The wine tradition is quite old and the area even has its own pink grape variety, Madrasa / Matrassa, indigenous to Madrasa, a village in Shamakha rayon. These grapes are used for excellent dry red wines, such as "Giz Galasi", "Yeddi Gozal", "Naznazi" and "Gara Gila". Local legend claims that the first french vines came from Shemakha! In fact the wine produced along the western Caucasus came a long way. As early as the late 15th century wines from this area were bought by some of the more demanding wine connoisseurs in western Europe: the Portuguese. Scores of traders, soldiers, priests and adventurers followed Portuguese expansion in Asia, creating a local market for the caucasian wines
Shamakhi
The ancient town of Shemakha is located at the foothills of the Big Caucasus Mountains Chain. The general elevation of Shemakha is 800 meters over the sea level.
One of the most ancient oriental trading cities, for a long period Shemakha knew a very active commercial life, being one of the basic points in the region the Silk Route was going through.
Mild climate of this temperate zone, rich soil, abundant forests, alpine meadows are distinctive features of this part of Azerbaijan. The population of this district works mostly in viticulture, vine growing and wine making (Shemakha is famous for excellent wines produced both in wineries and privately at homes), cultivation of fruit and vegetables, cattle-breeding and carpet weaving. Visitors can tour carpet factories and local vineyards (which produce sweet fortified wines). The wine tradition is quite old and the area even has its own pink grape variety, Madrasa / Matrassa, indigenous to Madrasa, a village in Shamakha rayon. These grapes are used for excellent dry red wines, such as "Giz Galasi", "Yeddi Gozal", "Naznazi" and "Gara Gila". Local legend claims that the first french vines came from Shemakha! In fact the wine produced along the western Caucasus came a long way. As early as the late 15th century wines from this area were bought by some of the more demanding wine connoisseurs in western Europe: the Portuguese. Scores of traders, soldiers, priests and adventurers followed Portuguese expansion in Asia, creating a local market for the caucasian wines
Food scene
One of Shirvanshah’s most interesting features is that it’s something of food, western museum of sorts. There are many performers playing national and ethnic music while you consume and appreciate your meal. Inside, there are also several works created by various Azeri artists. Inside the Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant, you will find art and jewellery, among many other things, dating back decades and even a century. It is certainly among the top restaurants in Baku.
18 locals recommend
Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant
One of Shirvanshah’s most interesting features is that it’s something of food, western museum of sorts. There are many performers playing national and ethnic music while you consume and appreciate your meal. Inside, there are also several works created by various Azeri artists. Inside the Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant, you will find art and jewellery, among many other things, dating back decades and even a century. It is certainly among the top restaurants in Baku.
This historic two-storey caravanserai wraps its alcoved stone walls around a coverable courtyard featuring two dwarf fig trees and a trickling fountain. It's a quintessential Baku experience that's very photogenic, and the Azerbaijani food is good. However, prices are steep and this is a place that's squarely aimed at feasting groups rather than individuals or couples.
Some evenings from 8pm there's a dinner show that might be wailing Muğam music or an impressive cabaret showcasing various Caucasian musical and dance styles (more often at weekends). Either way, expect it to add 15% to your bill. The whole restaurant is not infrequently closed for private functions
Mugam Club
This historic two-storey caravanserai wraps its alcoved stone walls around a coverable courtyard featuring two dwarf fig trees and a trickling fountain. It's a quintessential Baku experience that's very photogenic, and the Azerbaijani food is good. However, prices are steep and this is a place that's squarely aimed at feasting groups rather than individuals or couples.
Some evenings from 8pm there's a dinner show that might be wailing Muğam music or an impressive cabaret showcasing various Caucasian musical and dance styles (more often at weekends). Either way, expect it to add 15% to your bill. The whole restaurant is not infrequently closed for private functions
Nergiz (often written as ‘Nargiz’) is one of the most famous restaurants in Baku, among both foreigners and locals. For more than thirty years, the Azeri restaurant has been around and takes pride in its excellent customer care, comfortable interior and tasty local cuisine. The interior will lead you on a trip through the history of Azerbaijan when you can see the place adorned with carpets and images of the old city. Nergiz is situated on one of the major squares in town, Fountain Square, but it feels peaceful and like you’ve been transplanted to another planet (one with incredible food) If you’re looking for a delicious dish to indulge at Nergiz, try their sadj.
8 locals recommend
Nergiz Restaurant
9 Tərlan ƏliyarbəyovNergiz (often written as ‘Nargiz’) is one of the most famous restaurants in Baku, among both foreigners and locals. For more than thirty years, the Azeri restaurant has been around and takes pride in its excellent customer care, comfortable interior and tasty local cuisine. The interior will lead you on a trip through the history of Azerbaijan when you can see the place adorned with carpets and images of the old city. Nergiz is situated on one of the major squares in town, Fountain Square, but it feels peaceful and like you’ve been transplanted to another planet (one with incredible food) If you’re looking for a delicious dish to indulge at Nergiz, try their sadj.
Rice lovers are happy that this is your place. Restaurant Nakhchivan offers the same name-Nakhchivan dishes from the Azerbaijan enclave. A chef who knows the region, the ingredients and the passionate preparation which goes into Nakhchivan ‘s cuisine prepare them exquisitely. There you can find 15 different types of plovs, Ordubad snacks, and Nakhchivan kebabs. This is definitely the best restaurant to visit in Baku if you’re looking to try more out of the country that might not be easy to find in the capital. Nakhchivan Restaurant can be found at 8 Parliament Ave in Baku.
6 locals recommend
Nakhchivan Restaurant
8a Parlament ProspektiRice lovers are happy that this is your place. Restaurant Nakhchivan offers the same name-Nakhchivan dishes from the Azerbaijan enclave. A chef who knows the region, the ingredients and the passionate preparation which goes into Nakhchivan ‘s cuisine prepare them exquisitely. There you can find 15 different types of plovs, Ordubad snacks, and Nakhchivan kebabs. This is definitely the best restaurant to visit in Baku if you’re looking to try more out of the country that might not be easy to find in the capital. Nakhchivan Restaurant can be found at 8 Parliament Ave in Baku.
Sehrli Tendir, located in the Old Town of Baku, is a well-known Baku establishment that sells genuine Azeri food and refrains from selling alcohol. The food is simply great, but the costs are low. The restaurant looks like a cave, and the food is served in a burning clay over which qutab and other Azeri dishes are made. Sehrli Tendir can find omelettes, dolma, piti and many other staples of Azerbaijani cuisine.
Sehrli Təndir
Kichik QalaSehrli Tendir, located in the Old Town of Baku, is a well-known Baku establishment that sells genuine Azeri food and refrains from selling alcohol. The food is simply great, but the costs are low. The restaurant looks like a cave, and the food is served in a burning clay over which qutab and other Azeri dishes are made. Sehrli Tendir can find omelettes, dolma, piti and many other staples of Azerbaijani cuisine.
Tonqal, a high-class establishment with a traditional Azeri tendir (like a tandoori oven), and its own wine cellar, is one of the most famous and best restaurants in Baku. The Tonqal dishes are a combination of typical Azerbaijani food with Western flavours. They take pleasure in finding the finest available ingredients and using local produce to render delicious dishes with pleasure. Besides the food, the best thing about Tonqal is that it is the best restaurant for all travellers-families, solo travellers, and also couples who are looking for a romantic evening. Tonqal can be found on 82 Acad. Rue Hasan Aliyev in Baku.
Tonqal Restoranı
Hasan Aliyev StreetTonqal, a high-class establishment with a traditional Azeri tendir (like a tandoori oven), and its own wine cellar, is one of the most famous and best restaurants in Baku. The Tonqal dishes are a combination of typical Azerbaijani food with Western flavours. They take pleasure in finding the finest available ingredients and using local produce to render delicious dishes with pleasure. Besides the food, the best thing about Tonqal is that it is the best restaurant for all travellers-families, solo travellers, and also couples who are looking for a romantic evening. Tonqal can be found on 82 Acad. Rue Hasan Aliyev in Baku.
Paul’s Steakhouse Baku is a heaven for meat lovers and a must-visit spot for those in Baku who want to try something a little special. It’s claimed Paul’s has the best steaks in the world. The beef comes from Argentina and can be perfectly complemented with a delicious Azerbaijani wine which the staff knows very well how to do. There are a large terrace and area where you can sit and admire the city’s breathtaking views while enjoying a meal at one of Baku’s best restaurants. Paul’s Steakhouse can be located in Baku at Nigar Rafibayli.
6 locals recommend
Paul's Baku Steakhouse
10 Nigar RəfibəyliPaul’s Steakhouse Baku is a heaven for meat lovers and a must-visit spot for those in Baku who want to try something a little special. It’s claimed Paul’s has the best steaks in the world. The beef comes from Argentina and can be perfectly complemented with a delicious Azerbaijani wine which the staff knows very well how to do. There are a large terrace and area where you can sit and admire the city’s breathtaking views while enjoying a meal at one of Baku’s best restaurants. Paul’s Steakhouse can be located in Baku at Nigar Rafibayli.
Dining at this revolving restaurant is the only way to gain access to Baku’s iconic Soviet-era TV tower. Views are stupendous and the upscale menu includes interesting options like sturgeon in pomegranate (AZN40) and tenderloin in cognac-gorgonzola sauce (AZN30). Reservations are usually required. There is an AZN20 'deposit' (ie minimum per-person charge) that can be recouped against purchases of drinks or food.
Take bus 3 from the Flame Towers to the Zoological Institute stop, then walk seven minutes steeply down to the entrance portal. From here a surreal tunnel of lights and gilding lead 85m to the tower's elevator.
If you don't want to pay the deposit, you could have a drink at the outdoor ground-floor terrace section which has excellent views of its own.
Please also check the prices before you go there, may be they have renewed the prices.
Teleqüllə
Dining at this revolving restaurant is the only way to gain access to Baku’s iconic Soviet-era TV tower. Views are stupendous and the upscale menu includes interesting options like sturgeon in pomegranate (AZN40) and tenderloin in cognac-gorgonzola sauce (AZN30). Reservations are usually required. There is an AZN20 'deposit' (ie minimum per-person charge) that can be recouped against purchases of drinks or food.
Take bus 3 from the Flame Towers to the Zoological Institute stop, then walk seven minutes steeply down to the entrance portal. From here a surreal tunnel of lights and gilding lead 85m to the tower's elevator.
If you don't want to pay the deposit, you could have a drink at the outdoor ground-floor terrace section which has excellent views of its own.
Please also check the prices before you go there, may be they have renewed the prices.
Big glass windows illuminate a plethora of pickle jars and hanging rugs, festive musical rhythms create further atmosphere and at the back, big təndir (clay ovens) ensure a supply of fresh baked bread to accompany a range of Azerbaijani specialities.
Try the fisincan plov (rice topped with a nut-and-pomegranate chicken) but here – as anywhere – be cautious of ordering xaş (garlic-rich trotter soup) with which even locals usually require a few shots of vodka.
17 locals recommend
Manqal Restaurant
Kichik QalaBig glass windows illuminate a plethora of pickle jars and hanging rugs, festive musical rhythms create further atmosphere and at the back, big təndir (clay ovens) ensure a supply of fresh baked bread to accompany a range of Azerbaijani specialities.
Try the fisincan plov (rice topped with a nut-and-pomegranate chicken) but here – as anywhere – be cautious of ordering xaş (garlic-rich trotter soup) with which even locals usually require a few shots of vodka.
This fashion-conscious lounge-restaurant sports a ‘theatre kitchen’ producing sophisticated East Asian and Asian-fusion dishes, plus steaks and real caviar. After 11pm it morphs into a bar with sushi available till closing time.
Click the QR code on the menu for pictures of the dishes. Service charge 5%.
11 locals recommend
CHINAR
1 Shovkat AlakbarovaThis fashion-conscious lounge-restaurant sports a ‘theatre kitchen’ producing sophisticated East Asian and Asian-fusion dishes, plus steaks and real caviar. After 11pm it morphs into a bar with sushi available till closing time.
Click the QR code on the menu for pictures of the dishes. Service charge 5%.
The eight-room hotel is a tad kitschy but the front two tables of the upstairs restaurant have the best view of the Maiden's Tower of any Old City eatery. Decent pastas are reasonably priced and there's a range of other international and local dishes.
Museum Inn
The eight-room hotel is a tad kitschy but the front two tables of the upstairs restaurant have the best view of the Maiden's Tower of any Old City eatery. Decent pastas are reasonably priced and there's a range of other international and local dishes.
Several of Baku's best-regarded restaurants and lounges are within this major international hotel, notably the Azeri-Mediterranean Zest 'lifestyle' cafe (good salads), Fireworks 'urban kitchen' for steaks and OroNero for Italian.
JW Marriott Absheron Baku
674 Azadliq SquareSeveral of Baku's best-regarded restaurants and lounges are within this major international hotel, notably the Azeri-Mediterranean Zest 'lifestyle' cafe (good salads), Fireworks 'urban kitchen' for steaks and OroNero for Italian.
Entrée is an appealing bakery-cafe chain whose Baku flagship is this big, suave branch with a glass-walled kitchen, comfy seating and excellent coffee.
7 locals recommend
Entree Bakery Chain
26G Rasul RzaEntrée is an appealing bakery-cafe chain whose Baku flagship is this big, suave branch with a glass-walled kitchen, comfy seating and excellent coffee.
Room Baku (Tarlan Aliyarbeyov st.22, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 4.00.
This cozy wine bar is popular with expats and their wives. Reasonable prices and friendly service. Buffet Wednesday, wine tasting every Thursday and DJ on weekends. Occasional live Jazz. Quiet in the early evening, Room becomes more lively as the night continues with good music and great food to accompany the fine wines. One of the most famous wine bars of Baku.
29 locals recommend
Hard Rock Cafe
8 Əziz Əliyev küçəsiRoom Baku (Tarlan Aliyarbeyov st.22, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 4.00.
This cozy wine bar is popular with expats and their wives. Reasonable prices and friendly service. Buffet Wednesday, wine tasting every Thursday and DJ on weekends. Occasional live Jazz. Quiet in the early evening, Room becomes more lively as the night continues with good music and great food to accompany the fine wines. One of the most famous wine bars of Baku.
Prive Steak Gallery Baku
14/a Xaqani KüçəsiBeaches/ Aqua parks
Bilgeh Wild Beach
Bakı Dairəvi YoluAmburan Beach Club
My Beach Hotel
Aqua Park Shikhov
Salyan şossesiDalga Beach Aquapark Resort
AF Hotel Aqua Park Novkhani
DənizkənarıSea Breeze Resort
Nightlife/clubs
Buddha Bar (Azadliq Square, JW Marriott Absheron 3rd floor, 674, Baku)
Open Monday through Thursday from 18.00 to 1.00, Friday from 18.00 to 6.00, Saturdays from 9.00 to 6.00.
Located inside the elegant JW Marriot Hotel Absheron, Buddha Bar offers an exotic environment, evoked by amber lights, mahogany furniture and decorative wooden panels, Asian and glittering chandeliers artwork. This magnificent place is one of most popular bars and Baku Favorites. High quality music, refined menu with Asian and European cuisine, all immersed in a pleasant and elegant setting. It can be hard to get without a girl if you do not make a dinner reservation.
16 locals recommend
Buddha Bar Baku
Buddha Bar (Azadliq Square, JW Marriott Absheron 3rd floor, 674, Baku)
Open Monday through Thursday from 18.00 to 1.00, Friday from 18.00 to 6.00, Saturdays from 9.00 to 6.00.
Located inside the elegant JW Marriot Hotel Absheron, Buddha Bar offers an exotic environment, evoked by amber lights, mahogany furniture and decorative wooden panels, Asian and glittering chandeliers artwork. This magnificent place is one of most popular bars and Baku Favorites. High quality music, refined menu with Asian and European cuisine, all immersed in a pleasant and elegant setting. It can be hard to get without a girl if you do not make a dinner reservation.
(National Flag Square, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 18.00 to 24.00, Friday and Saturday from 18.00 to 4.00.
Located near the National Flag Square, Energji is one of the most famous clubs in Baku. Built on two floors, the club has a semi-open terrace with a dance floor and couches, while the middle floor there is the restaurant offers themed dinners. Enerji club is appreciated for the music of high quality DJs and excellent acoustics. Another advantage of the club is very large ballroom, where everyone can dance and enjoy the music. This is one of the best places to meet beautiful girls Azerbaijani, because usually there are enough groups of girls, unaccompanied by men. The best nights are Friday, Saturday and Thursday. One of the landmarks of nightlife Baku.
22 locals recommend
Enerji Club
(National Flag Square, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 18.00 to 24.00, Friday and Saturday from 18.00 to 4.00.
Located near the National Flag Square, Energji is one of the most famous clubs in Baku. Built on two floors, the club has a semi-open terrace with a dance floor and couches, while the middle floor there is the restaurant offers themed dinners. Enerji club is appreciated for the music of high quality DJs and excellent acoustics. Another advantage of the club is very large ballroom, where everyone can dance and enjoy the music. This is one of the best places to meet beautiful girls Azerbaijani, because usually there are enough groups of girls, unaccompanied by men. The best nights are Friday, Saturday and Thursday. One of the landmarks of nightlife Baku.
Pasifico (Seaside Boulevard, 34 Neftchilar Ave, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 18.00 to 24.00, Friday and Saturday from 18.00 to 6.00.
One of the most popular nightclubs in Baku, Pasifico is a restaurant that turns into a club, combining a good kitchen, a fantastic bar, a DJ station and a stage for shows which hosts live events and international guest artists throughout the year. The interior is inspired by the rainforest and there is an outside terrace overlooking the Caspian Sea, decorated in wood and elegant and comfortable furniture to relax. The dance music starts around midnight and most of the guests are groups of friends or couples. The best times are from 3.00 to 6.00. It 'hard to get unless you are accompanied by some girl, better if you book for dinner (although the minimum required expenditure is 50 manat)
Please ask the prices before you go there, may be the prices have been updated.
23 locals recommend
Pasifico Lounge and Dining
34 Neftçilər ProspektiPasifico (Seaside Boulevard, 34 Neftchilar Ave, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 18.00 to 24.00, Friday and Saturday from 18.00 to 6.00.
One of the most popular nightclubs in Baku, Pasifico is a restaurant that turns into a club, combining a good kitchen, a fantastic bar, a DJ station and a stage for shows which hosts live events and international guest artists throughout the year. The interior is inspired by the rainforest and there is an outside terrace overlooking the Caspian Sea, decorated in wood and elegant and comfortable furniture to relax. The dance music starts around midnight and most of the guests are groups of friends or couples. The best times are from 3.00 to 6.00. It 'hard to get unless you are accompanied by some girl, better if you book for dinner (although the minimum required expenditure is 50 manat)
Please ask the prices before you go there, may be the prices have been updated.
Crazzy Bear (Bashir Safaroglu 170, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 2.00.
Popular with locals in their twenties, This disco welcomes a crowd of revelers with its motto “Eat, drink and rock”. It 'a good place to find dance late night atmosphere that is neither squalid nor excessively opulent.
Crazzy Bear
170 Bashir Safaroglu StreetCrazzy Bear (Bashir Safaroglu 170, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 2.00.
Popular with locals in their twenties, This disco welcomes a crowd of revelers with its motto “Eat, drink and rock”. It 'a good place to find dance late night atmosphere that is neither squalid nor excessively opulent.
Madrid Bar (National Flag Square, Baku)
Open Monday through Thursday from 19.00 to 2.00, from Friday to Sunday from 19.00 to 3.00.
It located a little outside the center, This cocktail bar in the Spanish theme is frequented by a mixed crowd and a friendly team of bartenders. The atmosphere here is vibrant with fantastic music from DJ adds to. The outdoor terrace during the summer season is the perfect place to watch the sunset or relaxing with friends over the weekend.
Madrid Bar
Madrid Bar (National Flag Square, Baku)
Open Monday through Thursday from 19.00 to 2.00, from Friday to Sunday from 19.00 to 3.00.
It located a little outside the center, This cocktail bar in the Spanish theme is frequented by a mixed crowd and a friendly team of bartenders. The atmosphere here is vibrant with fantastic music from DJ adds to. The outdoor terrace during the summer season is the perfect place to watch the sunset or relaxing with friends over the weekend.
Barfly (41 Boyuk Qala, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Wednesday 18.00 to 1.00, from Thursday to Saturday from 18.00 to 3.00.
You come here in the afternoon for a quiet tasting of wines Azerbaijanis, While after 22.00 expect a fashionable crowd, skilled mixologists and evenings with DJ sets.
Barfly Social Hub
41 Boyuk QalaBarfly (41 Boyuk Qala, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Wednesday 18.00 to 1.00, from Thursday to Saturday from 18.00 to 3.00.
You come here in the afternoon for a quiet tasting of wines Azerbaijanis, While after 22.00 expect a fashionable crowd, skilled mixologists and evenings with DJ sets.
360 Bar (Azadlig Avenue 1, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 2.00.
Located on the 25th floor on the roof of the Hilton Baku Hotel, This luxurious bar allows you to watch the aerial view of 360 ° on the city and the Caspian Sea with the sun setting in the background. The amber interior round out the vibrations of this bar and create the right atmosphere for every type of visitor. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and aperitifs and listen to their DJ sets. For a classy evening in Baku.
6 locals recommend
360 Bar & Cafe
360 Bar (Azadlig Avenue 1, Baku)
Open daily from 17.00 to 2.00.
Located on the 25th floor on the roof of the Hilton Baku Hotel, This luxurious bar allows you to watch the aerial view of 360 ° on the city and the Caspian Sea with the sun setting in the background. The amber interior round out the vibrations of this bar and create the right atmosphere for every type of visitor. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and aperitifs and listen to their DJ sets. For a classy evening in Baku.
Paulaner Bräuhaus Baku (Alfred Nobel, 25 B, Baku)
Open daily from 16.00 to 2.00.
Get ready to hear the clink of glasses of beer at Paulaner Brauhaus in Baku. Every Monday there is the evening “unlimited beer”, On Saturdays you can attend live music performances. And 'the only Baku bars where you can feel the vibrations of Munich!
Paulaner Baku
25B 8 Noyabr ProspektiPaulaner Bräuhaus Baku (Alfred Nobel, 25 B, Baku)
Open daily from 16.00 to 2.00.
Get ready to hear the clink of glasses of beer at Paulaner Brauhaus in Baku. Every Monday there is the evening “unlimited beer”, On Saturdays you can attend live music performances. And 'the only Baku bars where you can feel the vibrations of Munich!
People Livebar (69 Nizami St, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 9.00 to 2.00, Friday and Saturday from 9.00 to 4.00.
An elegant and unique atmosphere atmosphere will welcome you at People Livebar. In the evenings here you can dance with your friends to the music played by local DJs. Fine wines and delicious cocktails.
People Livebar
69 Nizami StreetPeople Livebar (69 Nizami St, Baku)
Open from Sunday to Thursday 9.00 to 2.00, Friday and Saturday from 9.00 to 4.00.
An elegant and unique atmosphere atmosphere will welcome you at People Livebar. In the evenings here you can dance with your friends to the music played by local DJs. Fine wines and delicious cocktails.