Baku is the biggest city and also the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is located 28 meters below the sea level, which makes it the lowest lying national capital in the world. It takes 3 hours flight time from Moscow to reach the Azeri capital. Baku is a very important tourist destination. It has many important tourist and entertainment spots.
First Impressions of Baku
Baku is a giant mix of cultures. The country of Azerbaijan lies at the crossroads of Asia, Europe and Middle East and the influence of all the three regions can be seen on the culture of the country, especially when it comes to Cosine, religion etc. Baku is combination of both Old and New. It is a culmination point of Modern and Traditional ways of living. You can get a traditional feeling while you visit the ancient old city, which is surrounded by massive brick walls on both sides. There is a ultra-modern look to the city as well, with modern skyline. Lots of oil money have contributed to the fast growing economy and has changed the face of the city.
The food is fantastic – lots of kebabs, tea, vegetables, meat and flat bread. You will love it when you are in Baku.
What to do in Baku?
Baku is often considered as “Mini Dubai” in regards to all the tourist attractions around the town.
Walking around the old city – The old city is really charming and full of attractions. Go around the city and I am sure that you will just love walking along the cobblestone streets, narrow winding alleys, boutique houses, and tons of local shops, cafes and restaurants. You will have a memorable and a refreshing feeling which can’t be described in words.
Go up the flame towers – These are the iconic structures and can be rightly called some of the most modern and amazing buildings of the Caucasus region. There are three buildings that are identical in size and appearance. You may take a cable car up the mountain to the base of the towers, and then pay a fee to go up the observatory deck. The view is just so amazing and memorable.
Visit the Hyder Aliyev Center Museum
This is a place that you must not miss while you are in Baku. This is a funky modern building. The museum was built by the famous female architect Zaha Hadid and believe me you will just love the overall ambiance of the place.
Take a stroll along the Caspian Sea Boardwalk
The Caspian Sea is a massive lake, something like an Ocean. This is situated adjacent to the city of Baku. There is an extra-long street that you can walk down, with loads of cafes, bars, restaurants, concert venues, parks and great views of downtown.
Tour of the formula 1 Tracks
If you love adventure and sports, and if you do love those fast cars, then obviously you should not forget to pay a visit to the rack tracks of one of the world’s most prestigious events.
Eat and enjoy the Local cuisine
Baku is very famous its cuisines. A visit to Baku is not complete unless you have tasted the local cuisines. It has a lot in common with Iranian and Turkish foods. Kebabs, Salads, flat bread, hummus, fresh fruits and vegetables are quite popular all over Azerbaijan. One of the favorite Azeri treat is drinking tea with strawberry Jam. The cuisine is just so amazing and I bet that you will repent if you do not enjoy the local cuisines of Azerbaijan, while you are there in Baku.
Nightlife
Baku boasts of a vibrant nightlife. There are many clubs that are open till dawn. Most of the bars are located near fountain square and are open until the early hours of the morning. Baku is home to numerous restaurants catering to every cuisine and occasion. Restaurants range from luxurious and expensive to ordinary and affordable. In the “Lonely Planet” Baku was ranked 8th among top ten cities of the world.
Shopping in Baku
Baku is a good place for shopping. It has many shopping malls. The famous city center malls are Park Bulvar, Genclik Mall, Metro Park, 28 Mall, Aygun City and AF Mall. You will find shops from chain stores to high end boutique. Nizami Street in Baku is one of the best but a bit expensive, if you want to go for shopping.
Parks and Gardens
Baku has large sections of greenery, either preserved by National Government or designated as green zones. Baku Boulevard is a pedestrian and runs parallel to Baku’s seafront. The Boulevard contains an amusement park, yacht club, musical fountain, statues and monuments. Other important parks are Heydar Aliyev Park, Samad Vurgun Park, Narimanov Park, alley of Honor and the fountains square. There is Martyr’s Lane, formerly known as Kirov Park, is dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Nagorno – Karabakh war.
Transport
Baku has a versatile transport system. Apart from the local Cabs, there is a robust rail system. You can use Baku Card, which is a single system of payment for all types of city transport. The intercity buses and metro use this kind of card based fare payment system. The Caspian Sea port has six passenger terminals and the port fleet terminal. The motorway network surrounding Baku is well developed. The Heydar Aliyev International Airport is the only serving commercial airport.
Baku has really got a lot to offer. Once you come to Baku, I am sure that not only will you leave with memorable experiences but also with a promise to come back soon. Azerbaijan is a progressive country and every time you come to Baku, you will see widespread changes. Baku is place that captivates a man’s imagination with its splendor and beauty. Person of any age group can visit Baku and feel the difference. There is a lot to see and experience in Baku which is really different from the rest of the world and I can bet that you will just love it.
