If you are looking for a modern city that blends Eastern and Western cultures, with pleasant weather and without overwhelming crowds, then Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is the perfect destination for you. This beautiful city on the Caspian Sea offers a mix of ancient buildings, elegant mosques, natural wonders, impressive architecture, and modern luxuries. To ensure you make the most of your trip to Baku, we have compiled a short guide of 13 must-see attractions.
These three impressive towers - an office building, a residential complex, and a luxury hotel - are an iconic representation of contemporary Azerbaijan. Standing at 182 meters tall, they dominate the Baku skyline and are visible from almost every corner of the city. Unfortunately, there is no designated observation deck for tourists in any of the towers. However, you can enjoy a close-up view of the towers, as well as a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, from Dağüstü Park nearby. You can reach the park through the municipal cable car that departs from the beach area near the sea.
The iconic building, which won the title of "Design of the Year" in 2014, was planned and designed by the renowned architect, Zaha Hadid. The spacious center boasts beautiful galleries showcasing a range of exhibitions. Visitors can explore exhibitions dedicated to Azerbaijan's former leader, Heydar Aliyev, the country's breathtaking architecture, and various art displays. The center also includes a concert hall, library, restaurant, and more.
This museum is truly captivating, with its unique architecture resembling a giant rolled carpet. While it does showcase a stunning collection of woven carpets adorned with diverse patterns from all over the country, including those from the Soviet era, there is much more to discover. Visitors can also explore an impressive array of clothing and other textile artifacts that provide an authentic glimpse into Azerbaijan's rich history.
This historic temple may not be situated in the heart of the city, but it's definitely worth venturing a little further to witness its grandeur. Enclosed by towering walls, the temple has been home to a continuously burning fire since the 18th century. Originally constructed as a place of worship for Zoroastrian followers, it later became a popular destination for Hindu traders and tourists who frequented Baku during the heyday of the Silk Road. While the fire was once fueled by natural gas from an underground reservoir, it is now maintained using modern methods.
Visit the magnificent tower located in the heart of Baku's old city walls, which is a well-known and popular tourist destination. This cylindrical tower has been standing tall since the 12th century and is almost 30 meters high. Climbing up its 80 steps will reward you with a breathtaking view of the beautiful city of Baku. The tower houses the Mark History Museum, where you can explore the city's rich history. Don't miss out on this amazing experience.
Yanar Dag, an underground reservoir of natural gas, located about 25 km from Baku, is a unique natural wonder that one should not miss. The flames have been burning here for many years, lighting up the area naturally without any artificial accessories needed. If you want to escape the city and experience the magic of nature, Yanar Dag is a must-visit destination.
The Shirvansha Palace is a must-visit destination in Baku for anyone interested in rich historical architecture. This magnificent palace, located within the old city walls, is a testament to the grandeur of the Shirvansha dynasty. Built during the 15th century, the palace complex features a variety of structures, including a mosque, a bathhouse, and a mausoleum. You can explore the intricate details of the palace's design and learn about the fascinating history of the Shirvansha by visiting the museum within the palace walls. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this unique and awe-inspiring piece of Azerbaijani history.
This mosque is a remarkable example of traditional Islamic architecture at its finest. Although not the original design, as it was destroyed in 1936 and rebuilt in the 90s, the reconstruction remains true to the original and preserves the grandeur and magnificence of ancient times. Situated on a hill, the mosque offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Caspian Sea, making it an ideal location for sightseeing.
If you're looking for a refreshing sea breeze and a delightful evening in Baku, meander along the 2-kilometer stretch of Baku Avenue that hugs the city's coastline. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, admire the scenic views of the Caspian Sea, explore the sculptures and fountains that adorn the boardwalk, and indulge in a wide array of restaurants, shopping centers, and attractions. One such attraction is the "mini-Venice," a charming miniature model of the city of canals that offers boat rides. 
The National Art Museum of Azerbaijan is a vast complex comprising two buildings that house over 15,000 works of art from Azerbaijan and the surrounding region. The first building is dedicated to European and Russian art, while the second building showcases the finest of Eastern art with an array of exquisite items from Persian, Turkish, Japanese and Chinese cultures. Moreover, the museum also boasts an intriguing collection of miniature books that is worth exploring.
This mosque is relatively new, established only in 1905. However, its classical design and symmetrical lines make it an impressive and graceful sight. The magnificent dome is adorned with religious drawings and reliefs, and the pair of minarets are coated with pure gold. Inside, the mosque is decorated with rare paintings in the Azeri style and traditional decorations.
The Nizami Museum of Azeri Literature is an essential destination for anyone interested in delving deeper into Azerbaijan's cultural past. The museum, named after a renowned poet from the 12th century, boasts an impressive exterior adorned with striking statues of the country's greatest writers and poets. Inside, visitors will find 30 exhibition halls brimming with manuscripts, ancient books, portraits, and a range of art objects. The museum is a fitting tribute to the rich heritage of this region and a must-visit for those seeking to learn more about it.
