Places to visit

Baku is a mesmerising destination that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern architecture. From its UNESCO-listed Old City to its futuristic skyline, Baku offers various attractions that captivate travellers worldwide. Let's explore some of the must-visit places in this vibrant city:

• Old City (Icherisheher) - Start your journey in Baku by exploring the UNESCO-listed Old City, also known as Icherisheher. This historic district is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, palaces, and caravanserais. Immerse in Baku's rich history and cultural heritage as you visit iconic landmarks like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
• Flame Towers - Baku's iconic Flame Towers are a modern symbol of the city's rapid development. These three skyscrapers, resembling flames, dominate the city's skyline and offer breathtaking views of Baku. Visit the Flame Towers at night when they come alive with mesmerising light displays. The towers also house luxury hotels, shopping centres, and restaurants, making it a vibrant hub of activity.
• Heydar Aliyev Center - Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Center is an architectural masterpiece. Its fluid and futuristic design stands out amidst the city's landscape. The centre hosts exhibitions, performances, and cultural events, capturing Azerbaijan's contemporary arts and culture scene. Explore the stunning interiors and admire the innovative design of this cultural landmark.
• Gobustan National Park - Just outside Baku, Gobustan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of rock art and ancient archaeological sites. Explore the park's remarkable collection of prehistoric petroglyphs, depicting scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life from thousands of years ago. The park also features mud volcanoes, fascinating geological formations, and hiking trails that allow you to immerse yourself in Azerbaijan's natural beauty.
• Ateshgah Fire Temple - Located on the outskirts of Baku, the Ateshgah Fire Temple is a unique religious site with historical significance. This ancient Hindu temple was once a place of pilgrimage for Zoroastrians, who worshipped the natural gas fires that burn continuously within the temple complex. Explore the temple's intricate architecture, and learn about its spiritual significance and cultural heritage.
• Carpet Museum - Azerbaijan is known for its rich carpet-weaving tradition, and the Carpet Museum in Baku beautifully showcases this art form. The museum's stunning building resembles a rolled-up carpet and houses an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets and textiles. Learn about the intricate patterns, symbolism, and techniques of Azerbaijani carpet weaving as you delve into the country's cultural heritage.
• Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) - Just outside Baku, Yanar Dag is a natural phenomenon that has been burning for centuries. This "Burning Mountain" is a hillside that continuously burns due to the presence of natural gas reserves. Witness the mesmerising sight of flames dancing on the hillside, creating an otherworldly ambience.
• Baku Boulevard - Stroll along Baku Boulevard, a promenade stretching along the Caspian Sea. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze, picturesque views, and vibrant atmosphere. The boulevard has parks, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Take advantage of the iconic Baku Ferris Wheel, which provides panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Baku is not only known for its rich history and stunning architecture but also for its diverse and delectable culinary offerings. The city is a gastronomic paradise, with a wide range of restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences.

• Firuze Restaurant - Located in the heart of Baku's Old City, Firuze Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a unique dining experience. The menu at Firuze features a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including succulent kebabs, flavorful stews, and aromatic rice pilaf. The restaurant's cosy ambience and friendly staff add to the overall dining experience, making it a favourite among locals and tourists. Try their signature dish, Piti which is a lamb and chickpea stew cooked in a clay pot.
• Nizami Restaurant - Nizami Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to explore a fusion of Azerbaijani and international flavours. Situated in Baku's modern city centre, this contemporary restaurant offers a diverse menu that combines traditional Azerbaijani dishes with elements of international cuisine. Their rooftop terrace provides a stunning view of the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. Be sure to try Qutab which is a stuffed flatbread, and sample their delectable desserts like Shekerbura or Baklava for a sweet ending to your meal.
• Sahil Restaurant - Situated along Baku's picturesque waterfront promenade, Sahil offers a delightful dining experience with its extensive seafood menu and stunning location. Sahil Restaurant showcases the best of Azerbaijani coastal cuisine, from fresh fish and succulent prawns to flavorful crab dishes. The restaurant's elegant and contemporary setting creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal. Feast on "fish kebab" or "shashlik," grilled to perfection and bursting with flavours.

Baku offers an exciting shopping experience for locals and tourists alike. The city is a treasure trove of unique finds and fashionable items, from modern shopping malls to traditional markets. Here are some must-visit places to shop and indulge in a memorable shopping session:

• Nizami Street (Torgovaya) - Located in the heart of Baku, Nizami Street is the city's main shopping thoroughfare and a bustling hub of activity. From high-end luxury brands to local designer boutiques, Nizami Street caters to all budgets and tastes. You'll find an array of fashion apparel, accessories, cosmetics, and jewellery here. The street is also home to several cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, providing a lively atmosphere for a full day of shopping and exploration.
• Park Bulvar Mall - For a modern shopping experience, head to Park Bulvar Mall, a premier shopping destination in Baku. Located along the city's waterfront promenade, this upscale mall features a wide range of international and local brands, making it a shopper's paradise. From fashion and accessories to electronics and home decor, Park Bulvar Mall offers a diverse selection of products under one roof. Apart from shopping, the mall also houses a cinema complex, a food court serving a variety of cuisines, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Caspian Sea.
• Taza Bazaar - For an authentic Azerbaijani shopping experience, visit Taza Bazaar, a traditional market known for its vibrant atmosphere and local products. The market is a labyrinth of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, traditional sweets, local handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in Azerbaijani culture and pick unique gifts or souvenirs to return home. The market's vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and friendly vendors create a delightful shopping experience that shouldn't be missed.

Baku has a wide range of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels with stunning views to boutique guesthouses in charming neighbourhoods, there's something for every type of traveller. Here are some exceptional places to stay in Baku that will enhance your visit and provide a comfortable and memorable experience:

• Four Seasons Hotel Baku - Situated in the heart of the city, Four Seasons Hotel Baku is a luxurious five-star hotel that offers a perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and impeccable service. Four Seasons Hotel Baku ensures a truly indulgent stay with its world-class facilities, including a rooftop pool, spa, fitness centre, and multiple dining options. Its central location allows easy access to major attractions such as the Old City and the Boulevard, making it an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking a refined and luxurious experience.
• Old City Inn - This boutique guesthouse features cosy rooms with traditional Azerbaijani décor, providing a unique glimpse to the city's rich history and culture. The friendly and attentive staff creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The location is perfect for exploring the narrow streets, ancient landmarks, and vibrant local markets of the Old City. With its proximity to historical sites such as Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah's Palace, Old City Inn offers an enchanting stay that blends comfort, authenticity, and cultural immersion.
• Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers - High above the city's skyline, Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers is a striking landmark and a luxurious retreat. This five-star hotel is located in the iconic Flame Towers complex and offers panoramic views of Baku, the Caspian Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The hotel's elegantly designed rooms and suites exude sophistication and provide a paradise of comfort and relaxation. Fairmont Baku ensures a truly indulgent stay. Its convenient location allows easy access to popular attractions such as the Boulevard and Carpet Museum, making it an ideal choice for luxury travellers seeking a memorable and pampering experience.

In addition to the places to visit, eat, and shop, there are many other reasons to consider booking an India to Azerbaijan flight. Here are some of them:

• Modern Architecture and Skyline - Baku is known for its stunning modern architecture that blends seamlessly with its historic surroundings. The cityscape is dominated by iconic structures such as the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that light up the night sky, and the Heydar Aliyev Center which is an architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The city's skyline is a mesmerising blend of old and new, with modern skyscrapers alongside traditional buildings.
• Rich Cultural Heritage - Baku is a city steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. The Old City, also known as Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to ancient mosques, palaces, and caravanserais that showcase the city's architectural marvels. Exploring the Old City's narrow streets is like stepping back in time, with its medieval walls, iconic Maiden Tower, and the impressive Shirvanshah's Palace. Baku also houses a variety of museums and art galleries that exhibit the country's cultural heritage, including the Azerbaijan National Museum of History and the Museum of Modern Art.

Visa and Immigration

If you are an Indian passport holder planning to book flights to Baku from India, it's important to note that you will require a visa to enter Azerbaijan. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your visit.

You must submit an application form and supporting documents to apply for a visa. Some of the required documents include a valid passport, passport-size photographs, proof of travel arrangements, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Azerbaijan.

To ensure a hassle-free and seamless travel, here is a detailed information about the Azerbaijan visa – www.goindigo.in/information/visa-information/azerbaijan-az-visa.html