About this experience
In one day, you will see all the iconic landmarks from the Old City to the White City and trace the city's evolution from ancient times to the present day. The narrow, winding streets of the Old City, the gleaming skyscrapers, the 'London-style' black cabs, vibrant markets, morning calls of the traders, unique Bakuvian courtyards, the aroma of Lankaran tea, and the taste of hot tandoor bread: on my tour, you will encounter hundreds of contrasting details blending the past and the present, and feel like a true Bakuvian!
What to Expect
Old City: At the Roots of the City
To immerse yourself in the colors of the Azerbaijani capital, we will start the walk from the 'Baku Acropolis' - the fortress of the Old City. From the central Gosha Gala Gate, you will pass by the residences of the Bakuvian khans, the Maiden Tower, the Shirvanshahs' Palace, authentic caravanserais, and pre-Islamic cult structures. Along the way, I will tell you amazing stories of the 'house without plumbing' and the mansion of Gadzhi Ramazanov, as well as take you on the trail of cult movies 'Diamond Arm' and 'The Amphibian Man'.
Baku in the Era of the Oil Boom
Stepping outside the fortress walls of the Old City, you will be transported to the oil era of Baku, when the city rapidly grew rich, developed, and expanded. We will walk along the former Nikolayevskaya Street, admiring the luxurious palaces and mansions of the oil magnates: I will reveal the secrets and intrigues hidden behind the elegant facades and tell you about the key figures of that time - Tagiyev, Nagiyev, the Rothschilds, and Gajinski.
New Azerbaijan, New City, New People
Next, we will start the car part of the tour, which will introduce you to the ultra-modern Baku, the city of the new generation. You will understand what makes the current appearance of the city unique, learn about fantastic architectural projects that are yet to be realized. We will drive through the White City, built on the site of the Black City, explore the cultural Heydar Aliyev Center, the modern symbol of Baku - the Flame Towers, the picturesque Baku Venice, and the Upland Park. The journey will end at an observation deck, where you will enjoy a magnificent panorama of the whole Baku.
Organizational Details
- The tour is conducted in a comfortable car with a panoramic roof
- A walk along the promenade is possible in good weather conditions
- After the tour, I will share recommendations with you and suggest good local restaurants, clubs, tea houses, and markets
