About this experience
Immerse yourself in Baku to the fullest! From the oil heritage of the Land of Fire to the architecture of the 'Eastern Paris', the ultra-modern Flame Towers, and the Heydar Aliyev Center: you will see and learn about the highlights of the new and newest Baku. Visit the colorful Baku market for authentic tomatoes and pomegranates. Finally, spend three hours at the home of an Azerbaijani family with traditions, songs, dances, and of course, national dishes.
What to Expect
Auto-pedestrian sightseeing tour: In a couple of hours, we will cover the landmarks of the oil boom era and the modern mind-blowing constructions.
- See the luxurious mansions of oil barons from the 19th to early 20th centuries and understand why Baku was called the 'Eastern Paris'.
- Stroll through the Seaside Boulevard Park on the Caspian Sea, where you will admire the 'Venice of Baku' and learn about the national musical art of mugham.
- We will also talk about outstanding Baku residents: Muslim Magomayev, Lev Landau, Mstislav Rostropovich, and culinary artist Stalik Khankishiyev.
- A separate focus will be on the most interesting architectural projects in Baku. I will talk about the creation and significance of the Flame Towers - the new symbol of the city, the Heydar Aliyev Center by Zaha Hadid, the Carpet Museum building, and the Crystal Hall that hosted Eurovision in 2012.
Explosion of tastes and aromas at the Baku market: Immersed in the color of the eastern market, you will learn about Azerbaijani tomatoes that taste like tomatoes, how to brew traditional 'meyhmeri' tea, the symbolism of pomegranate and the associated festival. I will explain how to choose the finest Caspian smoked sturgeon, black caviar, spices, tea, and infusions. Additionally, we will visit a signature store where you can try and buy Azerbaijani wines, brandy, and pomegranate and quince vodka.
Azerbaijani cuisine and dances at the home of a Baku family: You will be warmly welcomed by local residents at their home: three enriching hours with national songs, dances, a tea party, and, of course, a dinner with Azerbaijani dishes. The evening will be filled with stories about Baku sweets, wedding traditions, recipes, and secrets of our gastronomy, about the country's great musicians - everything to understand what Azerbaijan is all about!
Organizational Details
- Transportation costs, lunch with wine, and a tea party at the Azerbaijani family's home are included in the tour price
- Market expenses at your discretion