About this experience
This excursion is for true travel connoisseurs who value their time. For those who want to explore the city and feel its pulse. You will encounter ancient and modern Baku, get familiar with its architectural diversity, traditions, and cuisine. And all of this against the backdrop of the capital's main attractions and surroundings, with a touch of 'Baku humor', without rushing and with love for the city from a native Bakuvian.
What to Expect
Baku and its surroundings – the crème de la crème
In 8 hours, we will cover the key epochs and sights of Azerbaijan and the capital. I will talk about the history with an emphasis on the contrast between the ancient and modern city, the phenomena of Baku's architecture, the traditions of its residents, and the love and destinies of great Bakuvians.
- Old City of Baku, also known as Icherisheher – the heart of Azerbaijan. On the cozy stone streets, you will see the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and learn about these rulers, explore ancient mosques, caravanserais, hammams, and bazaars, discover locations from iconic Soviet films. Of course, we will not miss the Maiden Tower – the hallmark of Baku from the 8-7th centuries BCE, shrouded in legends.
- Architectural masterpieces of the oil boom era: passing by the Bakuvian palaces from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, you will learn how black gold changed the life and appearance of Baku, how European customs were adopted, and how the wealthy lived. In this part of the tour, we will also take a break in the elegant Governor's Garden adjacent to the Old City.
- Baku Boulevard – one of the longest in the world. Feeling the Caspian Sea breeze, you will pass by the Baku Venice, marvel at the Carpet Museum building, and visit Flag Square with the world's tallest flagpole.
- Baku of the 21st century: near impressive sites like the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center with the 2012 Best Design award and the Flame Towers, you will hear about the construction of modern Baku and the 'White City' project.
- Fire Temple Ateshgah and Yanar Dag Mountain: you will venture beyond the capital to touch upon Azerbaijan's ancient religion – Zoroastrianism. We will talk about the cult of fire at the fire-worshippers' temple and at the mountain whose natural fire never extinguishes. Along the way, you will also see the world's oldest Nobel oil fields and take photos with them.
Crafts and cuisine – immerse yourself in the country's culture
It's no secret that food in Azerbaijan is elevated to an art. I will introduce you to the nuances of the national cuisine and recommend the most delicious spots on the map of Baku – at one of these local restaurants, we will enjoy a true 'shashlyk' lunch! Additionally, you will appreciate the skills of Azerbaijani craftsmen: visit the museum of miniature books, the workshop of the artist Ali Shamsi, and souvenir shops.
The tour will culminate in an impressive panorama of the Baku Bay from the observation deck in National Park. And after the tour, my guests will receive a gift – a bottle of pomegranate wine or a box of collectible Azerbaijani tea.
Who This Tour Is For
- Travelers transiting or passing through Baku
- First-time visitors to Baku who want to discover the essentials without spending too much precious vacation time
The program is flexible – I am always ready to make changes to the route based on your preferences.
Organizational Details
- Transportation costs are included in the price
- Lunch is an additional cost, but I guarantee you will be pleasantly surprised by the prices
Additional Offerings
- Changes to the itinerary and cost can be discussed depending on time constraints
- The Fire Temple excursion can be replaced with Gobustan (an archaeological reserve) and mud volcanoes
- Discounts are available for larger groups
