Discover Baku: A Travel Destination Worth Exploring

As COP29 wraps up in Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, it's a great time to highlight this remarkable city as an exceptional travel destination. Known for its dynamic commercial scene, rich history, and stunning natural attractions, Baku offers visitors picturesque views of the Caspian Sea and a unique blend of old and new.

A Blend of Old and New

Baku impresses with its striking combination of modern architecture and historical sites. The Old Town, or Icheri Sheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases a walled city, welcoming diverse cultures since the Palaeolithic era.

Visitors can indulge in traditional breakfasts featuring oven-baked Tandir bread, salty cheeses, fresh honey, cream, and Pomidor Chighirtmas (scrambled eggs with tomatoes), all paired with hot sweet tea.

A must-visit is the Maiden Tower, a cylindrical 12th-century monument. For just 15 Azerbaijani Manat, guests can explore its intriguing history and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop. The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a stunning example of 15th-century architecture, is also a highlight.

As you stroll through Old Town, don’t miss the unique street art that reflects Baku's vibrant creative spirit.

Day Trips and Natural Wonders

Baku is a fantastic base for day trips to explore the surrounding natural wonders. Popular excursions include the mud volcanoes of Gobustan and the Rock Art Cultural Landscape, which is home to over 6,000 ancient petroglyphs—just an hour’s drive from the city.

The Ateshgah Fire Temple, once a place of worship for Hindus, Sikhs, and Zoroastrians, provides insight into Azerbaijan's diverse history. Visitors can also marvel at Yanar Dag (“Burning Mountain”), where natural gas fuels eternal flames that reach up to three meters high.

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid, which houses a museum, library, and concert hall within its stunning structure.

For those who can extend their trip, the tea plantations in Lankaran and the historic city of Sheki offer rich cultural experiences just a few hours from Baku.

Traditional Dining Experiences

Culinary experiences are a highlight for anyone visiting Baku. The charming restaurants in Old Town offer authentic Azerbaijani cuisine that shouldn’t be missed. Recommended spots like Qaynana Restaurant, Firuze Restaurant, Shirvanshah Restaurant-Museum, and Dolma Restaurant serve hearty dumplings, saffron-infused plov, juicy dolma, melt-in-your-mouth kebabs, and buttery Qutab, often complemented by local pomegranate wine.

Join Us in Exploring Baku

At Travels Mantra, we believe that travel is about discovering new cultures and experiences. Baku has proven to be an unforgettable destination filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. We invite you to explore this remarkable city with us. Whether you're looking for guided tours, culinary experiences, or cultural insights, Travels Mantra is here to help you create lasting memories in Baku and beyond.