Discover Old City Baku: Complete Travel Guide in Simple Words

Do you like that feeling when you enter any place, and it tells you something about the times long gone? Imagine a city with smooth limestone walls, some ancient towers, and narrow, narrow streets. Say hello to Old City Baku-also referred to as Icherisheher-one of the most historical wonders of Baku in Azerbaijan. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will take you on a journey into history and culture, which this article is going to deal with.

History of Old City Baku

The fascinating history of Old City Baku in Azerbaijan. In the past, it had been a big trading center along the Silk Road, connecting Europe and Asia. In the 9th century, the city prospered under the widely extended rule of the Shirvanshahs, who built a lot of outstanding constructions such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Juma Mosque.

This was further enriched by a great mix of Islamic and Arabic cultures as well. As the walled city was included in UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites, the city attained its status among the major tourist attractions since 2000.

Best Time to Visit Old City Baku

April to June: This is the peak season where one gets to see very pleasant weather and vibrant streets; the only drawback of this season can be larger crowds and higher prices.

Shoulder Season: This falls between September and October. It is characterized by fewer crowds, lower rates, and comfortable weather.

Off-Season (November to March): Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind cold weather, rain, or snow. You’ll find fewer tourists and discounted rates.

How to Reach Old City Baku

By Air: Fly to Heydar Aliyev International Airport, followed by a further reach to Old City via taxi, bus, or metro.

By Metro: Get the red line to Icherisheher Station, which puts you right at the city walls.

By Road: If you are already in Azerbaijan, then take a taxi, board a bus, or rent a car to reach the Old City.

Top Things to Do in Old City Baku

1. Palace of the Shirvanshahs

This is one of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The palace complex includes a residential part, a bathhouse, and a mausoleum richly decorated with intricate stone carvings. Enter to be taken by the greatness of Azerbaijan's past.

Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM
Entry Fees: 10 AZN

2. Watch the Sunset at the Maiden Tower

Climb the spiral staircase of this mysterious tower for a great view of the city. Legend has it that it was either a Zoroastrian fire temple or an astronomical observatory.

Timings: 10 AM - 6:30 PM
Entry Fees: 6 AZN - for students, 15 AZN - for adults

3. Juma Mosque

It is known as Friday Mosque, being one of the oldest in Baku, and represents magnificent examples of Islamic art: stunning calligraphies and stone carvings.

Timings: During prayer hours, mostly morning and evening.
Entry Fees: Free

4. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum

The museum, shaped as a rolled-up carpet, has within it a treasure of 10,000 carpets and pieces of art. Here, you get to learn different weaving techniques and the art behind such intricate designs.

Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM (Tue-Fri), 11 AM to 7 PM (Sat-Sun)
Entry Fees: 7 AZN (adults), 3 AZN (students/children)

5. Miniature Books Museum

This unique museum is home to 5,600 miniature books from 76 countries. Any lover of books should just visit it as a definite treat!

Timings: 11 am to 5 pm (closed on Sat, Mon, Tue)
Entry Fees: Free

6. Take a walk through the caravanserais

Ancient inns like the Multani Caravanserai and Bukhara Caravanserai once welcomed traders of the Silk Road; today, restaurants and shops occupying them offer peeks into the past.

7. Indulge in a Hammam Experience

Slumber in steamy traditional hammams featuring hot, warm, and cool rooms; add a massage for pure nirvana.

Cost: 30 AZN - 100+ AZN

8. Stroll down vintage streets

The narrow lanes from Icherisher are full of numerous local shops and art galleries, with hidden yard areas. No need to think about your cameras; these areas are perfect for aesthetic photoshoots.

9. Get unique souvenirs

Carpets: real Azerbaijani carpets of different kinds.
Kelagayi: Very lovely silk scarves with flower motives.
Jewelry: Hand-made items in traditional designs.
Ceramics: hand-painted plates and statues.

What to Eat in Old City Baku

Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani food in local restaurants. Here is the list of some dishes which one should not miss:

Plov: Saffron-flavored rice with meat and nuts.
Where to eat: Firuze Restaurant
Dolma: A mixture of rice and meat, wrapped into grape vine leaves.
Where to eat: Köhne Şeher
Kebabs: meat skewers.
Where to eat: Namli Kebap
Dushbara: Lamb dumplings in yogurt sauce.
Where to eat: Dushbara Restaurant
Pakhlava: sweet pastry with honey and nuts.
Where to eat: Pakhlava Boutique Baku

Where to Stay in Old City Baku

Fairmont Baku Flame Towers has a number of rooms with a view of the Caspian Sea.

Sultan Inn Boutique Hotel: This is situated close to the Maiden Tower, with a rooftop terrace.
Two Seasons Boutique Hotel: This hotel is a short walk from the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, featuring cozy rooms.
Shirvanshah Hotel: Famous for its historical charm and perfect Azerbaijani cuisine.

FAQs About Old City Baku

Q1: What are the best times to visit City Baku?

A: The best times are April to June for good weather; though from September to October is also good.

Q2: How much is the entrance fee at major tourist attractions?

Ans: The palace of Shirvanshahs - 10 AZN, Maiden Tower - 6-15 AZN, Carpet Museum - 3-7 AZN.

Q3: How to reach Old City Baku?

Ans: Flight to Heydar Aliyev International Airport or metro up to Icherisheher Station.

Q4: What kind of souvenirs am I able to buy in Old City Baku?

Ans: It can be carpets, scarves of kelagayi, ornaments, ceramics, and carpet bags.

Q5: Are there free sights in Old Town Baku?

Ans: Yes, the Miniature Books Museum and some of the streets of Icherisheher are free to look at.

Conclusion

There lies the perfect mix of history, culture, and beauties in the Old City of Baku: from the very ancient landmarks to vivid street life, there is something for each and every traveler taste inside this walled city. Your visit cannot be forgotten-a tour around the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a sight at souvenir shops, or tasting Azerbaijan food. Finally, plan a tour now and experience it for yourself; witness Icherisheher magic. Ready to explore Azerbaijan with your family? Apply for Azerbaijan visit visa now and discover a world of fun and adventure waiting for you.