From Ancient Charms to Modern Marvels, Exploring the Old City, Mud Volcanoes, and Modern Marvels
Greetings, fellow explorers! Let’s dive into my unforgettable journey through Baku, Azerbaijan, back in June. I’m here to share the nitty-gritty details of my 4-day escapade, so let’s get started.
Day 1: From Dubai to Baku – A Smooth Arrival
The adventure began with an early morning flight from Dubai to Baku, setting the tone for an exciting getaway. Here’s what you need to know to make your arrival just as smooth.
Visa Process: For Indian and UAE residents, obtaining a visa to Azerbaijan is a relatively straightforward process. You can apply for an e-visa online. However, I recommend checking the latest visa requirements and processes before your trip, as they may changed.
Currency Exchange: As I landed at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, I headed straight to the currency exchange counters to get Azerbaijani Manats, the local currency. It’s always good to have some cash on hand for taxis and small purchases.
Local Transport: Baku offers various transportation options, but for convenience, I opted for a taxi to my hotel. You can also consider using apps like Uber or Bolt, which are readily available in the city.
SIM and Network Guide: Staying connected is essential, so I purchased a local SIM card at the airport. The two primary mobile operators are Azercell and Bakcell, both offering good network coverage throughout the country.
Language and Culture: Azerbaijani is the official language, but many people in Baku, especially in the service industry, understand and speak English. I found the locals to be warm and hospitable, always ready to assist.
Hotel Check-in: My check-in at the hotel, conveniently located near Nizami Street and Fountain Square, was in the afternoon. The view from my room of European-style buildings and the bustling city set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Evening Delights: I hit the ground running by exploring Nizami Street and Fountain Square in the evening. The lively streets were lined with shops and tantalizing aromas from street food vendors.
Dining: My taste buds danced to the flavors of Azerbaijani cuisine at a local restaurant. Don’t miss trying dishes like Plov and Dolma for a true culinary adventure.
Nightlife: The night came alive with the sounds of music, and I couldn’t resist exploring unique spots like an underground restaurant and a Friends-themed café. These quirky places added an extra layer of fun to the evening.
Shopping: As I meandered through Nizami Street, I couldn’t help but indulge in some retail therapy, picking up handmade bags, accessories, fridge magnets, and souvenirs.
A Tip for Travelers: Now, let me share a little personal mishap. I was so excited on my first day in Baku that I wore brand-new sneakers, not realizing how much walking I had in store. Well, the excitement quickly turned into a painful experience as I developed shoe bite on the first day itself. Lesson learned: wear comfortable shoes throughout the trip, especially in a city like Baku, where exploring on foot is a must!
Day 2: Unveiling the Secrets of Baku’s Old City
Day 2 was all about diving deep into the history and charm of Baku’s Old City. Let’s take a closer look at this enriching experience.
Morning: After a hearty breakfast at my hotel, I set off for the Old City, also known as Icherisheher. This historic gem dates back to the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Language and Culture: While Azerbaijani is the primary language, many historical sites have English signage and guides, making it accessible to international visitors.
Old City Walking Tour: My exploration of the Old City was enhanced by a guided tour that I had booked online. It turned out to be incredibly insightful, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s history. Every corner seemed to whisper tales of the past, and I was completely captivated.
These are the key highlights of my Old City guided tour, providing a glimpse into Baku’s rich heritage and culture.
- Maiden Tower (Giz Galasi): Iconic cylindrical tower with panoramic views.
- Palace of the Shirvanshahs: Historic palace complex showcasing ornate courtyards.
- Juma Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Azerbaijan.
- Bukhara Caravanserai: Ancient lodging for traveling merchants.
- Baku History Museum: Offers insights into Baku’s history and artifacts.
- Baku Fortress Walls: Impressive defensive walls with walkable tops.
- Handicrafts and Souvenir Shops: Unique shops for local crafts and souvenirs.
- Miniature Books Museum: Houses a vast collection of miniature books.
Lunch: I took a break at a charming café within the Old City’s walls, savoring local dishes like Qutab filled with various vegetarian fillings like spinach or pumpkin.
Dining Options: Non-vegetarians can indulge in Azerbaijani classics like Dushbara (dumplings filled with minced meat) or enjoy a seafood platter at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: The day continued with a visit to Baku Boulevard, where I rode the giant Ferris wheel, visited the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, and enjoyed a cable car ride for a stunning city view.
Shopping: The Old City and Baku Boulevard also offer shopping opportunities. Besides carpets, you can find a variety of local crafts, artwork, and more.
Cruise Ride: In the late afternoon, I embarked on a delightful cruise ride along Baku Boulevard. The gentle breeze and views of the Caspian Sea added a touch of serenity to my day.
Day 3: Beyond Baku – Gobustan, Ateshgah, Yanar Dag
Morning: To kick-start this exciting day, I arranged for a private car tour to explore the outskirts. The first stop was Gobustan, a mesmerizing place known for its mud volcanoes and ancient rock carvings.
Mud Volcanoes: Gobustan’s mud volcanoes are a geological marvel. Witnessing the bubbling mud and the otherworldly landscape was like stepping onto another planet. Here are some fascinating facts about these mud volcanoes:
- Gobustan is home to over half of the world’s mud volcanoes.
- The mud that oozes from these volcanoes is not your typical lava but a mixture of minerals, water, and gases.
- These mud volcanoes have a long history, with some dating back over 25,000 years.
- The mud’s minerals are believed to have therapeutic properties, making it a popular destination for mud baths.
Historical Carvings: The ancient rock carvings in Gobustan are like a window into the past. I marveled at the petroglyphs depicting scenes from the lives of ancient people.
Language and Culture: During the tour, our guide provided insights into the history and culture of the region, offering a deeper understanding of Azerbaijan’s rich heritage.
Lunch: Along the way, we stopped at local cafes to savor Azerbaijani cuisine, including Kebabs and Lavash, a traditional flatbread. In each meal spot, I found a delightful mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can savor the local cuisine.
Afternoon: Our journey continued to Ateshgah, the Fire Temple, a place of spiritual significance. The temple’s eternal flames were awe-inspiring, and I learned about the history of fire worship in Azerbaijan.
Yanar Dag – The Fire Mountain: Our next destination was Yanar Dag, the Fire Mountain. Witnessing natural flames burning continuously on the hillside was truly a unique experience. The flames are fueled by natural gas seeping through the rocks.
Evening: Back in Baku, I decided to unwind at a hookah place on Fountain Square, enjoying the pleasant evening atmosphere.I also explored more shopping spots, picking up souvenirs such as traditional Azerbaijani ceramics and local spices.
Day 4: Modern Architecture and Farewell
Morning: On my final day in Baku, I visited the stunning Heydar Aliyev Center. The futuristic architecture of this cultural center left me in awe, and it was a perfect way to wrap up my trip.
Language and Culture: While touring modern architectural marvels, I found that English was widely understood, making it easy to communicate and appreciate the contemporary designs.
Spare Time: With a bit of spare time on hand, I took a leisurely stroll, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere one last time.
Departure: As I made my way to Heydar Aliyev International Airport, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the incredible journey I had embarked upon over the past four days.
Baku, with its blend of history, culture, and modernity, has left an indelible mark on my heart. Before I bid you farewell, here are some options for your own Baku adventure:
- Suggested Hotels with Unique Experiences: Consider staying at the Fairmont Baku Flame Towers or the Four Seasons Hotel Baku for a touch of luxury and breathtaking views.
- Suggested Activities: Enroll in a cooking class to learn how to prepare Azerbaijani dishes or take a day trip to Sheki to explore its stunning architecture.
- 6-Day Trip: Extend your adventure with visits to Sheki, Gabala, and Lahij for a more in-depth exploration of Azerbaijan.
- Aesthetic Cafes and Restaurants: Try Zeytun Restaurant for traditional Azerbaijani cuisine or visit Mado Cafe for delicious desserts.
- Shopping Spots in the City: Don’t miss the Taza Bazaar, Park Bulvar Mall, Port Baku Mall, and more for a wide range of shopping options.
- Aesthetic Photo Spots in Baku: Capture Instagram-worthy shots at the Flame Towers, Maiden Tower, and Baku Crystal Hall.
- Famous Restaurants: Sample Azerbaijani delicacies at Art Club Restaurant or enjoy a panoramic view at the Sky Grill Restaurant.
- Sulfur Baths: Experience ultimate relaxation at the Hamam Mehellesi Sulfur Baths for a rejuvenating end to your trip.
Budget for Two
The budget for a 4-day trip to Baku for two people can vary depending on your preferences and choices. However, I can provide you with an approximate budget range to help you plan your trip. Keep in mind that these are estimated costs and can change based on factors like accommodation choices, dining preferences, and shopping habits.
Here’s an approximate daily budget range for a mid-range traveler in Baku for two people:
- Accommodation (mid-range hotel): $80 – $150
- Food (three meals): $60 – $120
- Transportation (local and airport transfers): $30 – $60
- Tours and activities: $50 – $100
- Shopping and souvenirs: Variable
- Miscellaneous: $10 – $20
So, for a 4-day trip, the total budget for two people could range from approximately $800 to $1,600, excluding international airfare. Keep in mind that this is a general estimate, and your actual expenses may vary. It’s a good idea to plan and budget according to your specific preferences and priorities.
So, are you ready to embark on your own Baku adventure? The wonders of this city await, and I hope my journey has inspired you to explore its beauty, history, culture, and natural marvels, including the fascinating mud volcanoes. Until next time, happy travels!
XOXO 🙂