Things to Do in Baku
OVERVIEW
Join us on a fascinating walk led by a guide featured on Lonely Planet, CNN Travel & BBC Travel through the Walled City of Baku, Icherisheher, aka Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Istiglaliyyet street.
Icherisheher reveals traces of Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman, and Russian cultural influences and meanwhile Istiglaliyyat Street demonstrates how Oil Industry has been a transformative force. As we explore its winding alleyways, you’ll witness how centuries of oriental history and oil heritage have shaped this remarkable city.
You’ll see ancient defensive walls, the iconic Maiden Tower (Giz Galasy), 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a true gem of Azerbaijani architecture, and landmarks representing Belle Epoque, Oil Boom Architecture from the late XIX and early XX century.
HIGHLIGHTS
– Explore the UNESCO sites in Old Town
– Oil Heritage and Oil Barons stories
– Understand social dynamics of city life
– Soak up the atmosphere in the oldest part of the city
– Food&drink venue recommendations
– Architecture, History, Politics
– Small group experience
– Led by licensed local expert guide/10 years of experience
ATTACTIONS
– Fortress Wall (Why and How Baku was founded)
– Maiden Tower (Iconic Landmark)
– Muhammad Mosque (Religion in Azerbaijan)
– Murad’s Gate (Regional Politics)
– Shirvanshahs Palace (Azerbaijani Classical Architecture)
– Miniature Book Museum (Book art)
– Town Hall (Baku’s transformation)
– Institute of Manuscripts (New nations was born)
– Ismailiyya Palace (Soviet Layers)
– Fountains Square (Food Recommendations)
IMPORTANT NOTICE
– At least four (4) people required to run the tour
– The stairs in old town cause obstacles for people with wheelchair users and with walking difficulties.
– Arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes prior to the start time.
– END POINT: FOUNTAINS SQUARE
The contrast of dark with light will magically lead us through history in the heart of Baku. We will make a half circle around the old town and pass across city corners, meanwhile enjoying tremendous views for your potential future pictures. :))
During the tour, we shall walk under the late evening light effect of Baku and see sights, including, but not limited to:
- Səadət Palace
- Flame Towers
- Highland Park
- Parlament avenue
- Philharmonic Garden
- Institute of Manuscripts
- Baku City Hall and so on.
Meeting place: In front of İçərişəhər (Icherisheher) subway station, next to the monument of H.Z.Taghiyev (see pictures).
A notice for German-speaking walkers:
if you book a tour in English, take into account that I offer the same tour in German language too. However, the tour in German language has a different time-slot than the one in English. Depending on available schedules I could offer you a separate tour. Just ask in advance if you would like to have a walking tour in German language. :))
A notice about itenary & weather:
please, take into account, that as we walk to the top of the city in the first part of our itenary, it includes a steep path. Since Baku is the city of winds, the probability of windy weather in Highland Park is relatively high.
In case if you are interested in my other tours of mine:
Inner & Outer Town essential Free Walking Tour Baku
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/42540-inner-outer-town-essential-free-walking-tour-baku-tour-no-01
The Oriental Bazar Shopping Tour
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/45445-the-oriental-bazar-shopping-tour-no-03
Historical Inner & Outer Town Magical Baku Tour
It is a brilliant walking tour for those who want to catch an eye on the city's spirit, touch on the multilayered history, and dive into the architectural symbolism of Baku. The transitional topics of art, literature, historical events, and personalities will make you feel in situ time frame of those occurrences.
I am always pro-interactiveness of walking tour, thus please do not hesitate to ask questions, comment and laugh.
The walking tour includes spots mentioned below but is not limited to those:
- İsmailiyyə building
- Səadət Palace
- Medieval hotels
- Literature Museum
- Maiden Castle (Tower)
- Institute of Manuscripts
- Historical Double Gates
- Narrow streets of inner town etc.
Meeting place:
In front of KFC/Pizza Hut at Fontains Square
Here is the google map location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QLzC1ZpYLyAYEzTh7
Please take into account that due to summer temperature the walking tour might be not too easy walk.
A notice for German-speaking walkers:
if you book a tour in English, take into account that I offer the same tour in German language too. However, the tour in German language has a different time-slot than the one in English. Depending on available schedules I could offer you a separate tour. Just ask in advance if you would like to have a walking tour in German language. :))
Important Notice
– A minimum of four (4) individuals are required to operate the tour.
– The stairs in the old town present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments and those with difficulty walking.
– Please arrive at the meeting point 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
In case if you are interested in other tour of mine:
The Dark & Light Photographic Night Baku Walking Tour
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/43460-the-dark-light-photographic-night-baku-walking-tour-no-02
The Oriental Bazar Shopping Tour
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/45445-the-oriental-bazar-shopping-tour-no-03
If you want to have light urban walking tour, The Oriental Bazaar Shopping Tour is merely for you.
Note: The distance from the meeting point to Bazaar is about 800 m. (two bus stops). It is possible either to walk or to take a bus.
During the easy tour you'll have a chance to make an Oriental shopping of your life. According your taste you can choose souvenirs for you & for your lovely ones, purchase a unique group game, and / or dive into the world of tiny shopping products. The different handcraft shops offering you special products e.g.:
- Silk kəlağayı
- Special table-cloth
- Unique Azerbaijani Game
- Adjusted zodiak jewellery
- Traditional dresses
- Ceramic Shop products
- Organic parfumery & cosmetics
- Organic shafran & products
- Special fruit beveradges
- Organic jams & confitures
- Many many types of souvenirs
etc. etc. etc.
Ultimately, we continue towards Heydər Əliyev Center. The park around the Center is famous with the pictureuos view and I love Baku sign.
There is no entrance fee, you'll just pay what you purchase.
In case if you are interested in other tours of mine:
Inner & Outer Town Baku Essential Walking Tour
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/42540-inner-outer-town-baku-essential-walking-tour-no-01
The Dark & Light Photographic Night Baku Walking Tour
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/43460-the-dark-light-photographic-night-baku-walking-tour-no-02
Don’t just visit Baku — experience it.
Step into the soul of Baku, where wind-carved stone, sea breezes, and centuries of history unfold with every step. This walking tour blends modern city life, scenic viewpoints, and the timeless atmosphere of the Old City. Begin at Molokan Garden, then stroll through Fountains Square and Nizami Street.
Walk along Boulevard past Mini Venice and the Carpet Museum, then take the Funicular to Highland Park for the best city views, the Alley of Martyrs, Eternal Fire, Martyrs’ Mosque, and Flame Towers.
Enter Old City at the Aliagha Vahid Monument, then visit Miniature Book Museum, Shirvanshah Palace, historic caravanserais, Cats’ House, Juma Mosque, and the Maiden Tower.
Along the way, enjoy optional street-food tastings and a short optional wine stop, adding a flavorful local touch to the experience.
What’s Included:
Guided walking tour through central Baku and the Old City
Must-see landmarks paired with hidden gems
Stories and cultural insight from a local guide
Best photo locations and practical photography tips
Comfortable walking pace with short breaks
Optional street-food tasting and optional wine stop
Insider Tips and Recommendations
The Free Walking Tour of Baku is a great treat for first-time visitors, as it covers significant parts (both Old and New towns) of the city in 2 hours.
It covers both modern and historical areas of Baku. During the guided tour, your local guide will lead you through the jewels of the city, including:
- Baku Old Town
- Istiglaliyyet Street (old Nikolayevskaya)
- Maiden Tower
- Nizami street (old Torgovaya)
- Fountains Square
- Baku Boulevard
What is the real story of Azerbaijan? Where it all started? How Islam and Communism shaped the lives of its people?
Hear the stories of how the discovery and further exploitation of crude oil changed people's lives and the architectural look of the city through the centuries.
Baku Free Walking Tour is a unique introduction to Baku and its heritage. We are the first company that started Free Walking Tours in Baku and our goal is to make your visit inspiring and memorable. We are also recipient of TripAdvisor's 2025 Excellence Award and FreeTour's 2019 Best Tour in Asia award. Don't take us by our word. See us in action and we'll leave you with enriching stories to take back home.
Join me on a journey through the ancient soul of Baku, Icherisheher, where every stone has a story to tell.
As a passionate local guide, I will take you off the beaten track and show you the hidden corners, rich history, and vibrant culture of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem.
From the legendary Maiden Tower to centuries-old caravanserais and quiet alleys full of charm, experience the real Baku through stories, legends and local life.
Along the way, I'll share personal insights and show you cultural treasures that make this city truly unique.
Whether this is your first time in Baku or you want to see the city from a new perspective, this tour will give you unforgettable memories and maybe even a few words of Azerbaijani!
Explore the modern face of Baku on this walking tour focused on city skylines, new urban districts, and panoramic viewpoints.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see how Baku is changing, from futuristic architecture to newly developed neighborhoods by the Caspian Sea.
We start at Crescent Mall, one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of modern Baku. From the balcony viewpoint, you’ll see the Caspian Sea, the city skyline, and some of Baku’s most impressive contemporary architecture.
From here, we walk around the Crescent (Aypara) Building, discussing modern urban design and how this area became one of the city’s newest symbols. We then continue towards the Victory Monument, where we’ll briefly talk about its meaning and importance in modern Azerbaijani history.
Next, we head into White City, one of Baku’s largest urban transformation projects. While walking along the White City Boulevard, you’ll enjoy beautiful viewpoints where parts of the city skyline and the Flame Towers area can be seen from a distance. This area offers a different perspective of Baku — modern, open, and carefully planned.
Our walk continues through the new White City districts and across the White City Bridge, where we finish the walking part of the tour.
🚢 Optional Boat Experience
Near the end of the tour, depending on weather and availability, we may return for an optional short boat ride on the Caspian Sea.
Cost: approx. 5 AZN per person
From the sea, we’ll enjoy panoramic views of modern Baku and its skyline
Participation in the boat ride is completely optional.
Hi my name is Zaman and I am working since 2018 as licensed tour guide and we will be happy to organise amazing tour for you in our beautiful country
Our tour basically will depend on 3 main highlights and all destinations will share with you to make detailed imagination about our tour for you
Our tour basically will start in Nizami street will be our meeting pint and will head to Old city İçərişəhər to discover main highlights of old city
- Nizami monument
- Double gates Old city İçərişəhər
- Former government house
- Polish legacy sightseeings:
- Ismailiyya palace
- Palace of happiness
- Baku city executive power
- İçərişəhər metro station
- Tağıyev's Girls school
- Polish architects memorial street
- Phlarmony park
- Puppet theater
- Polish architects house
- Soviet architectural heritage
- Pearl Cafe monument
16 Tour ends in Nizami street
Tour starts : Nizami street Nizami monument
Tour finishes: Nizami street Nizami monument
Walking :4-5km
Duration:3 hours
Free walking tour based on tips
Pls do reservation at least minimum 3 hours before thanks
Walk Baku: From the Heart of the City to the Caspian Coast
Baku isn’t just a city — it’s a story written in architecture, sea breeze, and street life. If you’re curious about discovering more than just postcard views, join me for a relaxed walking tour from the center to the seafront, where we’ll uncover layers of local life, culture, and modern charm — all in a few hours on foot.
A small gift for every participant and great tips from a local!
🗺️ What’s on the route?
We’ll start at the Government House, where you’ll get a quick sense of Baku’s Soviet past and urban planning. Then we’ll pass through:
- Park Bulvar Shopping Center
- Baku Boulevard
- Maiden Tower
- Monument to Muslim Magomayev
- Puppet Theatre
- Baku International Mugham Center
- Mini Venice
- Carpet Museum
- Baku Ferris Wheel (Baku Eye)
- Baku Sport Hall
- Dəniz Mall
- National Flag Square
- National Flag Museum
The walk ends at Bayraq Meydanı (Flag Square) — a wide, open space by the sea, perfect for relaxing and wrapping up your experience.
🎯 Why is this tour different?
This isn’t a scripted sightseeing run. I love movies, books, watches, and great conversations — so if you're into any of that, this tour will feel more like walking with a local friend than following a guide. You’ll leave with more than just pictures; you’ll take a story with you.
📢 Join the tour
If you want to explore Baku at your own pace, chat about everyday life, and get a real sense of the city — this walk is for you.
On this shopping tour in Baku, you'll enjoy a very entertaining day in one of the modern shopping malls in the capital of Azerbaijan!
