Baku, Azerbaijan: complete guide to discovering the Pearl of the Caucasus

Baku, capital of Azerbaijan, is a city that defies expectations. Its Flame Towers dominate a modern skyline visible from kilometres away, but at their feet beats the Old City (Icherisheher), a labyrinth of medieval alleyways declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between these two extremes — antiquity and modernity — stretches a metropolis that over the past two decades has gone from an unknown gem to one of the most fascinating destinations in Europe and Asia.

Bakú Flame Towers Azerbaiyán — skyline ciudad moderna Torre Doncella
Baku's Flame Towers, symbol of modern Azerbaijan, rise above the UNESCO World Heritage Old City.

The Old City: historic heart of Baku

Icherisheher, the walled Old City, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000. Its narrow cobblestone alleyways concentrate Baku's most iconic monuments: the Maiden Tower (12th century), the city's enigmatic landmark shrouded in legends; and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a jewel of 15th-century Islamic architecture with its mosque, mausoleum and baths. The neighbourhood also harbours craft workshops, vintage cafés and carpet shops where bargaining is still the custom.

Modern Baku: Flame Towers and the Boulevard

Contemporary Baku looks to the future without losing sight of its past. The Flame Towers, three flame-shaped 182-metre skyscrapers covered in LED panels, are the most recognisable symbol of the new city. The Boulevard (Dənizkənarı Milli Park), the longest seafront promenade on the Caspian Sea at 3.7 km, is the favourite spot for Bakuvians and tourists alike to stroll at sunset with sea views.

Gastronomy in Baku

Azerbaijani cuisine is a synthesis of Persian, Turkish and Caucasian influences. In Baku, you cannot miss plov (spiced rice with lamb and saffron), dolma (stuffed vine leaves), lamb kebabs and black tea served in the characteristic narrow-waisted glass with quince jam. The Yashil Bazar is the best starting point for discovering local flavours.

Ciudad Vieja Bakú Icherisheher — callejuelas medievales Patrimonio UNESCO
The cobbled alleyways of Icherisheher, Baku's Old City, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

What to see in Baku: the must-sees

In addition to the Old City and the Flame Towers, Baku offers the Carpet Museum (with its spectacular rolled-carpet-shaped building), the Ali Shamsi Workshop in the old quarter, the Philharmonic Park with its night fountains, and as a day trip the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanardag.

Practical information

Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Language: Azerbaijani (Russian and English in tourist areas). Visa: Spanish citizens need an e-visa in advance (evisa.gov.az). Climate: mild springs, hot summers, pleasant autumns, cold winters. Best time to visit: April–June and September–October.

Frequently asked questions

Do Spanish citizens need a visa to travel to Baku?

Yes, Spanish citizens need an electronic visa (e-visa) processed online at evisa.gov.az before the trip. The process is straightforward, costs 20 USD and takes 3 working days.

How many days do you need to visit Baku?

With 3–4 days you can see the main city attractions and make a day trip to Yanardag or Ateshgah. To include Sheki or Gabala, at least 6–7 days in total are recommended.

Is Baku a safe destination for travellers?

Yes, Baku is considered one of the safest cities in the Caucasus region. Crime rates are low and tourist infrastructure is highly developed. The usual caution advisable in any large city is recommended.