Ancient walls, mosques, and bazaars set the scene on this guided tour of Baku, the perfect introduction to the secrets, scents, and stories of Azerbaijan’s capital.
Tour Details
If you haven’t yet explored the most beautiful corners of Baku, we’ll meet at the Double Gates of Baku, the main entrance to the Old City. From there, we’ll set off on a walking tour through a maze of stone streets that have witnessed caravans, empires, and centuries of legend.
Our first stop will be the iconic Maiden Tower, the true symbol of the city. We’ll admire its distinctive cylindrical shape and imposing stone walls while learning about the mysteries surrounding its origins. Some believe it once served as a Zoroastrian observatory, though historians still debate its original purpose.
Next, we’ll head to the bustling Yasıl Bazaar, also known as the Green Market. Here, you’ll experience everyday life in Baku through its vibrant displays of spices, fresh produce, nuts, and traditional goods.
We’ll then visit the Haji Bani Bathhouse, an old hammam whose architecture reveals how heat was carefully managed long before modern technology. The tour continues at the Juma Mosque and the Muhammad Mosque, where we’ll trace the development of Islamic art and religious architecture in Azerbaijan.
Our next highlight is the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its courtyards, mausoleums, and royal chambers offer a glimpse into the refined court life of the 15th century, when it was one of the most important political centers in the Caucasus.
Toward the end of the tour, we’ll pass by the statue of Aliaga Vahid, whose surreal sculptural style pays tribute to Azerbaijani poetry.
Finally, we’ll step into the workshop of Ali Shamsi, one of the most photographed and charismatic corners of Baku’s Old City. Here, you’ll see firsthand the creative process that has turned this small studio into a local artistic landmark.
After 2 hours of exploration, we’ll return to the starting point and bring the tour to a close.