Food
The bustling city of Baku, located on the Caspian Sea, offers a melting pot of flavors that showcases the rich culinary tradition of Azerbaijan. The cuisine in Baku is a delightful blend of Eastern European and Middle Eastern flavors with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Try traditional dishes like Plov, a saffron-infused rice dish often cooked with meat, dried fruits, and eggs. Or savor the delicate flavors of Dolma; vine leaves stuffed with meat and rice. For a hearty meal, go for Dushbara, a soup filled with tiny dumplings.
The food journey in Baku is complete with tasting Pakhlava, a layered pastry filled with nuts and sugar, then soaked in a sweet syrup.
Culture
Baku is a city of contrasts where ancient history and modernity exist. Its rich cultural heritage dates back to ancient times and is reflected in its music, dance, and art.
The city is home to numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, like the Baku Jazz Festival and the Gobustan National Park's annual Gaval Dashy festival. It has an opera and ballet theatre, a philharmonic, and several drama theatres regularly hosting performances.
Travel Tips
- Getting Around: Baku has an efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and taxis. Bicycles are also available for rent.
- Language: Azerbaijani is the official language, but English and Russian are widely spoken.
- Safety: Baku is generally safe, but exercise the usual caution at night and in crowded areas.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Baku is spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
- Tipping: A service charge is typically added to your bill in restaurants. However, leaving an additional 5-10% tip for good service is appreciated.
Interesting Facts
- Baku is the lowest-lying national capital in the world, situated 28 meters below sea level.
- Baku is famed for its 'burning mountain' - Yanar Dag, a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside.
Top Places
Baku is a city full of history, culture, and modern attractions:
- Old City (Icheri Sheher): Explore Baku's UNESCO-listed old city with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the iconic Maiden Tower.
- Gobustan National Park: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its rock carvings dating back to the Stone Age.
- Heydar Aliyev Center: This building, with its distinctive flowing architecture, houses a cultural center, museum, and conference hall.
- The Flame Towers: The tallest skyscrapers in Baku, they're a symbol of modern Baku. One of the towers houses a hotel with a viewing deck offering stunning city views.
- Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: Discover the rich history and art of Azerbaijani carpet weaving in this unique building shaped like a rolled carpet.
From tasting unique Azerbaijani dishes, exploring historical sites, and experiencing the vibrant modern city life, Baku offers travelers a captivating mix of experiences.
