• From the balcony of our room, the view of the Caspian Sea and the skyline filled with modern buildings and breathtaking landscapes was the first sight to greet us in Baku. Little did we know that this city would capture our hearts so quickly.
This summer, my family and I traveled to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, for a special holiday. We sought a destination that blends culture, history, modernity, and stunning natural scenery. We chose Baku for its unique charm and prime location on the Caspian Sea. Our trip allowed us to explore a new city, experience a different culture, and create lasting memories filled with fascinating adventures, according to Q8-Press.
Baku – A unique blend of modernity and tradition
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is one of the most exciting tourist destinations in the Caucasus region. It offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, where ancient architecture meets modern skyscrapers and a rich culture harmonizes with contemporary lifestyle. Our tour of Baku was an exceptional experience, full of fun discoveries and beautiful memories. In this article, I will share the details of my family’s tour of this charming city.
The flight
Our flight from Kuwait to Baku on Jazeera Airways was comfortable, and we enjoyed the breathtaking views from the plane window as we approached Baku. After less than two hours of flying, we arrived at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, where we were welcomed by friendly airport staff and experienced an easy entry process.
Exceptional hospitality
We arrived in Baku in the afternoon, where our tour guide, Mr. Rashid, was waiting for us at the airport. We proceeded to our residence, the Fairmont Torch Hotel, where we felt immediately comfortable thanks to the exceptional hospitality. The hotel, located in the heart of the city, offered easy access to major tourist attractions. After settling into our spacious and comfortable rooms, we were eager to explore the city.
The first view of the city
From the balcony of our room, the view of the Caspian Sea and the skyline filled with modern buildings and breathtaking landscapes was the first sight to greet us in Baku. Little did we know that this city would capture our hearts so quickly.
Explore the old city of Icherisheher
We started our tour of Baku by visiting the old town, or Icherisheher, which is considered the historical and cultural heart of Baku. As we entered the city gate, it felt like traveling back to the Middle Ages. We wandered through narrow cobbled alleys, surrounded by ancient stone buildings and traditional markets. The tranquility and charm of this region made it an ideal place to explore Azerbaijani culture and history.
Virgo tower
One of the highlights of the old city is the Virgo tower, a historical landmark dating back to the twelfth century. We climbed to the top of the tower and were rewarded with a wonderful panoramic view of the city and the Caspian Sea. The experience was enriched with historical information about the tower and its role in Baku’s history. We enjoyed taking family photos against the backdrop of this beautiful view.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
After visiting the Virgo tower, we headed to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, one of the masterpieces of Islamic architecture in Azerbaijan. We enjoyed a tour of the palace, renowned for its beautiful arcades and halls adorned with intricate inscriptions and decorations.
During the visit, we learned about the history of the rulers and their impact on Baku’s history from our wonderful guide, Mr. Rashid, who spoke Arabic fluently. We also appreciated the calm atmosphere of the palace, which inspired reflection.
Enjoying culture and arts
Heydar Aliyev Centre: The next day, we visited the Heydar Aliyev Centre, one of the most prominent landmarks of modern Baku and an architectural icon designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. When we arrived at the center, we were amazed by its unique curved design, which seemed to flow naturally from the ground.
Inside, we explored various art exhibitions showcasing the history and culture of Azerbaijan in an innovative way. The center was vibrant and full of life, and we enjoyed wandering through it and discovering different artworks.
Strolling on the Caspian Corniche
Relaxation and hiking: We dedicated part of our next day to strolling along the famous Baku Corniche, which overlooks the Caspian Sea. The atmosphere was serene, and the landscape was stunning. We wandered along the Corniche, where trees, fountains, and cafes lined the path. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the fresh air. We spent some time on benches overlooking the sea and enjoyed watching the sunset behind the horizon.
Boulevard Park: After our walk, we visited the adjacent Boulevard Park, one of the largest parks in Baku. The spacious green areas were ideal for children, who enjoyed playing and hiking. We had a family picnic in the park and wandered among the flowers and beautiful water features. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere provided a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Miniature Venice in Baku: This area is renowned for its beauty and design, resembling Venice in the heart of Baku. Located on the waterfront near the Ain Baku amusement park on the Corniche and Boulevard, it features a charming model of Venice. Across from it is the Carpet Museum, surrounded by luxury cafes and restaurants.
Opposite is the Carpet Museum, surrounded by several luxury cafes and restaurants. The Venice area is home to a collection of enchanting gardens and cafes, offering peaceful settings with fantastic views that captivate the mind with their beauty. It is a place suitable for all ages, offering a variety of activities for both adults and children.
Azerbaijani cuisine experience
Tasting traditional dishes: No visit to Baku is complete without savoring the local cuisine. We dined at various traditional restaurants serving delicious Azerbaijani dishes. We enjoyed tasting dishes such as ‘plov’ (meat rice), ‘dolma’ (stuffed grape leaves), and ‘shashlik’(grilled kebab). The flavors were rich and varied, making each meal a unique experience in itself.
Local desserts and tea: We concluded each meal with a cup of traditional Azerbaijani tea, served with local desserts such as ‘Baklava’ and ‘Shekarbura.’ The tea sessions were filled with conversation and laughter, adding a warm touch of Azerbaijani hospitality to our experience.
Shopping in Baku
Traditional markets: Before we left Baku, we were eager to visit some traditional markets to buy souvenirs. We explored Taza Bazaar, where stalls displayed a wide variety of local products, including spices, handmade carpets, and antiques. The market’s vibrant atmosphere allowed us to find unique gifts that will always remind us of this trip.
Modern commercial centers: We also visited several modern shopping centers in Baku, where we enjoyed a comfortable and contemporary shopping experience. These centers housed a mix of international and local stores, offering us the chance to shop in a distinctive style.
Our family tour in Baku was a unique experience that blended ancient history with sophisticated modernity. We enjoyed exploring the city’s sights, tasting delicious cuisine, and immersing ourselves in the rich culture of Azerbaijan.
Baku left us with a deep impression and beautiful memories that will remain with us for many years. We departed for Shahdag, which you’ll learn more about in our next episode, and we hope to return one day to create new adventures in its ancient alleys and modern streets.
