Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a city best explored on foot, offering visitors a chance to experience its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture up close. Here’s a guide to discovering Baku on foot:

1. Start in the Old City (Icherisheher) Begin your walking tour in the heart of Baku’s ancient history, the Old City. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a compact, walkable area filled with narrow, winding streets and historical landmarks.

Maiden Tower: Climb this iconic 12th-century structure for panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea.

Shirvanshah’s Palace: Explore this 15th-century palace complex with its beautiful courtyards, mosques, and mausoleum.

Caravanserais and Hammams: Discover these ancient inns and bathhouses that served Silk Road travelers.

2. Walk Along Baku Boulevard Exit the Old City and head towards Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade that runs along the Caspian Sea. This expansive park offers a leisurely stroll with plenty of attractions along the way.

Baku Ferris Wheel: Enjoy a ride for stunning views of the city and the sea.

Little Venice: Take a break and enjoy a boat ride through the charming canals.

Mini-Venice: Stroll past picturesque canals and bridges reminiscent of Venice, Italy.

3. Visit the Flame Towers From Baku Boulevard, walk towards the Flame Towers. These modern skyscrapers dominate the skyline and are particularly impressive at night when they are illuminated with dynamic LED displays. You can walk around the towers and enjoy their architectural beauty.

4. Explore Highland Park Adjacent to the Flame Towers is Highland Park, accessible via a short, scenic walk. The park offers stunning views of Baku and the Caspian Sea, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Martyrs’ Lane: Pay your respects at this solemn memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Black January massacre and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Viewpoints: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from various vantage points within the park.

5. Stroll Through Nizami Street (Torgovaya) Head back towards the city center and explore Nizami Street, also known as Torgovaya. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Shopping: Browse through a variety of shops offering local and international brands.

Dining: Stop at a cafe or restaurant to sample Azerbaijani cuisine or enjoy a cup of tea.

6. Discover Fountain Square Continue your walk to Fountain Square, a lively public square surrounded by shops, restaurants, and fountains. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere.

7. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center From Fountain Square, take a longer walk or a short taxi ride to the Heydar Aliyev Center. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this architectural marvel is known for its flowing, curved design.

Exhibitions: Explore the center’s exhibitions on Azerbaijani culture, history, and contemporary art.

Architecture: Admire the unique and futuristic design of the building.

8. Enjoy the Local Cuisine As you explore Baku on foot, be sure to sample the local cuisine. Look for traditional dishes like plov (pilaf), kebabs, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and pakhlava (baklava). Street food vendors and local eateries offer delicious and authentic Azerbaijani flavors.

9. End at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum Finish your walking tour at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, located on Baku Boulevard. The museum’s unique building is designed to resemble a rolled-up carpet and houses an extensive collection of Azerbaijani carpets and textiles.

Exhibits: Learn about the history and craftsmanship of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan. Exploring Baku on foot allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. With its pedestrian-friendly streets and diverse attractions, Baku offers a memorable and enjoyable walking experience for travelers.