Nestled in the heart of Azerbaijan’s capital lies a world within walls — Baku’s Old City, also known as Icherisheher. Stepping through its gates is like stepping into a different era. Gone are the sleek glass towers and modern boulevards. Here, you’ll find cobblestone alleys, grand stone palaces, and a sense of history you can actually feel.
Whether you’re into ancient architecture, traditional food, or just want to wander somewhere that feels truly unique, Old City Baku is must-see. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before your visit.
Why Visit the Old City?
The Old City isn’t just a historical attraction — it’s the soul of Baku. Surrounded by fortified walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back centuries. Think carved doorways, secret courtyards, echoing calls to prayer, and stories etched in stone.
Built as early as the 12th century (or even earlier), Icherisheher was once a Silk Road stop. You’ll notice Persian, Ottoman, and Russian influences as you explore — every ruler left their mark.
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Iconic Things to See
Maiden Tower
Mysterious and towering, the Maiden Tower is Baku’s most famous landmark. No one knows its original purpose — temple? fortress? observatory? — but it’s the best place to catch golden hour views of the Caspian Sea.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Step into royal life with this 15th-century palace complex. It includes a mausoleum, mosque, bathhouse, and more — all delicately carved from stone. It’s like walking through a real-life history book.
Caravanserais
Once bustling inns for Silk Road merchants, buildings like Multani Caravanserai and Bukhara Caravanserai now house restaurants and shops — but the charm of their ancient past remains.
Mosques and Minarets
Old City is home to beautiful mosques like the Muhammad Mosque, with its slim minaret rising gracefully above stone walls. These sacred spaces are a quiet reminder of Baku’s deep spiritual roots.
🧭 Explore the Streets — and Get Lost on Purpose
One of the best things to do in Old Baku? Just walk. The maze-like streets are full of surprises: artisan workshops, cozy tea houses, hanging laundry, and kids playing under Ottoman-style balconies.
Keep an eye out for:
- Handmade carpet and ceramic shops
- Tiny local bakeries with trays of sticky pakhlava
- Open courtyards and rooftop views
🍽️ What to Eat
You can’t visit Baku without tasting its traditional dishes. Curious about tea culture here? Read our deep dive on Azerbaijan’s tea traditions. Old City eateries serve up rich, homey Azerbaijani meals you won’t forget.
- Breakfast (Try it at “Salam Baku” restaurant in old Baku)
- Plov (saffron rice with meat & fruits) – Try it at Firuze Restaurant
- Dolma (stuffed grape leaves) – Found at Köhne Şeher
- Kebabs – Head to Namli Kebap for grilled goodness
- Dushbara (meat dumplings in broth) – Visit Dushbara Restaurant
- Pakhlava – Sweet, nutty, and sticky — best from Pakhlava Boutique
Relax in a Hammam
Looking to unwind? Traditional hammams (bathhouses) are a centuries-old ritual in Baku. Go for a basic scrub or indulge in a full body massage with scented oils. Either way, it’s the perfect way to recharge after a long day of walking.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Mild, sunny weather and vibrant street life
- Autumn (Sept–Oct): Fewer crowds, perfect for photos
- Winter (Nov–March): Quiet, cozy, and budget-friendly — just pack warm!
Planning your travels by season? You might also like our Maldives budget travel guide or Italy travel guide for first-timers.
How to Get There
From anywhere in Baku, the Old City is easily accessible:
- By Metro: Take the Red Line to Icherisheher Station
- By Bus: Routes 6, 18, and 65 stop near the city walls
- By Foot or Taxi: Just follow the signs — it’s right near the Flame Towers. Take Bolt or Uber
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Tour or Explore Solo?
- Guided Tour: Great if you want deep history, hidden gems, and stress-free navigation. Browse Viator’s Baku tours.
- Solo Visit: Ideal for free spirits who love to wander, photograph, and discover things at their own pace
Tip: Download an offline map if you’re going solo. Getting a little lost is part of the charm.
Plan Your Trip (and Visa!)
Before you go, make sure you have your Azerbaijan visa sorted.
✔️ Apply online at Visa for Azerbaijan
→ Also check out the best time to visit Azerbaijan to make the most of your trip.
💡 Looking for the cheapest flights to Baku?
👉 Use Skyscanner to compare fares and set price alerts.
The process is quick and easy — don’t leave it to the last minute!
Final Thoughts
Old City Baku is more than just a destination — it’s a feeling. It’s narrow alleys and wide plazas. It’s the call of the minaret and the scent of fresh bread. It’s history in every stone and warmth in every smile.
Whether you’re there for a few hours or a few days, Icherisheher will leave a mark on your memory. And once you’ve wandered its winding streets and watched the sunset from the Maiden Tower, you’ll know exactly why.
