Icherisheher, Absheron Peninsula Travel Guide

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Explore Icherisheher, Baku's ancient walled city: a UNESCO site with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. A journey through time!

Icherisheher, the 'Inner City' of Baku, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city's oldest inhabited area, dating back to the Bronze Age. Enclosed by fortified walls, this historical and architectural reserve offers a glimpse into Baku's rich past, with its maze-like streets, ancient buildings, and cultural landmarks.

A brief summary to Icherisheher

20, Icherisheher, 85 A.Zeynalli street, Baku, Sabayil, AZ
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Icherisheher.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Carry cash, as many small shops and cafes prefer it.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Bargain when shopping, especially in the market square.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Heydar Aliyev International Airport, take the Baku Airport Shuttle bus to 28 May station. The bus operates every 20 minutes and costs 1 AZN. From 28 May station, transfer to the Baku Metro and take the Red Line to Icherisheher station. The metro ride takes approximately 2 minutes. A single metro fare is 0.30 AZN, payable via BakiKart. The Icherisheher station is conveniently located right beside the Old City.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Baku, including at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in Baku. A taxi from the airport to Icherisheher typically costs between 11 AZN and 14 AZN, and the journey takes approximately 21 minutes. Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare beforehand.
Walking

From Nizami Street, a central Baku location, Icherisheher is approximately a 58-minute walk. Alternatively, take a short taxi ride costing 2-4 AZN, or use the Baku Metro from Sahil station to Icherisheher station, a 2-minute journey. The metro fare is 0.30 AZN.

Discover more about Icherisheher

Icherisheher, also known as the Old City or Inner City, is the historical heart of Baku, Azerbaijan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a captivating blend of ancient architecture, rich culture, and vibrant history. The settlement within Icherisheher dates back to the Bronze Age, with the area becoming heavily populated by the 8th and 9th centuries. The city's strategic location on the Caspian Sea and its natural oil and salt reserves contributed to its early appeal.Enclosed by formidable fortress walls, Icherisheher offers a unique glimpse into Baku's past. The walls, which stand 8-10 meters high and 3.5 meters wide, were first restored in 1952-1957. Within these walls, a maze of narrow, winding streets reveals a treasure trove of historical and architectural landmarks. Key attractions include the Maiden Tower, an iconic symbol of Baku, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a 15th-century palace complex representing the peak of Azerbaijani architecture.Icherisheher is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant cultural center. The Old City is home to numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, museums, and hotels. Visitors can explore ancient mosques, caravanserais, and bathhouses, immersing themselves in the area's rich cultural heritage. The Old City is a dynamic and lively area, popular with tourists who come to explore the winding streets and alleys, visit the landmarks and museums, and soak up the unique vibe of this ancient part of Baku.