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Old City Baku: A Timeless UNESCO Treasure

Explore Baku's ancient heart: a UNESCO-listed treasure with winding alleys, historic monuments, and vibrant cultural experiences within its old city walls.

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Step back in time within the walls of Old City Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture. Wander through narrow, winding streets, discover ancient monuments, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this living open-air museum.

A brief summary to Old City Baku

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the Old City's cobblestone streets with ease.
  • Carry cash, as many shops and bazaars prefer it over cards.
  • Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
  • Bargain at the markets for spices, jewelry, ceramics, and furniture.
  • Try traditional Azerbaijani cuisine like plov and kebabs at a local restaurant.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The best way to explore Old City Baku is on foot. Enter through the main gate (Gosha Gala Gapisi) on the northeast corner of the fortress walls. From there, wander through the maze of narrow streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic district. There is no entrance fee to enter the Old City, but some individual attractions like the Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs charge admission fees of 10-15 AZN.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via public transport, take the Baku Metro to Icherisheher station. From the station, it's a short walk to the entrance of the Old City. A single metro fare costs 0.50 AZN and requires a BakiKart, which can be purchased at the station for 2 AZN. Buses also service the area, using the BakiKart system.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Baku and can drop you off near the entrance to the Old City. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are also popular. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Old City typically costs between 3-7 AZN, depending on the distance and traffic.

Unlock the Best of Old City Baku

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Discover more about Old City Baku

Old City Baku, also known as Icherisheher, is a captivating historical and cultural treasure nestled in the heart of Azerbaijan's capital. Enclosed by 12th-century walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a labyrinthine maze of narrow alleys, sun-baked stone architecture, repurposed caravanserais, hidden mosques, and colorful carpet stores. Established possibly as early as the 7th century, Icherisheher was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, a melting pot of Persian, Ottoman, and Russian influences. Key landmarks include the enigmatic Maiden Tower, possibly a Zoroastrian fire temple, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a stunning 15th-century architectural complex that once housed the Shirvanshah dynasty. Today, the Old City is a vibrant area with museums, monuments, art galleries, restaurants, rooftop bars, cafes, artisan shops, and bustling markets. Wander through the streets to discover hidden gems like the Museum of Miniature Books and the Muhammad Mosque, one of the oldest in Baku. Experience the blend of history and modern life in this unique Azerbaijani treasure.

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