Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan, set on the coast of the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region of Asia. It is a city where old and new sit side by side, and a visit here is largely a matter of moving between the two.
Old and new in one city
The historic core, known as Icherisheher or the Old City, is listed by UNESCO and holds medieval mosques and palaces within its walls. Walking its narrow streets gives a sense of the Silk Road heritage that shaped the city over many centuries. A short distance away, the skyline is dominated by the Flame Towers, whose modern glass and light make them one of the most recognisable sights in the city.
What a visit offers
- Medieval mosques and palaces in the UNESCO-listed Old City
- Modern architecture along the seafront and the skyline
- Coastal walks and views over the Caspian Sea
- A window onto contemporary Caucasian culture alongside its older traditions
Baku is also an oil-rich metropolis, and that wealth is visible in its newer districts. Visitors who come for a few days can divide their time between the historic quarter and the modern city, which are close enough to reach on foot or by a short ride.
Is it worth the trip?
If you are interested in the layers of history along the old trade routes and enjoy seeing how a city has grown into the present, Baku rewards the journey. Its mix of medieval stone and contemporary design makes it a distinctive destination in the region, and the Old City and the Flame Towers make a natural starting point for any visit.