Jan

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Baku Travel & Sightseeing Guide

January 10, 2008 |

A trip to Baku

Baku is the principal city of the little known country Azerbaijan. The city comprises two main areas: downtown and the Old Inner City. This picturesque, ancient city is dotted with ancient buildings built along quaint winding alleys. As the country’s centre for performing arts, Baku has a strong culture in theatre, opera and ballet. Party seekers are not forgotten either, with a range of entertainment options from live music venues to thumping nightclubs.

Flights to Baku
Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport receives air traffic from around the world including a number of connecting flights from neighbouring countries. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Baku try Expedia. The airport is located approximately 15 miles from the city centre and is the main hub for the country’s national airline, Azerbaijan Airlines. Taxis are widely available outside the terminal to transfer you to the heart of action inside the city.

The city’s metro system, although not extensive, is worth trying, if only for the exquisite decoration of the underground alleys. The traditional motifs on display give the impression of walking through an art museum, as opposed to the often dingy underground stations that are found in other parts of the world. Taxis are another easy option for getting around, while van buses follow set routes, stopping at any point along the way.

Baku


Sightseeing in Baku
Baku’s rich culture and World Heritage site status are often enticement enough to draw visitors. Architectural gems and historical buildings provide tourists with endless options for sightseeing and touring. The fortress around the old city, dating back thousands of years, stands guard around to this day. Signs of Russia’s occupation can still be seen inside the old city among the Soviet era buildings.

Museums and galleries offer a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the country. The Baku Museum of Art is the city’s main centre for art, featuring works from the best of both local and international artists.

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Fun by night – eating, drinking and partying
Baku’s cosmopolitan atmosphere is best enjoyed in the range of eateries and restaurants that offer menus from around the world. Local specialities are also widely available and should not be missed while holidaying in Azerbaijan’s capital.

Entertainment options are endless. Whether you prefer to sit back, chat and watch the world go by in a relaxed bar, or dance the night away in international standard nightclubs: Baku has it all. Fountain square is a hub of bars and bistros, with many British and Irish style hideouts located here. Each year in June the city plays host to the International Jazz Festival, bringing Baku to life with musicians and spectators alike joining in the lively festivities.

Fun by day – shopping and activities
Inside the old city the highlight is the exquisite medieval palace of the Shrivan Shahs. Maiden’s Tower, also inside the fortress of the old city, dates back to somewhere between the 7th and 12th centuries and offers stunning views of the city.

There are a number of beaches located within easy access of Baku’s centre, providing the perfect escape from the hustle of the metropolis. Bilgah and Amburan are two of the most pleasant beaches located on the northern coast. Shops, markets and malls can be found in every section of the city. The old city is the place to head for the best in antique shopping, while hand woven rugs and traditional dolls are perfect gifts to take back home.


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