Baku

Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan.

Introduction to Baku

Baku, commonly called Baky or Bakı, is the largest city in the Caucasus and the capital of Azerbaijan. Baku is on the coast of the Caspian Sea on the southern tip of the Absheron Peninsula. There are three major divisions in Baku: İçəri Şəhər (the Old Town) and the Soviet built city and the newest part of the city. The population as of January 2012 was 2,122,300. The city of Baku is on the hot and dusty Absheron peninsula. The center of Baku is a patch of green in a largely brown area because of the many liters of water that is piped to the city every day. The city has a metro, a well developed bus and mini bus network and a large area for walking including the Inner Walled City, The Boluvar and Fountain Plaza. Reading the book Ali and Nino is a good way to get into the mood.

Weather in Baku

A curious fact about Baku is that its average year-round temperature (14.2°C/57.6°F) matches the average temperature of the entire landmass of the earth to within a tenth of degree. Summers are hot and humid, winters cool, wet and breezy, however seasonal temperature variations are less than in many continental regions at this latitude (about 40 degrees north) owing to the presence of the Caspian Sea.

Travel to Baku

Fly to Baku

• Heydar Aliyev International Airport IATA Flight Code: GYD It is served by major airlines including Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa and Qatar-Airways and a whole host of smaller airlines. The least expensive way to get between Baku and Europe is via Aeroflot, with affordable Flights to/from Moscow daily. Air Baltic also offers flights with good prices from/via Riga. - Thit is the Hub for Azerbaijan Airlines, Silk Way Airlines and Turan Air

Getting from/to airport:

Bus T1 Airport Express runs between the airport and the train station (the bus waits across the street from the station) with an intermediate stop at Koroglu metro station. The ride costs 1.30 manat, payable by BakiKart (the same one as in the metro). The bus runs every 30 minutes. Additionally, N16 runs between the airport and Samed Vurgun Park, in the heart of Baku. The trip costs 1 manat and takes roughly 40–60 min. Service runs every 30 minutes beginning from early in the morning until late night. The bus leaves outside the airport building, across the parking area. The service terminates at

• Samed Vurgun's Park on the 28 May Street.

Minibus 135 runs between the airport traffic circle (15-min walk from the airport) and the 28 May Metro Station. The journey takes an hour and costs 0.40 manat.

Taxi: Getting a smooth ride from the airport to town can be a hassle. The lowest price you can get for a taxi to the center should be around 15 manat (old Lada, unmarked taxi). Only one taxi company is permitted to do business at the airport. This monopoly drives up the price to nearly 50 manat and many times it leaves you with no other options, especially when arriving at late hours. Police occasionally force out all cab drivers trying to do business on the fringes of the airport, leaving you stuck with a high fare. Taxis don't have meters so you must negotiate in advance. If you are not finding a reasonable price, go out of the airport, past the taxi stand and ask the cabbies in the far end of the parking lot. Be cautious since the majority of Baku cabs are unmarked. Don't let the cab driver renegotiate the price with you. It is a common trick to ask for much more on arrival to your destination. You are not obligated to pay what they demand. For 5 manat you can take a cab from the airport to Metro Azizbeyov. From there it's four to six stations to the town center - but only from 06:00 until 00:00.

Travel by train to Baku

Baku Vagzal - Baku train station

• Baku train station - Bakı Dəmiryol Stansiyası | Departure point for all international and overnight connections, as well as the local train to Sumqayit. Buying a train ticket happens the old-fashioned way with separate windows for buying a ticket and paying for it. But don't worry, most station staff understand English and are willing to help.

Overnight trains are available from Russia, Ukraine and Georgia on a regular basis. The train to/from Moscow (51 hr) departs once a week and there are also connections from Rostov and Kharkiv. Trains running through Russia are operated by Russian Railways. There is also an overnight train from Tbilisi in neighbouring Georgia leaving daily. The journey lasts 13-14 hours depending on the length of border checks. The train makes a stop-over in Ganja and several smaller towns. It's a comfortable journey because the border checks do not take place in the middle of the night (so be careful with your visa opening date). The train is an old soviet train, amenities are not very good, so be prepared. Tea is available en-route for 2 manat.

Departure	Arrival	3rd class (platskart)	2nd class (kupe)	1st class (SV)	comments
Tbilisi 20:35	Baku 08:50 (+1)	33 GEL	50 GEL	86 GEL	everyday; cannot be bought online, only on-spot at Tbilisi central station
Baku 20:40	Tbilisi 8:55 (+1)	23 AZN	33 AZN	56 AZN	everyday;
Baku 3:25	Rostov 9:09 (+1)				2 times per week
Baku 1:35	Moscow 3:22 (+2)				every week
Baku 1:35	Kiev 10:18 (+2)				every week The long-delayed rail link between Georgia and Türkiye opened on 30 November 2018 for freight only. The start date and timetable for passenger trains has not been announced. Domestic trains are very cheap, most journeys cost less than 20 manat which makes it cheaper than staying in a hostel. Travel by Bus to Baku Baku International Bus Terminal - Bakı Beynəlxalq Avtovağzalı | The complex handles up to 950 bus movements every day across domestic and international routes, serving around 20,000 passengers. The terminal has four floors served by 14 escalators and 10 lifts. It also features a 93-bed hotel, 700-space vehicle park, shopping mall of 800 shops, 500-seat canteen, bank, medical center, postal office and waiting and VIP rooms. There is also a station supervisor's office and bus drivers` rest room facilities. - Buses also operate from destinations in Iran, Türkiye and from Tbilisi. Buses run between Baku and Lankaran (departs: 11:50, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00), Sheki (hourly, 12 manat, 6-hr trip). A common rule of thumb for bus rates in Azerbaijan seems to be about 1 manat per hour ride. Example: Agstafa is about 7 or 8 hours away from Baku. About 16 manat. Travel by minivan in Baku Minbuses operate between Baku and Sheki (6 hr), Lankaran (5 hr), Xachmaz (3 hr), Saatli (5 hr) and Imishli (4 hr). Portbaku - Baku International Sea Port By ferry Baku International Sea Trade Port - Sea terminal, Daniz Vagzal, Bakı Beynəlxalq Dəniz Ticarət Limanı | The port consists of the Main Cargo Terminal, Dubendy Oil Terminal, Ferry Terminal and Passenger Terminal (☎ +994 12 493 1963). - Ferries operate between Baku and Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan (irregularly, roughly every 7–10 days) and Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan (steerage bed, US$50, 2-day trip, bring food). - Make sure you have appropriate visas before embarking, if necessary. How to get around in Baku Baku metro - |Map of the Baku Metro How to travel to Baku by car AVIS Avis Rent a Car provides cars, SUV and 4WD. Airport pick up and delivery service is also available. Best way to travel in Baku by a Taxi Eurovision taxi in Baku - Taxi in Baku London taxi cabs have been introduced in Baku and travel fees are 0.70 manat per km. A taxi costs 4-10 manat for trips within the center of Baku. It's important to agree on the price of the fare before beginning the trip or you can expect to be asked to pay far more than you should. Baku Airport Transfer | Offers online booking via eHalal Hotels and printed receipts/invoices for airport transfers between downtown and Heydar Aliyev International. English is spoken. 189 | Call 189 from an Azeri phone, ask for Engling language, wait for a moment and then you can arrange a pickup point destination and get a fair price. Wait for 5-10 min. Get notified by SMS after calling and when your cab arrived incl. the lisence plate, destination and price. Very easy. Also works after midnight when public transport stops. By bike Baku is a great town to get around in by bicycle. Except for the up-town and the city, including old town (İçəri Şəhər) and down-town is fairly flat and though there are some streets that are dangerous to ride and there is almost always a safe, fast route to your destination. While there are no separate bike lanes on the streets and cars and cyclists often share narrow streets of Baku and the city is very bike-friendly. While cycling on the street, be very careful watch out for other cyclists, always keep closer to foot-walk side of the street and show other traffic where you are going (e.g., by holding out your hand) in order to avoid accidents and smoothen the traffic flow. MyBike A bicycle rental shop. Make sure to get a good lock (or two) and to use it. If you want to know the best routes, you should get a copy of the beautifully designed Baku by Bike plan, which is available at all bike rental points of MyBike. A passport or identity card must be shown and a refundable deposit is required. While this service is quite convenient, be sure to bring ID or passport and contact information, including hotel phone number, to speed up the paperwork. By bus/shuttle van Citytour083 - Baku City Tour bus Buses and shuttle vanes cost 0.30 manat per person and can take you to almost any place within Baku. Destinations are posted on the front and the right side of the bus. Newer buses only accept electronic cash. Note and there are some buses which are 0.50 manat, e.g. the one to Bibi Heybət Mosque in the south. Which makes charging disposable electronic cards a challenge. That means if you buy the single use tickets and they might not be sufficient if you just load them with 0.40 manat, thinking of going forth and back once. By metro The metro goes many places throughout Baku and it costs only 0.30 manat. and is the least expensive way to get around Baku besides walking. Ask a cashier or attendant. You must obtain a Bakı Metropiliten Kart (2 manat refundable deposit) and load it like a normal metro pass. You can also buy a limited card (0.2 manat) with 1, 2, 3, or 4 trips (the last one costing 1 manat). More than one person may use the same card. Alternatively, you can use a Azerbaycan Sosial Kartı like the ones on some Azerbaijani ATM cards. The metro workers will be more than happy to help if spoken to in either Azeri or Russian and some may understand English. You can buy a metro card at the metro station and some bus stops from a ticket machine. You can change the language of the machine to English. It runs from 06:00 until 24:00 and gets very crowded in rush hours. Be careful when transferring trains at the transfer stations (28 May and Jafar Jabbarli Cəfər Cabbarlı) as the signage is not easy to spot. There have been reports of people being arrested while taking photographs of the metro station. There are clear signage on the stations which prohibits taking photos, on the outside it is ok. The Avtovaghzal metro station is worthy of seeing from the outside as it is a giant glass pyramid. Travel by train to Baku The Baku electric train runs through several parts of Baku and the surrounding area including Sumqait. 2 manat. Walk in Baku There are pedestrian alleys and streets around the Fountain Plaza and the seafront and the old town. You can walk to other places, too, but you might have to cross busy streets since there aren't always pedestrian tunnels available. The zebra crossings work with an "I'm feeling lucky" principle and aren't exactly safe, especially at night. At night, use your phone screen (not your flashlight) to indicate to the approaching cars that you are crossing the street and follow other people. By funicular The Baku funicular is a great way of getting to the Viewpoint and Flame Towers. It is not too expensive. What to See Old Town (Icheri Sheher) There are a number of interesting sites within Baku's walled fortress and the Old City (a UNESCO site), which can all be observed while walking in one day: Azerbaigian-baku2 - The Divankhana Pishtaq in the Palace of the Shirvan Shahs The Palace of the Shirvan Shahs - Shirvanshahs' Palace; Azerbaijani: Şirvanşahlar sarayı, Russian: Дворец Ширваншахов | The medieval palace of the Shirvan Shahs is the highlight of the Old City and a must see for any tourist in Baku. The complex contains the main building of the palace, Divanhane and the burial-vaults and the shah's mosque with a minaret, Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's mausoleum, a portal in the east - Murad's gate, a reservoir and the remnants of the bath-house. - The main building of the complex was started in 1411 by Shirvanshah Sheykh Ibrahim I. The two-storey building of the palace numbers about 50 different dimensions and outlines of the constructions connected with 3 narrow winding staircases. The big lancet portal directly leads from the courtyard to the second floor, into a high octahedral lodging covered with a cupola. A small, also an octagonal vestibule, located behind it, connects it with the rest of the lodgings in the palace. - Divankhana is a small stone pavilion. It is located inside a small courtyard neighbored by a gallery-arcade on three sides. The Divankhana pavilion consists of an octahedral hall covered with a stone cupola both inside and outside. The well-proportioned high portal of the main entrance is decorated with an ornament and Arabic inscription. The ornament pictures the interlacing fig and vine leaves. The portal is also decorated with two medallions inside of which there are inscriptions in Kufic Arabic. - The Mausoleum of the Shirvanshahs is of a rectangular shape and crowned with a hexahedral cupola which is decorated from outside with multi-radial stars. The inscription on the entrance doorway indicates the purpose of the building, "Khalilullah I and the greatest Soltan, Great Shirvanshah and the namesake of the divine prophet and the defender of the religion ordered to construct this light burial-vault for his mother and son in 839" (1435–1436). On two drop-shaped medallions in the flannel parts of the portal there are inscriptions with the architect's name - Memar Ali (architect Ali). - The Palace Mosque (1430s) is located in the lower court of the complex. The laconicism of its prismatic volumes, completed with two slightly pointed cupolas, is shaded by a well-proportioned vertical line of the minaret rising above in the north-eastern corner of the building. There are 2 chapels for prayers in the mosque: a hall of a large size for men and a hall of a small size for women, also a couple of small subsidiary rooms. There is an inscription laid under the stalactite belt of the minaret which reads, "The greatest Soltan Khalilullah I ordered to build this minaret. May Allah exalt the days of his governing and reign. The year of 845" (1441–1442). - Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's Mausoleum is located in the southern part of the complex. Seyid Yahya Bakuvi was a royal scholar in the court of Shirvanshah Khalilullah. The Mausoleum is of an octahedral shape and covered with an octahedral marquee. It consists of ground and underground parts. The upper part of the Mausoleum served to perform the cult rites and the lower one housed the sepulchral vault. There are three small lancet windows with a stone café - shabaka on the southern, eastern and Western verges of the Mausoleum. - The Shirvanshahs' Palace complex also includes the portal of Eastern Gates and the so-called "Sultan Murad's Gate" (1585). It was built within the walls of the fortress rather later than all the other constructions of the complex during Ottoman occupation of 1585-1603. The gates were named by them in honor of Sultan Murad III. - The Palace Bath-house is located on the lowest terrace of the complex. It was discovered in 1939 and dates to 17th century. The archaeological excavations exposed a big bath-house consisting of 26 rooms. On the basis of the surviving remains of the walls of the bath-house one can say that its rooms used to be covered with cupolas and the light penetrated through the openings in the cupolas. The bath-house was semi-underground for keeping the heat in winter and the cool in summer. Shahs-khans mosque shirvanshahs palace built in 1141 baku azerbaijan4 - Saray mosque, Palace of Shirvanshahs Saray Mosque - Palatial mosque, Shahs-khans mosque, Azerbaijani: Saray məscidi, Russian: Дворцовая мечеть | Plan of the mosque is rectangular. There is a small hall, small prayer room for women and serving rooms. The northern portal, rotated to a burial vault of Shirvanshahs is more solemn than the eastern one. The latter, which was coming down to underground exit, was intended for habitants of the palace. - Interior. Two tier windowed prayer room is covered with cupola with spherical sails. Mihrab is located in the southern end of the palace. Cupola area over one a tier women prayer room ceding to cupola of the hall with its dimensions and replacing its outlines. Aperture of the mosque’s portal is clearly described on severe background of prismatic volume, ended with two cupolas with slightly sharpening calottes. - Minaret. Trunk of the minaret is neighbored by an inscription, a ligature of which has a date of 845 (1441/42). Details of sherefe’s stalactites are subtly modeled. Giz galasi - Maiden Tower Maiden's Tower - Giz Qalasi, Девичья башня | This mysterious and eccentric tower was built somewhere between the 7th and 12th centuries and may have served as a fire beacon, defensive fortification, astronomical observatory, or Zoroastrian temple. - The tower, which is Baku's most distinguished landmark, described as the "most majestic and mysterious monument of Baku and the Gyz Galasy", built on solid rock foundation, demonstrates right on the coast line, a fusion of Arabic, Persian and Ottoman influences. It was constructed alongside a natural oil well. It is a cylindrical eight story structure that rises to a height of 29.5 m with a base diameter of 16.5 meters. The internal space available in the tower is said to be adequate to accommodate 200 people. A long solid projection to the main tower faces east, which is oriented towards sunrise pointing to the equinoxes, which has led to the conclusion that it was built as an astronomical tower; while the buttress faces east and the door access to the tower faces southeast. Each floor of the tower has a shallow vaulted roof, "a stone cupola" that has a central opening. The thickness of the walls varies from 5 m at the base tapering cylindrically to 3.2–4.2 m at the top floors. All floors are connected by staircase which abuts the circular wall and are lighted by narrow windows or niches which flare inward. The structure built in stone masonry exhibits varying finished surfaces, which is inlaid with local grey limestone. The alternate courses of stone laid in gypsum plaster gives a black and white banded effect. The northwestern part of the tower retains the original surface finish. There is also a beak-like projection, a buttress, curved in shape, made in masonry. The earliest stonework has square corners. - A detailed examination of the construction features of the tower by archaeologists suggests that the stone masonry, both on its interior and exterior surfaces, is diamond shaped and is seen at the top as well as at the bottom of the tower wall. The diamond shaped cut seen as a decorative feature, particularly on the outer face of the west side wall, is ornate at the top and plain at the bottom of the wall; a subtle feature noted throughout the tower suggests that it was built as one monolith unit at one period, however the recent renovations are stated to be crude. - Water Well: Another notable structure seen in the tower is a water well of 0.7 m diameter, which is 21 m deep (its depth is up to the aquifer) that has been discovered at the second floor of the tower. It has an entrance also at the ground level which was discovered by Archaeologist Abbas Islamov during a recent study of the tower. This well has been interpreted as rainwater harvesting structure and the water is said to be clean and fresh (though close to the sea). The ceramic pipe (30 cm in diameter) plumbing seen running down from the niches of the tower into the well was meant as a supply source. Since the ancient plumbing system is said to be in its original form, it needs to be cleaned and its layout ascertained by further studies to describe the drainage network that was built as part of the tower. The ceramics of the plumbing system and the silt deposited in them could also help to fix the age of the tower by using thermo-luminescence technique. - Also seen in the tower, between the 2nd floor and the 7th floor, is a gutter of semicircular shape at every floor. It is made of ceramic pipes fitted one above another and joined by lime mortar. The pipes are presumably produced with the potter's wheel technique. They are 20–25 cm in diameter with 2.2 cm thick walls and each segment is 40–45 cm long. Similar gutters are seen from the ground floor up to the foundation level but with the four cornered ceramic pipes of 22 cm× 18 cm size, which run outside through the wall. Fortress walls and towers Built in 11th–12th centuries Bukhara Caravanserai Бухарский караван-сарай | over the trade highway of Icherisheher in late 15th century Multani Caravanserai - Караван-сарай Мултани | opposite to the Bukhаrа cаravаnsаrаy Hajji yib bathhouse - Баня Гаджи Гаиба | Built in 15th century. Intake portal of the bathhouse is rectangular shaped. Whole complex of the bathhouse is divided into 3 groups: dressing-room, changing room and a bathing area. The dressing and changing rooms have octagonal halls, neighbored by small rooms. Vaults and domes have various figured outlines and were implemented thoroughly. There is a swimming swimmingpool with warm and cold water in the centre of the hall. Floors are covered with stone plates. Heating is promoted by ceramic pipes or channels under the floors of the rooms. Warm air, produced by water heating circulates along these channels. Agha Mikayil bathhouse - Hacı Аğа Mikаyıl Hamami, Баня Ага-Микаила - 40.36456,49.83271 Small Caravansaray - Khan’s caravansaray” (KİÇİK kаrvаnsаrаy, “Хаn kаrvаnsаrаyı”, Ханский караван-сарай | Asef Zeynally Street - Built in 1500s. Molla Ahmad’s mosque - Molla Əhməd məscidi, Мечеть Молла Ахмеда | Built in 1290s. Myrzhy Ahmad’s mosque - Мечеть Мирзы Ахмеда | South from Molla Ahmad’s mosque Two-Storeyed Caravansaray - constructed in 17th century. Hadji Bani (Hajji) mosque Hacı Bani məscidi, Мечеть Гаджи Бани| 40.3669,49.8328 near the Palace of the Shirvanshahs Thit is constructed by architect Hadji Bani in the 16th century. “Chin” mosque - True mosque, Çin məscidi, Чин мечеть | Constructed in 1375. Gasim-bek bath - Gasimbey bath, “Shirin” (Sweet) Bathhouse, Баня Гасым-бека | Kichik Gala street 40.3640,49.8338 near the Salyan door (gate) Constructed in 17th century near the Salyan door (gate). Gasim-bek Caravanserai Караван-сарай Касым-бека | The chapel constructed in the 15th century in the yard of Jame mosque Seyed Yahya mosque - Seyid Yahya Murtuza mosque, Мечеть Сеид Яхья | Constructed in the early 17th century. Jame mosque and minaret remains Emir Sharaf-ad-din Mahmud mosque and minaret, Mosque Cum, Джума мечеть, Azerbaijani: Cümə məscidi |Founded in 1309-10. The mosque was repeatedly reconstructed during its existence period. A new Friday Mosque was constructed in the place of old mosque in means of Baku merchant Haji Shikhlali Dadashov, in 1899. It was constructed in place of old Friday Mosque and it is considered that it was appeared in that place, where a temple of zoroastrians located. A minaret, constructed in 1437, adjoins Friday Mosque. Bazaar Plaza - Базарная площадь Baba Kukhy Baku mosque Мечеть Баба Кухи Бакуви | at the Maiden Tower Cell-madrasa - Келья-медресе | north from Madrasah-mosque 50 m Gileyli mosque - Гилейли мечеть | built in 1309, rebuilt 1800s Lezgi mosque / Ashur Mosque - Лезги мечеть, Ləzgi Məscidi | Asef Zeynally Street Portal of a residential building - Портал жилого домаBöyük Qala Sultan oglu Sultan Sheikh Ibrahim mosque Sheikh Ibrahim mosque, Мечеть Шейха Ибрагима | over the commercial highway changing own direction for reaching the Salyan gate Built in 1415-16. Salyan Gates and Shemakha Gates Шемахинские ворота | northeast Muhammad Mosque Siniggala Mosque, Мечеть Мухаммада | Thit is the mosque built in the 11th century in Icheri Sheher, Baku. The mosque is commonly called Siniggala, for the name of its minaret – Siniggala (“damaged tower”). The mosque acquired its second name in 1723, when military squadron of Russian army, consisting of 15 warships and led by Admiral Matyushkin approached the city from seaside and demanded its surrender. Russian warships began to bomb the city after refusal. One of the shells hit in the minaret of Muhammad Mosque and damaged it. At that time blew stormy wind and took the Russian ships away to the sea. Population of the city interpreted it as a divine scourge sent to the occupants. From that time till the middle of the 19th century minaret of the mosque wasn’t reconstructed and was the symbol of persistence and courage of defendants of the tower. - It is the first building in Azerbaijan, which is related to Islam and dated for its architectural ligature. - According to Arabic inscription which was saved in front of doorway of northern wall of the mosque, it was built by ustad-rais Muhammad the son of Abu Bakr in 471 of Hijra (1078/79). It means that the architect was not only a master-ustad, but also a rais-head of artificers’ corporation. - A Minaret adjoins new mosque, which was constructed on the basis of the older one’s plan. Trunk of the minaret is strong and slightly thinning. It is constructed from carefully drafted stone. Coarse and flat stalactites of tabling retain sherefe – muezzin’s balcony enclosed by stone plates. A ribbed dome completes the trunk of minaret. Narrow winding stairs are winded within the trunk. Ligature with Koranic inscription was traced under the tabling with archaic kufi alphabet. Beyler Mosque Мечеть Бейлер East 100m from Palace Haji Eybata Mosque - Мечеть Гаджи Ейбата Khan's house - Ханский дом | Northeast part Khidir mosque built in 1300s. Khanlarov mosque - Khanlar mosque | built in the late 19th century. Tetragonal tower - Donjon bastion, Донжон башни | In the northern mid part of the fortress wall. Underground constructions, water reservoir - Подземный ход | Entrance near to the “Icherisheher” subway station Takiya - Tekkiye | A chapel for dervishes constructed in the13th century. S. Gregory Armenian Church - S. Grigor Luysavorich Yekeghetsi | This Armenian Church was built in 1887. The church closed in 1990, when the Armenian population had to leave. The building is now used as a presidential library. Out of Old Town Mosque of the Martyrs - Turkish Mosque, Azerbaijani: Şəhidlər məscidi | Funicular - Shahidlar Khiyabani garden Thit is a mosque, near the Martyrs' Lane. The mosque was built in the beginning of 1990s with assistance of the Turkish government. The mosque is used as an official residence of religious attaché of the Turkish embassy. Opened in 2009. The 154th ayah from Al-Baqara chapter of Quran is written on the façade of the mosque in Arabic and Turkish: “Do not say “Dead!” about those, who died for the sake of Allah. No and they are alive! But you do not feel.” Taza Pir Mosque - Tazapir, Teze Pir, Teze-Pir, Tezepir | Thit is a mosque with two minarets. Its construction began in 1905 and was finished by 1914. The idea for the mosque as well as its financing was provided by an Azeri philanthropist, a female, Nabat Khanum Ashurbeyov (Ashurbeyli) - Architecture. Interior of the mosque has an area of 1400 square meters and decorated with ornaments of painting schools of Azerbaijan plus with samples from eastern ornaments. The height of the dome and a half meters. The mihrab and dome of the mosque made of marble, while decorative elements of the mosque and the tops of minarets and labels are made of Gold. - The dome, on which 6 times written La ilaha ilallah from Muslim proclamation of faith or Shahada, made from Qızılqaya (Gyzylgaya) stone. Saint Gregory the Illuminator's Church - Azerbaijani: Bakı Erməni Kilsəsi, Armenian: Սուրբ Գրիգոր Լուսաւորիչի Եկեղեցի – Surp Grigor Lusavorichi Yekeghetsi | Street Nizami (ул. Низами) Built in 1887. Now a government building. Holy Myrrhbearers Gothic Church / Russian Orthodox Church - Russian: Кафедральный Собор Святых Жён-Мироносиц; Azeri: Müqəddəs Mürdaşıyan Zənənlər Başkilsəsi | This Russian Orthodox cathedral was founded in 1909. Hit by a Russian missile in 1990, it was reconstructed and reopened in 2001. It holds a shrine of the apostle St. Bartholomew. Museums and galleries in Baku National Art Museum of Azerbaijan - Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Milli İncəsənət Muzeyi | The museum consists of two buildings standing next to each other. The museum's total collection includes over 15,000 artworks. There are over 3,000 items in 60 rooms on permanent display. Seven of the rooms in the first building feature European art and ten rooms feature Russian art. European art includes works of Italian, French, Dutch/Flemish, (German) and Polish painters. - The second edifice built in 1885 houses Eastern art, represented particularly by Persian, (Turkish), Chinese and Japanese art. Russian art is encompassed notably by paintings of different painters. There are also restored samples of Russian avant-garde. The museum also holds easel and book miniatures of 17th-19th centuries, lacquered miniatures of 18th-19th centuries and collection of sherbet spoons, made from mulberry tree. National Museum of History of Azerbaijan - Taghiyev History Museum, Azerbaijani: Azərbaycan Tarix Muzeyi, Russian: Музей истории Азербайджана | The museum was built in 1893–1902. The Italian Renaissance-style mansion is immense and takes up an entire city block. There are four floors in some parts of the building. It was designed by Polish architect Józef Gosławski. On the second floor of Taghiyev's residence, side by side there are two major ballrooms. One is based on Oriental designs (Mauritanian) style and the other, on Occidental design. The Oriental Room has enormous plate glass windows, gilded arches, highly ornamental walls, ceilings and chandeliers. The lines in the Occidental Room are more perpendicular to each other – rectangular. The museum has more than 2000 exhibits and includes the following departments: Modern history, Ethnography, Ancient and medieval history of Azerbaijan, Scientific excursion, Fund of Numismatics, Art design group. Azerbaijan Carpet Museum - State Museum of Azerbaijan Carpet and Applied Art | The museum hosts a wide range of different carpets, both old and new. It moved to its current location in 2014 (on the waterfront). The building itself is shaped as a carpet. Heydar Aliyev Center -Heydər Əliyev Mərkəzi, Центр Гейдара Алиева | Thit is a ft[sup2[/sup 619,000 building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid and noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that eschews sharp angles. The Heydar Aliyev Center represents a fluid form which emerges by the folding of the landscape’s natural topography and by the wrapping of individual functions of the Center. All functions of the Center, together with entrances, are represented by folds in a single continuous surface. This fluid form gives an opportunity to connect the various cultural spaces whilst at the same time, providing each element of the Center with its own identity and privacy. As it folds inside and the skin erodes away to become an element of the interior landscape of the center. The center houses a conference hall (auditorium), a gallery hall and a museum. Stone Museum An old factory transformed into a stone exhibition, with samples and replicas from Gobustan and other stone carvings in the region. Free English-speaking guide. Art exhibition On a reformed old factory, two free art exhibitions in two adjacent buildings. Free english-speaking guide. Other sites Baku Boulevard Fountain Plaza - Thit is a pedestrian street along the center of Baku that has many shopping, dining and sitting places. The Fountain Sq is a public square in downtown. The square is a public gathering place, especially after business hours and during the weekend. It is an attractive tourist destination with many boutiques, restaurants, shops, hotels and passage. The city authorities hold many public festivals, shows and celebrations here. Nizami (Torgovaya) Street - Azerbaijani: Nizami küçəsi | Thit is a large pedestrian and shopping street in downtown Baku, named after famed classical poet Nizami Ganjavi. Nizami Street is home to various outlets, from banks to fashion stores and is one of the most expensive streets in the world. The street also accommodates the embassies. - Buildings mostly from late 19th-early 20th century, 1950s-1970s and a modern period. Most of the buildings, constructed in the first level, were constructed in “neo-renaissance”, “neo-gothic”, “baroque” and “neoclassicism” styles as other buildings of the city constructed in that period. “Neo-Moorish” style also dominates, in which architects attempted to use elements of national architecture in its construction. Houses are dressed with limestone – aglay. - Famous houses: No.20 The building of Caspian—Black Sea Oil and Trade Society (built in 1898-1899); No.30 The building of Central Universal Magazine. - No.34 "Nargiz" shopping center - No.38 Central Library - No.38 St. Gregory the Illuminator's Church (built in 1869), - No.48 Musa Naghiyev's house, built in 1911 - No. 50 Neoclassical apartments of Tagiyev brothers, built in 1912 - No.58 Residential house, constructed by architect I.V.Edel, in 1902. - No.64 Lev Landau house, built in 1911 - No.66 Oilmen's house built in 1956 by Mikayil Huseynov - No.67 "ISR Plaza" office center - No.69 International Bank of Azerbaijan - No.72 Azerbaijan State Theater of Young Spectators, built 1965 - No.74 National Library of Azerbaijan, opened in 1923 - No.75 Haji Rajabli House, built in 1896 - No.76 Azerbaijan State Song Theater named after Rashid Behbudov. - No.79 Murtuza Mukhtarov House, built in 1896. - No.85 Nasimi Park - No.87 State Committee on Capital Issues - No.90 Former mill - No.93 Musa Naghiyev house, built in 1911 - No.95 Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, built in 1911 - No.96 Office center "Landmark" - No.103 residential house, built in 1952 - No.115 Russian Imperial Technical Society, erected in 1899 - No.117 Azerbaijan State Oil Academy Oil Rocks - Tourists wanting to see the oil rock complex must get authorization from the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan. National Flag Plaza - Azerbaijani: Dövlət Bayrağı Meydanı | Thit is a large city square Alley of Honor - Azerbaijani: Fəxri Xiyaban, Honorary Alley | Thit is a public cemetery and memorial in Baku, Azerbaijan. The Alley includes burials of famed Azerbaijanis and Azerbaijan-affiliated expatriates, including several Presidents, scientists and artists. There are 242 burials in total. Martyrs' Lane -Alley of Martyrs or Şəhidlər Xiyabanı (transliterated to Shehidler Khiyabani) | Formerly the Kirov Park, it's a cemetery and memorial in Baku, dedicated to those killed by the Soviet Army during Black January and later to those killed in Nagorno-Karabakh War. International Mugham Center of Azerbaijan - Beynəlxalq Muğam Mərkəzi, Международный центр мугама | Thit is the center of Azerbaijani arts and music aimed to promote, preserve and popularize specific genre of Azerbaijani music Mugam. - The center covers 7,500 m² and has 3 stories. The design of the building was based on elements and shapes of Tar, Azerbaijani musical instrument used in performing Mugham. The concert hall fits 350 people. Magomayev Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall Built in 1912 and inspired by the Monte Carlo Casino. Houses the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra among others. Palace of Happiness - Azerbaijani: Səadət Sarayı, Palace of Marriage former Mukhtarov Palace | Sabail Raion, Istiglaliyyat St. 4 40.395278, 49.882222 Metro Nariman Narimanov (Nəriman Nərimanov) 600m North Thit is a historic building in the center of Baku, Azerbaijan, built in Neo-Gothic style in 1912. The building was built by an Azerbaijani Oil Baron Murtuza Mukhtarov for his wife Lisa. The designer was the Polish architect Józef Plośko. After the Sovietization in 1920 the building was given to the Club of Liberated Turkic Women, after which it functioned as Shirvanshahs Museum. During the existence of Azerbaijan SSR and the palace functioned as the Palace of Marriage Registrations. On 2 August 2001, by a resolution issued by the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan and the building was listed as real estate of historic and state importance and was to be protected as a monument of Azerbaijani culture. The street lying on the right side of the building carries the name of Murtuza Mukhtarov. Gulustan Palace - Azerbaijani: Gülüstan sarayı, Gulustan Wedding Palace Complex | 1 Istiglaliyyat Street, 40.3692,49.8343 M: Icherisheher The Complex during the Soviet perioid is the main state convention center of the Azerbaijani government. From here overlooking the whole city of Baku and Baku Bay. The palace serves as an official facility for governmental and non-governmental organizations holding various types of formal events. It is notable for having hosted such important events as the Contract of the Century and other significant oil and gas contracts, signing of TRACECA project and the wedding of Leyla Aliyeva and the daughter of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, international and state conferences, etc. Ismailiyya building - İsmailiyye palace, Azerbaijani: İsmailiyyə Sarayı| Istiglaliyyat Street, 40.368525,49.833606 M: Icherisheher Thit is a historical building that serves as the Presidium of the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan. - The palace was constructed in 1913, for the Muslim Charity Society by Józef Plośko at the expense of the millionaire Musa Naghiyev in commemoration of his deceased son Ismayil and was named Ismailiyya after him. The building was constructed in the Venetian Gothic style. Baku TV Tower - Azerbaijani: Televiziya Qülləsi, Телевышка | Built in 1996, is a free standing concrete telecommunications tower in Baku. With a height of 310 m, it is the tallest structure in Azerbaijan and the tallest reinforced concrete building in Caucasus. The tower has become one of the most prominent trademarks of Baku. - A rotating restaurant on the 62nd floor (175 m) of Azeri TV Tower was opened in 2008. Friendly staff. Flame Towers - Ismailiyya Bldg, Azerbaijani: Alov Qüllələri | Thit is the tallest skyscraper in Baku, Azerbaijan with a height of 190 m (620 ft). The buildings consist of apartments, a hotel and office blocks. The estimated cost of Flame Towers is around US$350 million. Construction began in 2007, with completion in 2012. The facades of the three Flame Towers are turned into gigantic display screens with the use of more than 10,000 high-power LED luminaires, supplied by the Osram subsidiary Traxon Technologies and Vetas Electric Lighting. Definitely worth seeing from the old town. Baku Oil Pumps - Baku Oil Pumps Oil Pump Fields The famous oil pump fields from the opening scene of the James Bond picture The World is Not Enough. Bibi-Heybat Mosque Azerbaijani: Bibiheybət məscidi) | Salyan Highway (Salyan şossesi) - GPS: 40.308611, 49.820278 5km South Thit is a historical mosque in Baku, Azerbaijan. The existing structure, built in the 1990s, is a recreation of the mosque with the same name built in the 13th century by Shirvanshah Farrukhzad II Ibn Ahsitan II, which was completely destroyed by the Bolsheviks in 1936. - The Bibi-Heybat Mosque includes the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum (a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad) and today is the spiritual center for the Muslims visitors of the region and one of the major monuments of Islamic architecture in Azerbaijan. - It's locally known as "the mosque of Fatima" - The old mosque was situated in the southern part of the tomb, while there was a 20 meter high minaret in the west part of the mosque. Later a crypt and two niches were added to the mosque to the south of the minaret. On the niches there were inscriptions containing the name of Fatali Khan, whose tombstone marble slab is in the Azerbaijan State Museum of History. - From 1305 to 1313, Mahmud Ibn Saad built the mosque's minarets. The top of the thread and stalactites, raised by a small pillar, surmounted by a semicircular dome of Rebrov. Railing minarets were patterned with stone grill. Graphic studies showed that the height of the minaret was about 22 meters. - The rich interior of the complex has been decorated with ornaments. The inside of mosque included an oblong rectangular room with a lancet arch. Under the dome and there were chandelier-candlestick (shamdan) and a hook on which it hung was neighbored by stained glass. - On the north side of the minaret and the mosque instantly adjoining the tomb and there was an inscription which was discovered by Johannes Albrecht Bernhard Dorn. From the inscription it was clear that this mausoleum was built in 1619 and interred here by Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Bin Abid, who died the next day after work. - The modern restored mosque is a classic example of the Shirvan architectural school. The mosque has three domes, which have kept the traditional corrugated galvanised iron shape of the old mosque and two minarets. The domes are decorated with the green and turquoise mirrors, which are bordered with gilded inscriptions from Qur'an. Men's praying room is located on the south side of the complex, while women - on the north side. Between them is the mausoleum. - The builders used local varieties of limestone such as GulBaht. On the inside the walls of marble carvings with calligraphic inscriptions such as muhaggah, Suls, Jami-Suls, Kufic, kufi-shatrandzh, musalsag, sofa and tugra. Also widely used such ornamental compositions as islimi, shukyufa, Bandy-Rumi, zendzhiri Selcuk (Seljuk chain), Shamsi, Jafari and Achma-yumma. AF MALL | This mall has many trendy shops, summer lounge with tropic garden and swimmingpool on rooftop opening by the end of 2011. Park Bulvar Shopping Mall | This brand new mall has many trendy shops, a cinema, a planetarium, a bowling alley and many cozy cafes. There are many famous fast food chains located there, such as KFC and Sbarro. Philharmonic Fountain Park A charming park with fountains and kiosks you can pass through when going to the boulevard from the Metro. Baku Region Outside the city, on the Absheron Peninsula and there are several interesting sites for a day trip that are easy to reach via taxi or public transportation. Moreover and the scenery along your route is itself a fascinatingly ugly sight to be seen, a desert wasteland with white salt flats and natural oil pools seeping up to the surface. In addition and the Baku Region is well known for its active mud volcanoes that might also be reached within a day. The Mud Volcano which is supposed to be 15 kilometers north of Baku downtown according to several online maps. It's a mud volcano but without any active mud vents, but instead the waste of the neighbouring communities, however it might provide for a quite apocalyptic photo scenery, in case you have too much time on your hands or are nearby. See Baku Region for all the details. Muslim Travel Tips In the evening, go to the opera at the national opera on Nizami street. Otherwise, go to the rooftop café at Sultan Inn in the Old City for a drink and excellent views of the Maiden Tower, Caspian sea and the TV tower. Boat tours of Baku | 16 manat - Offered from the Baku Blvd. Lasts 40 minutes. Pantomima theatre - Pantomima Teatrı | Offered from the Baku Blvd. Lasts 40 minutes. National Opera and Ballet - Opera Və Balet Teatrı | ☎ +994 12 4931651 Baku Funicular Railroad | You can take this funicular train from the square on Neftchilar Avenue up to the Alley of the Marytrs. Aqua Park Baku US$19 for ages 7 and up Baku Entertainment Center - Bakı Əyləncə Mərkəzi | Baku Entertainment center has been around for more than half a decade. It has a shopping center, bowling alley certified by AMF, health club, conference venue with a capacity of 350 people and various restaurants and clubs. Mini-Venice A charming little complex of man-made waterways accessible on a boat. There are also some Halal restaurants in the immediate proximity. The ticket booth is 10-15 meters to the right when coming from the North. It doesn't cost too much but the signage to the ticket booth is lacking. Watch football – Three teams in the city play in the Premier League and the top tier of football in Azerbaijan. These are Qarabağ FK who play at Azersun stadium (capacity 5,800), Keşla FK (formerly Inter Baku) at Inter Arena (capacity 8,200) and Neftçi PFC Bakı at Bakcell Arena (capacity 11,000). As these are all small by GCC standards, big club games may play at the international venue, Tofiq Bahramov Stadium. Thit is 1 kilometers north of downtown, metro Ganjlik. Baths Hamam Mehellesi - Public Baths (Hamamlar) | Hamam Mehellesi is in the Old Town. From the station, enter the gate to the old city, turn right and go down the street. The hamam will be a few blocks down, on the left side of the street, you will see a note on one of the walls "hamam mehellesi" and a little further - the bath's domes - this will be the place 2 manat and they offer two types of service, hise (skin peel) for 2 manat and massage for 4 manat Thit is the oldest public bath in Baku located near the Icharishahar metro station, inside the walls of the old city. There are men's and women's days at this public bath, Mondays and Fridays are for women and the rest of the days are for men. Aga Mikayil Bath House (XVIII century hamami) Sauna and pools, nice ambiance. Naftalan Bath Oil baths are famous for Naftalan, a city close to Ganja. However you can also get an oil treatment in Baku, with Naftalan oil imported from there. It's like a small hospital and it's not a recreactional thing to do usually. However it's great fun and positively strange to dip for 15 min into hot crude oil. Choose yourself whether thit is a save and healthy thing to do. The Spa at Park Hyatt Baku ☎ +994 12 4901234 Teze Bey Hamami - Taze Bey Bath | Public baths (Hamamlar). This public bath is in the old town and is a male-only hamam. They have different types of baths (Finnish, (Turkish), etc.), so it may be a bit pricier than the other public baths in Baku. Beaches There are a couple of beaches including Shikhov Beach, but they are polluted by sewage and industrial waste. Outside the city, however and there are a few very nice sandy beaches on the Caspian. In particular Bilgəh and Amburan beaches, on the north coast of the Absheron Peninsula are great spots to cool off from heat. Further afield are the northern beaches and resorts of Northeastern Azerbaijan. AF Beach Club | This complex has 5 swimming pools, fast food, restaurant with cooks from Azerbaijan and Europe, disco, game hall, Wi-Fi, water sports, beach volley, beach football, entertainments, professional animation team . Amburan Beach Club | This complex has a 3 swimming pool, fast food outlets, restaurant with cooks from Azerbaijan and Europe, disco, game hall, Wi-Fi, water sports, beach volley, beach football, entertainments, professional animation team. Festivals Baku Jazz Festival | Organised by famous saxophonist and Baku resident Rain Sultanov to showcase Azerbaijan's love of Jazz which grew during the Soviet perioid when it was banned by the authorities. Features acts from around the world and the annual festival lasts for a week and will run from 7-14 Jun. Shopping in Baku Small bazar downtown Baku - A small bazaar in Baku Antiques from Old City (İçəri Şəhər) Rugs Apples from Quba Tea and Talish Stockings from Lankaran Halva from Sheki Traditional dolls created by ladies' groups in Barda Chiraq bookstore Istiqlaliyyat 47, (Zərgərpalan, Улица Истиглалият) 40.36860,49.83299 near M: İçəri Şəhər (Old City) Phrase books, maps and guides can be found here. ATMs Bankomats (ATMs) are available all around the town, mainly in downtown and metro stations exits. If you have a cell phone with either a Bakcell or Azercell SIM card, you can recharge your account balance using various ATMs. The International Bank of Azerbaijan has a ?menuid=11&submenuid=16&lang=en list of their ATMs in Baku. Some of them have Euros and US Dollars available. Halal Restaurants & Food in Baku There are some Halal restaurants in Baku and [ Halal Kebab shops can be found easily for a quick meal. Half Way Inn | International cuisine. L’aparte | European and Azeri cuisine. Lebanese | Lebanese cuisine on Fountain Plaza. Onassis | Greek and International cuisine. U Dali | Georgian cuisine. Lavas/Fasali Two take-away places, one next to the other, run by the same people. Do a wide range of usual Azeri/Turkish take-away food - but good quality, very popular with the local residents, expect to queue! Azerbaijani/Turkish Anadolu | Turkish/European restaurant. Bəh Bəh Izmir Garden Restaurant Jennet Baghi Karvan Saray | Have Azeri food dinner in a unique ambience. Lido | European and Azeri cuisine. Masal Although tea houses (çay xanalar) in Baku allow Muslim woman to enter, in the regions, it is often forbidden for females to enter such establishments. Women drinking in Baku is a la mode, but it is taboo for women in the regions of Azerbaijan to consume alcohol. Tea houses (Çayxanalar) There are many outdoor tea houses (çayxanalar) that serve tea and sweets to people in their own individual nooks. Going to them can be a great way to get a sense of the local culture. If you are adventurous, try challenging a local Bakuvian to a game of backgammon (nard) or dominoes. Cafés There is a good selection of cafés dispersed throughout Baku. Expect to pay Western prices for your Coffee. eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Baku Baku - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Baku, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Baku. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Baku and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Baku. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Baku. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Baku: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Baku. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Baku: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Baku, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Baku. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Baku, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Baku, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Baku and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Baku, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Baku, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Baku without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Baku is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Baku. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Baku is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Baku, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Baku Media: info@ehalal.io Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Baku eHalal Group Baku is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Baku. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Baku. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Baku ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Baku. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Baku, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Baku are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io Ramadan Celebrations in Baku Ramadan 2025 in Baku Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries. The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025 The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025 The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025 The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024 Muslim Friendly Hotels There is a dodgy host working on AirBnB and Booking.com named Royal. Once you arrive he will state the room is already taken and it's problem caused by booking.com and try to take you to another place that charges far more. He will start threatening you if you don't go along. Avoid such situations or be determined and insistent – you have nothing to fear of such agents in Baku. Araz Hotel | About a kilometre from the ferry port. Altstadt Hotel A "better" two-star hotel, with buffet breakfast, spotless private facilities, A/C, Wi-Fi, colour TV. Offers excursions, helps with visas if necessary. Run by the very friendly Mr. Elmin (Beatles fan) who is always happy to give info and help guests. Consul Hotel | Thit is a hotel option in the Genclik neighborhood. Days Hotel Baku | 15 minutes’ trip from the Heydar Aliyev International Airport and 10 minutes from the town center. 102 rooms with Wi-fi internet access, one international restaurant, one lounge-bar and two conference rooms. Diplomat Hotel | Located centrally. Credit cards accepted. Holiday Inn Baku Airport - 25-min trip from the downtown. Facilities include a kids stay and eat free program, internet access in all rooms, various restaurants, complimentary shuttle to downtown and a spa. Hotel Hale Kai | American boutique hotel, 24 all-suite rooms, free Wi-Fi throughout hotel, breakfast included. Park Inn | Fully-equipped business centre, restaurant, café and coffee shop, five modern conference rooms and an elegant ballroom with a large foyer. Also offers Wi-Fi in all guest rooms, gift shop, free airport shuttle, 24 hour room service, workout room, open parking facilities, 24 hour concierge. Rigs Hotel 24 rooms Swan Hotel | Near Icheri Sheher Metro station. AF Hotel Aqua Park There have been complaints with this hotel – please check online reviews. AF Hotel is the largest hotel and resort in the Caucasus. This complex houses pools, private secluded saunas, salons, water slides, entertainment center and hotel facilities. Crescent Beach Hotel | This complex has an indoor and outdoor pool, beach front, café and tourism services. High-speed Wi-Fi zone covering 10 hotel buildings, Hotel yard, restaurant and beach. Please contact Hotel reception. Excelsior Hotel Baku | With a 5-star rating and the Excelsior Hotel is one of the nicest hotels in Baku. Hyatt Regency Baku | Services include: high-speed internet access, chauffeur-driven limousine rental, hotel shops, Wi-Fi, business center, The Grill, Gourmet Shop, Beluga Bar, Club Oasis Fitness Center, swimming pools, tennis courts, squash courts, ballroom, 10 meeting rooms, 2 boardrooms and pre-function and social function space. Olimpik Hotel A 4-star resort 20 kilometers from Baku downtown and 2 kilometers from the northern coast on the Caspian Sea at Absheron peninsula. Park Hyatt Baku | 5-star hotel adjacent to a comprehensive Meeting & Conference Centre. Club lounge for free continental breakfast, evening cocktails and boardroom access. Radisson SAS Plaza Hotel | An all-suite hotel located on the top floor of the ISR Plaza Business Centre with views over the old and new city's. Has a gym, private secluded sauna, indoor pool, lounge and business centre. Telecommunications in Baku Internet Cafe's in Baku Many cafés in Baku now have free WiFi. In general, internet cafes in Azerbaijan are called "internet klubs" and they are found throughout Baku. Public WiFi service is available in central areas and attractions, making it comfortable to the tourists to connect. Post office Poct Small - Azerpost Office Azerbaijan Post locations are dispersed throughout Baku. Mailing an international letter generally costs 0.8 manat. AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) As Azal seems to be in a permanent state of flux as to where their offices are located, pop into a travel agent and ask about tickets very carefully before buying anything.In some cases, like Naxcevan or last-minutes flights, you will absolutely have to go the ever-moving central office during a few random opening times in order to get your tickets processed. One travel agent who can guide you buy phone is reachable at +994 55 4201220 or +99412 5551320 or 5981619. Stay safe in Baku Baku is considered a safe city, nevertheless common sense is useful as in all other big city's. Homeless people do not harass or attack people and are very safe to be around. The biggest problem in Baku is driving. Many drivers do not obey rules and speed. Emergency contact numbers Ambulance: 103 Fire: 101 Gas Emergency 104 Speaking Clock 106 Police: 102 You must speak in Azeri, Turkish or Russian to communicate your needs. It would be a good idea to memorize key phrases before coming to Azerbaijan - The police are friendly and nice and try to help you as much as they can. Try to be nice and understanding and don't get frustrated if you don't understand each other instantly. Write down your phone's IMEI code in case it gets lost so it is easier for the police to find. Safety tips The roads can be treacherous at night due to unseen potholes and dimly lit cars. Most areas in and near the downtown are mostly safe. Cope in Baku Embassies & Consulates in Baku China | 67 Khagani Street - ☎ +994 12-4936933 +994 12-4980010 Georgia | AZ 1069, Narimanov raion, Yashar Huseynov St. 13-15 ☎ +994 12 497-45-60 +994 12 497-45-61 News & References Baku Go Next Within Azerbaijan Nabran – Relax by the Caspian on the beach or in a resort. Azerbaijan's biggest tourist destination for international Visitors and a coastal city close to Xachmaz. Quba – Its urban suburb is home to the largest Azerbaijani Yahudi community in the mountains and is considered one of the largest Yahudi communities in the former Soviet Union. Khinalug (Xinaliq) – A scenic, remote and ancient mountain village and the mountain of the same name nearby. Once a centre of Zoroastrianism; today the few inhabitants are an ethnic isolate believed to be descendants of the Caucasus Albanians (unrelated to modern-day Albanians of Albania). Sheki – A 7-hour bus ride to the northwest. A beautiful city in the Caucasus mountains with lots to see and do. It has one of the largest densities of cultural resources and monuments that span 2,700 years of Azerbaijani history. Lahich – A cozy and remote highland village, on the way to Sheki. Famous for its copper work. Shamakhi – A town that used to be the capital of the Medieval state of Shirvan. Famous for its traditional dancers, Şamaxı dancers and its impressive mosque. An ancient history and once one of the key city's along the Silk Road. Naftalan – A well-known petroleum spa resort and the centre of medical tourism in Azerbaijan. Go and enjoy the oil baths. Ganja – One of the oldest city's in the Caucasus. Nakhchivan (region) – The Baku Airport is one of the few in the world offering Flights to Nakhchivan (region) | Nakhchivan and travelers heading that way should book a flight from here. Outside Azerbaijan Georgia – There are direct buses and trains into Tbilisi from Baku. Iran – Buses take international Visitors onwards from Baku there. Turkmenistan – A ferry departs daily from Baku across the Caspian Sea to Turkmenbashi. This ferry has become somewhat of a sleeper hit with backpackers on the Silk Road, but is very uncomfortable and should only be taken by adventure-seekers. Kazakhstan – A ferry depart irregularly to Aktau (every 7–10 days maybe). Docks are located 2 km to the West of the old town. It is difficult to get tickets! Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd. To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.