Traveling to Baku was not part of my usual plan. I am a traveler who thrives on long, immersive journeys—none of my international trips have ever been shorter than 30 days. But when Azerbaijan Airlines extended an invitation to explore Baku for three days, I decided to embrace the opportunity. It felt like a challenge, a departure from my norm. There was another twist: this time, I was part of a group of content creators. Ordinarily, I travel solo, savoring the freedom it brings, but here I was, with a group—an unusual scenario for me.
Two out of the three days, I broke away from the crowd, choosing instead to wander the city streets alone. Baku, with its fusion of ancient and modern, was a city meant for walking. I found myself returning multiple times to the cobbled alleys of the Old City, where every turn seemed to reveal a different layer of history. The walls whispered stories of centuries past, and the labyrinth of streets felt like an invitation to lose oneself. Here, I met local shopkeepers, artists, and fellow travelers from all over the world, each with their own story to tell. It was as if the Old City was not just a place but a living museum, its exhibits the people who called it home.
Nizami Street, with its aesthetics and charm, became my second home. The boulevard was alive with energy—shops, cafes, and the occasional street performance filled the air with a sense of vibrancy. The coffeehouses, the smell of freshly baked pastries, and the aroma of döners drew me in. I’d sit with a cup of coffee, watching the world go by, absorbing the architecture that lined the street—elegant and timeless.
The Caspian Sea, a familiar friend, greeted me with its cool breeze. I had experienced the sea’s touch from Iran’s Bandar Anzali, and now I was here, feeling its gentle embrace from Baku’s shores. The nights were magical, the air filled with salt and the distant glow of city lights reflected on the water. The Flame Towers, icons of Baku’s skyline, lit up the night, visible from nearly every corner of the city. Modern skyscrapers rose alongside traditional stone buildings, a testament to the city’s rapid evolution while still honoring its past.
A highlight was the Heydar Aliyev Centre, a marvel of modern architecture by Zaha Hadid. Its fluid design and futuristic shape stood in striking contrast to the historical quarters of the city, symbolizing Baku’s blend of tradition and innovation. I wandered around, soaking in the curves and angles, the sheer audacity of the building’s form.
Three days in Baku flew by, but they left a lasting impression. The city’s call was unmistakable—there was so much more to see, so many stories yet to uncover. I know I will return, not just to explore more of Baku but to venture beyond, discovering the hidden gems of Azerbaijan. This trip was a brief affair, a taste of the city’s potential. Next time, it will be longer—a journey on my terms, one that dives deeper into the heart of this fascinating place.
Must-see places in Baku? The Old City, Nizami Street, the Caspian shores, and the Heydar Aliyev Centre are just the beginning. The city reveals itself slowly, with every walk offering a new discovery. For anyone planning a trip, Baku is a city that demands more than a fleeting visit—it is a city to be savored, and one that has certainly captured my heart.
