Visit Guide to Old City

Icherisheher – the old town at the heart of Baku – acts as an open-air museum, preserving ancient history, cultural heritage and architecture. The Old City with the Maiden Tower and the Palace of Shirvanshahs are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is also home to a variety of handicrafts, including pottery, metal and glassware.

Getting There

The Old City is located in the heart of Baku and you can access it from several entry points. It is easily reachable by public transportation or by a short walk.

What to Expect

Baku’s medieval core is a UNESCO-protected site surrounded by 12th-century walls, brimming with history and Eastern architecture. Beyond its main attractions, the ‘Inner City,’ as it’s called by the locals, is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways home to some of Baku’s oldest residents, as well as artists’ workshops, souvenir stalls and traditional restaurants serving classic Azerbaijani dishes.

History

It is widely accepted that the Old City dates at least to the 12th century, with some researchers attributing the fortress as far back as the 7th century. Today, it is a protected state reserve with more than 3000 people living here, while also being a favorite spot among tourists and the guests of the city.

Facilities

  • Audio guides
  • Guide services
  • Public toilets
  • Bars/cafes/restaurants
  • Accommodation
  • Accessibility
  • Wi-Fi
  • Tourism Information Points
  • Public transportation
  • Taxis
  • Shopping
  • Entertainment facilities