Although Baku may not have the same global recognition as some of Europe’s more famous capitals, a few days here will quickly make you want to return. This guide goes beyond recommending the best hotels—it also takes you through the must-see spots that truly make this city unforgettable.
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Where to Stay in Baku
The expression, “Where East meets West” sums up Baku perfectly.
Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and Baku has since transformed into a dazzling blend of history, modern architecture, and electric nightlife. Here, even the sleekest skyscrapers whisper echoes of the East, with designs that feel rooted in tradition while reaching for the sky.
Though Baku has long been a favorite among Middle Eastern travelers, its charm is catching the eyes of Americans and Europeans, turning it into a rising gem on the global travel map.
I recommend staying in the city for 3 nights, 4 days. This allows you the time to explore the area and even take a day trip out to the Caspian sea for a day and chill with the locals.
There are three key districts I recommend for your stay in Baku, each offering something special. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be perfectly positioned to experience the best of the city and make the most of your time here:
- Nasimi District
- Old City
- Sabayil District
For tips on getting to Baku and navigating the city, head to the bottom of this article.
The Best Hotels in Baku At A Glance
- The Best 5 star Hotel in Baku: Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers
- The Best Centrally Located Hotel in Baku Hilton Baku
- The Top Spa Hotel in Baku: Four Seasons Hotel Baku
- The Top Hotel with Seaview in Baku: Sapphire Bayil
- The Top 5 Star Hotel in Baku: JW Marriot Absheron Baku
- Best Family Friendly Hotel in Baku: Sultan Inn Boutique Hotel
- The Top Eco-friendly Hotel in Baku: Qafqaz Baku hotel
Nasimi District
This is the beating heart of Baku, where the streets hum with energy and the smell of sizzling meat clings to the air. I’ve walked these roads, passing small, no-frills eateries with skewers roasting over open flames and locals queued up like they know something you don’t. Let me tell you, the food is worth the wait. It’s raw, real, and unapologetically Baku.
Around Fountains Square, the vibe shifts. The chaos gives way to cozy restaurants where you can sit down, slow down, and let the city come to you. The shops here will pull you in, and trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed. I’ve spent hours in this area, and every time, I find something new to love. It could be a hidden cafe, a street vendor with a fresh twist, or just the rhythm of the place itself.
If I’m staying in Nasimi, I rarely feel the urge to venture far. But when I do, a quick cab ride takes me to the downtown buzz or the calm of the waterfront. This neighborhood strikes the perfect balance. It is Baku at its best, with no pretense and just pure charm.
Why I love Nasimi District
- It strikes the perfect balance between local life and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
- It is full of great food and culture, from street vendors to cozy, sit-down restaurants.
- Staying here makes you feel like a local, surrounded by markets, shops, and the everyday energy of Baku.
Top Attractions in Nasimi District
Best Restaurants in Nasimi District
The Best Hotels in Nasimi:
Winter Park Hotel Baku
4 -star | $$$ | great city views | great service
I stayed here on my last trip to Baku and couldn’t have been happier with my choice. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making me feel right at home. Without a doubt, I’d stay here again on my next visit to Baku.
The Ritz-Carlton, Baku
5-star | $$$$ | Pool | Sauna
The name obviously speaks for itself. If you have come to Baku to be pampered, then this is where you will stay in Nasimi. It is also, compared to other European Capitols, the Ritz-Carlton Baku will feel lighter in your wallet.
Boutique Hotel Baku
4-star | Great Location | Eclectic rooms
It is only a 7 minute walk to the main shopping area and fountains square. If you want to be where the locals are, then this is the place for you.
JW Marriott Absheron
5-star | $$$$ | Pool | Sauna
This is where you wake up to views of the Caspian Sea and feel like the city belongs to you. It’s spacious, elegant, and the service makes it feel effortless—exactly what a stay here should be.
Qafqaz Baku City Hotel & Residences
4-star | $$$ | Spa | Fitness Center
Modern, clean, and comfortable without trying too hard. It’s not flashy, but it does what you need: a solid, restful base to explore the city from.
Auroom Hotel
4-star | $$ | Family Rooms | Free Wi-Fi
Simple, cozy, and spotlessly clean. If you’re watching your budget but still want a good night’s sleep in Nasimi, Auroom Hotel is where you’ll get it.
Old City
For those who dream of stepping back in time, the Old City is where Baku’s history comes alive. I’ve wandered within its ancient walls, where the city’s oldest buildings and ruins still stand, some dating back to the 12th century and beyond.
This is not a place where history feels distant. It lingers in every stone, with landmarks like the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the iconic Maiden Tower quietly telling stories of centuries gone by.
When I walk these narrow, cobbled streets, it feels like exploring a living museum. Every turn reveals something unexpected, from hidden courtyards to intricate carvings that hint at the Silk Road merchants who once passed through here.
The past is everywhere, but it doesn’t shout. It whispers through the worn steps, the weathered walls, and the quiet corners where time seems to pause.
I always stop for tea at a café tucked into an old stone building and just sit. This is where you feel it—Baku’s heart and soul, beating steadily under the weight of its history. The Old City doesn’t just show you the past. It pulls you into it.
Why I love Old City:
- The Palace of the Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower are stunning reminders of Baku’s rich history
- The cozy, traditional restaurants feel like a true taste of the city’s heritage
- The winding streets invite you to lose yourself in their timeless charm
Top Attractions in Old City
- Maiden Tower
- Palace of the Shirvanshahs
- Icherisheher ( Old City) Walls
Best Restaurants in Old City:
The Best Hotels in Old City
Royal Historical Boutique Hotel
3 star | Perfect Location | Traditional Decor | $$
If you are looking for a nice hotel with great service and not heavy on your wallet, then this is the option for you. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace as you plan your day in Old City!
Four Seasons Hotel Baku
5 Star | $$$$+ | Luxury | Indoor Swimming Pool
If you are looking to be pampered, then this is your place. Enjoy a cocktail while overlooking the Caspian Sea or go for a swim in the indoor pool. Whatever you need, this hotel has it.
Art Club Hotel
5 Star | $$$ | Ecletic | Minimalistic
The rooms are simple, but tastefully decorated. It is a 5 star boutique hotel but is priced more like a 3 star. I recommend getting a suite with a terrace to enjoy nice city views.
Sultan Inn Boutique Hotel
4-star | $$$ | Rooftop Terrace | Free Wi-Fi
Nestled next to the iconic Maiden Tower, the Sultan Inn offers an intimate atmosphere with personalized service. Its central location allows for easy access to the city’s cultural and entertainment hubs, and the rooftop terrace provides stunning views of Baku’s skyline.
Atropat Hotel
4-star | $$$ | Free Wi-Fi | Elegant Rooms
Located in the heart of the Old City, Atropat Hotel offers elegant rooms with classical decor. A short walk from the Caspian Sea, this hotel provides a blend of comfort and convenience for travelers looking to explore Baku’s historic district.
Sabayil
The Sabayil District stretches along the Caspian Sea, where the city’s buzz softens under open skies and the quiet rhythm of the water. I love how this part of Baku feels polished but grounded. Upscale hotels, cafes, and boutiques share space with parks and public areas where locals gather to enjoy the sea breeze and take life a little slower.
The heart of the district is Baku Boulevard, a waterfront promenade that seems to go on forever. I’ve walked it countless times, passing families out for an evening stroll, friends sharing tea at outdoor tables, and fishermen quietly tending their lines. There’s no pretense here. It’s just simple, beautiful, and endlessly peaceful.
Sabayil isn’t the place for chaos or noise. It’s where I go to slow down and breathe. Walking the boulevard at sunset, with the Caspian glowing gold on one side and the city lights sparkling on the other, reminds me why this district feels like a world apart. It’s Baku at its most tranquil.
Why i love Sabayil District
- The mix of polished elegance and local charm makes Sabayil feel effortlessly balanced
- Baku Boulevard’s endless promenade offers the perfect place to unwind by the water
- The calm, open spaces and golden sunsets create a sense of escape from the city’s bustle
Best Restaurants in Sabayil District
Top Attractions in Sabayil District
The Best Hotels Sabayil
Sabayil is known for many of the upscale hotels in the city. Here you can find hotels in skyrises that give you amazing views of the entire city and show you how Baku is developing into a modern, Asiatic city.
Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers
5 Star | $$$$ | Amazing Views | Modern
This hotel is actually located in the Flame Towers Complex which means you can enjoy some of the best views Baku has to offer. Enjoy majestic views of the Caspian Sea, then head down to the Hammam for a detox before you go out enjoy the nightlife.
InterContinental Baku, an IHG Hotel
5 Star | $$$ | Modern | Indoor Pool
It is conveniently located to many of the popular sites such as the Maidan Tower and Fountains Square. Indulge in the spa and indoor swimming pool before hitting up the sauna… You deserve it.
Dinamo Hotel Baku
5 Star | $$$ | Futuristic Design | Something Different
This quirky hotel has different colors for each room, ranging from blue to orange to green. Don’t let the ecletic style fool you, this is a 5 star hotel with service that matches the stars it has rightfully earned.
Hilton Baku
5-star | $$$ | Rooftop Bar | Central Location
Dominating the skyline near the waterfront, Hilton Baku boasts a revolving rooftop bar that provides 360-degree views of the city and sea. Its modern rooms and exceptional service ensure a stay that’s both comfortable and memorable.
Shah Palace Hotel
4-star | $$ | Traditional Décor | Near the Old City
Embracing Azerbaijani heritage, Shah Palace Hotel features traditional architecture and interiors. Its cozy rooms and authentic ambiance provide a cultural immersion, and the short walk to historical sites is a bonus for history enthusiasts.
Sapphire Bayil
4-star | $$ | Sea Views | Modern Amenities
Overlooking the Caspian Sea, Sapphire Bayil offers contemporary rooms with all the necessary comforts. The attentive staff and serene environment make it a pleasant choice for travelers seeking tranquility without being far from the city’s attractions.
How to Get to Baku
Baku’s gateway to the world is Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), the largest airport in Azerbaijan and the city’s only international hub. It’s just a 30-minute drive to the city center, and with direct flights from 77 cities, getting here is easier than ever.
Once you land, getting into the city is refreshingly affordable. An Uber from the airport will set you back around $10, and in general, rides within the city rarely cost more than $5. During my time in Baku, I never felt the need to rent a car. Most of the main sites are either walkable or just a quick 15-minute Uber ride away.
Taxis are also available, often parked outside hotels, but they’re a relic of an older system. Stick with Uber—it’s cheaper, easier, and gets you where you need to go without the hassle. Baku is vibrant and compact, making it a dream to navigate without your own set of wheels.
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