Baku Old City Walking Tour: Explore Maiden Tower & Shirvanshahs

Summary

Guided Baku Old Town Walk: History, Culture & Local Life

You’ll walk centuries-old streets, hear local legends, and spot details most visitors miss—like artists at work or the scent of fresh bread in hidden lanes. This tour brings Baku’s Old City to life in ways you just can’t get from a guidebook.

What’s the experience like?

Right after squeezing through the Double Gate, you’ll feel the city shift. The air smells faintly of stone and spices, especially if you pass by the little bakery near the entrance—those sesame breads are hard to ignore. Our guide, Leyla, started us off with stories about the 12th-century walls. She pointed out faded carvings I’d never have noticed on my own.

We wandered through tangled alleys where sunlight barely touches the cobblestones. The Maiden Tower loomed ahead—honestly, it’s even stranger up close than in photos. Leyla shared a legend about a princess and her impossible choice; you could almost hear the sea if you listened hard enough from the top. Nearby, we ducked into the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. The courtyard’s quiet, except for the echo of our footsteps and a distant call to prayer drifting over from Mohammed Mosque.

Some corners felt like time hadn’t moved at all. We peeked into Ali Shamsi’s workshop—he was actually there, paint on his hands, chatting with a neighbor about last night’s football match. The Miniature Books Museum is easy to miss but worth it; shelves packed with tiny books, some smaller than my thumb. We ended near Philarmonia Garden (locals still call it Governor’s Garden), where old men played backgammon under chestnut trees and cats lounged everywhere—someone even built a little monument for them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Baku Old City

• Start at Double Gate
• Visit Maiden Tower
• Tour Shirvanshahs’ Palace
• See mosques and hamams
• Walk through narrow alleyways
• Explore artists’ workshops and souvenir stalls
• Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani restaurants

Top questions

Is this Baku Old City tour suitable for kids or seniors?

Yes, it’s an easy-paced walk and fully accessible—even strollers and wheelchairs are fine. There are plenty of places to rest along the way.

How long does the walking tour take?

Usually around 2 hours, but it can stretch a bit if folks want to linger at certain spots or ask more questions.

Will we have free time to explore on our own?

You’ll get some time at key stops—like the Maiden Tower or souvenir stalls—to look around or snap photos before moving on.

What’s included

This tour includes a friendly local guide who speaks English or Russian fluently. All main sites are covered, and accessibility is no problem—wheelchairs and strollers are welcome throughout.