Baku Old City Walking Tour: Local Stories & Medieval Sights

Summary

Walk ancient streets of Baku’s old city and hear stories from locals

You’ll wander Baku Old City with a local guide who brings ancient streets alive with stories and laughter. Taste strong tea, see Maiden Tower up close, and catch glimpses of daily life between medieval walls. Expect real conversation and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting by the old stone gate, waving at us like we were friends she’d known for years. She handed me a tiny cup of hot black tea — strong, almost smoky — and grinned as I tried to say “salam” back. The air smelled faintly of bread from a nearby bakery, and there was this low hum from the market just outside the walls. We hadn’t even started walking yet, but I could feel how different the Old City felt compared to the rest of Baku — tighter streets, more smiles from strangers.

I kept tripping over the cobbles (seriously, wear good shoes), but Li didn’t seem to notice. She pointed out carvings on the Maiden Tower that I would’ve missed completely — apparently, there’s still debate about what they mean. At one point, we passed a group of kids playing soccer right next to some centuries-old wall; it felt strange and kind of perfect at the same time. The day trip through Baku Old City is really just wandering with someone who knows every shortcut and story. When we reached Juma Mosque, Li told us how her grandfather used to pray there before work — she laughed when I tried to repeat the name in Azerbaijani (I definitely butchered it).

There’s this spot near the Monument to Lovers and Cats where you can see both modern glass towers in the distance and these ancient rooftops below. It hit me then how much history is packed into such a small place. The light changed constantly — golden one minute, then shadowy as clouds rolled in off the Caspian Sea. By the end I felt like I’d walked through several different cities without ever leaving those walls. Still thinking about that view above the rooftops, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Baku Old City history and architecture

• Join Old City walking tour
• Walk through medieval city streets
• See Maiden Tower and City Walls
• Visit Monument to Lovers and Cats
• Explore Juma Mosque and Chinese Mosque
• Learn about oil barons' mansions
• Observe Soviet and modern architecture

Top questions

How long does the Baku Old City walking tour take?

The tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours depending on group pace.

Is there a guide included on this day trip?

Yes, an in-person local guide leads your walk through Baku Old City.

What main sights are visited during the tour?

You’ll visit Maiden Tower, City Walls, Monument to Lovers and Cats, Juma Mosque, Chinese Mosque, plus other notable sites.

Is this walking tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels but expect uneven cobblestones.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Service animals are allowed during the tour.

Can infants join this Baku walking tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during stops.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your guide at a central location in Baku Old City.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Baku Old City.

What’s included

Your walk includes an in-person local guide who shares stories as you explore historic sites like Maiden Tower and Juma Mosque within Baku Old City; service animals are welcome and public transport is close by if you need it.