3 Days in Baku: The Perfect Itinerary (2026)

Got three days in Baku? It is the perfect amount of time to see the city, stand among 40,000-year-old rock carvings, and escape to the mountains — without rushing. This 3 days in Baku itinerary maps out exactly what to do each day, and every activity links to a tour you can book online, with local guides and free cancellation. Land, drop your bags, and start exploring.

Day 1: Baku city highlights

Spend your first day in the capital. Start in the walled UNESCO Old City on a Baku Old City tour — the Maiden Tower, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and narrow caravanserai lanes. In the afternoon, see the modern city on a Baku City Tour: Highland Park views over the bay, the Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Center. Finish after dark on a Baku night tour when the Flame Towers light up.

Day 2: Gobustan, mud volcanoes & fire

Day two is Azerbaijan's greatest hits, all in one trip. The Gobustan, Mud Volcanoes, Ateshgah & Yanardag tour takes you to the UNESCO petroglyph reserve, the bubbling mud volcanoes, the Ateshgah Fire Temple and the eternally burning hillside of Yanardag — the "Land of Fire" in a single day. Prefer just the ancient art? Choose the shorter Gobustan tour instead.

Day 3: A day trip to the mountains

Use your last day to see the countryside. The Gabala & Shamakhi day tour pairs green mountains and waterfalls with historic Shamakhi, while the Guba & Khinalig day tour climbs to one of Europe's highest villages. Both return to Baku in the evening. Want more ideas? Compare all day trips from Baku.

Where to stay and getting around

Base yourself near the Old City or Fountains Square — you will be walking distance from the seaside boulevard and most evening spots. Arriving by air? Book a Baku airport transfer so a driver is waiting when you land, and browse our best Baku tours to lock in all three days before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 days enough for Baku?

Yes. Three days is ideal: one day for the city (Old City and modern Baku), one for the Gobustan and fire sites, and one for a mountain day trip to Gabala, Shamakhi or Khinalig. You will see the highlights without rushing.

What is the best 3-day Baku itinerary?

Day 1: Old City and a Baku city tour. Day 2: Gobustan, mud volcanoes, Ateshgah and Yanardag. Day 3: a day trip to Gabala and Shamakhi or to Guba and Khinalig. Each day can be booked as a guided tour with hotel pickup.

How much does 3 days of tours in Baku cost?

As a guide, a city tour is around ₼25–99, a full-day Gobustan and fire tour more, and a mountain day trip from about ₼79 per person. Choose dates on each tour to see exact prices, or see our tour packages.

Do I need a visa to visit Baku for 3 days?

Most visitors need an e-Visa, which you apply for online in minutes. See our Azerbaijan visa guide for who needs one and how to apply.

How do I get from Baku airport to the city?

The easiest way is a private Baku airport transfer with meet and greet — about a 30–40 minute drive from Heydar Aliyev International Airport to the centre.