Things to do in Baku: 10 fun travel challenges for true explorers (+map)

Discover the most unusual and memorable things to do in Baku, along with a few hidden gems revealed by Zornitsa, who currently lives in the city. Here's her list of 10 fun travel challenges that will turn your exploration of Baku - the capital of Azerbaijan - into an exciting game.

© Zornitsa Apostolova

Hire a bike from the Velopark (located right next to the National Flag Square) and enjoy a breathtaking ride along the Caspian Sea. If you want to experience the cityscape to the fullest, you might consider going for your ride at sunset. This way you will be able to marvel at the fascinating city lights and allow the pleasant sea breeze to blow all your worries away. You can bike around the Crystal Hall (the building of Eurovision 2012), explore the National Flag Square and even make a full tour of the beautiful Baku Boulevard (which is 26 km long and also known as the National Park).

Find the girl with the umbrella in Fountains Square in downtown Baku. Make sure you take a picture with her to remind you of the beautiful girls of Baku. (Hint: it’s close to McDonald's)

Liked that? Find the 'lipstick girl' sitting on a bench right behind this fountain:

© Zornitsa Apostolova

You just can’t visit Azerbaijan and not taste traditional Azeri tea. While taking a walk in the Old City (İçərişəhər, pronounced Icheri Shekher), take the time to sit in one of the many cafes and restaurants and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea served in the traditional Azeri way (in special tea glasses, with lemon, sugar cubes, sweets, candies and jam).

Book lovers can indulge in their hobby on a tiny scale at the Museum of Miniature Books. It’s a free private museum, located in the Old City, with more than 4,000 miniature books on display. It’s truly thrilling to see some of the world’s most famous classics in such small copies. Can you imagine reading a Dostoevsky novel with a magnifying glass?