Baku in the grip of Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2025: what should tourists see in the city of fire?

Baku has found itself at the center of global attention these days. The city is not only hosting a stage of the prestigious Formula 1 race but is also revealing its rich historical and cultural treasures to tourists.

The Azerbaijani capital skillfully combines antiquity and modernity: here, majestic monuments of the past stand alongside futuristic architecture and vibrant urban life.

When the roar of engines subsides and spectators leave the track, Baku offers an immersion into the atmosphere of an eastern fairy tale. One of the main symbols of the city is Icherisheher - the Old City, surrounded by fortress walls. This is the heart of Baku, where you can see the Maiden Tower, ancient caravanserais, mosques, and cozy streets that seem to transport you to the past. Here you'll also find workshops of folk craftsmen where tourists can purchase carpets, jewelry, and other handmade items.

Just outside the historic walls rise the famous Flame Towers, which have become the calling card of modern Baku. Their glow at night transforms the city into a real light spectacle.

A walk along the Seaside Boulevard, stretching along the Caspian Sea, will give you a sense of spaciousness and fresh sea air. Here you'll find numerous cafes, attractions, and viewing platforms, as well as a miniature park, a Ferris wheel, and extensive green areas perfect for relaxation.

For art lovers, the Carpet Museum will be a real discovery, with its unique building resembling a rolled carpet. Inside, a rich collection of ancient and modern weaving works is preserved.

Equally interesting is the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Its flowing lines and large-scale exhibitions captivate the imagination.

The city is rich in parks for walking and family recreation. One of the favorite spots for residents and visitors is Highland Park, which offers a breathtaking view of the Caspian Sea and city quarters.

Baku is also famous for its temples of fire. The Ateshgah Temple in Surakhany village and the natural fire hills of Yanardag are places where the element of fire connects with myths and legends. They allow a better understanding of the origin of the country's name - Azerbaijan, which means "Land of Fire."

A special pleasure is culinary discovery. Azerbaijan's national cuisine is famous for its diversity: aromatic piti, dolma, gutabs with herbs or meat, many types of pilaf with dried fruits, chestnuts, and fragrant spices. Add to this fresh Baku tomatoes, aromatic tea with jam, and, of course, famous sweets - baklava, shekerbura, and halva.

A busy day can be concluded with a walk through the cozy streets of Fountain Square or dinner at one of the restaurants serving national and European cuisine, where the view of the sea and city lights adds a special romance.

Today, Baku is a city that knows how to surprise. It can be noisy and fast-paced during Formula 1, and just a few minutes later reveal quiet corners with ancient monuments, parks, and the silence of eastern courtyards. It is this combination that makes the capital of Azerbaijan one of the most attractive destinations for tourists from around the world.