Neighborhood
Nizami Street
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Nizami Street, named after the famed Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi, is the beating heart of Baku's downtown. This bustling pedestrian avenue stretches for about 3.5 kilometers from the waterfront to the hills, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants. As you walk, you'll notice a blend of architectural styles, from 19th-century European-inspired buildings with ornate facades to modern glass structures. The street is always lively, with street musicians, artists, and locals enjoying the atmosphere. It's a great place to people-watch, shop for souvenirs like Azerbaijani carpets or silk scarves, or sample local cuisine at one of the many eateries. Key landmarks include the Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature and the nearby Fountains Square. The street is especially enchanting in the evening when the buildings are lit up, and the air fills with the aroma of grilled kebabs.
Don't miss
- Stroll the full length of the pedestrian boulevard
- Visit the Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature
- Shop for local crafts and designer brands
- Dine at a traditional Azerbaijani restaurant
- Enjoy street performances and the evening lights
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Nizami Street
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Nizami Street with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inBaku City Tour with Local Guide-Old City, Flame Towers, Boulevard5★ · 59 travelers4–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$11 per personSee dates →
Best full dayBEST Gobustan, Volcanoes & Absheron Fire Tour (Group or Private)4.9★ · 1,957 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleBaku Private Photoshoot With Professional Photographer5★ · 12 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$50 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Carry some cash, smaller shops and street vendors may not accept cards.
- Dress modestly if you plan to visit nearby mosques or museums.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of locals.
- Try local specialties like plov (rice dish) or dolma (stuffed grape leaves) at a street-side cafe.
A bit of history
Nizami Street was originally called Gubernskaya Street during the Russian Empire and later renamed after Nizami Ganjavi in 1949. It has long been Baku's main commercial artery, evolving from a carriage road to a pedestrian zone in the 1970s.
Common questions
Is Nizami Street safe at night?
Yes, it's generally safe and well-lit, with many people around until late.
Are there public restrooms?
Public restrooms are scarce; use facilities at cafes or the nearby mall.
Can I find English-speaking staff?
In larger shops and tourist-oriented cafes, yes. Smaller vendors may not speak English.
What souvenirs should I buy?
Azerbaijani carpets, pomegranate wine, silk scarves, and local sweets like pakhlava.
Is the street open to traffic?
No, it's a pedestrian-only zone, though bicycles and scooters are allowed.
How far is it from the Old City?
Nizami Street runs along the edge of Icherisheher (Old City); the entrance is a 5-minute walk.
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