Baku Venice, also known as Little Venice, is a charming network of canals spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers, nestled within the scenic Primorsky Boulevard. This picturesque attraction is one of the highlights of Baku’s city center. Established in the mid-20th century, the project was inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Venice, which captivated Aliş Lemberanski. His vision was to create a similar enchanting experience in Baku, and to this day, it remains one of the city’s most beautiful spots.
Aliş Lemberanski is celebrated and revered by the people of Baku. During his five-year tenure as the chairman of the Baku City Executive Committee from 1959 to 1964, he significantly enhanced the city’s greenery. Under his leadership, Primorsky Boulevard was developed, along with iconic landmarks such as Little Venice and the Café Pearl. Following this remarkable period, he was invited to work in Moscow.
Upon his return, Lemberanski took on the role of Minister of Construction, where he initiated the construction of several notable structures, including the Baku Circus, the Gulistan and Lenin Palaces (now known as the Heydar Aliyev Center), the Funicular, and the Green Theatre, among others.
After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Little Venice complex fell into a state of decline for an extended period. However, following a significant renovation in 2011, it reopened to the public, revitalized and restored. While the layout of the canals remained unchanged, they were expanded and cleared of algae. New ornate bridges were constructed, and traditional boats were replaced with authentic Italian gondolas.
Along the banks of the emerald-green canals, a variety of cafes and restaurants have emerged, alongside beautifully landscaped parks, flowerbeds, fountains, and Venetian-style bridges, complete with gondola docks for visitors to enjoy. In place of the old café, two modern eateries now offer delightful dining experiences.
The total length of Baku Venice’s canals, which hold around 7,000 cubic meters of water, is 1,350 meters, with a depth of 1.3 meters.
The summer months are undoubtedly the best time to explore all the wonders that Baku Venice has to offer. The lush greenery, magnificent weeping willows, and gondolas gliding across the blue waters create a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and joy, especially among children. In contrast, winter brings a more subdued palette, yet it offers excellent opportunities for photography. During the summer, finding an available gondola can be quite a challenge, as they are often occupied by local gondoliers. Visitors can enjoy relaxing by the canal, sipping fragrant tea paired with local sweets, or savoring a cold beer.
While the canals are delightful by day, they transform into a magical experience at night. The beautiful illumination of the canals, bustling restaurants filled with tourists, and the refreshing sea breeze from the Caspian Sea—just 100 meters away—create an atmosphere that feels like a dream or a scene from a sophisticated fairy tale.
Although nighttime gondola rides may not be available, the canals remain open until late evening, allowing visitors to enjoy a serene float under the enchanting night lights.
