Baku, a vibrant and stylish city in the Caucasus, has firmly established itself as a fashion capital. Here, you’ll find an array of talented local designers alongside the latest collections from global brands, often available at prices more affordable than in Moscow. Isn’t that yet another reason to explore visa-free Azerbaijan?
The fashion-loving residents of Baku have crafted their own unique shopping routes. If you want to combine shopping with a leisurely stroll, head to Nizami Street, previously known as Trade Street. Historically, Nizami Street was the first in the capital dedicated to shops, hotels, and trading houses. Its long and picturesque stretch remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent selection of goods.
For those looking to enjoy a scenic walk and capture some memorable photos, visit the pedestrian section of Nizami Street in the evening, particularly around the Fountains Square. The price range here is diverse, catering to every taste—from mass-market retailers and souvenir shops to luxurious boutiques, ensuring a shopping experience for everyone.
If you find yourself in Baku during the hot summer months and want to shop while staying cool, make your way to the Port Baku Mall and Park Bulvar shopping centers. These venues showcase nearly all of the top global brands and offer a variety of entertainment options for tourists, allowing you to blend leisure with shopping.
For those who prefer high-end luxury shopping, head to Neftchilar Avenue, where you’ll discover opulent boutiques gleaming with the most prestigious names and stunning window displays. This area is a paradise for fans of French and Italian classics, featuring renowned brands such as Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Cartier, Gucci, and Tiffany.
If you’re in Baku seeking local flavor, don’t miss the bustling markets. An integral part of Eastern culture, these markets offer the freshest produce, including Azerbaijani tea, sweets, spices, jams, cheese, and the famous sweet Baku tomatoes, along with dozens of varieties of Caspian fish. You can even purchase the country’s prized black caviar directly from the market.
Beyond food, the markets are treasure troves for souvenirs, local silks, carpets, textiles, and handcrafted artisan goods. For unique keepsakes and delightful mementos from your trip to Baku, venture into the Old City. Here, the ancient streets of Icheri Sheher are home to shops brimming with hidden gems.
You’ll find extraordinary hand-painted pottery, vibrant scarves adorned with national patterns, beautiful leather goods, traditional armudu cups, designer bags, and exquisite jewelry. Some vendors offer factory-made items, while others showcase one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces. Be sure to stop by and explore; these shops resemble Eastern treasure troves more than your typical souvenir stores filled with mass-produced items from China.