Palace of the Shirvanshahs
A 15th-century architectural marvel in Baku's Old City, offering a deep dive into Azerbaijan's royal past and UNESCO-listed heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best light for photos
Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century architectural marvel in Baku's Old City, offering a deep dive into Azerbaijan's royal past and UNESCO-listed heritage.
"The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is truly special, connecting you to the past in a beautiful way."
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save Money
Consider a combined pass for multiple Old City attractions to avoid high individual ticket costs.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the entire complex and its various structures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palace Courtyard
Main Palace Complex
Wander through the historic courtyard, imagining life in the 15th century. A true architectural gem.
Palace Mosque
Palace Complex
Admire the elegant minaret and intricate details of this historic place of worship.
Mausoleums
Palace Complex
Explore the burial vaults, including the tomb of Seyid Yahya Bakuvi, a significant historical figure.
View of Flame Towers
From within the Palace grounds
Capture unique perspectives of Baku's modern skyline against the ancient backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for History Buffs
Explore Beyond the Main Palace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save Money
Consider a combined pass for multiple Old City attractions to avoid high individual ticket costs.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the entire complex and its various structures.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the Flame Towers from within the palace grounds.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old City
The palace is in the heart of Icherisheher; wander the charming streets before or after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save Money
Consider a combined pass for multiple Old City attractions to avoid high individual ticket costs.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the entire complex and its various structures.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the Flame Towers from within the palace grounds.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old City
The palace is in the heart of Icherisheher; wander the charming streets before or after your visit.
🗣️ Info Labels Brief
Information on labels can be sparse; consider a guide or pre-trip research for deeper insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Palace of the Shirvanshahs for its rich history, stunning architecture, and immersive atmosphere within Baku's Old City. It's considered a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to Azerbaijan's past. Some note that information labels could be more detailed, and ticket prices for multiple sites can add up.
"Very nice place to visit and immerse in the history. It takes around 40 minutes to visit all sites. Tickets price is good. In the site you can make some photos in the traditional decor. This place is situated in the heart of the old town. I recommend to visit Palace of the Shirvanshahs."
Magdalena Konopczynska
"I love visiting UNESCO sites, and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs in Baku is truly special. The architecture, history, and atmosphere inside the old city make it a place that connects you to the past in such a beautiful way."
joyce D'silva
"This is a nice monument to visit. You don't need a guide. You can walk around it at your leisure and take in the rich history of this place. It's a small palace but well preserved."
Slamdunk Funkateer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palace is located in the heart of Baku's Old City (Icherisheher). You can reach it by taxi, bus, or metro to Icherisheher station, followed by a short walk. Many visitors find it convenient to explore the Old City on foot after arriving.
Parking directly at the Palace is difficult due to its location within the historic Old City. It's best to park in designated lots outside the Old City walls and walk in, or use public transport/taxis.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are widely used in Baku and can drop you off near the Old City gates, from where you can walk to the Palace.
The Old City is best explored on foot. Its narrow, winding streets are not accessible by car. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones.
Yes, guided tours are available and can offer deeper historical context. However, many visitors find it enjoyable to explore at their own pace without a guide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the main palace complex is approximately 15 Manat for foreigners. There might be separate fees for specific sections or exhibitions within the complex.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets on-site at the ticket office upon arrival.
Some visitors suggest that a combined tourist pass for all attractions in the Old City would be beneficial, as buying separate tickets can become expensive. Inquire at the ticket office about any available passes.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the Palace is open daily from around 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit.
There is no strict dress code, but as it is a historical and cultural site, modest attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours exploring the main palace complex, including the mosque and mausoleums.
The complex includes the main palace building, the Divankhana (court), the mausoleums, the burial vaults, and the Palace Mosque. Artifact and relic displays are also present.
While not essential, a guide can enhance your understanding of the history and architecture. However, some visitors found the on-site information labels to be too brief. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and there are many picturesque spots. You can get unique views of Baku's modern landmarks like the Flame Towers from within the palace grounds.
Yes, there are souvenir shops located within the palace complex. However, some reviewers noted that the items might be a bit overpriced.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside the Palace complex itself. However, the surrounding Old City and nearby areas offer numerous cafes and restaurants. +1
You can find a variety of Azerbaijani cuisine, from traditional dishes to international options, in the restaurants and cafes located within and around the Old City.
Yes, while some restaurants in the Old City can be tourist-oriented, you can find more affordable local eateries and cafes by exploring a bit further from the main attractions.
It's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the historical monument areas. There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but it's good practice to be respectful.
Many restaurants in the Old City offer authentic Azerbaijani dishes. Look for places serving plov, dolma, and kebabs for a true taste of local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlighting the architecture. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, professional photography or drone usage might require special permits. Drone footage of the Old City is available.
The main courtyard, the Palace Mosque with its minaret, the intricate stone carvings, and the views of the Flame Towers from within the grounds are all highly photogenic.
Photography of artifacts inside display areas might be restricted. Look for signage indicating 'no photography' zones.
A versatile camera, whether a DSLR or a good smartphone, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture and landscapes, and a telephoto for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of it, keep the visit concise, focusing on the most visually interesting parts. Bringing along a small notebook for kids to sketch what they see or a simple scavenger hunt for specific architectural details can add an interactive element.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the Old City on foot, which is free and offers plenty of atmospheric streets and views.
Pack your own snacks and water, as on-site purchases can be pricier. For meals, venture slightly away from the immediate tourist hotspots within the Old City to find more affordable local eateries offering delicious Azerbaijani cuisine. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – to get the most dramatic lighting and avoid harsh midday sun. Don't miss the chance to capture the juxtaposition of ancient history with modern Baku. From specific vantage points within the palace grounds, you can frame shots that include the iconic Flame Towers, creating a compelling contrast.
While personal photography is generally allowed, be mindful of any 'no photography' signs, especially inside exhibition areas. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into 15th-Century Architecture
The site includes a mosque, mausoleums, a caravanserai, and the main palace building, showcasing a blend of architectural styles influenced by Islamic and local traditions. Each structure tells a story of the era, from royal residences to places of worship and burial.Visitors often marvel at the intricate stone carvings and the overall preservation of the complex. The Palace Mosque, with its elegant minaret, stands as a prominent feature. Nearby, the mausoleums, including the tomb of Seyid Yahya Bakuvi, offer a somber yet fascinating glimpse into historical burial practices. The Divankhana, or court, is another key area, believed to have served as a place for royal audiences and administrative functions. The sheer scale and detail of the construction, especially considering the era, leave many visitors in awe.
While the main palace structure is impressive, the entire complex is designed to be explored. The layout provides a comprehensive view of the Shirvanshahs' life and governance. The burial vaults are particularly intriguing, offering a deeper connection to the past. The site's location within the Old City of Baku (Icherisheher) further enhances its historical significance, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in an ancient urban landscape.
+1Navigating the Old City and Palace Complex
+1 Getting to Icherisheher is straightforward via metro to Icherisheher station or by taxi. Once inside the Old City, the palace is a prominent landmark, easily discoverable by following the signs or simply wandering through the atmospheric alleys. Within the Palace complex itself, the layout is generally intuitive. You'll find ticket booths at the entrance, and then you can proceed to explore the various sections at your own pace.
For those interested in photography, the Palace offers numerous opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, the architectural details, and the panoramic views of Baku's modern skyline (like the Flame Towers) from within the complex provide unique photographic subjects.
+1 Remember that while personal photography is usually permitted, professional shoots might require special arrangements. 
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