YARAT Contemporary Art Center
A vibrant hub for contemporary art on Baku's scenic Caspian Sea boulevard, offering free admission and thought-provoking exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
YARAT Contemporary Art Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for contemporary art on Baku's scenic Caspian Sea boulevard, offering free admission and thought-provoking exhibitions.
"Free entry, changing interesting exhibitions, cool vibes – what else do you need from a contemporary art exhibition?"
🎯 Free Entry, Enjoy!
Admission is completely free, making it a must-visit for art lovers on any budget. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Both Buildings
Don't miss the ARTIM Project Space for emerging artists alongside the main YARAT Centre. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Contemporary Exhibitions
Main exhibition halls
Discover thought-provoking and diverse modern art from local and international artists. Exhibitions change regularly, offering fresh perspectives.
Caspian Sea Boulevard Views
Exterior and surrounding area
Enjoy the modern architecture and the picturesque promenade along the Caspian Sea, perfect for a stroll after your art immersion.
Two Distinct Exhibition Buildings
YARAT Centre and ARTIM Project Space
Explore two unique spaces showcasing a range of artistic expressions, from established artists to emerging talents.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Plan Your Visit
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Enjoy!
Admission is completely free, making it a must-visit for art lovers on any budget. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Both Buildings
Don't miss the ARTIM Project Space for emerging artists alongside the main YARAT Centre. :art:
🌊 Stroll the Boulevard
Combine your art visit with a walk along the beautiful Caspian Sea boulevard. :ocean:
⏰ Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for current displays before you go. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Enjoy!
Admission is completely free, making it a must-visit for art lovers on any budget. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Both Buildings
Don't miss the ARTIM Project Space for emerging artists alongside the main YARAT Centre. :art:
🌊 Stroll the Boulevard
Combine your art visit with a walk along the beautiful Caspian Sea boulevard. :ocean:
⏰ Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for current displays before you go. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise YARAT Contemporary Art Center for its free admission and engaging, diverse exhibitions. The modern architecture and prime location along the Caspian Sea boulevard are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While some find the exhibitions thought-provoking, others might prefer more traditional art forms.
"Nice place with free admission. Not crowded on a weekdays. Temporary exhibitions here are quite nice and interesting."
Roman
"Free! And 2 buildings! It's a bit out from the city though... My 2nd fav art museum in the city"
Peter Chanthanakone (Director)
"There are two complexes, not too big. Nevertheless, there were enough interesting works and we stayed for 40 minutes in total.
Entry is free."
Emir Haleva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
YARAT is located on the Caspian Sea boulevard, a bit outside the main tourist hub. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber, which are convenient and relatively affordable. Local buses also serve the area, offering a budget-friendly option. It's a pleasant walk along the boulevard if you're coming from nearby attractions.
Yes, YARAT is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes pass near the center. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or use a navigation app for the most up-to-date routes and timings.
From the Old City, a taxi or ride-sharing service is the most direct route. Alternatively, you can walk towards the boulevard and enjoy the scenic route, which takes about 30-40 minutes depending on your starting point.
While specific dedicated parking for YARAT might be limited, there is usually ample street parking available along the Caspian Sea boulevard. Ride-sharing is often preferred by visitors to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk along the boulevard from the Flame Towers to YARAT, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. It offers great views of the Caspian Sea.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to YARAT Contemporary Art Center is completely free! This makes it a fantastic and accessible cultural experience for everyone.
YARAT is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current opening hours, as these can sometimes vary.
All exhibitions at YARAT, including temporary ones, are free to enter. This policy is highly praised by visitors.
Since entry is free, advance booking is not required. You can simply walk in during their operating hours.
There are no age restrictions for visiting YARAT. It's a family-friendly space, though the art content might be more suited for older children and adults.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 40 minutes to an hour exploring both buildings. However, if you're deeply interested in contemporary art, you might want to allocate a bit more time.
YARAT focuses on contemporary art, featuring a diverse range of mediums including paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art. Exhibitions often explore social and political themes relevant to Azerbaijan and the wider region.
While not always advertised, sometimes YARAT offers guided tours or artist talks. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival or check their schedule online for any special events.
YARAT is generally suitable for children, especially those with an interest in art. The open spaces and modern exhibits can be engaging. However, some contemporary art themes might require parental guidance.
YARAT typically has restrooms and sometimes a small cafe or shop. The surrounding boulevard offers more dining and relaxation options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside YARAT for personal use, but it's always best to check for specific exhibition restrictions. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork.
The modern architecture of the buildings themselves, the art installations, and the scenic views of the Caspian Sea from the exterior are all great for photos.
Late afternoon offers beautiful natural light for exterior shots, especially with the sunset over the sea. Inside, the lighting is usually well-managed for viewing the art.
Tripods are typically not allowed inside art galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and potentially damaging exhibits. It's advisable to use your phone or a mirrorless camera for easier handling.
Common hashtags include #YARAT, #YARATContemporaryArt, #BakuArt, and #AzerbaijanArt. Check the center's social media for any official campaign hashtags.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Focus on the visual aspects of the art and encourage kids to share what they see and feel. The surrounding Caspian Sea boulevard is also a great place for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors after their art exploration. Consider visiting during less busy weekday mornings to avoid overwhelming younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk along the scenic boulevard and pack your own snacks or enjoy affordable local eateries nearby. Using public transport or ride-sharing services instead of taxis for longer distances will further help keep costs down. It's a prime example of how Baku offers rich cultural experiences that are accessible to everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring YARAT's Artistic Vision
Visitors often praise the curation of exhibitions, noting their relevance and ability to spark conversation. The art presented frequently touches upon themes of identity, history, and societal change, offering a unique lens through which to view Azerbaijan and its place in the world. The free admission policy significantly contributes to its accessibility, making it a cornerstone of Baku's cultural landscape.
Beyond the exhibitions, YARAT also engages in educational programs, workshops, and public events, further solidifying its role as a cultural hub. Its location on the Caspian Sea boulevard adds another dimension, allowing visitors to connect with the city's urban environment and natural beauty.
Navigating Baku's Art Scene: YARAT and Beyond
While YARAT focuses on contemporary and often conceptual art, other venues might showcase different styles. For instance, exploring the National Art Museum of Azerbaijan provides a deep dive into Azerbaijani art history, from ancient carpets to Soviet-era paintings. The Museum of Modern Art also presents a different perspective on contemporary works.
Many visitors find that YARAT's location on the boulevard makes it a perfect starting or ending point for exploring the waterfront. Nearby, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and other cultural points of interest, allowing for a well-rounded day of exploration. The ease of access via ride-sharing or a pleasant walk makes it convenient to combine with other Baku attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit