When visiting Baku, you'll undoubtedly want to take home some unique souvenirs and treasures to commemorate your trip. From exquisite carpets to delectable sweets, the city offers an array of products that reflect its rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
1. Carpets and Rugs
No visit to Baku is complete without purchasing a traditional Azerbaijani carpet or rug. Renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, Azerbaijani carpets are prized for their quality and craftsmanship. You can find a wide selection of carpets at the Carpet Museum of Azerbaijan, located on the Baku Boulevard. Additionally, the Old City (Icherisheher) area is home to numerous carpet shops where you can browse and purchase authentic rugs directly from local artisans.
2. Azerbaijani Jewelry
Azerbaijani jewelry is renowned for its intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship. From ornate silver filigree to dazzling gemstones, Azerbaijani jewelry reflects the country's rich cultural heritage. You can explore a diverse selection of jewelry shops in Baku's city center, particularly along Nizami Street and Fountain Square. Be sure to visit the Old City, where you'll find traditional goldsmiths and jewelry boutiques offering unique pieces inspired by Azerbaijani motifs.
3. Azerbaijani Clothes
Immerse yourself in Azerbaijani culture by purchasing traditional clothing items such as the chapan (robe), kelagayi (silk scarf), and arkhalig (embroidered vest). These garments are not only stylish but also steeped in history and tradition. You can find a range of Azerbaijani clothing at souvenir shops and boutiques throughout Baku, with the most extensive selection available in the Old City area.
4. Silk Scarves
Silk scarves are a beloved accessory in Azerbaijani culture, renowned for their softness and elegance. These intricately designed scarves feature traditional Azerbaijani motifs and are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. You can purchase silk scarves at specialty boutiques and souvenir shops in Baku, with a wide variety of colors and patterns to choose from.
5. Armudu Glass
Enhance your dining experience with armudu glass, a traditional Azerbaijani glassware known for its elegant shape and delicate design. Used for serving beverages such as tea and sherbet, armudu glass adds a touch of sophistication to any table setting. Look for armudu glassware at specialty shops and souvenir stores in Baku, where you'll find a variety of sizes and styles to choose from.
6. Ceramics
Azerbaijani ceramics are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, making them a beautiful addition to any home decor. From decorative plates to ornate pottery, you'll find a diverse selection of ceramics at souvenir shops and artisan markets in Baku. Be sure to visit the Old City, where you can watch skilled artisans at work and purchase unique ceramic pieces directly from the source.
7. Black Caviar
For a taste of luxury, indulge in some Azerbaijani black caviar, often referred to as "black gold." Renowned for its rich flavor and smooth texture, Azerbaijani caviar is considered one of the finest in the world. You can purchase black caviar at specialty food stores and upscale markets throughout Baku, with top-quality varieties available at the market. Make sure you buy it from authentic stores to avoid being defrauded. The export rules for Black Caviar don’t allow you to carry more than 250 g per person. You should also have a cash receipt with you confirming the legality of the purchase.
8. Jam
Azerbaijani jams are made from locally grown fruits and are bursting with flavor. From classic favorites like apricot and cherry to unique varieties such as quince and pomegranate, Azerbaijani jams offer a taste of the country's rich culinary heritage. You can find a wide selection of jams at local markets and grocery stores throughout Baku, with homemade varieties available at specialty food shops in the Old City (Icherisheher) area.
9. Loose Tea
Azerbaijan boasts a long tradition of tea culture, with a wide variety of loose teas available for purchase. From fragrant herbal blends to robust black teas, Azerbaijani loose teas are perfect for enjoying a relaxing cuppa at home. There is an extensive selection of loose teas at specialty tea shops and markets throughout Baku, with top-quality varieties sourced from local tea estates.
10. Baklava and Other Sweets
Indulge your sweet tooth with some Azerbaijani baklava and other traditional sweets. Made from layers of filo pastry, nuts, and honey, baklava is a beloved dessert in Azerbaijani cuisine. You can find freshly made baklava at local bakeries and sweet shops throughout Baku, with a wide variety of flavors and styles to choose from. Don't forget to pick up some other Azerbaijani sweets such as shekerbura (filled pastry) and pakhlava (nut-filled pastry) for a truly decadent treat.
11. Spices and Nuts
Bring home the flavors of Azerbaijan with some locally sourced spices and nuts. From aromatic saffron and sumac to crunchy hazelnuts and walnuts, Azerbaijani spices and nuts add depth and flavor to your culinary creations. You can find a wide selection of spices and nuts at local markets such as Yashil Bazar and specialty food shops throughout Baku, with many vendors offering freshly roasted and ground spices for maximum flavor.
12. Azerbaijani Art and Handicrafts
Support local artisans and bring home a piece of Azerbaijani culture with some traditional art and handicrafts. From miniature paintings and ceramics to handwoven textiles and woodcarvings, Azerbaijani artisans produce a wide range of beautiful and unique products. You can explore artisan markets and galleries throughout Baku, particularly in the Old City, where you'll find a treasure trove of handmade treasures to commemorate your visit.
13. Azerbaijani Tea Sets
Tea culture is deeply ingrained in Azerbaijani society, and no Azerbaijani home is complete without a traditional tea set. These elegant tea sets typically include a samovar (tea urn), cups, saucers, and a tea pot, adorned with ornate designs and patterns. Whether you prefer classic porcelain or modern glass sets, you'll find a wide selection of Azerbaijani tea sets in Baku's markets and specialty stores.
Whether you're searching for the perfect gift or simply indulging in a bit of retail therapy, shopping in Baku offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories of your time in this enchanting city. So, don't miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant markets and boutique stores of Baku, where every purchase tells a story and every item is a reflection of Azerbaijani craftsmanship and culture.