Baku, Azerbaijan
The obvious starting point - it's where the main sights are. Compact enough to see in a morning. Food costs more here than elsewhere but the settings are nice. Wear flat shoes for the uneven stones. Fine to walk around after dark on the main paths.
The walled Old City is the main tourist draw - narrow stone alleys, the Maiden Tower, carpet shops, and restaurants in old caravanserais. It's small enough to walk around in an hour or two. Gets crowded with tour groups during the day, especially around the Maiden Tower. Tourist police are around if you need them. The restaurants inside the walls are pricier than outside but the courtyard settings are nice for a meal. Most places here speak English. After dark it empties out and gets quiet - stick to the lit main paths rather than wandering into the residential alleys.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
Good"Fine during the day, quieter at night but felt okay on main streets"
"The cobblestones are rough - don't wear heels"
"Carpet sellers will try to get you into their shops but it's not aggressive"
"Smaller than expected, saw most of it in a few hours"
"Good for photos but prices are tourist-inflated"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Residential area with cheaper accommodation. Not much to do here - you'd need to take the metro to the center for sights and food. Safe and quiet, good if you're on a budget and don't mind the commute.
Central and convenient. Good for eating, people-watching, and shopping. Pricier than other areas but everything you need is here. Stays busy late and feels safe.
Where locals go for nightlife and shopping. Yashil Bazaar for cheap produce and goods. Not much tourist infrastructure - limited English. Fine for a market visit during the day; for nightlife, better to go with others.
Help other women stay safe in Old City (Icherisheher)
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.