Baku City Circuit

The Baku City Circuit is one of the most photogenic tracks on the Formula 1 calendar: 6 km of asphalt running through the streets of the old city, along the Caspian coast and along the main avenue of Baku. The most spectacular section is the one that passes alongside the walls of Icheri Sheher — cars pass within two metres of the medieval stonework, in a narrow passage that is technically one of the most demanding on the championship.

Outside Grand Prix week (usually in April or May), the circuit has no permanent physical existence: barriers are assembled and dismantled in a few days. But the layout follows normal city streets, so it can be walked at any time of year. The historic neighbourhood area, the Caspian Boulevard and Neftchiler Avenue are walkable in a 90-minute stroll reproducing the most recognisable points of the circuit.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is one of the country's most attended sporting events; stand tickets sell months in advance and prices rise considerably during race week. If you are in Baku at that time, the city has a special atmosphere even without a ticket.

The Baku City Circuit held its first Formula 1 race in 2016, named the European Grand Prix in its first year. Since 2017 it has been called the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The circuit was designed by track architect Hermann Tilke and was deliberately conceived to exploit the visual contrast between the medieval old city and modern Baku. Several dramatic accidents and incidents over the years have made it one of the most popular with fans and drivers alike.

• Icheri Sheher section The most photogenic and technically demanding section of the circuit, where cars pass centimetres from the medieval stone walls. The asphalt and permanent markings in this area can be seen at any time.
• Caspian Boulevard The fast section along the coast where cars reach the circuit's top speeds (over 340 km/h). On a normal day it is Baku's seafront promenade.
• Neftchiler Avenue The main straight of the circuit, with the Maiden Tower in the background. The view of the straight from the side gardens is one of the most recognisable shots in television broadcasts.
• Azerbaijan Grand Prix (race week) In April or May, during race week, the city transforms: circuit access, team hospitality areas and giant screens in public parks create an atmosphere unlike the rest of the year.

Photo gallery

The circuit layout follows the main streets of central Baku. To walk it, the natural starting point is the Maiden Tower in the Icheri Sheher; from here follow the Caspian Boulevard and then Neftchiler Avenue. The whole route is accessible on foot, by taxi or with Bolt. For race week, tickets are sold at f1azgp.com.

To experience the circuit as an urban walk, any time of year is fine. For the race, April or May depending on the season calendar. Spring in Baku has pleasant temperatures (18–24 °C) and is one of the best times to visit the city.