Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, blends modern architecture with ancient history, making it an interesting stop for travelers. Key sights include the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher), the Flame Towers, and the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Center. The local currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN), and prices are generally moderate—cheaper than Western Europe, but a bit higher than some neighboring countries. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild, though it can get windy year-round.