Running and cycling your way around Baku: All the best run and cycle routes when visiting for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Heading to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix? Make the most of the weekend with running, cycling, and outdoor workout routes in and around Baku. From sunrise on the seafront to breathtaking natural phenomena, there’s something for every ability and a perfect diversion from the action on track.
Baku welcomes Formula 1 with open arms as the Azeri capital on the shores of the Caspain Sea becomes the epicentre of the motorsport world this weekend. Fans come in droves from all corners of the world to watch the drama unfold in Baku – but how do you make the most of your time outside of the racing action?
With many only in the city for a long weekend, it can often feel like there’s little opportunity to properly explore. That’s exactly why running and cycling are such good options, especially out of town, where you can surround yourself with the region’s unique landscapes, and experience more of Baku than just the route from the hotel to the grandstands.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Whether you’re a casual jogger, a weekend rider, or a seasoned endurance athlete, there are routes here to suit every ability and every ounce of spare time.
Baku Boulevard (seaside promenade)
Why do it? The city’s most iconic run: flat, breezy, and perfect for a morning shakeout before the racing starts. Sunrise over the Caspian is easily worth the early alarm.
Highland Park and Flame Towers stairs
Why do it? A short but intense workout. You’ll test your legs on the stairs while soaking in stunning panoramic views of Baku and the circuit below.
Old City (Icherisheher) loop
Why do it? It feels like you’re running through history, with medieval walls, caravanserais (inns), and mosques that make this more than just exercise.
Absheron National Park trail run
Why do it? A chance to leave the city behind and run through wild stepped landscapes – with the bonus of spotting gazelles, Caspian seals, or migratory birds.
Baku Boulevard ride
Why do it? It’s gentle, scenic, and stress-free, so the ideal active recovery ride ahead of busy track days.
Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag ride
Why do it? A cultural and physical workout: combine a big ride with two of Azerbaijan’s most unique natural and historic sites.
Gobustan Rock art ride
Why do it? For any adventurous cyclists, this is a perfect mix of endurance and exploration, with ancient carvings, mud volcanoes, and sweeping Caspian views.
If running and cycling isn’t your thing and you’d rather keep things short and sharp, here are some locations for an outdoor workout in Baku:
Baku Boulevard has plenty of open space for bodyweight circuits (such as lunges, push-ups, sprints)
Highland Park doubles as a stair workout spot
Local parks such as Zabitlər Parkı and Dədə Qorqud Parkı offer green space and trails if you want a low-key workout away from the crowds
Late September in Azerbaijan is warm but can be variable. In Baku itself, daytime highs often sit between 24-28°C, with cooler evenings around 18-20°C thanks to the breeze off the Caspian Sea. Out on the Absheron Peninsula, it can feel hotter and more exposed due to minimal shade, while in the Caucasus foothills around Sheki or Qabala, expect fresher mountain air and even cooler nights.
The best time to train is early mornings (before 9am) or evenings (after 6pm), as they will be the most comfortable for runs and rides.
Hydration will be crucial – make sure to carry water or plan routes with refill points. Baku Boulevard has plenty of kiosks, but outside the city you’ll need to stock up in advance.
Sun protection will be required – sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap are essential on exposed routes like Absheron or Gobustan.
Advised clothing includes lightweight, breathable kit – as it is best for the city – but pack an extra layer if venturing into higher terrain near the Caucasus. Consider bringing trail shoes if you want to explore Gobustan or Absheron, where sandy and rocky paths dominate.
Transport: Central Baku is walkable, but for routes further afield (Absheron, Gobustan, Sheki), taxis, trains, or day tours are the most practical way to access start points.
