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About Baku

Baku, the vibrant capital province of Azerbaijan, is a mesmerizing fusion of ancient history and futuristic architecture on the shores of the Caspian Sea. This dynamic region offers travelers a unique blend where medieval walled cities meet gleaming modern skyscrapers. The UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher) transports visitors back centuries with its labyrinthine streets, historic caravanserais, and the iconic Maiden Tower. Just outside the ancient walls, the Flame Towers illuminate the skyline, symbolizing Azerbaijan's oil-rich heritage. Baku's cultural richness shines through at the Heydar Aliyev Center's flowing architectural masterpiece and the bustling Nizami Street for shopping and people-watching. Don't miss the surreal landscape of the Gobustan National Park with its ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes just outside the city. The Caspian waterfront boulevard provides perfect sunset strolls, while local tea houses offer fragrant Azerbaijani tea served with traditional jam. From the opulent Palace of the Shirvanshahs to the contemporary art scene, Baku delivers an unforgettable journey where East meets West in spectacular fashion.

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Travel Tips for Baku

Getting Around

Baku has an efficient metro system with three lines covering major areas (single ride 0.30 AZN). BakuCard offers unlimited travel on metro and buses. Taxis are abundant - use Bolt or Uber-like local apps (Uklon, Uber Azerbaijan) for reliable service. Marshrutkas (minibuses) follow set routes. The Baku City Circuit bus is free for tourists. Car rentals are available but driving can be chaotic. Walking is excellent in the flat city center and along the Boulevard.

Best Time To Visit

April-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures (15-25°C) perfect for exploring. Spring brings blooming flowers and the Novruz festival in March. Autumn provides comfortable weather for outdoor activities. July-August can be extremely hot (up to 40°C) and humid. Winter months (December-February) are cold and windy but less crowded. The Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in June attracts many visitors.

Local Customs

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Remove shoes when entering homes. Hospitality is highly valued - accept tea offers graciously. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Greet with handshakes (men) or nods (women unless they extend hand). Avoid public displays of affection. Always use right hand for eating and handing items. Respect elders by standing when they enter. Photography restrictions apply in some government areas.

Safety Information

Baku is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded areas like markets and public transport for petty theft. Avoid political demonstrations. Be cautious of taxi scams - agree on fares beforehand or use ride-hailing apps. The Old City and central areas are very safe, even at night. Some areas outside the city center may be less well-lit. Police presence is visible throughout the city. Women traveling alone should dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Credit card skimming has been reported - use ATMs in banks or hotels.

Health Information

Baku has modern medical facilities including the Central Customs Hospital, Baku Medical Plaza, and several private clinics. Tap water is not recommended for drinking - use bottled water. No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but Hepatitis A and routine vaccines are recommended. Air pollution can be high in summer. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance as medical costs for foreigners can be high. Pharmacies (aptek) are widely available with many medications sold over-the-counter. COVID-19 precautions may still apply in some healthcare settings.

Languages Spoken

AzerbaijaniRussianEnglish

Quick Facts

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
₼

Timezone

Asia/Baku +04:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+994

Electricity

Type C, F; 220V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

2.3 million

Area

2130 km²

Government

Municipality with executive power headed by a Mayor appointed by the President

About Baku

Things to do in Baku

Baku Downtown Original Walking Tour

Baku City Tour with Local Guide-Old City, Flame Towers, Boulevard

Qobustan rock arts, Mud Volcanoes, Fire temple Ateshgah, Yanardag

Guba Khinalig village & Candy Cane tour Homemade Lunch İncluded

Private Tour to Gobustan Mud Volcanoes and Absheron.

Baku City Guided Wine Tour (snacks included)

Baku Wine Crawl for Small Groups

Guided Gobustan, Mud Volcanoes & Absheron Tour

Baku: Old & Modern City Tour with Wine Tasting

Gobustan and Absheron Private Tour

Baku Street Food Tour

Most Popular Private Tour in Baku: City Tour & Old Town Walk

Baku to Khinaliq Village & Candy Cane Mountains Guided Day Trip

Relaxable and Knowledgeable 9 days Tour in Azerbaijan

Full-Day Gobustan and Absheron Tour

Travel Tips for Baku

Getting Around

Best Time To Visit

Local Customs

Safety Information

Health Information

Languages Spoken

Quick Facts

Currency

Timezone

Calling Code

Electricity

Driving Side

Population

Area

Government

ISO Code

Emergency Contacts

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Tourist Police

Frequently Asked Questions