location.beaches.districts_subtitle
UNESCO World Heritage walled old city. Maiden Tower, Palace of Shirvanshahs, narrow alleys, carpet shops, caravanserais. Atmospheric and ancient. Must-see Baku.
Iconic trio of skyscrapers shaped like flames - symbol of modern Baku. LED light shows at night. Highland Park below with eternal flame and city views. Dramatic contrast to Old City.
Main pedestrian area with fountains, shops, restaurants, and cafes. European feel. Between Old City and modern center. Best people watching. Lively evening atmosphere.
faq.subtitle Baku
Most nationalities need e-visa (ASAN Visa) - easy online, $26, approved in 3 days. Some countries visa-free. IMPORTANT: Entry denied if Armenian stamps in passport or if you visited Nagorno-Karabakh.
Yes, IF no Armenian stamps visible (Armenia no longer stamps passports). But if you visited Nagorno-Karabakh - permanent ban. Don't mention Armenia visit at border. Relations very hostile.
Historically Shia Muslim but very secular. Soviet influence. Alcohol widely available, Western dress normal, no religious restrictions for tourists. Much more liberal than Middle East. Mosques are cultural sites.
Azerbaijan Grand Prix - F1 race through city streets including Old City walls! Usually in April/June. Exciting street circuit. City transforms. Book hotels months ahead during race week.
Useful tips for visiting Baku
Watch Flame Towers light show at night from Highland Park. Free, spectacular LED display. Park has martyrs' memorial and amazing views. Take funicular up or walk.
Get BakıKart for metro and buses - sold at metro stations. 2 AZN deposit + top up. Much easier than buying tickets each time.
Visit mud volcanoes at Gobustan (1 hour from Baku) - Azerbaijan has most in the world! Combine with ancient petroglyphs (UNESCO). Half-day trip ~$30-40.
Try plov (pilaf), dolma, kebabs, and tandir bread. Azerbaijani cuisine is incredible. Tea culture strong - always served in pear-shaped armudu glasses.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
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Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cash widely accepted throughout Baku in 2025. Tourist areas like Flame Towers, Old City, and Nizami Street accept both cash and digital payments. Street food stalls and open-air markets prefer cash. Most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops accept cash without issues.
Exchange at major banks: International Bank of Azerbaijan, Kapital Bank, Pasha Bank (Mon-Fri 9 AM-6 PM). Licensed currency exchange offices operate in shopping centers, near metro stations, and along Nizami Street with competitive rates. Best rates at official exchange offices in downtown Baku. Avoid airport exchanges - wait for city center. USD and EUR easiest to exchange, GBP accepted in fewer locations.
10% appreciated in restaurants. Not mandatory. Round up for taxis. Hotel staff 5-10 AZN.
Tourist area with low crime rate
Baku is very safe. Low crime, police presence everywhere. Safe at night. Avoid political discussions. Some areas near Armenian border restricted. Tourist-friendly city.
Attractions and points of interest