Baku Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Azerbaijan has three main mobile network operators: Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile. All good coverage in Baku and major towns.

Details for Purchase

Purchase: Heydar Aliyev International Airport or official provider stores throughout the city. Consider getting an ESIM from Airalo for arrival.
Requirements: Present your passport for registration when purchasing a SIM card.
Cost: Prepaid plans are affordable. Typically 20-30 AZN for a good data package, valid for 30 days. This a cost-effective way to stay connected.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Internet access is widely available in Baku, ensuring you stay connected.

Connectivity Options

Wi-Fi: Widely available in Baku. Most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls free Wi-Fi for customers.
Public Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi, often "Baku Wi-Fi," in central areas like Baku Boulevard, Fountains Square, and other public spaces.
Mobile Data: 4G/LTE mobile data coverage is excellent in Baku and reliable in most major towns, using your local SIM card for internet access on the go. For consistent connectivity, a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi is an option.

Postal Services

Azerpost is the national postal service of Azerbaijan.

Sending Mail

Post offices are available in Baku for sending postcards, letters, and parcels internationally.
You can find post offices in various city districts.
Stamps for postcards can be readily obtained at post offices.

Language Barriers & Translation Resources

Language Support

Official Language: Azerbaijani (Azeri) is the official language. It a Turkic language.
Commonly Spoken Languages: Russian widely spoken, especially among older generations. English proficiency rising among younger generations and in tourist-facing businesses.
Translation Apps: Download Google Translate (with the Azerbaijani offline pack) to your smartphone. This invaluable for quick translations. For deeper learning, explore platforms like Rosetta Stone.

Important Phrases with Pronunciation Guides

Common Greetings

Salam (sah-LAHM): Hello
Sağ olun (sah-OL-oon): Thank you (used by men)
Təşəkkür edirəm (tah-shah-KOOR eh-dee-RAM): Thank you (more formal)
Bəli (bah-LEE): Yes

Useful Expressions

Xeyr (KHEYR): No
Neçəyədir? (NEH-cheh-yah-dir?): How much is it?
Bağışlayın (bah-ghush-LAH-yin): Excuse me / Sorry
Haradadır...? (hah-rah-DAH-dir...?): Where is...?

Basic Phrases

Learning a few basic Azerbaijani phrases shows respect and smoother interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shops

Generally open from 09:00/10:00 (9 AM/10 AM) to 19:00/20:00 (7 PM/8 IN the evening). Modern shopping malls often open later, until 22:00 (10 PM).

Restaurants

Lunch service typically runs from 12:00-15:00 (noon-3 PM). Dinner service from 19:00-23:00 (7 PM-11 PM) or later. Many cafes open earlier for breakfast.

Museums & Attractions

Most museums and major attractions operate from about 10:00 (10 AM) to 18:00/19:00 (6 PM/7 PM). Many closed one day of the week, often Monday. Check specific websites.

Banking Services

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available 24/7 in banks, shopping centers, and central areas of Baku.

Accessing Your Funds

Banks: Typical banking hours are from 09:00 (9 AM) to 17:00/18:00 (5 PM/6 PM), Monday to Friday. Some branches in shopping malls extended hours or open Saturdays.
ATMs: Cash access at any time.
Card Acceptance: Plastic cards accepted in most major establishments.

Public & Religious Holidays

Azerbaijan observes several public holidays. These holiday services and business hours.

Calendar Impact

Fixed Dates: Novruz (Spring Equinox, March 20-24), Victory Day (May 9), Republic Day (May 28), Salvation Day (June 15), Armed Forces Day (June 26), State Independence Day (Oct 18), Flag Day (Nov 9), Constitution Day (Nov 12), National Revival Day (Nov 17), Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis (Dec 31) & New Year (Jan 1-2).
Religious (Vary): Ramadan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr) and Qurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha).
Impact: During public holidays, banks, government offices, and some businesses close. Public transport might operate reduced schedules. Novruz a major holiday with spaciousspread celebrations and extensive closures. Plan accordingly.

Seasonal Considerations

Limited Schedules

Outdoor Attractions: Some outdoor attractions or those for seasonal things to do (e.g., beach clubs) may have reduced hours or close during the low season (winter).
Confirm Hours: Always check official websites or call ahead for specific attractions, especially when traveling during off-peak times.
Winter Months: Lower the number of visitors and a quieter city experience.

Planning Tips

Check Dates: Verify holiday schedules for your travel period.
Book Ahead: Secure tickets for popular attractions during peak seasons.
Online Information: Official websites are the best source for current operating hours.

Planning Ahead

Print out or save digital copies of important addresses and phrases in Azerbaijani. This valuable when language barriers occur.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Azerbaijanis warm and hospitable people. Acknowledging local customs shows consideration.

Interacting with Locals

Handshakes: Common between men. Women may shake hands with other women or nod politely. When greeting an elder, extend your hand first or nod respectfully.
Formal vs. Informal: Use more formal greetings for elders or people you do not know well.
Hospitality: Accepting offers of tea or small treats a sign of respect.

Appropriate Attire for Different Settings

Dress choices reflect local norms and respect.

Dressing Guidelines

General: Smart casual attire widely accepted in Baku.
Religious Sites: Modest dress. Shoulders and knees covered for both men and women. Women cover heads when entering mosques. Carry a scarf for this.
Upscale Venues: Dress smart (e.g., collared shirt and trousers for men, elegant dress for women) when visiting fine dining restaurants or cultural performances.

Dining and Tipping Practices

Enjoy Azerbaijani cuisine with local dining customs in mind.

Table Manners & Gratuity

Dining: Always accept tea when offered. Wait for your host or most senior person at the table to indicate seating. Bread a staple and usually served with meals.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. A service charge (typically 10-15%) sometimes included in the bill. If not, leaving 5-10% for good service is customary in restaurants and for taxi drivers.
Local Flavors: Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, a highlight of any visit.

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Considerate photography respects local privacy and customs.

Capturing Images

Public Places: Generally acceptable to photograph public places, landmarks, and street scenes.
Individuals: Always ask for explicit get permission to photograph people, especially women and children. A polite gesture and "Olar?" (Can I?) before asking works well.
Restricted Areas: Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or sensitive border areas. Inside museums or religious sites, check for "no photography" signs or ask staff.

Sensitive Topics & Considerations

Taboos to Avoid

Politics: Exercise caution when discussing local politics.
Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: A highly sensitive topic. Avoid initiating talks regarding it or expressing opinions.
Armenia: Avoid discussing the conflict with Armenia or making comparisons. These topics deeply personal and often painful for locals.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Gender: Baku relatively modern, but traditional gender roles prevalent in society. Public displays of affection discreet and modest.
LGBTQ+: Homosexuality not illegal in Azerbaijan, but societal acceptance limited. Public displays of affection not advised for same-sex couples. LGBTQ+ travelers discretion.
Respect: Sensitivity to local norms. Avoid actions that public offense.

Religious Site Etiquette

Respectful Conduct

Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering mosques.
Attire: Women cover their heads. Both men and women shoulders and knees covered.
Behavior: Maintain silence and respect, especially during prayer times. Avoid disruptive behavior.

Observation & Guidance

Observe local worshippers and follow their lead.
Look for signs or ask staff if unsure about rules.
Enter with a respectful demeanor.

Practical Advice

Carry a headscarf for women, useful for impromptu mosque visits. Always polite and respectful in your interactions.

Accessibility Information

Baku made strides in accessibility, though challenges remain in older areas.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Efforts to accessibility in Baku are noticeable, notably in newer developments.

Mobility Support

Newer Infrastructure: Modern buildings, shopping malls, the Heydar Aliyev Center, and many upscale hotels in Baku good accessibility, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Older Areas: Cobblestone streets of Icherisheher (Old City) and some older train stations with stairs challenges for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.
Baku Boulevard: Largely flat and accessible, suitable for leisurely strolls.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Specific transport and attractions cater to diverse needs.

Ease of Access

Heydar Aliyev Center: Designed with accessibility, largely navigable for all visitors.
BakuBus Fleet: Many newer BakuBus vehicles low-floor and equipped with ramps for wheelchair access.
Baku Funicular: Accessible transport to Highland Park.

Services for Travelers with Sensory Impairments

Specialized services for travelers with disabilities are limited.

Support & Information

Some major cultural institutions might audio guides or written information.
It's recommended to contact venues directly to inquire about available services.
Advance inquiry for specific necessities is always the most effective approach.

Resources and Organizations

Specific organizations focusing solely on accessible tourism in Azerbaijan are limited.

Finding Information

General travel forums, expat communities in Baku, or international organizations supporting accessible travel further insights or connections.
Advised to conduct detailed study and contact specific venues or tour operators directly to confirm accessibility features.
Online communities can often share subjective experiences and recommendations.

Advance Planning

Contact hotels and tour operators directly to discuss specific accessibility needs. This prepared during your visit.

Baku Travel Tips