Baku Baki, Azerbaijan Travel Guide
GYD serves as the main international gateway, situated about 20 km (12 miles) northeast of the city center. It offers modern, well-equipped facilities.
Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) is the national flag carrier. Numerous international airlines connect Baku to global hubs.
Connections from London, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Paris, Milan, Berlin, Budapest and more.
Excellent connectivity from Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Kuwait City.
No direct flights from North America. Transfers via Istanbul, Frankfurt, or Dubai.
June-August sees higher flight prices and increased frequency on popular routes.
November-March often brings lower prices; core connections remain.
Book well in advance, especially for high season. Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner to monitor prices.
Azerbaijan borders Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran. Crossings with Georgia and Russia are generally open for tourists.
Azerbaijan Railways connects Baku to Tbilisi, Georgia, via an overnight service, offering a scenic journey. Domestic trains serve cities like Ganja and Mingachevir.
Baku International Bus Terminal is the main hub for intercity and international bus routes. Buses connect Baku to cities in Georgia, Russia, and Turkey (often via Georgia).
To rent a car, you typically need a valid national driver'a driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). DiscoverCars.com and major international brands operate here.
Passenger ferry services run to/from Aktau (Kazakhstan) and Turkmenbashi (Turkmenistan). These ferries mainly serve cargo but take a limited number of passengers.
Immigration at Baku International Sea Trade Port requires a valid passport and visa (if applicable). Processes might take longer due to the less frequent nature of passenger ferry arrivals.
No significant river transportation options exist for tourism in Baku. The city's main waterways belong to the Caspian Sea.
Limited scenic boat tours operate from Baku Boulevard, especially during warmer months, offering city skyline views from the sea.
Baku occasionally receives small expedition cruise ships operating on the Caspian Sea, but not large international cruise lines.
No particular exit fees or taxes are typically charged for travel by plane from Heydar Aliyev International Airport beyond your ticket price.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) Terminal 1 provides extensive facilities for departing travelers.
Claim VAT refunds at designated counters after security for eligible purchases.
Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure.
Baku traffic is unpredictable; allow extra travel time to the airport or station.
Planning arrival and departure arrangements carefully makes for a relaxed and efficient travel experience.
