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Getting Around Baku

Getting Around Baku

Public Transportation Network

Baku boasts a reliable, clean, and affordable public transportation system. This network forms the backbone for moving city-wide.

It connects many areas, including the Old City (Icherisheher station), Fountains Square (Sahil station, 28 May station), and the principal rail depot (28 May station).

Metro & Bus System

  • Baku Metro: Three lines (Red, Green, Purple) and 27 stations, straightforward to get around.
  • BakuBus: Extensive network of current, air-conditioned buses.
  • BakuCard: Necessary for all metro and bus rides; can't pay with cash directly.
  • Fare: A single trip costs 0.40 AZN, making it an extremely affordable option.

Metro Network

Maps are widely available. 28 May and Jafar Jabbarly are interchange stations.

BakuBus System

Use Google Maps or Yandex Maps for real-time bus route information, stops, and timings.

BakuCard & Fares

Purchase and top up reusable plastic cards at tube stations or major bus stops.

Efficiency & Accessibility

Operating Hours & Frequency
  • Metro: 06:00 (6 IN the morning) to 00:00 (midnight) daily.
  • Trains run frequently: 2-5 min peak, 7-10 min off-peak.
  • Buses: 06:MIDNIGHT to 22:00-23:00; frequency varies by route.
Accessibility Notes
  • Newer subway terminals and BakuBus vehicles offer better accessibility.
  • Older areas (Icherisheher cobblestones) and some tube stations may pose challenges.
  • Consider local tour operators specializing in accessible travel if needed.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

Reusable BakuCard

Get a plastic BakuCard for longer stays.

Use Mapping Apps

Google Maps or Yandex Maps for real-time info.

Avoid Peak Hours

Metro is crowded 07:30-09:30 & 17:30-19:30.

Monitor Stops

On buses, use map application to track your location.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis provide direct travel, especially outside public transport hours or having luggage.

Licensed Taxis & Fares

  • Purple "London Cabs" are official, metered, and for the most part reliable.
  • Yellow or white taxis with a clear "Taxi" sign also function.
  • For non-metered taxis, negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • Short city rides typically cost 3-7 AZN; airport to city 15-25 AZN.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Bolt: Highly recommended and prevalent in Baku, competitive pricing.
  • Uber: Also available, but Bolt generally has a larger presence and quicker availability.
  • Both apps show fare estimates before booking; accept cash or in-app card payments.
  • GPS tracking with sharing options for enhanced safety.

Safety Considerations & Benefits

  • Ride-ride-sharing apps provide enhanced safety features, including driver details.
  • Avoid unmarked cars. Confirm destination clearly with street taxis.
  • Apps limit negotiation issues and reduce overcharging.
  • Always check the taxi is clearly licensed and identifiable.
  • Be wary of drivers who seem overly insistent.
  • Share your trip with others using the app's tracking feature.

Ride-Sharing Benefits

Transparent Pricing

See approximate fares before you book, no surprises.

Driver Information

Receive driver name, license plate, and car model for security.

Convenience

Easy arranging and cashless payment options (in-app).

Vehicle Rentals

For greater independence, especially for day trips outside Baku, car hire is available. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not as common for visitors.

Car Rental Requirements

  • Valid national driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Passport and a credit card for the security deposit.
  • At least 21 years old or 23, additional fees for drivers under 25.
  • Multinational brands like Avis, Hertz, DiscoverCars.com, Europcar, Sixt.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Less common for tourists.
  • Require appropriate licenses and prior riding experience.
  • Baku's aggressive traffic makes them less suitable for visitors.
  • Safety gear is highly advised for any two-wheeled travel.

Bicycle Rentals & Driving Laws

Bicycle Rentals

Available along Baku Boulevard; local "Bakubike" system. Good for leisurely rides.

Dedicated bike lanes on Boulevard.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits enforced (60 km/h urban, 90 km/h highway).

Zero-tolerance for drunk driving.

Parking Information

Paid street parking in central areas (machines/apps); underground garages are also available.

Finding spaces can be challenging.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road Quality
  • Main roads and highways in Baku are generally well-maintained.
  • Road quality declines significantly in more remote or rural areas.
  • Stay alert for changing road conditions, especially outside the capital.
Driving Safety Tips
  • Local driving may be assertive; practice defensive driving.
  • Pedestrians should be extremely cautious, even at crosswalks.
  • Petrol and diesel are readily available at numerous petrol stations.

Safety Concerns for Driving

  • Lack of consistent lane discipline.
  • Drivers often exceed speed limits.
  • Poor road lighting in some areas in the country areas at night.
  • Unmarked speed bumps and potholes outside major city roads.
  • Ensure your rental car has breakdown assistance.
  • Dashcams are common; be aware of their presence.
  • Always have an up-to-date GPS or map application.
  • Consider regional driving customs and adjust your style accordingly.

Walking & Cycling Baku

Walking and cycling offer excellent ways to experience Baku's charm up close, especially in its pedestrian-friendly zones.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

  • Icherisheher (Old City): Almost entirely pedestrianized, perfect for leisurely walks.
  • Baku Boulevard: Long, scenic promenade along the Caspian Sea, ideal for walking, jogging, cycling.
  • Fountains Square & Nizami Street: Bustling central car-free zones with shops, cafes.
  • Highland Park: Offers stunning panoramic city views, reachable by funicular or walk.

Walking Tour Options

  • Guided tours: Numerous options focusing on history, culture, architecture, or cuisine.
  • Self-guided tours: Easily explore Old City plus the central area districts with maps or audio guides.
  • Download offline maps to assist self-guided exploration.
  • Consider tours in your preferred language for richer insights.

Cycling & Safety

Cycling Infrastructure

Dedicated bike lanes exist along parts of the Baku Boulevard for safe cycling.

  • Limited infrastructure elsewhere in the city.
  • Bakubike system for easy leases on Boulevard.
  • Avoid cycling on busy city roads.
Safety for Cyclists
  • Stick to less congested areas.
  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Use hand signals clearly.
No-Go Areas for Pedestrians

Generally, all central tourist areas are safe for individuals on foot and on bikes.

  • Exercise caution on busy multi-lane roads.
  • Avoid poorly lit, isolated areas at night.
  • Pay attention to traffic, even at crossings.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Crosswalk Awareness
  • Always look both ways, even on a single-way streets.
  • Traffic signals might not always be followed by drivers.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Nighttime Walks
  • Stay in well-lit-lit, populated areas.
  • Walk with a companion when possible.
  • Keep your phone charged for emergencies.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Baku offers a few unique transportation experiences that add to your visit, alongside ongoing efforts for accessibility.

Unique Transport Experiences

  • Baku City Tour: Double-decker hop-on-hop-off buses with multilingual commentary.
  • Caspian Sea Boat Tours: Limited scenic excursions from Baku Boulevard during warmer months.
  • Baku Funicular: Connects Baku Boulevard to Highland Park for panoramic city views.
  • Funicular operation: 10:00-22:00, closed On mondays, free of charge.

Accessibility Services

  • Newer buildings, malls, and attractions like Heydar Aliyev Center have ramps and elevators.
  • Older areas (Icherisheher cobblestones) and some metro stations present challenges.
  • Newer BakuBuses are accessible, but not all public transport options are fully accessible.
  • Research definite spots or consult specialized tour operators for accessibility needs.

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off services explore major attractions with audio guides.

Caspian Sea Boats

Picturesque tours from Baku Boulevard capture city skyline views.

Baku Funicular

Connects Boulevard to Highland Park; offers panoramic city views for free.

Navigating Challenges

Public Transport Issues
  • Bus stop announcements are not always clear or in English.
  • Actively monitor your location using a map app for bus travel.
  • Metro can be very crowded during morning and evening rush hours.
Urban Exploration Tips
  • Wear comfortable shoes for long walks, especially in Old City.
  • Basic Azerbaijani phrases can be helpful for interaction.
  • Download offline maps to avoid connectivity issues.

Navigating Baku Efficiently

Always hold a small amount of Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) cash handy for public transport top-ups or small taxi fares if your ride-sharing app faces issues.

Planning your routes using digital maps and being conscious of peak hours will streamline your movement across the city.

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