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Azerbaijan is a country where ancient fortresses stand next to futuristic skyscrapers, and mountain villages live quite differently from busy Baku. Vacationing in Azerbaijan pleasantly surprises with the ratio of price to impressions. If you haven't been there yet — it's time to figure out how to prepare for a trip.
Best time to visit
The optimal season for tourists in Azerbaijan is April–May and September–October. In spring, gardens bloom, snow still lies in the mountains — a beautiful contrast. Autumn brings mild warmth, fewer tourists, and low accommodation prices. In summer, Baku is hot and humid, up to +40°C — tolerable, but uncomfortable for long walks. In winter, it's worth going if you're interested in the Shahdag ski resort.
Visa and entry
Citizens of Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan do not need a visa — entry with a passport for up to 90 days. Citizens of most other countries can obtain an electronic visa e-Visa through the official portal, processed in 3 business days. The cost in 2026 is approximately 20 USD. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry. At the border, they may ask about a return ticket and place of residence — it's better to have a booking at hand.
Transport and accommodation
Baku is connected to the regions of the country by buses and trains — tickets are cheap, schedules are stable. Within the city, the metro is most convenient: clean, fast, and fares cost pennies. It's best to book taxis through Bolt or Uber apps — fixed price and no risk of overpaying.
For a trip to Azerbaijan outside Baku, it's more convenient to rent a car: roads are generally good, and mountain areas can't be covered otherwise. There are no problems with accommodation: in Baku, there's a wide choice from budget hostels to design hotels. In the regions, guesthouses are popular — they serve home-cooked food and willingly tell you about local places.
Food and attractions
Azerbaijani cuisine is one of the best reasons to visit. Be sure to try:
- Piti — hearty lamb soup served in a clay pot
- Dushbara — tiny dumplings in broth
- Lula kebab on a grill with lavash
- Baklava and shekerbura — local pastries for tea
Don't miss these attractions: the Old City of Icheri Sheher in Baku (UNESCO site), the Maiden Tower, the Shirvanshahs Palace. Outside the capital — Gobustan with rock paintings and mud volcanoes, medieval Sheki with the khan's palace, the mountain village of Lahij. A trip to Azerbaijan without visiting the regions is only half the experience.
Money, communications, and safety
The local currency is the manat (AZN). The exchange rate is stable, and exchange offices are everywhere. Cards are accepted in most Baku establishments, but in the regions it's better to have cash. Prices are pleasant: a full meal in a non-touristy café will cost 5–8 manats.
For communications, it's easiest to buy a local SIM card from Azercell or Bakcell at the airport — a package with internet for a week costs about 5–7 manats. A convenient alternative is an eSIM for Azerbaijan: activated before you leave home, rates start from 45₽. Roaming from Russian operators works, but it's expensive.
Azerbaijan is a safe country for tourists. Local residents are friendly and willingly help with directions. Standard precautions: don't leave valuables unattended in crowds, avoid unauthorized money changers. Photographing military objects and border zones is prohibited — it's worth remembering this.