2026 Azerbaijan Travel Essentials

Azerbaijan lies between Asia and Europe and is known for its mix of cultures shaped by the Caucasus region, Turkey, Iran, and the Soviet era. The country has experienced rapid tourism growth, thanks in part to the introduction of the e-visa system. This comprehensive guide provides essential information to ensure a smooth, enriching journey to Azerbaijan in 2026.

Visa Information

E-Visa Application

• E-Visa Option: Since January 2017, Azerbaijan has offered an e-visa application system accessible through the official Governmental portal.
• Cost and Processing Time: An e-visa costs $30 and takes approximately Within 3 - 5 Days to process. Urgent processing is available at an additional cost.

Eligibility

• Tourist Visa Eligibility: Tourist visas are open to citizens of many countries, including Western nationalities.

Visa Validity

• Single Entry: The tourist visa for Azerbaijan grants a 30-day stay within a 90-day window, with no option for double entry.

Registration in Azerbaijan

Duration-Based Requirement

• Registration Requirement: Travellers staying in Azerbaijan for more than 15 days must register. This can be done at your accommodation or the local police station.

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

Varied Climate Zones

• Azerbaijan boasts nine of the eleven distinct climate zones, making it a year-round travel destination.
• Ideal Seasons: Mid-spring and mid-autumn are recommended for comfortable weather conditions, avoiding the extremes of summer and winter.

Travel Insurance for Azerbaijan

• Given its adventurous nature, comprehensive travel insurance is highly advisable when visiting Azerbaijan.

Country, People, and Culture

Azerbaijan Today

• Independence: Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
• Political Landscape: The New Azerbaijan Party has ruled the country since 1993, characterised by nationalism and a personality cult surrounding Heydar Aliyev.

Religion in Azerbaijan

• Religious Diversity: Azerbaijan's multiculturalism has resulted in a secular society, with few functional mosques.

The Azerbaijani People

• Physical and Cultural Diversity: Azerbaijanis often share physical traits with Iranians but possess a unique cultural identity.
• Cultural Blend: Azerbaijan's culture is an amalgamation of Georgian,Armenian, Iranian, and Turkish influences.
• Language: Azerbaijani is the official language, a Turkish dialect, with Russian also spoken. English proficiency is limited, mainly in Baku.

Hospitality

• Welcoming Culture: Azerbaijani hospitality is renowned, with locals frequently inviting guests to tea and declining payment for meals.

Is Azerbaijan still a Lesser-known Destination?

Azerbaijan tourism is on the rise; it is still emerging as a famous tourist destination. Let’s know more about its tourism trends.

Tourism Trends

• Growing Tourism: The introduction of the e-visa system in January 2017 has led to exponential growth in tourism.
• Popular Destinations: Baku, Sheki, Icherisheher, Ganja, and Lahic are popular with tourists,while remote villages like Xinaliq offer official homestays.
• Hidden Gems: To experience authentic Azerbaijan, consider exploring lesser-visited areas such as the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, Ivanovka, and the towns around Ganja.

Getting to Azerbaijan in 2026

Travelling to Azerbaijan has become increasingly accessible and convenient, whether by air, land, or sea. Let’s look at the overview of the different travel options available for your journey to this unique destination in 2026.

Travelling to Azerbaijan by Air

Baku International Airport

• Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Bakuis the primary gateway to Azerbaijan and offers numerous international connections to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
• It serves as a convenient starting point for your exploration of this diverse country.

Travelling to Azerbaijan by Land

Georgia Border Crossings

• Zaqatala to Sighnaghi: A friendly border crossing between Azerbaijan and Georgia, providing access to Sighnaghi.
• Ganja to Tbilisi: Another border point allows train travel from Tbilisi to Baku, offering a scenic night train journey.

Iran Border Crossing

• The border with Iran is open and welcoming; however, travellers heading to Iran should possess an Iranian visa.

Travelling to Azerbaijan by Sea

Caspian Sea Routes

• From Kazakhstan (Aktau): You can go on a sea journey from Aktau, Kazakhstan, to Azerbaijan over the Caspian Sea. This voyage takes approximately 24 hours and requires patience, as departures are irregular.

Turkmenistan Option

• Travellers with a Turkmen visa can also take the sea route from Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan.

Internet and Connectivity in Azerbaijan

Wi-Fi Availability

• Remarkably, Wi-Fi connectivity is widespread and reliable throughout Azerbaijan, even in remote areas.

SIM Cards

• Azercell is arecommended mobile provider, and you can purchase SIM cards from Azercell stores for accurate pricing and generous data allowances.

eSIM for Convenience

• Consider acquiring an eSIM for browsing, calling, and travelling in Azerbaijan to ensure you have connectivity before your trip.

VPN for Online Security

• Enhance your online security and access restricted content by using a VPN, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. ExpressVPN is a recommended option for reliability and affordability.

Money in Azerbaijan

Currency

• The Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) is the local currency, with an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD = 1.70 AZN.

ATMs and Credit Cards

• Credit cards are widely accepted in Baku, and ATMs are abundant. However, it's advisable to carry cash when venturing beyond the capital, as card payments may not be as widely accepted.

Currency Exchange

• Exchange offices can be found throughout the country, making it convenient to convert your currency to Azerbaijani Manat.

Cost of Living in Azerbaijan

Affordability

• Azerbaijan is renowned for its affordability, making it one of the cheapest countries to visit.
• Sample costs include:
  • Backpacker hostels:7 to 15 AZN
  • Budget guesthouses: 30 to 40 AZN
  • Mid-range hotels: 60 to 80 AZN
  • Fast food: Around 2 AZN
  • Local eateries (a meal): 2 to 5 AZN
  • Mid-range restaurants:8 to 15 AZN
  • Short taxi ride in Baku:2 to 3 AZN
  • Metro ride in Baku:0.60AZN
  • Bus from Baku to Quba: 6 AZN (3 to 4 hour journey)

Backpacking Budget for Azerbaijan

• Budget travellers can comfortably manage their expenses with a daily budget ranging from 30€ to 40€.

Food and Cuisine in Azerbaijan

Culinary Diversity

• Azerbaijani cuisine reflects a rich blend of cultural influences, incorporating flavours from Turkey, Russia, Iran, and even Greece.
• Local variations on regional dishes are common, with Azerbaijanis often claiming these adaptations as their own.

Must-Try Dishes

• Piti: A hearty stew of vegetables, lamb, and chickpeas, slow-cooked in a clay pot.
• Yarpak Xangal: Layers of pasta, meat, caramelised onions, and yoghurt create a hearty dish.
• Dushbara: Enjoy this delightful dumpling soup, particularly prevalent in the northwestern part of the country.

Transportation: How to Move Around Azerbaijan

Getting Around Azerbaijan

Metro

• Baku boasts a well-maintained metro system, with fares of 0.60 AZN per ride. A 4 AZN metro card is required.

Uber

• Use the Uber app for convenient taxi service in Baku.

Marshrutka

• Locals commonly rely on marshrutkas, public minivans, for transportation between towns and cities. They are affordable and depart when full.

Train

• A train service operates between Baku and Ganja, with extensions to Tbilisi, though it doesn't follow the main tourist trail.

Domestic Flights

• Consider domestic flights on specific routes, such as Baku-Nakhchivan, offered by Azerbaijan Airlines.

Car Rental

• Renting a car provides flexibility, especially when exploring areas with limited public transportation, such as Quba.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Azerbaijan

Diverse Accommodation Options

• Azerbaijan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets.
• Options range from hostels, guesthouses, and homestays to regular hotels, including numerous 5-star properties in Baku.

Conclusion

By following these travel essentials and guidelines, your journey to Azerbaijan in 2026 will be not only well-prepared but also deeply enriching. Explore this captivating, unique destination with confidence and immerse yourself in its remarkable culture and landscapes.