Travel tips · Baku · Azerbaijan
Baku travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Quick answer
Baku blends Persian, Turkic, Russian and European influences. Azerbaijan is a secular country with a mainly Shia Muslim population, and Baku is cosmopolitan, while traditions of hospitality, tea and family remain central. Mugham music, carpet weaving and Novruz celebrations are key parts of national culture.
Key facts
- Language
- Azerbaijani
- Currency
- AZN
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Most residents do not drink tap water; bottled water, including local mineral…
- Emergency
- 112 (general emergency number); 102 police, 103 ambulance
Things to know
- Remove shoes and dress modestly when visiting mosques; women should cover their hair.
- Accept tea when offered; it is a sign of hospitality.
- Avoid photographing government buildings, police and military sites.
- Greet people with 'Salam', and use both hands or the right hand when giving or receiving items.
- Keep political topics out of conversations unless your hosts raise them.
- Use the BakuCard and metro; journeys cost very little.
Tipping
Some restaurants add a service charge of around 10%; otherwise leaving 5–10% is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and tip guides on day trips.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Salam | Hello |
| Sağ olun | Thank you |
| Xahiş edirəm | Please / you're welcome |
| Bəli / Xeyr | Yes / No |
| Neçəyədir? | How much is it? |
| Hesab, zəhmət olmasa | The bill, please |
| Nuş olsun | Enjoy your meal |
What to wear
Baku dresses smartly, and casual Western clothing is fine in the city. Carry a scarf and long trousers or a skirt for mosques, and a windproof layer for the Boulevard.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Most residents do not drink tap water; bottled water, including local mineral waters such as Sirab and Badamlı, is sold everywhere.
- Emergency number
- 112 (general emergency number); 102 police, 103 ambulance
- Phone and internet
- Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés; local SIMs are sold at the airport and in phone shops.
- Time zone
- Asia/Baku
Baku is generally relaxed for visitors. Traffic is fast, so use underpasses and crossings, and agree fares or use apps for taxis. Avoid photographing government and military sites, and bring warm layers for strong winds.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Azerbaijan's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Baku?
Some restaurants add a service charge of around 10%; otherwise leaving 5–10% is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and tip guides on day trips.
+Can you drink the tap water in Baku?
Most residents do not drink tap water; bottled water, including local mineral waters such as Sirab and Badamlı, is sold everywhere.
+What plugs are used in Baku?
Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Baku?
Azerbaijani.