Baku Safety Guide
Is Baku Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Baku and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Baku crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Baku, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Baku is remarkably safe during daylight hours. Basic awareness is all you need. The evening atmosphere stays pleasant, with most areas remaining safe for walking.
Robberies and Theft: low
Armed Robberies:
Assaults: low
Corruption: high
Drug Issues: low
Beggars: low
Vandalism:
Theft from Cars: low
Car Theft:
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Fake Taxi Offers (High Risk) - Unofficial taxis often approach tourists at Baku's Heydar Aliyev International Airport and other busy areas, offering rides at inflated prices. Always use official taxi services or rideshare apps, and ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.
Currency Exchange Schemes (Medium Risk) - Some money changers near tourist hotspots like Fountain Square may lure you with significantly better exchange rates, only to give you counterfeit bills or lower denominations. Always use authorized money exchange offices, and double-check the bills you receive before leaving.
Restaurant Price Manipulation (Medium Risk) - Certain restaurants in busy tourist areas can present menus without prices or use inconsistent pricing to overcharge unsuspecting visitors. Always ask for a price list up front and verify charges on the bill before paying, especially if they don't offer itemized receipts.
Souvenir Overpricing (Medium Risk) - Street vendors in places like the Old City may dramatically inflate the prices of traditional crafts and souvenirs, especially during peak tourist seasons. Negotiate prices confidently, and if possible, compare with local shops to gauge fair pricing.
Street Performance Distractions (Medium Risk) - In popular areas like Nizami Street, performers might create a diversion while accomplices pickpocket unsuspecting tourists. Stay aware of your belongings and avoid getting too close to large crowds forming around performances.
Transportation Ticket Scams (Low Risk) - Some locals near metro stations claim tickets are sold out and offer to sell you fake or expired tickets. Always purchase tickets directly from kiosks or vending machines to avoid potential scams.
Photographic Scams (Low Risk) - Tourists may be approached by individuals offering to take their picture, only for them to demand a fee afterward. Politely decline any unsolicited offers and stick to asking trusted individuals or friends to take your photos instead.
Currency Exchange Schemes (Medium Risk) - Some money changers near tourist hotspots like Fountain Square may lure you with significantly better exchange rates, only to give you counterfeit bills or lower denominations. Always use authorized money exchange offices, and double-check the bills you receive before leaving.
Restaurant Price Manipulation (Medium Risk) - Certain restaurants in busy tourist areas can present menus without prices or use inconsistent pricing to overcharge unsuspecting visitors. Always ask for a price list up front and verify charges on the bill before paying, especially if they don't offer itemized receipts.
Souvenir Overpricing (Medium Risk) - Street vendors in places like the Old City may dramatically inflate the prices of traditional crafts and souvenirs, especially during peak tourist seasons. Negotiate prices confidently, and if possible, compare with local shops to gauge fair pricing.
Street Performance Distractions (Medium Risk) - In popular areas like Nizami Street, performers might create a diversion while accomplices pickpocket unsuspecting tourists. Stay aware of your belongings and avoid getting too close to large crowds forming around performances.
Transportation Ticket Scams (Low Risk) - Some locals near metro stations claim tickets are sold out and offer to sell you fake or expired tickets. Always purchase tickets directly from kiosks or vending machines to avoid potential scams.
Photographic Scams (Low Risk) - Tourists may be approached by individuals offering to take their picture, only for them to demand a fee afterward. Politely decline any unsolicited offers and stick to asking trusted individuals or friends to take your photos instead.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
Near the "Icherisheher" metro station, there are gates leading to the Old City. Right in front of you is Kichik Gala street. If you turn right and go down, about 250-300 meters away is the famous house where they filmed a scene from "The Diamond Arm." And immediately to the left of the gates is the "Dervish" cafe. I strongly advise against going there. The owner explained the lack of a menu by saying that the cafe had just opened three days ago. But I remembered passing by this area on Saturday when the cafe was already operational. My brain registered the inconsistency, but I brushed it off because I was hungry.
I was offered okroshka, slices of cucumbers and tomatoes, and something with chicken (I couldn't catch all the words), and like a fool, I agreed. Yes, it was quite tasty. For the first time in my life, I had okroshka from a glass. But a regular chicken cutlet with fries and stewed tomato for 9 manats (about $5.30) is just ridiculous. In total, for this meal (I also had a 0.5L bottle of water and local bread), I ended up paying 17 manats. At the current exchange rate, that's about $10, which I assure you, are the most expensive cutlets I've ever had.
This experience has really tarnished my impression of Baku. Tourists are scarce here anyway, but those who would consider visiting might choose other destinations—and rightly so. People say Europe is expensive or that Hong Kong and Singapore are pricy. I’ve been to those two cities multiple times—trust me, they are expensive, but not as much as Baku. Plus, all the charm of Baku fades when you step into the metro. »