Getting Around Baku
Getting Around Baku
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
Getting around Baku has its own unique rhythm. You'll see locals never shy away from hopping on the metro, buses, or even the occasional taxi to navigate the city. The public transport system here is pretty efficient and quite extensive. It mainly includes the Baku Metro, which has about 25 stations, numerous bus routes, and even a few taxis that operate through apps like Bolt and Uber.The metro runs from 6 AM to 12 AM, but the buses usually start a bit later and wrap up earlier at around 10 PM. A ticket for the metro costs about 0.30 AZN, which makes it super affordable compared to taxis—where a regular trip can cost around 8 to 12 AZN, depending on the traffic. One common tourist mistake is thinking that all buses operate on a fixed schedule; they often come when full, which can be a bit unpredictable. To dodge confusion, my go-to hack is to use the local transport app, like "BakiBus," which shows real-time updates for buses.
Speaking of personal experiences, my first time using Baku's metro involved a lot of fumbling with the machines, which aren’t always English-friendly (worth practicing your Azerbaijani numbers!). That said, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean and modern the stations are, especially places like 28 May station.
Now, during rush hour—especially around 5 PM—you’ll feel the crowd squeeze in like sardines. Seriously, I usually try to avoid the metro entirely during this time, opting instead for a relaxing stroll through Fountain Square, soaking up the atmosphere.
Oh, before I forget, a little weather note: Baku can get windy and chilly in winter, which makes waiting for buses a bit of a challenge. Dress in layers when taking the bus, as the buses don’t have heating.
If you’re considering a daily pass, it’s roughly 1.50 AZN, which is a steal compared to single rides if you plan on moving around a lot. And for groups, don’t forget to ask about the multi-ride discounts at the ticket kiosks.
So there you have it, navigating through Baku is a mix of adventure and practicality. Just embrace the quirks and you’ll find your way around just fine!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The metro in Baku is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, featuring 25 stations that cover key areas including the historic Old City, government district, and popular shopping centers. A single trip costs approximately 0.30 AZN, and you can purchase a plastic smart card at kiosk stations for easy payment, which is also more practical for multiple rides. For tourists, the most important lines are the Red Line (Line 1) which connects you to major attractions like the Fountain Square and the Flame Towers, and the Green Line (Line 2) which takes you to the Baku Boulevard area. To save time, avoid peak hours between 8-9 AM and 5-6 PM, as trains can get quite crowded. Lastly, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially during busier periods, to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.
Auto transportation in Baku is widely available, with a variety of rental services and taxis readily accessible throughout the city. Car rentals typically cost between 30 to 70 AZN per day, and you can pay using cash or card at most rental agencies; just be sure to have your international driving permit on hand. Taxis are also an affordable option, with most rides within the city center averaging around 5 to 15 AZN—consider using ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber for safe and reliable service. When driving, be cautious of heavy traffic during rush hours, especially on key routes like Neftchilar Avenue and Tbilisi Avenue. Lastly, parking can be a challenge in busy areas, so look for marked parking zones and ensure you're not blocking any driveways or entrances to avoid fines.
Taxis are widely available in Baku, with options ranging from traditional yellow taxis to ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber. Fares typically range from 3 to 10 AZN for shorter trips within the city center, and payments can often be made in cash, though apps like Bolt allow for cashless transactions. It's advisable to confirm the fare before getting in, especially when using a street taxi, to avoid misunderstandings. Key tourist areas like the Flame Towers, Fountain Square, and the Old City (Icherisheher) are easily accessible via taxi and can save you time when navigating Baku's bustling streets. Always ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand for safety and transparency.
The bus system in Baku is extensive and provides access to many key tourist attractions, including the Flame Towers, the Old City (Icheri Sheher), and the Baku Boulevard. To use the bus, you'll need a "BakıKart," which can be purchased at kiosks or vending machines throughout the city; the fare for a single trip is approximately 0.30 AZN (Azerbaijani Manat). It's helpful to download a bus route map or use a navigation app to plan your journey, as some routes can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. Always check the bus schedule, especially in the evening, as services may reduce after dark, and make sure to keep an eye on your belongings for safety. Additionally, try to avoid peak hours to ensure a more comfortable ride and to minimize waiting times.
Walking in Baku is an excellent way to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture, especially in areas like the Old City (Icherisheher) and along the picturesque Baku Boulevard. It's free to walk, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as some streets can be cobbled and uneven. A tip for tourists is to start your day early to avoid the midday heat, which can be quite intense, especially in summer. Be cautious when navigating busy streets; always use pedestrian crossings and be mindful of local driving habits, as traffic can be unpredictable. Additionally, make sure to carry a small map or have your smartphone charged to navigate easily, as not every area is covered by extensive signage.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Baku. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.