Traveling in Azerbaijan is convenient with various transport options. The Baku Metro offers fast transportation, while buses provide a convenient way to get around the city. For sightseeing, tourist buses connect key landmarks, and the funicular provides scenic views. Taxis can be hailed or booked through apps, and train services link Baku to other cities. This guide will assist you in navigating these options for a seamless journey.
Getting around Azerbaijan is simple with various transport options. The Baku Metro provides a fast way to navigate the capital, while buses use the BakıKart for easy payments. Hop-on/hop-off tourist buses connect major attractions, and the funicular offers scenic rides to Highland Park. Taxis can be booked via apps or hailed on the street, and trains link Baku with other cities. This guide will help you navigate these options for a smooth travel experience.
Baku Metropolitan
The Baku Metro is the rapid transit system and is the first metro in Turkic, Islamic countries, and the Middle East. It has three lines and 27 stations, each identified by a distinct color: red, green, and purple. Stations are open for passengers daily from 06:00 to 00:00, with peak service intervals ranging from three to five minutes. Photography and videography are prohibited within the Baku Metro. You could get a ticket by using a detailed guide on the official website metro.gov.az. Payment for travel is made using the "BakıKart," which can be purchased at ticket machines. To access the platforms, passengers must tap their cards on the turnstile reader, which will display a green light and show the card balance and fare. If the balance is insufficient, a red light will appear. Navigation on the platforms is easy as all essential information is displayed on boards, including the final station name in both Azerbaijani and English.
Buses
Travel is paid using the "BakıKart," which you could purchase at airport terminals. Passengers enter buses through the front door, where the validator is located, and exit through other doors. Buses stop only at designated stops. You could get from Baku Airport to the city center by using express buses, they also accept only the "BakıKart," which is used for all public transport in Baku.
Tourist buses
Explore Baku's main attractions in a day aboard a hop-on hop-off tourist bus. This system lets you travel to various stops, disembark to visit sights, and then catch the next bus.
For instance, the "Baku City Tour" includes 16 stops starting from Azadliq Square, operating daily from 10:00 to 19:00. The tour takes 1.5 hours, and tickets remain valid for 24 hours after your first ride. An audio guide is provided on the bus. There are various packages where you could choose the preferred tour. The cost may vary depending on the tour package including different features such as duration, activities included and other factors.
Baku funicular
The Baku funicular is an integral part of the public transport system, operating since 1960 and last renovated in 2012. It has two stations, connecting Highland Park and Oilmen's Avenue, covering a distance of 455 meters. The funicular travels at a maximum speed of 3 m/s, taking about 4 minutes between stations. Each car holds 28 passengers, with departures every 10-15 minutes. It operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 22:00, and is closed on Mondays. You could purchase tickets in cash before boarding.
Taxis
In Baku, taxis are easily identified by their purple London-style cabs, known as "eggplants." They are readily available, especially near the airport and bus terminal. Fares vary by company, and while many offer apps. Some of the services and apps for ordering taxis in Baku: 189 TAXI, Uber, Taxi Omega.
Train
Baku's railway station serves as the country's main transportation hub. Although it has a historic appearance, the station is equipped with modern facilities. It’s conveniently located near metro stations "Jafar Jabbarly" and "28 May," as well as various bus stops. You could use the electronic payment card "BakıKart" to pay for public transport services. Tickets for trains can be bought at the station or from authorized sellers, and online purchases are available.