Travel information

Climate
Baku has a cool, semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cool, occasionally wet winters. The city is known as the “”City of Winds”” due to strong winds, especially the Khazri, a cold northern wind that provides a cooling effect in summer.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and dry, with average daily highs around 26°C (79°F).
• Winter (December-February): Cool and wet, with average daily highs around 4°C (39°F). Snowfall is rare but possible.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with milder temperatures.

Currency
The official currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). While major hotels and large supermarkets accept credit cards, smaller shops and local transport often require cash, so it’s a good idea to have some manat on hand. The symbol for the manat is ₼.

Language
The official language is Azerbaijani (Azeri). In Baku, you’ll also find that Russian is spoken by many people, especially among older generations. English is widely known.

Time
Baku operates on Azerbaijan Time (AZT), which is GMT+4.

Health
Medical facilities in Baku are adequate in both private and government hospitals. It’s recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance.

Travel Tips
• Safety and Security: Violent crime is rare, and petty crime like pickpocketing can rarely occur in crowded areas. Always use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps like Bolt and UBER az to avoid being overcharged.
• Dress Code and Customs: As a secular state, Azerbaijan does not impose strict dress codes. The local style is contemporary and fashionable, while remaining respectful. Dress discreetly when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their heads and shoulders and wear long pants or skirts when entering mosques; men should wear pants. It’s polite to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or a home.
• Negotiating: If you are buying from a street vendor, be prepared to bargain for the price.