How to Get to Azerbaijan: The Best Guide for Travelers

Azerbaijan is a land where East meets West — where ancient cities coexist with futuristic skylines, and warm hospitality makes every journey memorable. If you’re planning a trip to this fascinating country, here’s everything you need to know about getting there and starting your Azerbaijani adventure.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Azerbaijan is by air. The main international gateway is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, located about 25 kilometers from the city center. It welcomes flights from dozens of destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

The national carrier AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) and its low-cost subsidiary Buta Airways operate both regular and budget flights to Baku from major cities such as Istanbul, Dubai, Moscow, Tel Aviv, Frankfurt, and Milan.

Beyond the capital, Azerbaijan also has regional airports in Ganja, Nakhchivan, Lankaran, Gabala, and Zaqatala, making it easy to fly directly to the country’s picturesque regions without returning to Baku.

If you prefer a slower, more scenic route, traveling by train is a great option. Railway connections link Baku with Tbilisi, Moscow, Rostov-on-Don, and other cities. The journey from Georgia passes through vast plains and foothills, offering views that you simply won’t see from the air. From the south, trains also connect Azerbaijan with Iran, via the border town of Astara. It’s one of the most historic and culturally rich ways to enter the country, especially if you’re exploring the Caspian region.

Regular bus routes connect Azerbaijan with Georgia, Turkey, Iran, and Russia. The most popular route runs between Tbilisi and Baku, crossing the Red Bridge border — the trip takes around eight hours, with several departures daily. Tickets can usually be purchased online or directly at the station. If you’re driving your own car, make sure to check up-to-date information on insurance, customs, and visa requirements before crossing the border. Entry is possible via several checkpoints, though regulations may vary depending on the route and country of origin.

Visa and Entry: Citizens of most countries can obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) through the official portal evisa.gov.az

 — the process takes about three working days or less. For detailed information on requirements, check

👉 Visa requirements for Azerbaijan — how to get a visa and what to know (2025)

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery.

Currency: The national currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). ATMs and payment terminals are widely available, but it’s a good idea to keep some cash for markets and taxis.

Getting Around: Intercity buses and trains connect major towns across the country. From Baku, it’s easy to travel to Sheki, Gabala, Lahij, or Ganja. Renting a car is also convenient — the roads are well maintained, and road signs are bilingual.

Mobile & Internet: Local operators — Azercell, Nar, and Bakcell — offer affordable tourist SIM cards with good coverage, even in mountainous regions.

Culture & Etiquette: Azerbaijanis are famously hospitable. It’s customary to greet people warmly, thank your hosts, and accept a cup of tea — declining it might seem impolite.

Traveling to Azerbaijan means discovering a land where ancient craftsmanship meets modern life. In a single day, you can witness desert landscapes and alpine meadows, taste traditional baklava at Sheki’s old bazaar, and take an evening stroll along Baku’s futuristic waterfront. Your journey begins on the way here — but continues in every smile, every scent of pomegranate, and every cup of freshly brewed tea.