After a six-year suspension, passenger rail service between Baku and Tbilisi is officially returning. The news has already attracted major attention from travelers, as the route was previously one of the most popular ways to travel between Azerbaijan and Georgia.

According to the latest information released by Azerbaijan Railways and Georgian Railways, regular passenger trains on the Baku–Tbilisi–Baku route are returning to operation starting from late May 2026.

When Does the Baku–Tbilisi Train Resume?

Official reports state that regular railway service resumes on May 26, 2026. Trains are expected to operate daily in both directions.

This marks the first full return of passenger rail service between Azerbaijan and Georgia since the route was suspended in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For several years, discussions about reopening the railway continued, but the route remained inactive until now.

Train Schedule

According to the published preliminary timetable:

From Baku to Tbilisi
Departure from Baku — 23:10
Arrival in Tbilisi — 08:41 the next morning
From Tbilisi to Baku
Departure from Tbilisi — 21:00
Arrival in Baku — 06:24 the next morning

The trains are expected to run daily.

Planned Stops Along the Route

Inside Azerbaijan, the train will stop at:

  • Baku Railway Station
  • Bilajari
  • Yevlakh
  • Ganja
  • Agstafa
  • Boyuk Kesik

Inside Georgia, planned stops include:

  • Gardabani
  • Tbilisi Railway Station

What Trains Will Be Used?

The route will be operated using modern sleeping trains produced by Stadler Rail.

These trains were previously used on international railway routes in the region and are known for upgraded interiors, improved sleeper cabins, and a more comfortable overnight travel experience.

Border and Customs Procedures

According to the published information, passengers will go through border and customs control during the journey.
Approximately one hour is allocated for inspections on the Azerbaijani side, with a similar amount of time planned for procedures in Georgia.

Why the Return of the Route Matters

Before the pandemic, the Baku–Tbilisi train was considered one of the most important international railway routes in the South Caucasus.
Many travelers preferred the overnight train as a comfortable alternative to flights, especially when exploring multiple countries across the Caucasus region.
The return of railway service is also seen as an important development for tourism and regional connectivity between Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Ticket Prices and Availability

Official information about ticket sales and booking systems is still being updated.
According to preliminary reports appearing in public sources, ticket prices from Baku to Tbilisi are expected to start from approximately 81 AZN depending on the carriage type and travel class.
Additional information about sleeper categories, ticket booking, and passenger services is expected to be released soon by the railway operators.

What This Means for Travelers?

The return of the Baku–Tbilisi train once again connects the two largest tourism hubs of the South Caucasus by rail.
For travelers, this offers a more convenient way to move between Azerbaijan and Georgia, especially for those who prefer overland travel and overnight train journeys.
The route is also expected to become popular again among tourists planning multi-country Caucasus itineraries including Baku, Tbilisi, and other regional destinations.