Baku is the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, as well as the largest city on the Caspian Sea and of the Caucasus region. Baku is located 28 meters below sea level, making it the lowest lying national capital in the world and the largest city in the world located below sea level. Baku is the sole metropolis in Azerbaijan.
Warnings & Dangers in Baku
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Baku is considered one of the safest cities in the region. The crime rate is low here. You should beware of the outskirts of the city and watch your belongings, especially during the holidays.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be very busy and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Like any major city in Baku, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Baku is prone to earthquakes, floods, and wildfires. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Baku. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Baku. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists, due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Baku. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Baku for Tourists?
Baku is a very safe city to travel with, with a low crime rate.
The main problems are related to corruption and petty theft.
Baku is considered a completely safe city.
At the same time, it is important not to lose common sense and monitor your surroundings as in any other city.
There are few homeless people in the city, and they rarely pose a danger to travelers.
At the same time, if someone persistently sticks to you, ignore it and walk away.
One of the problems in Baku is driving and traffic on the roads – sometimes it is so busy and chaotic that tourists, out of habit, can get confused and intimidated by local drivers.
Be careful if you are traveling in your car, as many local drivers do not adhere to traffic rules.
There may be problems understanding English in the city.
Take care of the presence of a translator on your smartphone or book.
Roads can be treacherous at night with invisible potholes and dimly lit cars.
Most areas in and around the center are mostly safe.
The outskirts of the city are best avoided.
Remember that according to the laws of Azerbaijan, crossing a street if there is an underground passage is illegal.
The police will impose a fine!
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Baku?
Visitors to Azerbaijan must obtain a visa from one of the Azerbaijani diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries, countries eligible for visa on arrival, or countries eligible for electronic visa. In addition, visitors must hold passports that are valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended period of stay.
Which Currency Is Used in Baku?
The manat is the currency of Azerbaijan. It is subdivided into 100 qəpik.
How's the Weather like in Baku?
In Baku, the summers are hot, humid, arid, and clear; the winters are long, very cold, dry, and partly cloudy; and it is windy year-round. The best time to visit Baku would be in the months of September to November.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Baku?
Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport is one of six international airports serving Azerbaijan. Previously, it was called “Bina International Airport”, after the name of the suburb of Baku. Renamed on March 10, 2004 in honor of the national leader Heydar Aliyev, the third President of Azerbaijan.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Baku?
Baku is the capital and economic center of Azerbaijan, located on the coast of the Caspian Sea. The fortress wall surrounds the Old City, where the former royal residence of the Shirvanshahs Palace and the famous Maiden’s Tower are located. Examples of modern architecture in Baku are the Heydar Aliyev Center, built by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, and Flame Towers – three skyscrapers equipped with LED screens.
Is the Water in Baku Safe to Drink?
Tap water is generally safe to drink in most of the region. However, in Baku and the lowland areas of Azerbaijan, you’re better off with bottled purified water, which is easily available.
Is Uber Safe in Baku?
There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.
