How to Plan a Trip to Baku
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Azerbaijan needs.
Your 4-step Baku plan
Step 1 — Book flights to GYD
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is the main gateway to Baku. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to GYDStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Old City (İçəri Şəhər) + Maiden Tower for the best first-time visit — UNESCO walled medieval old town + 12th-century Maiden Tower (AZN 15 entry).
Where to stay in BakuStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Old City (İçəri Şəhər) + Maiden Tower, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Baku.
Things to do in BakuStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Express bus H-1 (to 28 May metro) is AZN 1.30 (€0.70) and takes 30–45 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
GYD arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Most Western + EU + US + Canadian passports require e-visa (ASAN Visa, $26 single entry, evisa.gov.az). Many CIS countries visa-free.