Travel tips
Practical background for planning a trip. Rules and prices change, so check official sources before you book.
Seasons and climate
Azerbaijan has a varied climate. Baku and the Caspian coast have hot, dry summers and mild, windy winters; the foothills are greener and cooler; the high Caucasus has snow for much of the year.
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times for sightseeing. Summer suits the coast but can be very hot inland, and winter is quiet in the mountains.
Getting around
Baku has a metro, buses and plentiful taxis, and the Old City is best explored on foot. Between towns, buses, shared minibuses and some trains connect the main destinations.
For sites outside the capital, such as Gobustan, a taxi or organised tour saves time. Roads between regions can be slow, so allow generous travel time.
Practical information
Entry rules, visas and land-border crossings in the region can change. Check your own government's travel advice and the official requirements well before you book, and confirm what your insurance covers.
The currency is the Azerbaijani manat. Cards are widely accepted in Baku, but carry some cash for smaller towns. In mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes where asked.