Before You Go: Visas, Flights, and Currency
Indian passport holders need an e-visa to enter Azerbaijan, which can be easily obtained online through the official ASAN Visa portal. The process is straightforward: fill out the form, upload your passport copy, and pay the fee, which is typically processed
within three working days. There is no visa-on-arrival for tourists, so ensure you have your approved e-visa printed before you fly.Direct flights to Baku's Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) are available from Delhi and Mumbai, with airlines like Azerbaijan Airlines and IndiGo often providing competitive fares. Booking a few months in advance can land you a round-trip ticket for between ₹25,000 and ₹35,000. The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). While cards are accepted in larger establishments, it's wise to carry cash, especially for smaller shops and markets. You can exchange USD or EUR at the airport upon arrival.
Days 1-2: Old City Charm and Modern Marvels
Upon arrival, take the affordable Aero Express bus from the airport to 28 May Station in the city center. From there, use a ride-hailing app like Bolt to reach your accommodation. For a budget stay, consider hostels or guesthouses near Nizami Street or the Old City.Spend your first day exploring Icherisheher (the Old City), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander its narrow lanes for free, discovering the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs (entry fees apply). In the evening, take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a beautiful promenade on the Caspian Sea.On day two, witness the city's modern side. Start at the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece (you can admire its fluid design from the outside for free). Later, head to Upland Park for a stunning panoramic view of the city and the iconic Flame Towers. The funicular to the park is a cheap and scenic ride. As evening falls, watch the Flame Towers come alive with a mesmerizing light show.
Days 3-4: Fire, Mud, and Ancient History
Dedicate day three to a trip to the Absheron Peninsula. A popular and affordable way to do this is by joining a group tour or hiring a taxi for the day. Your first stop should be the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a historic site of worship for Zoroastrians and Hindus. Afterwards, visit Yanar Dag, the 'Burning Mountain', where natural gas flames have been blazing for centuries.On day four, take a half-day trip to Gobustan National Park, another UNESCO site famous for its prehistoric rock petroglyphs. The area is also home to bubbling mud volcanoes, a unique natural phenomenon you can explore up close. Many tour operators combine Gobustan and the mud volcanoes into one affordable trip. The evening is free to explore Nizami Street, Baku's main shopping artery, bustling with cafes and people.
Days 5-6: Local Flavors and Farewell
Immerse yourself in local culture on day five. Visit the sprawling Yashil Bazaar (Green Market) to find local produce, nuts, spices, and sweets like baklava. It's a great place to pick up authentic souvenirs. For lunch, try some budget-friendly street food; a delicious qutab (a stuffed flatbread with greens or pumpkin) costs very little.Vegetarians can find plenty of options, including lentil soups, plov with dried fruits, and various eggplant dishes. Many restaurants in the city center cater to different dietary needs. Spend the afternoon at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, which is shaped like a rolled-up carpet.On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, and head to the airport for your flight home, once again using the efficient Aero Express bus to save on taxi fares.
Budget Travel Tips
To travel cheaply, rely on Baku's excellent public transport. Purchase a BakıKart for a nominal fee and top it up to use the metro and buses, where a single ride costs less than ₹30. For food, eat at local cafes (çayxanas) or enjoy street food instead of tourist-centric restaurants on Fountains Square. A budget traveler can comfortably manage daily expenses within ₹2,500–₹3,500, covering accommodation, food, and transport. Many of Baku’s main attractions, like walking through the Old City and enjoying the Boulevard, are completely free, allowing you to soak in the city’s atmosphere without spending a manat.
