Azerbaijan Travel Tips 2026: Safety, Etiquette & Budget

Azerbaijan is welcoming and easy to visit, but like any country, it has its own quirks and customs. Knowing just a few tips before you land can save you money and help you connect deeper with the locals.

1. Is Azerbaijan Safe?

Azerbaijan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime against tourists is virtually unheard of.

You can walk safely in Baku at night. The biggest danger is probably crossing the street—traffic can be chaotic, so always use underpasses.

2. Money & Currency

The currency is the New Manat (AZN).

• Exchange: Bring USD or EUR. Exchange rates at the airport are decent, but banks in the city are slightly better.
• ATMs: Widely available. Most accept foreign cards.
• Cash vs Card: Apple Pay/Google Pay works in most Baku supermarkets and restaurants. In rural areas, you MUST have cash.

3. Internet & Sim Cards

Wi-Fi is available in almost every cafe and hotel.

For mobile data, Azercell has the best coverage in the mountains. A tourist pack with 10GB data might cost around 20-30 AZN ($12-18). Buy it at the official airport kiosk.

4. Dress Code & Etiquette

Azerbaijan is a secular Muslim country. It is quite modern, especially Baku.

• Baku: Anything goes. Shorts, dresses, and western style are the norm.
• Regions: People are more conservative. Men usually wear trousers (not shorts). Women should dress modestly.
• Mosques: Women must cover hair (scarf) and wear long skirts/trousers. Men must wear long trousers.

5. Language Barrier

The official language is Azerbaijani (very similar to Turkish).

English: Widely spoken by young people and in the service industry.

Russian: Spoken fluently by more than half the population, especially the older generation.

Tip: Learn "Salam" (Hello) and "Sagol" (Thank you)—locals love it.

6. Tipping Culture

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated.

In restaurants, check the bill for a 10% "Service Charge." If it's included, you don't need to add much. If not, 10% cash tip is standard. Round up taxi fares.

7. Plugs & Voltage

Standard European plugs (Type C and F). Voltage is 220V. Bring an adapter if you come from the US or UK.

8. Food & Water Safety

Tap Water: Do not drink it without boiling. It is safe for teeth brushing. Stick to bottled water for drinking.

Food: Hygiene standards are high. Street food (Doner, Qutab) is generally safe to eat.

9. Bargaining

In supermarkets and malls, prices are fixed.

In bazaars (markets) or with unmetered taxi drivers, bargaining is expected. Do it with a smile, not aggression.

10. Photography Rules

Azerbaijan is very photogenic.

Generally, you can photograph anything. Ask permission before taking close-up portraits of locals, especially older people in villages. Avoid taking photos of police/military checkpoints or the metro police.