Baku (Baki) Getting there & around

Getting around

Public transport

Marshrutka

A dauntingly vast network of marshrutkas (minibuses) run from virtually anywhere to anywhere else within Baku for just 20q. Pay as you get off.

The main challenge is ascertaining the route number you need before trying to wave one down: few are stationary long enough to decipher their route boards.

Don’t be shy asking for help from passers-by and remember to check which direction to head in – the complex one-way system sometimes results in surprises!

Except in a very few central areas where there are fixed astanovki (stopping points), the driver can squeal to a halt just about anywhere.

Simply shout ‘sakhla’ (stop) or more emphatically ‘sakhla burada’ (stop here) to be let out.

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Local transport

Metro

For visitors the Baku metro system is most useful for connecting to the bus station and Velotrek Hotel (20 Janvar metro station) from the Old Town (Bakı Soveti), the Cənub Hotel (Sahil) or Baku train station (28 May). Marshrutkas to many Abşeron towns claim to leave from Әzizbəyov metro station but most currently depart from Gənlik, Nəri­manov, Ulduz, Qara Qarayev or Neftçilər metros (depending on destination) since building works have closed the Әzizbəyov bus station.

The flat fare is just 5q per ride. But to use the system you’ll need to get a plastic fare-card (deposit AZN2) that you charge up with credits (minimum 20).

Taxi

You can flag down a taxi anywhere at almost any time but agree on a price in advance, as metered taxis are a rarity. Very short hops cost AZN2, but most rides start from AZN3.

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