Local Information

Learn about local infrastructure, customs, language and get some information, which can be useful while traveling to Azerbaijan. Find out more at https://azerbaijan.travel/en/infodesk

Weather

September is one of the hot months in Baku with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). There is a low chance of rain.

Currency

The official currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (₼). Foreign currency exchange facilities will be available at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport when you arrive. There are ATMs and Automated currency exchange terminals available in the city. Most major places in Azerbaijan will accept credit cards but there are still many places that only accept cash so we recommend withdrawing some cash to carry with you.

Power Plugs

In Azerbaijan, the standard voltage is 220V AC and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Azerbaijan if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220-240V. You may need to bring an adaptor for your electrical appliances if it does not match these specifications.

In Azerbaijan the power plugs and sockets are of type C (also known as the standard “Euro” plug) and F (also known as “Schuko”). Check out the map of power plugs and sockets.

Water

Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Azerbaijan. We recommend you to drink bottled water and water from coolers.

Cuisine

The cuisine in Azerbaijan is a vital part of its culture. Plov rice with fragrant saffron as a king of all dishes is always served at the center of the table. Juicy kebabs roasted over coals, freshly-caught fish, and sweet fruit and honey for dessert. Food culture is so rich that dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and its central place in Azerbaijani culture have been recognized in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Language

Azerbaijani language is the primary and official language of Azerbaijan. It is very similar to Turkish language. Here are some useful words and phrases in Azerbaijani:

Customs

Azerbaijanis are very respectful towards the guests, and generally to people from all countries, cultures, genders, and religions.

If you try to shake hand with a person of different gender and they do not respond, it is absolutely not a sign of disrespect. Men shake hands when greeting one another and maintain direct eye contact. It is best to allow the woman to offer her hand before trying to shake it, and light handshakes are the way to go.

There is no strict public dress code, particularly in the cities. However, the clothes should not be too open or provocative.

Entering the local people’s houses you should take off your shoes.

In Case of Emergency

Call 102 for police.
Call 101 or 112 to report a fire.
Call 103 to ask for an ambulance.