Fair prices in Azerbaijan — what things really cost
What a taxi, a meal, or an activity should actually cost in Azerbaijan, by destination. Verified reference prices so you know the moment a quote is unfair.
In Baku
Full Baku guide ›H1 Aeroexpress airport bus
The official H1 bus runs around the clock between Heydar Aliyev Airport and 28 May metro station for a flat, very low fare. You must pay with a BakiKart (buy one from the machine at the stop) or a contactless bank card, not cash.
$0.7–$1
Ride-hailing from the airport
Booking a Bolt from the airport to the centre costs a fraction of what airport touts quote. Walk past drivers offering a fixed price, order in the app, and confirm the driver matches before getting in.
$9–$14
Short city taxi ride
Use Bolt or Uber rather than flagging a street taxi, so the price is fixed and shown in advance. The purple London-style cabs are metered but pricier; avoid any driver who refuses the meter or an app fare.
$2–$5
Mid-range restaurant meal
A sit-down meal of kebabs, plov or dushbara with bread and tea is good value away from the main tourist strip. Check that prices and any service charge are printed on the menu before ordering.
$9–$20
Tea at a traditional tea house
A pot of black tea served in a pear-shaped armudu glass with jam and sweets is a cheap, classic Baku experience. Tea houses are for lingering, so settle in rather than rushing.
$1.5–$4
Bottled water or bakery snack
Bottled water and fresh pastries from a bakery or small shop cost very little. Fill up at a bakery for breakfast rather than a hotel to save money and eat like a local.
$0.4–$1.5
Reference prices in USD, from local sources and travelers. Actual prices vary by season, spot and bargaining.
Watch out for scams tooKnowing the fair price is half the battle — here is how travelers get overcharged in Azerbaijan, and how to avoid it.See scams in Azerbaijan ›