Situated in Terminal 1 on the first floor, Salam Lounge provides a pleasant waiting area with refreshments and media facilities. Entry may require a fee or eligibility based on airline class or status.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport serves Baku, Azerbaijan’s main gateway to the world. Opened in 2013, it handles millions of passengers each year with modern facilities and efficient services. The terminal features spacious waiting areas, shops, restaurants and free Wi-Fi throughout. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, it connects travelers to destinations across Europe, Asia and beyond via airlines like Azerbaijan Airlines. Its design reflects local culture through architecture and art while meeting global standards for comfort and safety.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) £1 ≈ AZN 2.26 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are increasingly accepted in larger cities like Baku, but cash is still widely used, especially outside urban areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory, but a 10% tip is appreciated in restaurants. Tipping in taxis is optional. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in certain places, such as parks and beaches, but not in all public areas. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited indoors in public spaces, but allowed in designated outdoor areas. |
| Novruz Bayram (March) |
Public celebrations and festivals. |
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| Gurban Bayram (Varies) |
Festivals and public celebrations. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 |
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| Taxi apps: | Yandex Taxi, Bolt |
| Other: | Azerbaijan is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique architecture, with notable landmarks like the Flame Towers and Gobustan National Park. |
Heydar Aliyev International Airport is Azerbaijan’s largest and busiest airport, serving over 7.5 million passengers annually as of 2024. Located about 20 km northeast of central Baku, it acts as a key transit hub for flights throughout Europe, the Middle East and beyond.
The airport has modern terminals with a variety of passenger amenities including multiple lounges, dining options, duty-free shops and convenient services such as currency exchange and medical facilities. Check-in and security processes tend to be efficient, though peak times can see some congestion.
Travelers should be mindful that traffic to and from the airport can vary greatly depending on time of day, so planning extra transfer time is advised. The climate here generates hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making seasonal preparation important for comfort upon arrival.
The airport is continuously expanding its route network and service offerings, reflecting Azerbaijan’s ambition to become a leading aviation and cultural hub in the region.
Helpful tips for Heydar Aliyev International Airport
- Arrive two hours early for security and customs clearance.
- Check Azerbaijan's visa requirements; e-visa available online before departure.
- Use the airport shuttle to Baku city center, avoiding traffic during peak hours.
- Explore the terminal’s art installations depicting Azerbaijani culture for a unique cultural insight.
Available airport lounges
Located on the 4th floor of Terminal 1, the Business Class Lounge offers comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages in an elegant setting. Access is for premium ticket holders or purchase on-site. It provides a calm retreat from the busy terminal atmosphere.
This lounge offers a modern design with amenities such as refreshments, Wi-Fi, and workspaces. Perfect for relaxation or business needs, it is available to eligible passengers and lounge members.
Located in Terminal 2, Mugam Lounge features traditional Azerbaijani decorations alongside modern comfort, with snacks, drinks, and a quiet atmosphere. Access is restricted to certain ticket holders and by lounge membership.
Where to stay near Heydar Aliyev International Airport
Most visitors stay in Baku’s city center, where lodging ranges from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses and mid-range accommodations. The city provides a rich blend of modern comforts with a deep historical atmosphere, all within easy reach of the airport.
Hotel recommendations
How to get from Baku Airport to popular destinations
To Baku City Center:
The airport is approximately 20 km from Baku city centre. The Airport Express bus runs regularly between the airport and central metro stations, taking around 30-40 minutes for a cost of about AZN 1.50 (£0.66). Taxis are available outside the terminals and usually take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares averaging AZN 27.50 (£12.09). Ride-sharing services like Uber and local equivalents also operate here for convenience.
To Absheron Peninsula:
Accessible by taxi or private transfer from the airport, the Absheron Peninsula offers coastal and cultural attractions within easy reach. Public transport options exist but may be less direct or frequent.
To Gobustan:
Gobustan National Park, famous for its ancient rock carvings, can be reached by a 40-50 minute drive. Visitors usually take organised tours or hire a car as public transport connections are limited.