From Baku Airport to City Center: Complete Transportation Guide

Landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD)? Here's your complete guide to reaching Baku city center quickly, safely, and affordably.

Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles) northeast of city center
Average Journey Time: 30-50 minutes (depending on traffic and method)

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Option 1: Aero Express Bus (H1 Line) 🚌

The Budget-Friendly Choice

Best For: Budget travelers, solo travelers, those with light luggage

Key Information:

• Route: Airport → Baku Central Railway Station (28 May Metro Station)
• Cost: 1.50 AZN (~$0.85 USD)
• Journey Time: 40-50 minutes
• Operating Hours:
  • 6:00 AM - 1:00 AM (every 20-30 minutes)
  • 1:00 AM - 6:00 AM (every 45 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Get a BakuKart

After exiting customs and baggage claim, look for vending machines or kiosks just outside the exit gate.

• BakuKart Cost: 2 AZN (card itself)
• Load Amount: Minimum 1.50 AZN for one trip
• Tip: Load 10-20 AZN if you plan to use public transport during your stay

How to Use the Vending Machine:

1. Select "English" language
2. Choose "Buy New Card"
3. Insert cash (accepts 1, 5, 10, 20 AZN notes)
4. Card will be dispensed
5. Load credit onto the card

Step 2: Find the Bus Stop

Exit the terminal and follow signs for "Aero Express" or "H1 Bus."
The bus stop is located directly outside the arrivals hall.

Step 3: Board the Bus

• Look for the bus marked "H1" or "Aero Express"
• Tap your BakuKart on the card reader when boarding
• Store luggage in the designated area
• Journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes

Step 4: Arrival at 28 May Station

The bus terminates at the square in front of Baku Central Railway Station, next to 28 May Metro Station.

From here you can:

• Take the metro (Green Line) to other parts of the city
• Catch a taxi or Bolt to your hotel
• Walk if your hotel is nearby (Fountain Square area is 15-20 min walk)

Pros & Cons:

✅ Pros:

• Extremely cheap (1.50 AZN)
• Reliable and frequent
• BakuKart works on metro and other buses
• Safe and clean

❌ Cons:

• Can be crowded during peak hours
• Limited luggage space
• Not door-to-door service
• Slower than taxi

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Option 2: Taxi (Traditional & App-Based) 🚕

The Convenient Choice

Best For: Groups, families, travelers with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals

A. Traditional Taxis (BakuTaxi - Purple/Red "London Cabs")

Cost: 30-40 AZN (~$17-23 USD) to city center
Journey Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on traffic)

How to Book:

1. Exit the arrivals hall
2. Look for official BakuTaxi stands (purple/red cabs)
3. Negotiate the fare BEFORE entering the car
4. Agree on a fixed price (30-40 AZN is standard)
5. Ensure the driver uses the meter OR stick to your agreed price

⚠️ Warning: Some drivers may try to overcharge tourists. Always agree on the price beforehand.

B. Ride-Hailing Apps (Bolt, Yango, Uber)

Cost: 10-15 AZN (~$6-9 USD) to city center
Journey Time: 30-40 minutes

Recommended Apps:

1. Bolt (Most popular, cheapest)
2. Yango (Good alternative)
3. Uber (Available but less common)

Step-by-Step:

Before You Arrive:

• Download Bolt or Yango app
• Set up your account (requires phone number)
• Add payment method (credit card or cash)

At the Airport:

1. Connect to free airport WiFi (no password required)
2. Open Bolt/Yango app
3. Enter your destination (hotel name or address)
4. Confirm pickup location (usually "Heydar Aliyev International Airport")
5. Choose car type:
   • Economy: 10-12 AZN
   • Comfort: 13-15 AZN
   • XL (for groups): 18-22 AZN
6. Confirm booking
7. Wait for driver (usually 3-5 minutes)
8. Verify car number and driver name before entering
9. Pay via app or cash

Safety Tips:

• Always check the car's license plate matches the app
• Verify driver's name and photo
• Share your trip with a friend via the app
• Sit in the back seat
• Don't share personal information

Pros & Cons:

✅ Pros:

• Door-to-door service
• Comfortable and fast
• App-based = transparent pricing
• Good for luggage
• Available 24/7

❌ Cons:

• More expensive than bus
• Surge pricing during peak hours (Bolt/Yango)
• Traditional taxis may try to scam

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Option 3: Private Transfer 🚗

The Premium Choice

Best For: Business travelers, luxury seekers, large groups, those wanting guaranteed service

Cost: 40-80 AZN (~$23-47 USD) depending on vehicle type
Journey Time: 25-35 minutes

How to Book:

Pre-Book Online:

• Book through your hotel
• Use platforms like:
  • Welcome Pickups
  • Viator
  • GetYourGuide
  • Local transfer companies

What's Included:

• Meet & greet at arrivals hall
• Driver holding name sign
• Help with luggage
• English-speaking driver
• Fixed price (no surprises)
• Bottled water
• Child seats (if requested)

Pros & Cons:

✅ Pros:

• Guaranteed service
• Professional drivers
• No waiting
• Comfortable vehicles
• Great for families

❌ Cons:

• Most expensive option
• Must book in advance
• Cancellation fees may apply

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Cost Comparison Table

Method	Cost (AZN)	Cost (USD)	Time	Best For
Aero Express Bus	1.50	$0.85	40-50 min	Budget travelers
Bolt/Yango	10-15	$6-9	30-40 min	Most travelers
Traditional Taxi	30-40	$17-23	30-40 min	No app access
Private Transfer	40-80	$23-47	25-35 min	Premium comfort

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Important Tips

1. Airport WiFi

• Free WiFi available throughout the terminal
• No password required
• Good for booking Bolt/Yango

2. Currency Exchange

• Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs
• Better rates available in the city
• ATMs available in arrivals hall

3. SIM Cards

• Available at airport kiosks
• Azercell, Bakcell, Nar counters in arrivals
• Tourist packages: 10-20 AZN

4. Luggage Storage

• Available at the airport if needed
• Cost: ~5 AZN per bag per day

5. Late Night/Early Morning

• Aero Express runs 24/7 (reduced frequency 1-6 AM)
• Bolt/Yango available 24/7
• Traditional taxis always available

6. Peak Hours to Avoid

• Morning: 8:00-10:00 AM (traffic into city)
• Evening: 5:00-7:00 PM (traffic out of city)
• Allow extra time during these hours

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Reverse Journey: City Center to Airport

Same Options Apply:

Aero Express:

• Board at 28 May Railway Station
• Runs to airport every 20-30 minutes
• Cost: 1.50 AZN

Bolt/Yango:

• Book 1-2 hours before your flight
• Cost: 10-15 AZN
• Allow 45-60 minutes for journey + check-in

Tip: For international flights, arrive at airport 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 2 hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a metro to the airport?

No, there is no direct metro connection to Baku Airport. The Aero Express bus connects to 28 May Metro Station.

Can I pay with credit card on the bus?

No, you must use a BakuKart. The card itself can be purchased with cash at vending machines.

Is Bolt/Yango safe?

Yes, very safe. Millions of rides completed. Always verify driver details before entering.

What if my flight arrives at 3 AM?

Aero Express runs 24/7 (every 45 min overnight). Bolt/Yango also available 24/7.

Do taxi drivers speak English?

Some do, but not all. Use Bolt/Yango app for easier communication. Have your hotel address written in Azerbaijani.

Can I share a taxi with other travelers?

Officially no, but you can arrange informally with other passengers. Bolt/Yango doesn't offer shared rides.

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Recommended Choice by Traveler Type

Traveler Type	Best Option	Why
Solo Budget Traveler	Aero Express	Cheapest, easy
Couple	Bolt/Yango	Affordable, convenient
Family with Kids	Private Transfer	Comfort, car seats
Business Traveler	Private Transfer	Professional, guaranteed
Backpacker	Aero Express	Budget-friendly
Late Night Arrival	Bolt/Yango	Safe, reliable
First-Time Visitor	Bolt/Yango	Easy, transparent

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Final Recommendations

Our Top Pick: Bolt or Yango

• Best balance of cost, convenience, and safety
• Transparent pricing
• Door-to-door service
• Available 24/7

Budget Option: Aero Express Bus

• Unbeatable price
• Reliable service
• Good for solo travelers

Premium Option: Pre-Booked Private Transfer

• Stress-free arrival
• Professional service
• Worth it for families or business trips

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Quick Start Checklist

Before you land:

• Download Bolt or Yango app
• Have 20-50 AZN cash ready
• Save your hotel address in Azerbaijani
• Check airport WiFi availability
• Decide on your transport method

At the airport:

• Get SIM card (optional)
• Exchange small amount of currency
• Buy BakuKart (if using bus)
• Book Bolt/Yango (if using app)
• Verify driver/bus details

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Xoş gəlmisiniz! (Welcome to Baku!)

Safe travels from the airport to the city! 🇦🇿✈️