Bakikhanov City Guide

Local dishes include Plov, Dolma, Kebabs, and Qutab. International options cover Turkish, Russian, Georgian, and European food. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing but limited. Some late-night and 24/7 food options exist mostly in city center.

Nightlife mainly happens in Baku's city center with bars and clubs. Bakikhanov has a quiet nightlife focused on local cafés.

Specialty and third-wave coffee shops are growing. Traditional tea houses remain popular.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% common in restaurants without service charge. Taxis usually rounded up.

SIM cards are available at the airport and official stores. Main providers are Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile. ID/passport needed for activation. eSIM options are limited.

Baku is generally clean, including Bakikhanov. Recycling efforts are growing but still limited.

Many pharmacies and minimarts operate 24/7. Emergency hospital services available round-the-clock. Some late-night food options in city center.

Large supermarkets like Bravo, Fresco, and Grandmart have international products. Bakikhanov's bazaar offers fresh local produce at lower prices. Supermarkets open roughly 9 AM to 10 or 11 PM, including some holidays. Bargaining is common only in bazaars.

Cards are accepted in big stores and some restaurants, but small shops and the bazaar prefer cash. Carry some local currency for markets and small purchases.

ATMs are common near banks, shopping centers, and main streets in Bakikhanov and Baku. Main banks include Pasha Bank, Kapital Bank, and International Bank of Azerbaijan. Foreign cards may incur withdrawal fees.

International schools in Baku offer English and other language curricula like IB and British. Schools include Baku Oxford, European Azerbaijan, and British School in Baku. Check their sites for admission details.

Community is small and not very organized. Expats and nomads use Facebook or Telegram groups and meetups. Nomad-friendly cafes exist mainly in central Baku.

Bakikhanov Park and larger parks in Baku offer green spaces for walks and runs.

Running routes along Baku Boulevard and city parks are safe and scenic. Local groups organize occasional races.

Gyms in Baku offer day and weekly passes. Bakikhanov has at least one local gym.

Tennis courts available at sports clubs with equipment rentals and coaching.

Padel is less common but growing, with some courts in clubs.

Yoga studios offer various classes, some with English-speaking instructors. Spa facilities are common in hotels.

Facilities for Judo, BJJ, Karate, Boxing, and Muay Thai exist. English-speaking instructors may be found in larger gyms.

Tufandag and Shahdag resorts are 3-4 hours from Baku. Ski season is Dec to March with rentals and slopes for all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are possible on Caspian Sea during warm months. Rentals exist but vary in quality.

Caspian Sea offers little for traditional surfing. Windsurfing or kitesurfing may be possible in certain conditions.

Caspian Sea lacks diverse marine life for diving. Few if any dive centers or rentals available.

Private clinics like Medistyle Hospital have English-speaking staff. Public healthcare varies in quality. Pharmacies are widespread and have common medicines. Emergency numbers: 103 (Ambulance), 102 (Police), 112 (General).

Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled water is widely available and advised.

Bakikhanov Park offers playgrounds and walking paths. Baku has family-friendly cafés and attractions like Baku Boulevard and the Zoo. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited with conservative attitudes and few safe spaces. Discretion is advised.

Pet policies vary by place; veterinary care and supplies are available in Baku. Limited pet parks, check in advance.