Guba City Guide

Local dishes are varied and good. International food is mostly Turkish and Azerbaijani. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but are limited. Most restaurants close early evening.

Nightlife is very quiet. Focus is on family and tea houses rather than bars or clubs.

Few local cafes with coffee; traditional tea culture is stronger. Specialty coffee mostly absent.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Around 5-10% in restaurants; rounding up for taxis.

SIM cards can be bought at the airport or official stores. Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile are best. Registration with ID is needed. eSIM is not common.

Streets are fairly clean, especially in center. Waste management less developed than big cities.

Limited 24/7 services. Some late minimarts but few late-night pharmacies or clinics.

Basic imported goods available. Fresh markets offer produce and meat. Shops open 9 or 10 AM to early evening. Bargaining is normal in bazaars.

Card payments work in bigger shops and hotels but cash is needed for small shops and markets.

ATMs are in the town center and near banks. Use major bank ATMs. Expect foreign and local fees.

Schools teach mainly Azerbaijani and Russian. No notable English or international schools in Guba.

No real digital nomad scene in Guba. Most nomads are in Baku.

Good access to parks and natural areas for walking and running.

Good running spots in parks, riverside, and quiet streets. Safe during the day.

No modern gyms. Small local sports facilities may exist.

No public tennis or padel courts widely available.

No known padel courts or clubs.

No dedicated yoga studios; occasional wellness activities through hotels.

Some local clubs for wrestling and boxing, but no established dojos or schools.

Shahdag resort 1-1.5 hours away. Open December to March with rental gear and slopes for all levels.

Some river and lake activities nearby like rafting and kayaking, but limited in town.

No surfing; Guba is far from the sea.

No diving opportunities in Guba.

Local clinics and hospitals operate but have limited English-speaking staff. For serious care, Baku is better. Pharmacies are common and carry standard meds.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking; use bottled water.

Some parks and playgrounds exist. Kid-friendly cafes rare. Family attractions include historical sites and parks.

Low LGBTQ+ acceptance. Public expression is discouraged due to conservative norms.

Limited pet-friendly options and services. Veterinary care basic but available.