Escape to Baku: A Guide for Bahraini Travellers

3 minutes read

With direct flights just hours away, Baku a vibrant mix of East and West is calling. Explore a city of soaring flame towers, ancient alleyways, and Caspian coast beaches. Here’s everything you need to know for an exciting, well-prepared getaway from Bahrain.

Getting There

Flight time: Around 3 hours 30 minutes non-stop.

Airlines: Gulf Air and Azerbaijan Airlines operate direct routes weekly from Bahrain to Baku.

Best time to book: July and August usually offer lower fares. Expect to pay between BD 60–90 one-way depending on the season.

Visa & Entry Requirements

As a Bahraini passport holder, you’ll need a visa for Azerbaijan. There are two main options:

eVisa (ASAN Visa): Valid for stays of up to 30 days. You can apply online before departure. Processing time is usually fast (standard and urgent options available).

Visa on Arrival: Bahraini citizens holding valid GCC residence permits are eligible for visa on arrival for up to 30 days.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your intended departure from Azerbaijan.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal. Expect sunny days, moderate temperatures, and fewer crowds than in peak summer.

Top Things to See & Do

Old City (Icherisheher)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled lanes, hidden courtyards, and ancient landmarks like the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah’s Palace. Great for wandering and photography.

Baku Boulevard & Flame Towers

Walk along the Caspian promenade with views of the sea, gardens, and modern landmarks like the Flame Towers best seen at night when they light up the skyline.

Gobustan National Park

Just 50 km south of Baku, this park features prehistoric rock carvings, active mud volcanoes, and a Mars-like landscape. An unforgettable half-day trip.

Bibi-Heybat Mosque

A beautifully restored historical mosque overlooking the Caspian. Great spot for reflection and photos.

Caspian Beaches

Escape the city and relax at Shikhov Beach or head a bit further out to Bilgah for a resort-style vibe.

Food & Culture

Azerbaijani cuisine is a rich fusion of Persian, Turkish, and Central Asian influences.

Must-tries:

Plov – saffron rice with meat and spices

Kebabs – lamb, beef, or chicken, charcoal-grilled

Dolma – vine leaves stuffed with spiced rice and meat

Pakhlava – local version of baklava

Tea is a serious ritual — often served with fruit preserves and sweets.

Travel Essentials

Item	Details
Currency	Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
Exchange Rate	Approx. 1 AZN = 0.23 BHD
Language	Azerbaijani (English is widely understood in Baku)
Transport	Metro, buses, and taxis (or ride-hailing apps)
Power	230V, sockets type C/F
Dress Code	Modest casualwear is appropriate everywhere
Safety	Baku is considered very safe for tourists

Travel Budget (Mid-range)

Accommodation: BD 20–40 per night

Meals: BD 5–10 per meal

Transport & Entry Fees: BD 5–10 per day

For a 5-day trip, plan for a total of BD 200–300 depending on how much you splurge.

Why Baku?

Baku is a rare blend of tradition and modernity. You’ll see old caravanserais next to modernist architecture, and hear calls to prayer over the hum of electric cars. It’s culturally rich, affordable, and different from typical Gulf holiday spots — perfect for a quick but meaningful break.