The Azerbaijani Manat and Tourist Expenses in Azerbaijan

The Azerbaijani Manat and Tourist Expenses in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a unique country that attracts tourists with its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality. However, before embarking on your journey, it’s important to understand how to manage your expenses in the country. In this blog, we will discuss the Azerbaijani manat, as well as the expenses that tourists may encounter while visiting Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

The Azerbaijani manat (symbol: ₼, code: AZN) is the official currency of Azerbaijan. The exchange rate of the manat against other currencies can fluctuate, but at the time of writing this blog, 1 euro is approximately equal to 1.8 manats, and 1 dollar is about 1.7 manats. This exchange rate is quite stable, and tourists can expect convenient currency exchange when planning their expenses.

Where to exchange money?

• Exchange offices and banks. In major cities like Baku, currency exchange can be done at exchange offices and banks. Bank cards are widely accepted in large cities, as well as in hotels and restaurants.
• At airports. You can also exchange money at the international airports in Baku, but keep in mind that the exchange rate may be slightly less favorable than at local exchange offices.
• Tourist areas. In popular tourist zones, you can find exchange offices, but it’s best to check the exchange rate in advance to avoid overpaying.

Expenses for Tourists in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan offers a wide range of services and entertainment for every budget. Let’s look at the main categories of expenses you may encounter during your trip.

1. Transportation

Transportation costs in Azerbaijan are relatively low, which makes traveling around the country affordable.

• Airfare. Flight tickets to Azerbaijan can vary depending on the season. On average, the price for a ticket from Europe to Baku starts from 100 euros one way, but you can find more affordable options if you book tickets in advance.
• Taxis. Taxis in Baku and other major cities are inexpensive. The base fare is about 3 manats (1.5 euros), and each additional kilometer costs about 1 manat (0.5 euros). A city ride typically costs between 5 and 20 manats (3-10 euros), depending on the distance.
• Public transport. Baku has a metro system, trolleybuses, and buses. The cost of a single ride is 0.5 manats (less than 30 cents), and payment can be made using a plastic card. In general, public transport is an economical way to get around the city.
• Car rental. Renting a car in Azerbaijan costs from 50 manats (22 euros) per day, depending on the car model and rental duration.

2. Accommodation

Azerbaijan offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets.

• Budget hotels and hostels. For those who prefer budget accommodation, the cost of staying in a hostel or guesthouse ranges from 20 manats (12 euros) per night.
• Mid-range hotels. In 3-star hotels, comfortable rooms can be found with prices ranging from 40 to 70 manats (20-35 euros) per night.
• Luxury hotels. For those seeking the highest level of comfort, the cost of a room in a luxury hotel in Baku starts from 150 manats (75 euros) and above.

3. Food

Azerbaijani cuisine is known for its delicious and diverse dishes. Estimated food costs:

• Street food and cafes. In Azerbaijan, you can enjoy tasty and inexpensive meals at street food stalls or small cafes. A typical lunch costs between 5 and 15 manats (3-8 euros), including dishes like kebabs, doner, and more.
• Mid-range restaurants. A lunch or dinner at a mid-range restaurant will cost between 20 and 40 manats (10-20 euros).
• Luxury restaurants. In expensive restaurants in Baku, a dinner for two with drinks may cost from 100 manats (50 euros) and above.

4. Excursions and Attractions

Azerbaijan is rich in attractions, which can be either free or paid.

• Entrance fees. Tickets to museums and historical monuments usually cost between 2 and 10 manats (1-5 euros).
• Excursions. Guided tours in Baku or other regions of Azerbaijan can cost from 20 manats (11 euros) depending on the duration and itinerary.

5. Shopping

Shopping in Azerbaijan can be interesting and affordable.

• Markets and shops. At local markets, you can buy spices, dried fruits, nuts, carpets, copperware, and much more. Prices for souvenirs can range from 10 manats (5 euros) for a small item to several hundred manats for larger items such as carpets or jewelry.
• Shops. In large shopping centers, you can find both local products and international brands. The average cost of clothing in Azerbaijan is from 50 manats (27 euros).

6. Internet and Mobile Communication

Mobile communication and the internet are well developed in Azerbaijan, and tourists will have no trouble connecting.

• SIM cards and mobile tariffs. Tourists can purchase a SIM card for mobile communication, which costs around 5-15 manats (3-8 euros). Internet packages vary from 10 manats (6 euros) for several gigabytes of data.
• Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi is available in most cafes, restaurants, and hotels in Baku, so internet access will not be an issue.

7. Tipping and Additional Expenses

• Tipping. Tipping in Azerbaijan is not mandatory, but it is common to leave 5-10% of the bill at a restaurant or cafe. In taxis, you can round up the fare to the nearest manat.
• Travel insurance. The cost of tourist insurance typically ranges from 10 to 30 euros for a week’s stay.

Total Expenses

On average, a tourist’s budget in Azerbaijan can vary depending on the travel style:

• Budget traveler: around 30-50 euros per day.
• Mid-range budget: around 80-150 euros per day.
• Luxury travel: from 200 euros and above per day.

Azerbaijan is an affordable travel destination where you can enjoy both budget and more expensive options for your stay. The country has a well-developed infrastructure, and with proper planning, you can have an unforgettable time without worrying about high expenses.