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Azerbaijan covers 8 out of 11 known climate zones, from Baku's temperate semi-arid climate with warm dry summers refreshed by Caspian Sea breezes to spectacular snowy mountains with state-of-the-art ski resorts just a 3 hour drive away into the north of the country to tea and citrus plantations in the subtropical south. 

Azerbaijan is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, mixing both the charms of East and West. Baku, the country's capital, is the largest city of the Caucasus region, spanning along the Absheron peninsula on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. Located 28 metres below sea level, it is also the world's lowest lying capital.

According to the most recent census, the current population of Azerbaijan is over 10.1 mln people, with urban population being 53%.

The official state language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, while Russian and English are widely spoken across the country.

Azerbaijan is a secular state that protects religious freedom and multiconfessionalism. The population of Azerbaijan is predominantly Muslim, while various forms of Christianity, Judaism and other religions are also represented and practised in the country. 

Visas to Azerbaijan are straightforward and easy to organise, but it is recommended to carefully check the exact procedure according to your nationality and residence status. 

For a large number of nationalities, visas are issued via an online electronic visa system. E-visas can be issued within a few hours, though it’s cheaper and safer to apply beforehand. For more information please follow the official electronic visa portal.

For some nationalities and residence card holders, visas are available upon arrival. All other nationalities can apply for a visa through the closest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The official currency of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), which is accepted for payment purposes. Currency exchange services are available at local bank branches and the majority accept US Dollars, Euros and Russian Roubles, while many also accept British Pounds and Turkish Lira. For current exchange rates, it is recommended to check with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan.

Major chip-and-pin credit cards are accepted at hotels, stores, cafes and restaurants, but it’s always a good idea to ask beforehand. The most common credit cards are VISA, VISA Electron and Mastercard, but you should not have a problem finding ATM cash machines that also accept Maestro and American Express.

To be eligible for the Tax-Free benefit, the cost (including VAT) of purchased goods per e-tax invoice must be not less than 300 AZN and the purchases must be taken out of the country by air within 90 days from the purchase date. For more information about rules and conditions, please click here.

Banks are typically open Monday to Friday from 10 am till 5 pm, but ATM cash machines function 24/7. Most shops are open daily from around 10 am to 8 pm. Restaurants, cafes, catering and entertainment facilities typically operate from 10 am till midnight or later.