1. Gabala to Baku by Car
Renting a car in Gabala offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace while enjoying the scenic views along the way. Rental costs typically range from 70-90 AZN per day depending on the type of car. You will need to pay for fuel separately, with plenty of gas stations along the route accepting both cash and card. It's advisable to have a GPS or navigation app like Waze or Google Maps to assist with directions.
Via Shamakhi-Yevlak Route
- Distance: Around 216 km
- Time: Approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes
- Road Conditions: Generally smooth, with occasional rugged patches
Via M2 and R15
- Distance: About 335 km
- Time: Roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes
- Road Conditions: Well-maintained, but some rough stretches
2. Gabala to Baku by Taxi
Taxis are widely available for travelers preferring a more convenient and quicker ride. You can book a private taxi directly from your hotel or taxi stands in Gabala. Alternatively, shared taxis are a cheaper option. While cab services like Uber and Bolt sometimes operate between these cities, prices are higher, and availability is limited. Local taxis allow for price negotiation, which can make for a more affordable journey.
Private Taxi Cost: 150-180 AZN
Shared Taxi Cost: 15-20 AZN per person
Guided Tour: Approximately 100 AZN per person
Distance: 216 km
Duration: Around 3 hours and 50 minutes
3. Gabala to Baku by Train
A high-speed train operates weekly between Gabala and Baku, offering a comfortable and scenic alternative to road travel. The train departs from Baku's main railway station and runs directly to Gabala, taking around 3 hours. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and it's advisable to book in advance as seats can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Distance: 309 km
Duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Timings: Departs from Gabala every Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 AM, arriving in Baku at 10:20 AM
4. Gabala to Baku by Bus
For budget-conscious travelers, buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) run regularly between Gabala and Baku. These depart from Gabala's main bus terminal and stop at various locations along the route, including Shamakhi, where you can take a break and grab a meal. Buses are a slower option but very affordable, and tickets can be bought at the terminal or booked online. Be sure to check the schedule in advance as bus departure times may vary, and there can be gaps between coach bus services.
Distance: 315 km
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Fare: 9.5 AZN per person