Tbilisi to Baku

While overland travel is more popular between Tbilisi and Baku due to the relatively short distance, flying is still an option for those seeking a faster connection. Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) operates direct flights from Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Several flights are available weekly, providing a quick and convenient option for travelers who prefer air travel.

The Tbilisi to Baku overnight train is a convenient and affordable way to travel between Georgia and Azerbaijan. The sleeper train, Train 37, departs daily from Tbilisi’s Station Square at 8:35 PM, making stops in Gachiani and Rustavi before crossing the Georgian-Azerbaijani border. It then stops at several locations in Azerbaijan, including Ganja, before arriving in Baku at 8:50 AM, making the total travel time around 12 hours and 15 minutes. Ticket prices range from 35 to 100 GEL, depending on the class of service.

Several bus companies operate regular services between Tbilisi and Baku. Buses depart from Tbilisi’s Ortachala Bus Station and arrive at Baku International Bus Terminal. The journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on the border crossing. Bus services are an affordable and reliable option, with tickets usually available for purchase directly at the bus station or online.

Traveling from Tbilisi to Baku by road offers a scenic and culturally rich journey through the Caucasus region. The drive from Tbilisi to the Azerbaijan border and then onward to Baku is approximately 450 kilometers and takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The route follows the E60 highway from Tbilisi, passing through Rustavi, to the Red Bridge border crossing into Azerbaijan. Once you reach the Azerbaijan side of the border at Shkhli, you will find a small group of taxi drivers ready to offer rides into Azerbaijan. Negotiating a taxi fare to Baku is common, and drivers often start with a higher price but are willing to lower the fare, especially if you appear familiar with local prices. The average fare for a shared taxi to Baku can be around 80 Azerbaijani manats (approximately 45 USD).