Central Asia & Caucasus
Money, cards and tipping in Azerbaijan
AZNManat
Money in Azerbaijan
Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in Baku hotels, malls, chains and restaurants; carry manat for bazaars, small shops, taxis outside Baku and the regions. US$1 ≈ ₼1.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Many restaurants add a 5–10% service charge; if not, tip about 10%. Round up taxi fares.
- ATMs: ATMs are common in Baku and accept foreign cards; use ones inside banks because skimming is reported.
- Paying by phone: Contactless foreign cards and Apple Pay or Google Pay work widely in Baku; the metro needs a BakuKart.
- Price level: about 28% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baku | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards and contactless work in hotels, malls and most restaurants. Carry manat for bazaars, taxis, small shops and regional trips. |
| Sheki | Mostly cash | Cards work in some hotels and larger restaurants; carry manat for guesthouses, bazaars, taxis and smaller shops. |
| Gabala | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work in hotels, resorts and larger restaurants; carry manat for taxis, small cafés and villages. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Azerbaijan?
Many restaurants add a 5–10% service charge; if not, tip about 10%. Round up taxi fares.
Is Azerbaijan cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Cards work in Baku hotels, malls, chains and restaurants; carry manat for bazaars, small shops, taxis outside Baku and the regions.
What currency does Azerbaijan use?
The Manat (AZN). US$1 ≈ ₼1.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Azerbaijan
- ASAN Visa (e-visa)
- State Migration Service of Azerbaijan
- Speedtest Global Index: Azerbaijan
- World Bank open data
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