From glittering Baku to mountainous Gabala — a modern destination with an ancient history. Note the current travel advisory level further down this page.
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Current travel advisory level: 3 of 4 — Azerbaijan
Israel's National Security Council (gov.il) currently rates Azerbaijan at advisory level 3, due to its geographic proximity to Iran. This is a recommendation, not a legal prohibition — travel to Azerbaijan is fully legal and Azerbaijan is not among the countries Israeli citizens are legally barred from entering (Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen). The decision and responsibility rest with each traveler, per the National Security Council's own guidance.
Azerbaijan combines a glittering, modern capital (Baku) with mountain nature, ancient villages and a rich culture. Israel-Azerbaijan relations are considered strong and long-standing, making it an accessible and comfortable destination for Israelis. For the full, detailed guide to the city itself — visit our full Baku guide (Hebrew). This page focuses on the country-wide picture and Gabala, the popular mountain resort town.
2Flights from Israel
There is a direct flight between Tel Aviv and Baku (GYD), and as of August 2026, several airlines have operated the route, including AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines), Arkia and Israir. The direct flight takes around 3 hours. Routes to Baku have been suspended and resumed more than once in recent years — before booking, check current availability, carrier and pricing.
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Search flights to Baku (GYD) from Tel Aviv
Price comparison via Travelpayouts (marker 701647).
Israelis are eligible for an e-Visa through the official ASAN Visa system (evisa.gov.az) — the official fee is USD 20, with standard processing of about 3 business days (an expedited option exists at a higher fee). The visa is typically single-entry, valid 90 days from issue, and allows a stay of up to 30 days. A valid passport (6 months' validity recommended) is required. Anyone staying more than 15 consecutive days must register via migration.gov.az or an ASAN service centre, at no extra charge.
4Best time to visit
April–June and September–October — the recommended windows, with the most comfortable weather in May and September.
Summer — very hot in Baku.
Gabala in winter — genuinely cold and suited to skiing; the gap between summer and winter temperatures is large.
5Gabala — mountain getaway
Gabala is a mountain resort town roughly 3-3.5 hours' drive from Baku, and a year-round destination:
Tufandag Mountain Resort — a ski resort with one of the longest cable-car networks in the South Caucasus; the cable car also runs in summer for viewpoints and hiking.
Nohur Lake (Nohurgol) — a mountain lake with boating, fishing and horseback riding.
Gabaland — a family amusement park.
Seven Beauties Waterfall (Yeddi Gozel) — an easy hike to a striking waterfall.
Nij village — home to the Udi community, descendants of Caucasian Albania, with a 19th-century church.
Old Gabala — an archaeological site, the former capital of Caucasian Albania.
Savalan Winery — tours and tastings.
Gabala hosts an international music festival every year in late July-early August.
6Beyond Baku & Gabala
Gobustan — a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2007) with thousands of ancient rock carvings, and nearby mud volcanoes — one of the largest concentrations in the world. A day trip from Baku.
Sheki (Şəki) — a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2019), with a stunning 18th-century Khan's Palace. About 5 hours from Baku.
Xinaliq — a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2023), one of the highest inhabited villages in the world.
Lahij — a traditional copper-smithing village, its craft recognised by UNESCO as intangible heritage.
7Transport
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) is about 20-25 km northeast of Baku.
The Aeroexpress H1 bus connects the airport to the central "28 May" metro/rail station — runs 24/7 (every 20 minutes by day, every 45 minutes at night), about 30 minutes. Cost: 1.30 manat plus a one-time BakuKart card for 2 manat (sold at terminal machines).
Ride-hailing apps active in Baku: Yango, Bolt, Uber and Maxim, plus official red taxis.
Baku to Gabala: about 214 km, roughly 3-3.5 hours by a good main road. Options: car rental, shared taxi, private transfer, or a marshrutka/bus from Baku's international bus station (Avtovagzal).
If renting a car within Azerbaijan, an international driving permit is required.
8Money & language
The currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN).
The official language is Azerbaijani; Russian is widely understood, and English is common in Baku and tourist sites.
9FAQ
Do Israelis need a visa for Azerbaijan?
Yes — an e-Visa via ASAN Visa (evisa.gov.az), official fee USD 20, processed in about 3 business days.
How long does it take from Baku to Gabala?
About 214 km, roughly 3-3.5 hours by main road.
Is Gabala good for both summer and winter?
Yes — winter brings skiing at Tufandag, and in summer the cable car runs for viewpoints and hiking, alongside Nohur Lake and the Seven Beauties Waterfall.
How do I get from the airport to central Baku?
The Aeroexpress H1 bus runs 24/7 directly to the centre, about 30 minutes. Taxis and apps like Bolt and Uber are also available.