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Anyone visiting Baku enters a city in constant flux. It is not just another capital on the Caspian Sea; it is the place where futuristic architecture meets ancient Silk Road traditions. For shopping enthusiasts, this means you will find everything here, from exclusive luxury brands typically associated with Dubai to dusty antique shops in the Old City.
However, take note: the shopping scene in Baku has shifted significantly heading into late 2025. Traditional markets are undergoing renovation, new tax benefits for tourists have been introduced, and while the currency remains stable, it can be expensive for locals. This guide is more than a simple travel reportit is your strategic companion to avoiding bad purchases and finding true treasures.
The Currency: What You Need to Know
Before you pull out your credit card, let’s look at the finances. The Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) is pegged to the US Dollar. For years, the exchange rate has held steady at 1.70 AZN per 1 USD. This makes budget planning very predictable. Unlike the volatile markets in neighboring countries, you won’t face nasty surprises when calculating costs.
The Major Malls: Luxury and Lifestyle
Baku loves its shopping malls. They are air conditioned, spotlessly clean, and often stay open late into the night. Here are the three addresses you need to know.
Port Baku Mall: The Peak of Luxury
If you are looking for high-end brands, this is your first stop. Port Baku Mall is the hub for international luxury. Here, you will find flagship stores for Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Rolex, and Valentino. Jewelry lovers will also find their haven at Tiffany & Co. and Bvlgari.
Insider Tip: Be sure to visit Emporium inside the mall. It is a massive three story concept store (12,500 m²) offering curated fashion from over 500 designers. It is essentially the Azerbaijani equivalent of the great fashion houses in Paris or London.
Ganjlik Mall: The All Rounder
Ganjlik Mall is currently the largest shopping center in the country and is ideal for daily needs and high street fashion. You will find brands like Zara, Mango, Massimo Dutti, and Tommy Hilfiger. Shops are generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though you should check the list of public holidays in Azerbaijan as hours may vary during festivals.
Similar to buying an iPhone in Turkey, you should keep a close eye on electronics prices here, as import duties can influence the final cost. A highlight for self caterers is the massive Bravo Supermarket, which stays open until 11:00 PM.
Park Bulvar: Entertainment by the Sea
Located directly on the Boulevard, this mall is perfect for families. In addition to shopping, it offers Park Cinema on the 4th floor (open until 1:00 AM) and a bowling alley. It is less pretentious than Port Baku and offers a solid mix of leisure and retail.
Traditional Shopping: A 2025 Reality Check
Many travel guides rave about old bazaars, but the reality on the ground often looks different. Here is the current status.
Taza Bazar: Caution, Construction Zone!
The legendary Taza Bazar (Teze Bazar) is currently undergoing a massive reconstruction to preserve its historical character. The main historic building is a construction site. Don’t let this discourage you: market operations continue but have been temporarily moved to Samad Vurgun Street. There, you can still find the best spices, nuts, and the famous Azerbaijani sturgeon caviar.
Nizami Street (Torgovaya)
Nizami Street is the heart of the city center. Stretching over 3 kilometers, you can stroll through this completely pedestrianized zone under impressive chandeliers hanging above the street. It is the perfect spot for an evening walk.
Shopping Tip: While major brands here have fixed prices, it is worth bargaining in the smaller souvenir shops. Those wanting to understand the dynamics of haggling can learn a lot from strategies used in the Grand Bazaar, which apply equally well here.
Buying Art and Culture
For art collectors, Baku offers interesting niches. The Yay Gallery in the Old City (Icherisheher) remains the premier address for contemporary art. Currently, exhibitions focus on energy transition and visions of the future.
Note on the Sattar Bahlulzade Gallery: The original exhibition hall is often used privately as “Gallery 1969.” Those wishing to see works by the famous painter should instead visit the National Art Museum, which hosted major retrospectives through early 2025.
Tax Advantages: Utilizing Tax Free
Azerbaijan makes it enticing for tourists to spend money. The “Tax Free” system is well-established. Here are the facts for your refund:
- Minimum Purchase: You must spend at least 300 AZN (including VAT) on a single invoice.
- Refund Amount: The standard VAT is 18%. A 20% service fee is deducted from this amount, and you receive the remainder.
- New for 2025: Since January 1, 2025, there is even an option to claim VAT back for medical servicesan interesting development for medical tourists.
What You Should Really Buy (and What Not)
Forget cheap magnets. If you want something authentic, invest in Karabakh carpets. Be sure to obtain an export certificate, as antique carpets are subject to strict export controls.
Another highlight is the traditional Armudu tea glasses. There are significant quality differences between hand painted glass and cheap industrial ware. Check the glass against the lightirregularities are often a good sign of handmade craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Baku is no longer a budget destination, but it offers a level of quality and cleanliness that surprises many. By avoiding the construction at Taza Bazar and utilizing the Tax-Free rules, you can enjoy a world-class shopping experience. Whether you are searching for a new watch in Port Baku Mall or browsing for a carpet in the Old City, Azerbaijan combines Old World trade with New World efficiency.
