If you’re planning a trip to Baku, timing really matters. This city sits right on the Caspian Sea, so you get a semi-arid climate—hot, dry summers and cool, damp winters.
You’ll probably find the best weather in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November).
During these months, you get mild temperatures, less rain, and calmer winds than usual. It’s a pretty good setup for wandering through Baku’s modern buildings, the historic Old City, or just hanging out by the water without sweating or shivering.
Each season brings its own vibe, and knowing what to expect helps you plan more than just sightseeing. Prices, crowds, and even whether you’ll stumble into a festival or enjoy quiet streets all depend on when you go.
If you take a look at Baku’s weather patterns throughout the year, you can pick the season that matches your travel style.
Overview of Baku’s Climate
Baku’s climate is pretty unique, thanks to its spot on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. You’ll notice hot, dry summers, winters that are mild but sometimes chilly, and winds that seem to always be around.
Geographical Influences on Weather
The Caspian Sea shapes Baku’s weather in a big way. It keeps summer heat from getting too extreme and softens the cold in winter, though winds blowing in from inland can still drop the temperature fast.
Locals know Baku as the “city of winds” for good reason. The Khazri (that biting northern wind) and the Gilavar (a warmer southern breeze) can flip the weather on its head in a matter of hours.
Since Baku sits in a dry region, rain is pretty limited compared to other coastal cities. The wind, low rainfall, and sea together create a climate that’s both coastal and semi-arid—it’s an odd mix, honestly.
Annual Temperature Patterns
Temperatures in Baku swing quite a bit between seasons. Winters usually stay mild, but in January and February, they can drop close to freezing, with daytime highs around 8–10°C.
Sometimes, cold air from Siberia sweeps in and brings frost or snow, though that doesn’t happen too often.
When summer rolls around, things heat up quickly. July and August often see highs of 28–30°C, and nights don’t cool down much—they usually stay above 20°C.
Heatwaves can push things into the mid-30s, but the Caspian breeze does help take the edge off.
Spring and autumn are a sweet spot for a lot of travelers. In May and September, you’ll see highs between 22–27°C, which feels just right for exploring outdoors.
Rainfall and Humidity Trends
Baku doesn’t get much rain—just about 270 mm per year on average. Most of it falls in late autumn and early winter, with November standing out as the wettest month.
In July and August, you might see only a few millimeters.
Humidity stays fairly high because of the Caspian Sea. Sometimes, the air feels damp even if it’s not raining. Humidity peaks in early spring, hitting around 75%, but drops to about 60% in summer.
Rain usually comes as quick, light showers, not heavy storms. Snow is rare, but you might see it in midwinter if cold northern winds blow through.
Best Seasons to Visit Baku for Ideal Weather
Most people find spring and autumn the best times to visit Baku. You get mild temperatures, lower humidity, and stable conditions that make it easier to enjoy both the city and the outdoors.
Spring: Mild Temperatures and Blooming Gardens
From April to June, Baku usually offers mild weather, with highs between 15°C and 25°C. That’s perfect for walking the Old City, climbing the Maiden Tower, or checking out the Flame Towers without sweating or fighting strong winds.
Parks and gardens really come alive in spring. You’ll spot flowers blooming around the Heydar Aliyev Center and along the waterfront.
Outdoor cafés open up, so you can actually sit outside and enjoy local dishes.
Spring also brings a few big events. The Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix often happens in late spring, and Novruz fills the streets with music, food, and performances.
If you’re into day trips, this is a solid time to visit the Gobustan Mud Volcanoes or the Absheron Peninsula. The weather is dry but not scorching.
Autumn: Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds
September and October usually deliver pleasant weather with temperatures around 15°C to 22°C. The air dries out, and those famous Baku winds calm down a bit.
Fewer tourists show up compared to spring, so you get easier access to places like the Palace of the Shirvanshahs or the Carpet Museum. Flights and hotels can be a bit cheaper, too.
Autumn is also wine harvest season. Vineyards near Baku open for tastings, and markets fill up with fresh produce.
Hiking works well in this season, with clear skies making trips to Gobustan National Park or the Caspian coast even better.
You get comfortable weather, cultural events, and fewer crowds—honestly, it’s a great time to visit.
Monthly Weather Breakdown in Baku
Baku’s climate changes a lot from season to season. Winters are cold and damp, summers hot and dry, and everything in between has its own feel.
Temperature and Precipitation by Month
Winter brings the coldest weather. In January and February, temperatures average around 4–6°C (39–43°F). You might see a little snow, and rainfall climbs to 17–24 mm, so the city feels damp.
Spring warms up steadily. By May, highs hit 21–22°C (70–72°F), and rain drops to just 10 mm. Humidity drops, too, so it’s easier to be outside.
Summer is hot and mostly dry. July tops out at about 29–30°C (85°F). Rain is rare, often less than 6 mm, and humidity stays moderate.
Autumn cools off gradually. September still feels warm at 21–22°C (70°F), but by November, it drops to 10–11°C (50°F). Rain picks up again, especially in November, with nearly 24 mm.
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4–5 | 17 |
| Apr | 12–14 | 8–13 |
| Jul | 29–30 | 4–6 |
| Oct | 15–16 | 17 |
Sunshine Hours and Daylight Variation
Daylight hours in Baku shift a lot through the year. In December, you get just 9 hours, so outdoor sightseeing is limited.
By June, days stretch to 15 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore.
Spring and summer are the sunniest. From May through August, you get 14–15 hours of daylight, which is great for outdoor plans.
Daylight drops fast in autumn. By November, you’re down to about 10 hours, and skies tend to be cloudier.
Winter days stay short, with limited sunshine even when skies are clear.
If you want long days for walking tours or trips to the Caspian Sea, late spring to mid-summer is your best bet.
Summer in Baku: Hot Days and Caspian Sea Activities
Summer brings the highest temperatures of the year, and the city’s coastal setting really shines. You’ll get long, sunny days, warm evenings, and lots of chances to enjoy the Caspian Sea.
Typical Weather Conditions
From June through August, daily highs usually land between 25°C and 35°C. July gets the hottest, but the Caspian Sea breeze helps take the edge off, especially near the water.
Rain almost disappears, and skies stay mostly clear. It’s one of the driest times of year—perfect if you like predictable, sunny weather.
Nights are warm, often 20°C to 24°C, so walking along Baku Boulevard or sitting outside at a café feels comfortable. Humidity is moderate, but the wind off the sea keeps things manageable.
If you’re coming in summer, pack light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water—the sun and dry air can tire you out faster than you’d expect.
Popular Outdoor and Beach Experiences
Summer is the top season for the Caspian Sea coastline. Beaches like Bilgah, Shikhov, and Amburan are busy with swimmers, sunbathers, and people trying out water sports.
Private beach clubs offer loungers, cafés, and shade, so you can easily spend a whole day by the sea.
Evenings on the Baku Boulevard are lively. The promenade stretches over 25 kilometers, and you’ll see people strolling, cycling, or just hanging out as the air cools.
Concerts, festivals, and rooftop parties pop up often in summer. A boat cruise at sunset gives you a great view of the Flame Towers and the city lights reflecting on the water.
If you want something quieter, you can explore city parks or try outdoor dining—especially nice after sunset. Beaches and seaside clubs are the big draw, but Baku itself stays busy late into the night.
Winter in Baku: Off-Season Travel Considerations
Winter brings cold winds from the Caspian, shorter days, and a quieter city. You’ll find lower prices and a chance to explore Baku’s indoor spots without crowds.
Weather Patterns and Temperatures
Between December and February, Baku hits its coldest stretch. Daytime temperatures usually range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F–46°F). Nights feel even colder, especially with the wind blowing in from the sea.
Snow can happen, but it’s rare and doesn’t stick around long. You should expect damp, chilly air and plenty of overcast days.
The wind chill often makes it feel colder than the thermometer says.
Daylight is short in winter, with the sun setting early. If you want to walk the Boulevard or see the Old City, you’ll definitely need a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.
The weather isn’t ideal for being outside, but it’s manageable if you’re prepared.
Advantages of Visiting in Winter
Visiting Baku in winter means lower hotel prices and cheaper flights than in spring or summer. Fewer tourists come, so you can see places like the Maiden Tower or Heydar Aliyev Center without big lines.
Museums, galleries, and cultural centers stay warm and inviting. Indoor spots like the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum or the National Museum of History are great choices when the weather outside is rough.
Restaurants and cafés aren’t crowded, so you can enjoy Azerbaijani food at a slower pace. Locals seem more relaxed, too, and it’s easier to chat or get recommendations.
If you like quieter trips and don’t mind bundling up, winter in Baku could be a smart, budget-friendly pick.
Tourist Seasons, Events, and Pricing Trends
When you pick your travel dates for Baku, you’re not just choosing the weather—you’re also deciding how busy the city will feel, what events you might catch, and how much you’ll spend on hotels or flights.
The city’s semi-arid climate and busy event calendar definitely affect what you’ll experience.
High and Low Tourist Seasons
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, gets the most visitors in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). The weather feels mild then, so it’s much easier to wander the Old City, check out the Flame Towers, or stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade.
You’ll probably notice more tourists during these months, especially when major holidays or festivals pop up.
Summer (July–August) tends to be quieter in the city itself. The heat can get pretty intense, with daytime highs often soaring over 35°C.
Still, the beaches along the Absheron Peninsula start to fill up.
If you’re someone who likes empty streets and cheaper hotels, you might want to visit in winter (November–March). The city gets cold and windy, though, so pack accordingly.
Honestly, your trip will feel different depending on whether you want nice weather and big crowds or you’re hunting for deals and peace.
Major Festivals and Events
Baku throws a bunch of events that really shape when people travel. In March, locals celebrate the Novruz Festival, which marks the Persian New Year. People jump over fires, there’s music everywhere, and you’ll find traditional sweets on every corner.
It’s easily one of the most colorful times to experience Baku’s culture.
In spring, the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix races right through the city streets. That event pulls in international fans and cranks up hotel prices.
If you’re into high-energy scenes, it’s a rush, but be ready for crowds and pricier stays.
Autumn brings the Baku Jazz Festival, with musicians coming in from all over the world.
September and October also mark wine harvest season, so it’s a great moment to check out local vineyards just outside the city.
These festivals and events definitely add something special to your trip, but they can make it trickier to find a good hotel deal.
Hotel and Flight Price Fluctuations
Hotel and flight costs in Baku really depend on the tourist season. April–June and September–October are peak months, so you’ll probably run into higher prices and should book way ahead.
Rooms close to big landmarks like the Flame Towers or the Old City get snapped up fast.
When July–August rolls around, prices in the city center often dip because of the heat. Resorts and beaches, though, might actually get busier and a bit pricier.
Winter’s your best bet if you’re watching your budget. January and February usually have the lowest prices for both flights and places to stay.
If you’re hoping to strike a balance between cost and comfort, late spring or early autumn usually hit that sweet spot. Just remember, you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to grab the best deals.