Baku City Circuit
Location:
Central Baku, Azerbaijan
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Baku City Circuit
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Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Formula 2
24 - 26 Sep
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Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Formula 1
24 - 26 Sep
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Track Info
Baku City Circuit - Baku, Azerbaijan
Temporary street circuit along the Caspian Sea waterfront and Old City walls - anti clockwise - ultra long main straight and a famously narrow castle section
When was the track built?
Planned through 2015 and constructed in 2016, Baku’s route stitches together city boulevards, the Neftchilar Avenue waterfront and the Icherisheher old town. Temporary infrastructure transforms the capital each spring with miles of barrier and TecPro, a pit and paddock complex by the boulevard, and grandstands facing the Caspian Sea.
The layout’s signature is contrast: a tight, uphill kink past the city walls at T8 that is among the narrowest spots in modern F1, followed by a downhill run and a flat out section from T16 all the way to Turn 1 where cars reach some of the highest speeds of the season.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race weekend was the 2016 European Grand Prix. From 2017 onward it has hosted the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and quickly earned a reputation for unpredictable results, late Safety Cars and memorable restarts.
What's the circuit like?
- Brakes and top speed: Massive stops into T1 and T3 bookend a lap that also features one of the longest full throttle sections in F1 from T16 to the finish line.
- Old City precision: The T7 to T12 sequence climbs and pinches at T8. Kerb usage and steering precision matter, with zero room for error.
- Traction and drag tradeoff: Teams trim wing for speed yet still need rear grip out of slow corners, especially T16 where exit dictates your entire run to T1.
- Two DRS zones: Typically on the pit straight into T1 and from the exit of T2 down to T3, creating repeated slipstream battles.
- Race volatility: Safety Cars and red flags are common. Track evolution is large as dust clears and the surface rubbers in across the weekend.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:43.009. Poles regularly land in the low 1:40s depending on conditions and format.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:43.009 - Charles Leclerc, 2019 Azerbaijan GP - current 6.003 km layout.
- FIA Formula 2: Qualifying laps typically in the 1:50 1:54 range with race laps in the high 1:55s to 1:58s, featuring dramatic Safety Car restarts.
- GT history in Baku: Prior to the current F1 course, international GT events ran on a different city layout in the early 2010s, underlining the city’s street racing heritage.
- Regional one make: Porsche and other cup series have joined as supports, producing long draft trains down the boulevard.
Why go?
A waterfront skyline meets a walled old town, delivering postcard views and big speed. The grandstands along the main straight showcase DRS duels, while the atmosphere blends modern boulevard vibes with historic scenery and easy access to cafés and parks.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Heaviest braking on the lap and the prime overtaking zone off the longest DRS run. Great for starts and restarts.
- Turn 3 hairpin: Another big stop after the T2 DRS zone with switchback opportunities into the old town approach.
- Old City T8 complex: See cars thread the needle past the castle walls. Incredible visuals and commitment, especially in qualifying.
- T16 exit to finish: Watch traction out of the final real corner and the flat out drag to the line with pack drafting and late lunges into T1.
- Main straight paddock side: Panoramic views of pit stops, strategy gambles and the chequered flag under the city skyline.
Not just F1: Azerbaijan and world series in Baku
FIA Formula 2: A staple support with some of the calendar’s wildest races, from multi car drafts to last lap Safety Car restarts.
One make GT and regional series: Porsche and regional cups bring big fields and slipstream battles down the boulevard.
Event heritage: Before the current Grand Prix, the city hosted international GT street races on a different route, building Baku’s reputation for spectacular city racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Baku City Circuit - Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Best options are the Baku Metro to Icherisheher, Sahil or 28 May, city buses, and walking via footbridges and underpasses. There is no spectator parking at the venue and road closures apply around the circuit perimeter.
Metro - the easiest way
- Ride to: Icherisheher, Sahil or 28 May for the shortest walks to fan zones and grandstands. Services are typically extended on race days.
- Payment: Use the BakıKART transport card available at stations. Single rides are low cost and machines have English options.
- Tip: If you need to move between opposite sides of the track during closures, the metro can be quicker than street detours.
City buses
- When useful: Handy if your hotel is away from metro lines. Timetables are often adjusted and extended for race weekend.
- Pay the same way: Most modern buses accept BakıKART. Older vehicles may have flat cash fares.
Driving and parking
- No driving to the gates: Perimeter roads are closed. There is no designated spectator parking at the circuit. Use public transport and walk in.
- If you must park in the city: Limited off-site options like 28 Mall or Baku White City Boulevard may be available, then continue by metro. Spaces are not guaranteed.
Walking the last leg
- From metro stations: Expect short signed walks from Icherisheher, Sahil and 28 May to the fan zones and gates. Use the event footbridges and underpasses to cross the course safely.
Taxis and rideshare
- Availability: Local taxis and apps such as Uber and Bolt operate citywide. Set drop-off outside the traffic cordon and walk in via the nearest gate.
- Airport link: From GYD, taxis take about 20-35 minutes depending on traffic. The Aeroexpress bus to 28 May runs roughly every 20 minutes most of the day.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair platforms: Accessible viewing areas include Absheron Grandstand Section E and a location near Gate E at Bakcell Grandstand. A wheelchair ticket includes a companion ticket.
- On-site support: Trained staff assist at platforms. Note that some access routes use bridges or underpasses that may be challenging for reduced mobility.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Heydar Aliyev International Airport GYD: approximately 24-27 km from central Baku by road. Use the Aeroexpress to 28 May or taxi to the city.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Absheron Grandstand side: usually quickest from Sahil or 28 May stations.
- Icheri Sheher and Old City side: use Icherisheher station and the signed underpasses to reach the gates.
- Moving around the course: Use the pedestrian bridges and tunnels shown on the event maps when the track is live.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the race-week transport bulletins for any last minute timetable or closure changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Baku City Circuit (Baku, Azerbaijan)
Whether you are here for Formula 1 or another motorsport festival, the street circuit threads between a UNESCO listed Old City, a Caspian seafront promenade and modern landmarks - perfect for culture strolls, family fun and day trips on non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- Baku Boulevard - National Seaside Park: A long, flat waterfront for bike hires, evening strolls and playground stops. Look for the mini boat rides at Little Venice canals.
- Baku Ferris Wheel: Gentle skyline views over the bay - best at sunset when the city lights up.
- Deniz Mall: Striking seafront complex with cinemas, eateries and family attractions - handy if a shower passes through.
- Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: Eye catching building shaped like a rolled carpet with hands on rooms for kids.
- Heydar Aliyev Center: Curvy Zaha Hadid landmark with design and science exhibitions that rotate through the year.
- Ganjlik and Port Baku areas: Shopping and food courts for easy group meals after sessions.
Popular attractions may use timed tickets on busy weekends - pre book key museum entries and evening slots where possible.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Icherisheher - Old City: UNESCO listed walled quarter with Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah Palace, caravanserais and tea houses. Go early or later in the day for cooler, quieter lanes.
- Flame Towers and Highland Park: Take the hillside stairs or funicular to the park for wide views across the circuit and bay, then photograph the towers after dark.
- Modern Art and History Museums: Add a museum loop if the weather turns - galleries are compact enough for a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Nizami Street and Fountain Square: Pedestrian shopping streets with cafés for people watching between sessions.
- Local markets: Taza Bazaar or Yashil Bazaar are good for regional nuts, dried fruits, herbs and cheeses to pack for race day snacks.
Eat and drink like a local
- Caspianside evenings: Seafront terraces for plov, kebabs, fresh herbs, qutab and grilled fish - perfect after qualifying.
- Old City courtyards: Traditional tea with jam, pakhlava and shekerbura for a sweet pit stop.
- Modern Baku: Around Nizami Street and Port Baku you will find international menus and late kitchens for groups.
- Race week tip: Book Friday and Saturday dinners early - central restaurants fill fast when the paddock is in town.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Seafront promenade loop: Flat 3 - 6 km walks with photo stops at the Carpet Museum, Flag Square and the Ferris Wheel. Sections may be rerouted during the event.
- Highland Park stairs: Short but steep climb for a sunrise or sunset viewpoint over the bay and city.
- City bike hires: Casual cycling along the boulevard in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Gobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes - 1 to 1.5 hours. Ancient petroglyphs at the rock art reserve plus a bumpy detour to bubbling mud volcano fields.
- Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag - 45 to 60 minutes. Zoroastrian fire temple on the Absheron Peninsula paired with a hillside of naturally burning gas flames.
- Absheron beaches - 30 to 60 minutes. Summer swims and seafood lunches at Bilgah, Mardakan or Shikhovo depending on wind and water quality reports.
- Quba or Shamakhi wine and mountain routes - 2 to 3 hours. Longer days into the foothills for fresh air walks, village lunches and winery tastings.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Desert and rock art sites often have last entry cutoffs - check your chosen tour or museum hours before you depart.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring and early summer typically host the biggest events. Hotels and restaurants around the boulevard and Old City book quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Baku can be windy. Pack a light jacket for evenings and comfortable shoes for cobbles, boardwalks and long grandstand days.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Parts of the boulevard, Neftchilar Avenue and Old City perimeters are controlled or rerouted. Follow official spectator maps for the week you attend.
- Timed tickets: Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah Palace, the Carpet Museum and major galleries may use timed entry. Book earlier slots if you plan to return for evening sessions.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, a light windproof layer and a reusable water bottle. Evenings can feel cool on the waterfront after night sessions.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites and live calendars close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Central Baku, Azerbaijan
Track Info
Baku City Circuit - Baku, Azerbaijan
Temporary street circuit along the Caspian Sea waterfront and Old City walls - anti clockwise - ultra long main straight and a famously narrow castle section
When was the track built?
Planned through 2015 and constructed in 2016, Baku’s route stitches together city boulevards, the Neftchilar Avenue waterfront and the Icherisheher old town. Temporary infrastructure transforms the capital each spring with miles of barrier and TecPro, a pit and paddock complex by the boulevard, and grandstands facing the Caspian Sea.
The layout’s signature is contrast: a tight, uphill kink past the city walls at T8 that is among the narrowest spots in modern F1, followed by a downhill run and a flat out section from T16 all the way to Turn 1 where cars reach some of the highest speeds of the season.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race weekend was the 2016 European Grand Prix. From 2017 onward it has hosted the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and quickly earned a reputation for unpredictable results, late Safety Cars and memorable restarts.
What's the circuit like?
- Brakes and top speed: Massive stops into T1 and T3 bookend a lap that also features one of the longest full throttle sections in F1 from T16 to the finish line.
- Old City precision: The T7 to T12 sequence climbs and pinches at T8. Kerb usage and steering precision matter, with zero room for error.
- Traction and drag tradeoff: Teams trim wing for speed yet still need rear grip out of slow corners, especially T16 where exit dictates your entire run to T1.
- Two DRS zones: Typically on the pit straight into T1 and from the exit of T2 down to T3, creating repeated slipstream battles.
- Race volatility: Safety Cars and red flags are common. Track evolution is large as dust clears and the surface rubbers in across the weekend.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:43.009. Poles regularly land in the low 1:40s depending on conditions and format.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:43.009 - Charles Leclerc, 2019 Azerbaijan GP - current 6.003 km layout.
- FIA Formula 2: Qualifying laps typically in the 1:50 1:54 range with race laps in the high 1:55s to 1:58s, featuring dramatic Safety Car restarts.
- GT history in Baku: Prior to the current F1 course, international GT events ran on a different city layout in the early 2010s, underlining the city’s street racing heritage.
- Regional one make: Porsche and other cup series have joined as supports, producing long draft trains down the boulevard.
Why go?
A waterfront skyline meets a walled old town, delivering postcard views and big speed. The grandstands along the main straight showcase DRS duels, while the atmosphere blends modern boulevard vibes with historic scenery and easy access to cafés and parks.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Heaviest braking on the lap and the prime overtaking zone off the longest DRS run. Great for starts and restarts.
- Turn 3 hairpin: Another big stop after the T2 DRS zone with switchback opportunities into the old town approach.
- Old City T8 complex: See cars thread the needle past the castle walls. Incredible visuals and commitment, especially in qualifying.
- T16 exit to finish: Watch traction out of the final real corner and the flat out drag to the line with pack drafting and late lunges into T1.
- Main straight paddock side: Panoramic views of pit stops, strategy gambles and the chequered flag under the city skyline.
Not just F1: Azerbaijan and world series in Baku
FIA Formula 2: A staple support with some of the calendar’s wildest races, from multi car drafts to last lap Safety Car restarts.
One make GT and regional series: Porsche and regional cups bring big fields and slipstream battles down the boulevard.
Event heritage: Before the current Grand Prix, the city hosted international GT street races on a different route, building Baku’s reputation for spectacular city racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Baku City Circuit - Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Best options are the Baku Metro to Icherisheher, Sahil or 28 May, city buses, and walking via footbridges and underpasses. There is no spectator parking at the venue and road closures apply around the circuit perimeter.
Metro - the easiest way
- Ride to: Icherisheher, Sahil or 28 May for the shortest walks to fan zones and grandstands. Services are typically extended on race days.
- Payment: Use the BakıKART transport card available at stations. Single rides are low cost and machines have English options.
- Tip: If you need to move between opposite sides of the track during closures, the metro can be quicker than street detours.
City buses
- When useful: Handy if your hotel is away from metro lines. Timetables are often adjusted and extended for race weekend.
- Pay the same way: Most modern buses accept BakıKART. Older vehicles may have flat cash fares.
Driving and parking
- No driving to the gates: Perimeter roads are closed. There is no designated spectator parking at the circuit. Use public transport and walk in.
- If you must park in the city: Limited off-site options like 28 Mall or Baku White City Boulevard may be available, then continue by metro. Spaces are not guaranteed.
Walking the last leg
- From metro stations: Expect short signed walks from Icherisheher, Sahil and 28 May to the fan zones and gates. Use the event footbridges and underpasses to cross the course safely.
Taxis and rideshare
- Availability: Local taxis and apps such as Uber and Bolt operate citywide. Set drop-off outside the traffic cordon and walk in via the nearest gate.
- Airport link: From GYD, taxis take about 20-35 minutes depending on traffic. The Aeroexpress bus to 28 May runs roughly every 20 minutes most of the day.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair platforms: Accessible viewing areas include Absheron Grandstand Section E and a location near Gate E at Bakcell Grandstand. A wheelchair ticket includes a companion ticket.
- On-site support: Trained staff assist at platforms. Note that some access routes use bridges or underpasses that may be challenging for reduced mobility.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Heydar Aliyev International Airport GYD: approximately 24-27 km from central Baku by road. Use the Aeroexpress to 28 May or taxi to the city.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Absheron Grandstand side: usually quickest from Sahil or 28 May stations.
- Icheri Sheher and Old City side: use Icherisheher station and the signed underpasses to reach the gates.
- Moving around the course: Use the pedestrian bridges and tunnels shown on the event maps when the track is live.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the race-week transport bulletins for any last minute timetable or closure changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Baku City Circuit (Baku, Azerbaijan)
Whether you are here for Formula 1 or another motorsport festival, the street circuit threads between a UNESCO listed Old City, a Caspian seafront promenade and modern landmarks - perfect for culture strolls, family fun and day trips on non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- Baku Boulevard - National Seaside Park: A long, flat waterfront for bike hires, evening strolls and playground stops. Look for the mini boat rides at Little Venice canals.
- Baku Ferris Wheel: Gentle skyline views over the bay - best at sunset when the city lights up.
- Deniz Mall: Striking seafront complex with cinemas, eateries and family attractions - handy if a shower passes through.
- Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: Eye catching building shaped like a rolled carpet with hands on rooms for kids.
- Heydar Aliyev Center: Curvy Zaha Hadid landmark with design and science exhibitions that rotate through the year.
- Ganjlik and Port Baku areas: Shopping and food courts for easy group meals after sessions.
Popular attractions may use timed tickets on busy weekends - pre book key museum entries and evening slots where possible.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Icherisheher - Old City: UNESCO listed walled quarter with Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah Palace, caravanserais and tea houses. Go early or later in the day for cooler, quieter lanes.
- Flame Towers and Highland Park: Take the hillside stairs or funicular to the park for wide views across the circuit and bay, then photograph the towers after dark.
- Modern Art and History Museums: Add a museum loop if the weather turns - galleries are compact enough for a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Nizami Street and Fountain Square: Pedestrian shopping streets with cafés for people watching between sessions.
- Local markets: Taza Bazaar or Yashil Bazaar are good for regional nuts, dried fruits, herbs and cheeses to pack for race day snacks.
Eat and drink like a local
- Caspianside evenings: Seafront terraces for plov, kebabs, fresh herbs, qutab and grilled fish - perfect after qualifying.
- Old City courtyards: Traditional tea with jam, pakhlava and shekerbura for a sweet pit stop.
- Modern Baku: Around Nizami Street and Port Baku you will find international menus and late kitchens for groups.
- Race week tip: Book Friday and Saturday dinners early - central restaurants fill fast when the paddock is in town.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Seafront promenade loop: Flat 3 - 6 km walks with photo stops at the Carpet Museum, Flag Square and the Ferris Wheel. Sections may be rerouted during the event.
- Highland Park stairs: Short but steep climb for a sunrise or sunset viewpoint over the bay and city.
- City bike hires: Casual cycling along the boulevard in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Gobustan National Park and Mud Volcanoes - 1 to 1.5 hours. Ancient petroglyphs at the rock art reserve plus a bumpy detour to bubbling mud volcano fields.
- Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag - 45 to 60 minutes. Zoroastrian fire temple on the Absheron Peninsula paired with a hillside of naturally burning gas flames.
- Absheron beaches - 30 to 60 minutes. Summer swims and seafood lunches at Bilgah, Mardakan or Shikhovo depending on wind and water quality reports.
- Quba or Shamakhi wine and mountain routes - 2 to 3 hours. Longer days into the foothills for fresh air walks, village lunches and winery tastings.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Desert and rock art sites often have last entry cutoffs - check your chosen tour or museum hours before you depart.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring and early summer typically host the biggest events. Hotels and restaurants around the boulevard and Old City book quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Baku can be windy. Pack a light jacket for evenings and comfortable shoes for cobbles, boardwalks and long grandstand days.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Parts of the boulevard, Neftchilar Avenue and Old City perimeters are controlled or rerouted. Follow official spectator maps for the week you attend.
- Timed tickets: Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah Palace, the Carpet Museum and major galleries may use timed entry. Book earlier slots if you plan to return for evening sessions.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, a light windproof layer and a reusable water bottle. Evenings can feel cool on the waterfront after night sessions.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites and live calendars close to your visit.
