How to Get to Nakhchivan?

Getting to Nakhchivan by Air

Nakhchivan Airport (NAJ)

Nakhchivan International Airport (NAJ) is the main air gateway. It is located 5–6 km from the city center and the drive takes about 10 minutes.

Flights from Turkey

There are direct flights from Istanbul with seasonal schedules. Always check the latest timetable when purchasing your ticket. Flight time is around 2 hours depending on the route.

Airport → City Center

Public Bus:
Bus No. 6 runs between the airport and the city center from 08:00 to 22:00.

Taxi:
Taxis are available directly outside the terminal. The ride to downtown takes around 8–10 minutes. Taxi use between the airport and the city is common and convenient.

Shuttles:
Airport–city shuttles also operate throughout the day and evening.

Reaching Nakhchivan by Road (from Turkey)

Main Border Route

The standard road route is:
Iğdır → Dilucu Border Gate (Turkey) → Sədərək (Nakhchivan) → Nakhchivan City Center
The distance from Iğdır to the border is about 90–91 km, taking around 1–1.5 hours. The Dilucu–Sədərək crossing is open to both vehicles and passengers.

Bus Transportation

Long-Distance Buses:
There are bus services from Istanbul and some major cities to Nakhchivan. The typical route is:
Istanbul → Anatolian Route → Iğdır → Dilucu → Nakhchivan.
Schedules vary, so check updated times before buying a ticket.

Iğdır → Nakhchivan Minibuses/Buses:
From Iğdır, you can take a bus or minibus to the Dilucu Gate. After crossing into Nakhchivan, local buses continue toward the city center. Departure times should be confirmed at Iğdır bus station.

Note:
Official information on city bus lines inside Nakhchivan is limited. Apart from Bus No. 6 (airport line), taxis remain the most reliable way to move around.

Traveling by Private Vehicle

If you drive your own car, you’ll cross via Dilucu (TR) → Sədərək (NAJ).

Required documents:

• Valid driver’s license

• Vehicle registration

• Notarized authorization if the car is not yours

• Mandatory Azerbaijani traffic insurance (must be purchased at the border)

Travel Time:
Iğdır → Dilucu takes 1–1.5 hours depending on weather. Border procedures may take additional time; it’s best to plan with a time buffer.

Passport, ID, and Visa Entry Requirements for Turkish Citizens

Citizens of the Republic of Turkey can enter Azerbaijan without a visa.

A new-generation chip-enabled ID card or passport will suffice.

The visa-free stay is restricted to 90 days within a period of 180 days.

Travel with an ID card is implemented within the framework of a mutual protocol signed between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Old-type ID cards should not be used for entry; you must use your new ID card.

Citizens of Other Countries

For citizens of other countries arriving in Nakhchivan via Azerbaijan, visa-free entry, an e-Visa via the ASAN system, or visa on arrival may apply depending on your country’s status.

Citizens of many countries can apply online through the ASAN e-Visa system (evisa.gov.az); these are normally processed in a few business days.

The rule in general about passport validity is that the document should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry; do ensure to check the current conditions in your home country.

Exit Fee While Leaving Turkey

There is an Exit Fee payable when leaving Turkey.

Since regulations might be changed at any moment, the amount of such fees should be checked with official sources before travel.

Long-Term Stays and Registration

For stays exceeding 15 days in Azerbaijan (including Nakhchivan), registration at the place of residence is required.

This is usually done by the accommodation you will be staying in or, if you request it, the local immigration office.

Foreign Exchange, Payments, and Budget

Currency

The official currency used in Nakhchivan is the Azerbaijani Manat, or AZN.

Payment Methods

Large hotels, chain stores and some restaurants accept Visa/Mastercard.

Cash Manat is more common in markets, small restaurants, and taxis. It’s a good idea to always have some cash on hand.

Currency Exchange

There are a number of ATMs and offices that exchange currency in the city centre.

You can purchase some AZN before leaving Turkey, or you can just withdraw Manat with your card from ATMs in Nakhchivan. It is highly recommended to find out about your bank’s commission on international transactions.

Budget Note

Your daily expenses depend on the type of accommodation, food, and beverage you choose, and the type of transport. You can make your budget reasonable by opting for relatively cheap hotels and local restaurants serving affordable meals.
6. Border Gates and Crossing Procedures

Dilucu – Sedarak Border Gate

The Dilucu Border Gate is the main crossing point for the Turkey-Nakhchivan land crossing, located on the Turkish side in the district of Iğdır/Aralık and on the Azerbaijani side at Sedarak. gtias.com.tr

It is open to passengers and vehicles all the time.

Procedure

Border crossing:

Checking ID or passport

Visa and length of stay check, if applicable

If entering by vehicle:

License, driver’s license, notary power of attorney

Compulsory traffic insurance of Azerbaijan

Customs declaration

Checks are performed.

Congestion:

More congestion may arise during public holidays, festivals, and weekends. That is, more waiting time for buses and private vehicles; hence, it’s better to plan accordingly.

Other Border Crossings

The border between Nakhchivan and Armenia is closed.

Considering an alternative land route through Iran, while technically possible, the Dilucu–Sedarak route remains the most practical and widely used route for people traveling directly from Turkey to Nakhchivan.

Safety, Health, and Photography

Security Situation

Nakhchivan, similar to most of Azerbaijan, is considered a safe place for tourism.

However, as in any city, we advise taking basic precautions: for example, being careful with your valuables and avoiding isolated areas late at night.

You should not travel too close to the Armenian border, as security is high along the border. Emergency telephone numbers: General emergency assistance: 112 Fire Department: 101 Police: 102 Ambulance: 103  Photography Photography may be prohibited in border areas, military and other governmental facilities, police stations, bridges, and some official buildings. If there is any doubt, always follow the warnings of the officer.