Lankaran International Airport is only 3 km from the city center, making it one of the shortest and cheapest airport-to-city transfers you will encounter anywhere. Here is what to expect in 2026.
Local taxi
The ride to central Lankaran takes under 10 minutes. There are no meters and no published tariff — you negotiate the fare before getting in, so there is no official rate to quote here or to hold a driver to. Given the short distance the sums involved are small either way, but agreeing upfront prevents any misunderstanding.
Fixed-price private transfer
LLK Lankaran City Center
From€45for 2 passengers
Drivers expect payment in cash (Azerbaijani Manat). Cards are not accepted in local taxis.
Pre-booked private transfer
A private transfer to Lankaran center costs 15-25 AZN ($9-15 USD), fixed at booking. This includes a driver waiting at the terminal with a name sign and a known vehicle. The premium over a street taxi covers the certainty of having someone there when you land — which at this small airport with unpredictable taxi availability, has real value.
Hotel pickup
Some guesthouses and hotels in Lankaran offer complimentary or low-cost airport pickup. This is common in the region, especially at family-run properties. Ask when you make your room reservation. If available, it is often the most personal and hassle-free option.
Costs to destinations beyond Lankaran
Astara (Iran border): About 50 km south, taking roughly one hour. Unmetered, so agree the fare before you set off.
Masalli: About 45 km north. Unmetered, so agree the fare before you set off.
Lerik (Talysh Mountains): About 65 km into the mountains. The road is winding and the trip takes 1.5-2 hours, which drivers price accordingly — agree the fare before you set off.
Baku: Roughly 270 km and a 4-5 hour drive. Flying is more practical for most travelers; if you do drive it, agree the fare in advance.
What affects the price
Language: If you do not speak Azerbaijani or Russian, taxi drivers may quote slightly higher. Having your destination on your phone in Azerbaijani script helps.
Time of day: There is no formal night surcharge, but fewer taxis mean less competition, which can mean higher quotes after dark.
Vehicle type: Standard sedans are the norm. If you need a larger vehicle for luggage or a group, expect to pay more — and availability may require advance arrangement.
Currency and payment
Bring Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) in cash. There is no currency exchange at the airport. ATMs are available in Lankaran city but not at the terminal. Credit card acceptance is limited to larger hotels. For taxis and small transfers, cash is the only option.
Bottom line
The airport-to-city trip is one of the cheapest you will find anywhere, whichever way you arrange it. The real cost consideration comes if you are heading beyond Lankaran to Astara, the mountains, or other regional destinations. For those longer trips, a pre-arranged transfer with an agreed price avoids negotiation fatigue at arrival — and since street taxis here are unmetered with no published tariff, an agreed price is the only price you can rely on.