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
A taxi from LLK airport to central Lankaran costs 5-10 AZN (roughly $3-6 USD). The ride takes under 10 minutes. There are no meters — you negotiate the fare before getting in. Given the short distance, there is not much room for inflated pricing, but agreeing upfront prevents any misunderstanding.
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). 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. Taxi fare runs 30-50 AZN ($18-30 USD), taking roughly one hour. Private transfer pricing is similar.
Masalli: About 45 km north. Expect 25-40 AZN ($15-24 USD) by taxi or transfer.
Lerik (Talysh Mountains): About 65 km into the mountains. The road is winding and the trip takes 1.5-2 hours. Budget 40-60 AZN ($24-36 USD).
Baku: Roughly 270 km and a 4-5 hour drive. A one-way transfer would cost 150-250 AZN ($90-150 USD). Flying is more practical for most travelers.
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 — 5-25 AZN depending on how 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.