wenaSheki is a beautiful city nestled on the hill of northern Azerbaijan. Known for its rich history and close connection to the famous silk road trade route. This ancient city played an important role in facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the East and the West.
When I first set foot in Sheki, I was struck by its unique charm and beauty. This town is known for its winding cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and fascinating cultural heritage. Yet, as soon as I stepped off the bus and entered the old town center, I could feel the energy of this bustling city pulsing around me. The charming buildings, inviting local markets, and cafes all seemed so vibrant and alive. Despite its modern amenities and growing popularity among tourists, Sheki retains a strong sense of tradition and authenticity that distinguishes it from other cities.
If you’re coming to Azerbaijan and did not see Sheki, it would be a shame as this town is one you do not want to miss. This guide will cover the top things to do in Sheki and how to get around independently.
How to Get to Sheki
First, you must get to Baku before traveling to Sheki, depending on which country you are from.
From UAE – several direct flight options are flying you directly to Baku starting from $300 roundtrip. I fly from Abu Dhabi to Baku via Wizz Air for $150 roundtrip, and they always offer discounted prices.
From Baku to Sheki by Bus
If you are a budget traveler, the bus is a good option. There are four buses daily, with the current timetable leaving at 9:50 am, 2:00 pm, 4:30 pm, and the last bus at 11:20 pm.
Head to International Bus Terminal (Avtovagzal) via train or taxi. At the bus station, go to level 3 inside the terminal building and go straight towards the ticket booth to buy your ticket. The ticket costs 8.40 AZN for a single trip with an assigned seat.
From Gabala to Sheki
If you are starting from Gabala, you can take a bus for an approximately 2-hour journey. Alternatively, book through the Bolt app and pay 25-30 AZN to get there. However, drivers might ask for 10 AZN extra because they won’t have any other passengers returning to Gabala.
How to Get Around Sheki
The best way to explore Sheki is by foot, as you’ll find the most popular attractions within walking distance to each other. However, for places a little further, such as Kish and Galarsan-Gorarsan Fortress, you will have to catch a marshrutka (mini-van) for a more local experience. Alternatively, you can take a taxi via the Bolt app.
Tips: If your plans include hiking in Galarsan-Gorarsan Fortress, organizing a taxi to wait for you at the starting point is highly recommended. It cost me 13 AZN to the fortress and wait for 2 hours, plus he took me to the Church of Kish and back to my accommodation.
How safe to visit Sheki
When it comes to the safety of this town, I can assure you that Sheki is a very safe place to visit. The people were so friendly, and I felt very safe walking around town, even as a solo female traveler at night. The only thing to be aware of is that most streets at night have no post lamp, so be sure to bring some flashlights; I used my phone flash.
Things to do in Sheki
Visit the Shaki Khans Palace (Summer Palace)
This stunning palace was built in 1972 and has been completely restored. Originally built by one of the leading members of the Shaki Khanate, this palace was home to countless generations of rulers and members of royalty over the years.
One of the most striking features of the palace is undoubtedly its beautiful shebeke window glass, which features an intricate mosaic of vibrant colors and patterns that come to life when the sunlight shines through them. In addition, the building itself features several sweeping archways and high domed ceilings that evoke a sense of grandeur and majesty.
According to my local guide, the construction of this palace took 10 long years. The shebeke windows were completed in 8 years, while the wall painting took 2 years. With its intricate architecture and magnificent design, it’s no wonder that this palace has endured through the centuries.
Entry to the palace costs 5 AZN, and if you want an English guide speaker, you must pay an additional 5 AZN. Unfortunately, photos inside will not be allowed, which I feel sad about.
Walk Around Sheki Fortress
Aside from visiting Shaki Khan Palace, you can do several interesting things around the palace. This magnificent complex was built in 1806 as a military stronghold to protect the area against attack.
Wandering through the fortress grounds, you will see the Three Saints Church, a beautiful round-shaped Caucasian Albanian Church.
You can also visit attractions such as the local craft market, Shebeke Workshop, Art Gallery, and Museum. However, at the time of my visit, museums are under renovation. If you want to do something fun, head to the photo studio beside the palace. Take a photo wearing traditional Azerbaijan clothing as a souvenir.
Visit the Shakikhanovs’ Palace (Winter Palace)
Unlike other attractions in Sheki, this one is located deep within the old town and often goes unnoticed by tourists.
This beautiful palace was initially constructed in the 18th century as a private retreat and home for wealthy silk traders. You will find similar lavish decorations from Shaki Khan Palace with highly intricate wall paintings inside the palace.
As of my visit in October 2022, taking photos is no longer allowed inside as per the new policy. I was alone during my visit, and the attendant followed me while looking around the palace. I asked him to let me take even one photo, but I was denied, which I feel pretty bummed out. The entrance fee is 5 AZN same as the summer palace.
Explore the Old Town
Many beautiful old buildings in Sheki Old Town have been preserved from the Silk Road time. The finely crafted red brick structures will take you through some of Sheki’s most exciting history.
While wandering through the winding cobblestone alleys, I found myself surrounded by history at every turn. As I strolled aimlessly through the Old Town, my feet took me to Caravanserai, my next stop.
Visit the Caravanserai
Your visit to Sheki will not be complete without stopping at this centuries-old site. This beautiful building once served as a vital stop along the Silk Road between Asia and Europe. Acting as a hub for trading caravans and travelers worldwide.
The first thing I notice as soon as I walk inside is how large the structure is. The architectural details of Caravanserai are still intact until now. While walking around the building, I was so fascinated and imagining all the people who had passed through this once-bustling city.
The building is classified as two separate buildings – the yukhary (upper) and ashaghy (lower). According to the guide from another group (yes, I was eavesdropping), there are 600 individual rooms of various sizes – including the underground storage cells.
Today, Caravanserai is again open for a stay for those who want to experience what it was like to rest like caravaners during the Silk Road era. Currently, they do not have available online reservations, and the only way to reserve a room at this hotel is by visiting them in person. I saw tourists arriving and paying for their stay during my visit. The room costs 50 AZN for a twin room.
Visit the Albanian Church (Kish Temple)
Try Sheki’s Traditional Dish
This delicious traditional Azerbaijani dish is made of lamb, mutton, potatoes, and carrots cooked in clay pots. How to eat this requires some preparation and guidance from locals. Don’t be like me – I ate it with rice!
If you have a sweet tooth, then you must try Halvasi sweets. A syrupy, baked baklava slice made with layers of rice paper, chopped nuts, and spices typically served with tea.
Where to Eat
Piti can be found at most restaurants in Sheki, but if you’re looking for the best one, head down to Piti House (Sultan Restaurant) in the lower Caravanserai.
For Halvasi, shops in the Old Town have the best ones. You should try it!
Where to Stay
There are several options to consider regarding where to stay in Sheki. Here are my recommendations:
Central Hostel – I had a great stay at this hostel! It is so clean, comfortable and has friendly staff. They are also accommodating with how to get around the city – I would highly recommend them for solo or backpackers alike.
Sheki Panorama Guest House – if you looking for a bed and breakfast, check out this highly-rated guest house in Sheki. They offer standard rooms and a villa suitable for a family vacation.
Sheki Palace Hotel – this hotel is a good choice for those who want some comfort. It’s located in the center of town, just steps away from all major attractions and bus stops that will take you around Sheki easily.
How Many Days to Spend in Sheki
This depends on how many days you have to spend in Sheki. But I highly recommend staying for 2 days to give you enough time to visit the main sights.
Tours & Activities