Şəki,Azerbaijan
Şəki is a picturesque city located in northwestern Azerbaijan, known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush forests, scenic mountains, and ancient architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists. Şəki is famous for its historic Khan's Palace, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture dating back to the 18th century.
The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, traditional crafts, and delicious local cuisine for visitors to enjoy.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Görüşdən sağ ol" - Goodbye
- "Təşəkkür edirəm" - Thank you
- "Zəhmət olmasa" - Please
- "Mənim adım" - My name is
- "Necəsiniz" - How are you
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring ki's Heritage
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Palace of Shaki Khans, an architectural marvel showcasing the city's rich history. Take a stroll through the Palace Gardens and soak in the tranquility. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast at the nearby Saray Restaurant.
afternoon:Head to the Albanian Church to delve into the region's ancient past and admire the unique architecture. Then, immerse yourself in the local flavors at the Caravanserai, known for its delicious kebabs and authentic ambiance.
evening:End the day with a delightful dinner at the Şəki Han Sarayı Restaurant and experience the vibrant night market for a lively evening surrounded by bustling stalls and live music.
Nature Escape in ki
morning:Embark on a refreshing hike to the majestic Ashaghi Kish Park, surrounded by lush greenery and serene trails. Enjoy your morning coffee at the charming Park Cafe, nestled in the heart of the park, offering a tranquil atmosphere in nature's embrace.
afternoon:Make your way to the beautiful Maraza Lake for a peaceful afternoon picnic and leisurely boating. Indulge in a delectable meal at the nearby Maraza Restaurant, known for its fresh fish dishes and scenic views.
evening:As the sun sets, venture to the nearby Qaratapa Historical Complex to witness the stunning sunset views and unwind in the picturesque surroundings before heading back to the city for a relaxing evening.
Cultural Immersion in ki
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Nukha Fortress to explore the rich heritage and stunning architecture. Savor a delightful breakfast at the Lagadin Restaurant, renowned for its local specialties and cozy ambiance.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the Şəki Art Center, where you can discover the region's traditional crafts and contemporary art. For lunch, try the mouthwatering dishes at the Mugha Restaurant, offering a blend of local and international flavors.
evening:Venture to the Şəki Handicrafts Center for an evening of traditional music and dance performances, showcasing the city's cultural legacy at its finest.
Discovering ki's Hidden Gems
morning:Embark on a guided tour of the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum, an architectural marvel boasting intricate designs and historical significance. Make a pit stop at the charming Alaturka Cafe for a delightful breakfast surrounded by local charm.
afternoon:Explore the quaint streets of the Old City and discover hidden treasures at the local artisan shops. For a satisfying lunch, head to the Garden Restaurant, offering a fusion of Azerbaijani and international cuisine in a serene garden setting.
evening:Dive into the city's vibrant nightlife scene by visiting the atmospheric Şəki Jazz Club, where you can unwind with live music and a diverse selection of drinks, promising a memorable evening.
Şəki Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Piti
Piti is a traditional Azerbaijani soup made with lamb, chickpeas, potatoes, and aromatic spices. It is slow-cooked in individual clay pots, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish. One can savor authentic Piti at the Karvansaray Restaurant in Şəki.
Must-Try!
Sheki halva
Sheki halva, also known as Pakhlava, is a sweet pastry made of multiple layers of thinly rolled dough, filled with a mixture of ground nuts or seeds, sugar, and cardamom. It's typically enjoyed during special occasions and is available at local bakeries such as Rahat baklava & Sheki sweets.
Qutab
Qutab is a popular street food in Şəki, consisting of thinly rolled dough stuffed with various fillings such as minced meat, spinach, or pumpkin. It's then cooked on a griddle and served fresh and piping hot at street food stalls like Qutabxana.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Şəki Food Bazaar
The Şəki Food Bazaar is a bustling market where locals and visitors can explore a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, local cheeses, honey, and an assortment of dried fruits and nuts. It's an ideal place to sample authentic street food like qutab, kebabs, and more.
Pet sitters in Şəki
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!