Things To Do
in Şəki
Shəki is a historic city in northwestern Azerbaijan set among forested hills and delicate river valleys. It preserves a remarkable Silk Road heritage, anchored by the UNESCO-listed Khan's Palace and a maze of white-washed streets. The old town blends timber balconies, mosques, caravanserais, and artisan workshops where carpet weaving remains a living craft.
Surrounded by mountains and greenery, Şəki serves as a gateway to scenic viewpoints, traditional teahouses, and distinctive Azerbaijani cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Şəki's Old Town, admiring the charming architecture and historic buildings. Visit the stunning Sheki Khans' Palace, where intricate stained glass and ornate decorations tell stories of the past. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring local jams and freshly baked bread to energize your day.
After lunch, head to the Sheki Museum of History to delve deeper into the region's rich culture and heritage. Spend your afternoon delighting in local artistry by visiting the workshops of traditional handicrafts, including silk weaving and pottery. Take a moment to relax in one of the many beautiful parks, surrounded by the fresh air of the Caucasus mountains.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant overlooking the stunning landscapes of Şəki. Taste local delicacies such as Piti, a traditional meat and vegetable stew, complemented by a glass of Azerbaijani wine. Round off your evening by immersing yourself in the warm atmosphere of a local tea house, where you can mix with locals and share stories.
Begin your day by visiting the remarkable Church of St. Elise, an ancient Albanian church located just outside of Şəki. The serene environment and stunning frescoes provide a perfect morning backdrop for reflection and appreciation of history. Sip on some aromatic Azerbaijani tea while absorbing the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding nature.
Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the area, learning about the unique history of the Albanian people and their contributions to Azerbaijani culture. Engage with local artisans and perhaps even try your hand at some traditional crafts. The afternoon light showcases the intricate designs of the church’s surroundings, making for fantastic photography opportunities.
In the evening, return to Şəki and explore more dining options, trying local street food such as the popular kebabs and fresh salads. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town as you watch locals go about their evening routines. If you're fortunate, you might catch live folk music performances that fill the air with the sounds of Azerbaijani culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🚗Taxi within city | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (1 night) | $25-60 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road heritage and the Khan’s Palace
- Walkable old town with scenic surrounding hills
- Delicious regional sweets, like Sheki halva
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Mountain roads can be winding and slow in bad weather
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Çox sağ olun" - Thank you very much
- "Harada? / Haraya gedirsiniz?" - Where is...? / How do I get there?
- "Zəhmət olmasa" - Please
- "Bağışlayın" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Bəli / Xeyr" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Şəki
Visit one of these nice places.
The UNESCO-listed palace is famed for its intricate woodwork, stained-glass windows, and terraced surroundings—ideal for architectural and detail shots.
Narrow lanes, white-washed houses, timber balconies, and stone bridges provide atmospheric street photography and portraits.
Elevated spots above the town offer sweeping views over the river, rooftops, and surrounding forested hills—especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Şəki
Şəki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous regional sweet made with starch and sugar, often enjoyed with tea; found in dedicated halva shops and at markets near the Khan’s Palace.
Must-Try!
Stuffed grape leaves or peppers with a fragrant rice-herb filling; commonly served with yogurt or lemon on the side.
Azerbaijan’s iconic rice pilaf, often prepared with saffron, vegetables, and sometimes meat; a staple at tables across Şəki.
A yogurt-based soup that can be served warm or cold, rich with herbs and sometimes chickpeas or millet.
Charcoal-grilled skewers of lamb or chicken, typically served with fresh herbs, bread, and onions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic bazaar where you can sample dairy, fruits, nuts, bread, and local sweet treats; great for a quick bite and authentic snacks.
Streetside stalls offering fresh bread, pastries, and light snacks; ideal for a casual lunch or tea break.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting (Salam) is customary. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats when appropriate and ask before entering a private home.
Hospitality is important; accepting tea or small refreshments is a common courtesy.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or religious settings.
Safety
Tipping in Şəki
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 5–10% tip is common if service is not already included. Small tips to guides or drivers are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely used in markets and smaller eateries; major hotels and many restaurants accept credit/debit cards. It’s wise to carry some local currency (AZN) for buses and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and lush greenery; ideal for walking tours and outdoor photography in flower-rich hills.
Hot days with dry conditions; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Pleasant weather with colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and countryside hikes.
Cold with possible snowfall; some mountain trails may be closed; dress warmly and enjoy indoor cultural sites and markets.
Şəki at Night
Hiking in Şəki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate loop through forested hills with city views.
Moderate hike along a scenic river gorge with viewpoints and waterfalls.
Day trip to the nearby lake area with lakeside trails and forested paths.
Airports
How to reach Şəki by plane.
Nearest airport serving domestic and some international flights; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Şəki.
Major international gateway; roughly 260–320 km from Şəki with frequent domestic connections to regional centers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Şəki and throughout Azerbaijan.
Smaller populations such as Lezgins and other Caucasus groups live in the broader region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Azerbaijan; local clubs and national match interest are common in regional towns.
A traditional sport with cultural significance; occasional competitions occur in regional venues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şəki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian-friendly options exist: salads, lentil or bean dishes, dolma stuffed with rice and herbs (without meat), dairy-based dishes, and seasonal produce. When ordering, specify no meat or fish and request vegetable-based dolma if needed.