Sheki.
A major hub on the Silk Road, Sheki is one of Azerbaijan's most atmospheric cities. Nestled in the foothills of the Caucasus, it is famous for its intricate stained-glass palaces, traditional caravanserai inns, and unique local cuisine.




Top Things to Do.
Fetching live prices...
Save More
Save 5% on activities
Use code CHASINGWHEREABOUTS5 in the GetYourGuide app.
Book this exact experience in GetYourGuide appThe Survival Kit.
Hotels in Sheki
Find the perfect stay from historic boutique hotels in the city center to modern budget suites.
Stay near the Old Centre for walking access.
Flights to Sheki
Compare all major airlines and low-cost carriers flying into Sheki's main airports.
Mid-week flights are usually 20% cheaper.
Local Transport
Book your airport transfer, local city passes, or regional train tickets for exploring beyond Sheki.
Most cities offer 24/48h unlimited travel cards.
Guided Tours
Explore hidden corners with expert-led walking tours, food tastings, and day trips.
Free walking tours are a great first-day activity.
48 Hours in Sheki.
Day 1: Silk Road Grandeur
Sheki Khans' Palace
Visit the 18th-century palace, famous for its 'shebeke' stained glass windows made without a single nail or glue.
Upper Caravanserai
Step back in time at this massive stone inn where Silk Road merchants once stayed; it still operates as a hotel today.
Old Town Stroll
Wander the cobbled streets of the Yukhari Bash district and sample the famous Sheki Halva at a local pastry shop.
Day 2: Ancient Faith & Mountain Views
Kish Village Church
Take a short ride to the mountain village of Kish to visit one of the oldest Caucasian Albanian churches in the region.
World War II Memorial
Hike or drive up to the hilltop memorial for the best panoramic view of Shekiโs iconic red-tiled roofs.
The Piti Ritual
Enjoy Sheki's signature dish, Piti, a lamb and chickpea stew cooked in clay pots and eaten in two distinct stages.
Where to Stay?
Yukhari Bash
UNESCO-listedThe historic upper town where the fortress, main palace, and most traditional architecture are located.
Sari Topraq
TraditionalA historic neighborhood known for its red-brick houses, colorful gates, and local craft workshops.
Kish Village
RuralA mountain village just north of the city offering stone-walled lanes, cooler air, and a glimpse into ancient life.
Local Secrets
Shebeke Workshops
Don't just see the palace; visit the small workshops near the fortress to watch master craftsmen assemble stained glass by hand.
Gelersen-Gรถrersen Fortress
For a true adventure, hike to the ruins of this 'Come and See' fortress, which successfully resisted Persian sieges for centuries.
Sheki Humor
Shekians are the wits of Azerbaijan; if a local tells you a tall tale or makes a joke, it's a mark of true Sheki hospitality.
Escapes from Sheki.

Gabala
The nearby mountain resort of Gabala offers a more active, nature-focused contrast to Sheki's deep history.
Looking for something specific?
All Sheki Stories.
Get Travel Tips in Your Inbox
Join 5,000+ travelers. Get exclusive itineraries, honest reviews, and budget hacks once a week.
No spam. Only high-quality travel advice. Unsubscribe anytime.