To be honest, I was not planning to visit Sheki at all. Before my trip, I didn’t even know much about the city—how beautiful, historic, and peaceful it is. The only reason I ended up there was because of my friend Namig, who was staying in Sheki at the time. I decided to visit him, and that spontaneous decision turned out to be one of the best parts of my trip to Azerbaijan.

As soon as I arrived, I was surprised by the natural beauty, the calm streets, the stunning architecture, and the rich cultural atmosphere. I stayed for a couple of days, and during that short time, Sheki left a deep impression on me. It’s the kind of place that feels like a quiet secret—underrated but unforgettable.

Whether you’re a history lover, a culture explorer, or just someone who enjoys discovering offbeat destinations, here are the best things to do in Sheki that will make you fall in love with this hidden gem of the Caucasus.

Sheki is one of Azerbaijan’s most charming and historical cities. I stayed for a couple of days, and I can confidently say this town is a must-visit for anyone exploring the country.

From royal palaces to ancient caravanserais, from sweet halva to vibrant bazaars—here are the best things to do in Sheki that will make you fall in love with its beauty and rich heritage.

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1. Visit the Sheki Khan’s Palace (Xan Sarayı)

This is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Sheki. Built in the 18th century, the palace was the summer residence of the Sheki Khans. The interior is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani craftsmanship—with intricate shebeke (stained glass mosaics), wooden carvings, and detailed frescoes.

Tip: Photos are not allowed inside, but the experience is unforgettable. Try to go early morning to avoid tour groups.

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2. Explore the Upper Caravanserai

A throwback to the Silk Road era, this stone building once hosted traders and travelers. Today, it functions as a hotel, but visitors can freely explore the inner courtyard and get a sense of ancient hospitality.

You can even stay here for a unique experience—sleep in a real caravanserai room!

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3. Try Sheki Halva (Şəki halvası)

You can’t leave Sheki without tasting its most famous sweet—Sheki halva. Made with nuts, rice flour, and syrup, it’s a rich dessert that locals are very proud of. Visit a traditional sweet shop like Halva House to see how it’s made.

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4. Church of Kish (Kish Albanian Church)

Located in the small village of Kish, about 5 km from Sheki, this ancient church is believed to be one of the oldest Christian structures in the Caucasus. The surrounding views of the mountains add a peaceful touch to the historical visit.

Easy to reach by taxi or local bus from Sheki.

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5. Wander Through Sheki Bazaar

Every morning, the Sheki Bazaar comes alive with locals selling everything from spices, nuts, fruits, honey, and textiles. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs, chat with friendly vendors, and see local life in action.

Don’t forget to try local dried fruits and pick up a handmade scarf or socks.

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6. Stroll Around Sheki’s Old Town

The architecture of Sheki is unique—sloped red-tile roofs, wooden balconies, and stone streets. Just walking through the old quarters is an experience in itself. Many of the homes still have wooden-carved windows and traditional courtyards.

Take your camera—this area is full of hidden photo spots.

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7. Visit a Shebeke Workshop

Shebeke is an ancient Azerbaijani art of creating stained-glass windows without nails or glue. In Sheki, you can visit local workshops and see artisans handcrafting these intricate patterns. Some even offer short demonstrations or small pieces for sale.

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8. Eat Traditional Sheki Cuisine

Make sure to try Piti, a famous local lamb stew served in clay pots. The unique way of eating it—crushing the chickpeas and meat separately—is part of the experience.

Head to restaurants like Gagarin Restaurant or Çələbi Xan for authentic food with views.

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9. Hike or Drive to Sheki Fortress Wall

Above the Khan’s Palace lies the Sheki Fortress, and parts of its ancient walls still exist. It’s not only historically significant but also offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

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10. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Villages

If you have extra time, explore nearby villages like Ilisu or Lahij, known for scenic landscapes, fresh rivers, and traditional mountain culture. These places offer deeper insight into rural Azerbaijani life.

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Where I Stayed

I stayed at a local guesthouse just a few minutes from the palace, which was cozy, family-run, and had amazing homemade breakfasts. Sheki has a great mix of budget-friendly guesthouses and mid-range boutique hotels, often with mountain views and historical ambiance.

Sheki isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination that deserves your time. Whether you’re interested in history, food, architecture, or just relaxing, Sheki offers an authentic and unforgettable Azerbaijani experience. I’m glad I made time for this hidden gem during my travels and would recommend it to anyone planning a trip to the Caucasus.

If you need more help planning your trip, feel free to leave a comment or reach out to me.
Happy travels.

If you have any questions about my trip to Azerbaijan, don’t hesitate to ask them!

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