2-Day Sheki Adventure: Food, Wine and Outdoor Fun with Friends
Sheki, Azerbaijan
2 days
About Sheki, Azerbaijan
Discover the enchanting city of Sheki, Azerbaijan, a hidden gem nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. This historic city is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the magnificent Sheki Khans' Palace, adorned with impressive frescoes and stained glass. Explore the city's rich history at the Sheki History Museum, or wander through the bustling bazaars for a taste of local culture. Enjoy the local cuisine, particularly the famous Sheki halva and piti. Don't miss the Kish Albanian Church, a testament to the city's diverse religious history. With its picturesque landscapes, hot springs, and warm hospitality, Sheki offers an unforgettable travel experience.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historical Monuments and Local Experiences
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Albanian Church, a historical monument that dates back to the 1st century. The church is located in the village of Kish, just a short drive from Sheki.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying more Azerbaijani specialties like shashlik, skewered and grilled cubes of meat, and kutum, a local fish dish.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Sheki Fortress, a 15th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Sheki at a local restaurant. Try some local dishes like lyulya kebab, a type of skewered meat, and pakhlava, a sweet pastry.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local tea house. Azerbaijani tea culture is a unique experience, with its own rituals and traditions. Try some local teas and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Attractions in Itinerary (5)
1Sheki Khans' Palace
A magnificent historical building from the 18th century, showcasing the finest examples of the architecture and decorative arts of that period.
2Old Town
The historic part of Sheki, filled with traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and ancient structures.
3Local Wine Tasting
Experience the rich flavors of Azerbaijani wines, made from locally grown grapes.
4Albanian Church
A beautiful ancient church that is part of the Caucasian Albania, a historic region with a rich cultural heritage.
5Sheki Fortress
The Sheki Fortress, also known as the Fortress of Sheki Khans, is a historic fortification that offers panoramic views of the city. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Piti
A traditional soup made from mutton and vegetables, cooked in a clay pot. It's a must-try dish in Sheki, Azerbaijan.
Dushbara
A popular Azerbaijani soup that consists of tiny dumplings filled with ground meat and spices. It's a common dish in Sheki.
Qutab
A thin, crispy pancake filled with greens, meat, or cheese. It's a popular street food in Sheki.
Sheki Halva
A traditional Sheki dessert made from rice flour, sugar, and butter. It's often served with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Kebab
A popular dish in Sheki, made from skewered and grilled pieces of meat, often served with flatbread and vegetables.
Dolma
A traditional Azerbaijani dish made from grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and herbs. It's commonly enjoyed in Sheki.
Kufta Bozbash
A rich mutton soup with large meatballs, potatoes, and chickpeas. It's a traditional dish in Sheki.
Shirin Plov
A sweet version of pilaf made with rice, dried fruits, and nuts. It's a festive dish often served in Sheki.
Choban Salad
A simple and refreshing salad made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs. It's a common side dish in Sheki.
Turshu
A variety of pickled vegetables, a common accompaniment to meals in Sheki.
Ayran
A traditional Azerbaijani drink made from yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt. It's a popular refreshing drink in Sheki.
Chai
Azerbaijani tea served in a traditional glass, often enjoyed with sweets. It's a staple drink in Sheki.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Sheki, Azerbaijan is typically during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history and culture. The summer months can also be a good time to visit, but temperatures can get quite high. Winter is less popular due to the cold weather and potential snowfall.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | Day off for World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day |
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 2 | Tue | New Year's Holiday |
January 20 | Sat | Martyrs’ Day |
January 22 | Mon | Day off for Martyrs’ Day |
March 8 | Fri | Women's Day |
March 20 | Wed | Nowruz |
March 21 | Thu | Nowruz/Spring Holiday |
March 22 | Fri | Nowruz/Spring Holiday |
March 23 | Sat | Nowruz/Spring Holiday |
March 24 | Sun | Nowruz/Spring Holiday |
April 10 | Wed | Ramadan holiday |
April 11 | Thu | Ramadan holiday |
May 9 | Thu | Victory Day over Fascism |
May 28 | Tue | Republic Day |
June 15 | Sat | Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People |
June 17 | Mon | Feast of the Sacrifice |
June 17 | Mon | Day off for Day of National Salvation of the Azerbaijani People |
June 18 | Tue | Feast of the Sacrifice Holiday |
June 26 | Wed | Azerbaijan Armed Forces Day |
November 8 | Fri | Victory Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan |
November 9 | Sat | State Flag Day of Azerbaijan |
November 11 | Mon | Day off for State Flag Day of Azerbaijan |
December 31 | Tue | World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day |
How to get around
Taxi
Taxis are a common and convenient way to get around Sheki. They can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. Most drivers do not speak English, so it's advisable to have your destination written in Azerbaijani.
Bus
Local buses are available in Sheki, providing an affordable way to travel around the city. They operate on fixed routes and schedules. It's important to have small change for the fare as drivers do not usually provide change.
Car Rental
Car rental services are available in Sheki. This option provides the most flexibility for getting around, especially for visiting the surrounding areas. An international driving permit is required.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Sheki. However, local taxi apps may offer a similar service.
Foot
Sheki is a small city and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. This is a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in good weather.
Bicycle
Bicycle rental is available in Sheki. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the city. However, be aware that Sheki is hilly and some areas may be challenging to cycle.
Minibus (Marshrutka)
Minibuses, or Marshrutkas, are a common form of public transport in Sheki. They operate on fixed routes and are a cheap and efficient way to travel around the city. They can be hailed from the street and you pay the driver directly.
Horse-drawn Carriage
For a unique and traditional experience, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride around Sheki. This is a popular way to see the city's historic sites.
Important information
Currency AZN
Time zoneUTC+4
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 03; Fire: 01; Police: 02
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Sheki, Azerbaijan as a first time visitor
1
Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) is the local currency, and it's recommended to carry some cash as not all places accept credit cards.
2
The official language is Azerbaijani, but Russian and English are also widely spoken.
3
Sheki is a safe city, but like any other place, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
4
Public transportation is available and affordable, but it may not be very comfortable or reliable. Taxis are a better option for short distances.
5
The city has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in summer is around 77°F (25°C), and in winter it's around 28°F (-2°C).
6
Azerbaijani cuisine is a must-try, with dishes like Piti (a type of soup) and Sheki Halva (a sweet dessert).
7
Tipping is customary in Azerbaijan. It's usual to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants.
8
Sheki is a city rich in history and culture, so respect local customs and traditions.
9
The city is known for its handicrafts, especially Shebeke, a type of stained glass work. It's a great souvenir to take back home.
10
Sheki is located in a mountainous region, so pack accordingly if you plan on hiking or exploring the outdoors.
11
The city has a good number of hotels and guest houses to suit different budgets.
12
Sheki is not a big city, so it's easy to explore on foot. However, wear comfortable shoes as the streets can be uneven.
13
The city has a number of traditional tea houses where you can relax and enjoy Azerbaijani tea.
14
Smoking is very common in Azerbaijan, and it's allowed in many public places.
15
The city has a number of pharmacies where you can buy basic medicines without a prescription.
16
Tap water is not safe to drink in Sheki. It's recommended to buy bottled water.
17
The city has a number of internet cafes and most hotels offer free Wi-Fi.
18
Sheki is located in a seismic zone, so familiarize yourself with safety procedures in case of an earthquake.
19
The city has a number of banks and ATMs where you can withdraw cash.
20
The electrical outlets in Azerbaijan are type F, the same as in most of Europe, and the standard voltage is 220V.
Basic Azerbaijani to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Salam | sah-lam | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Hədəf | he-def | Leaving someone |
Please | Zəhmət olmasa | zeh-met ol-ma-sa | Making a request |
Thank you | Təşəkkür edirəm | te-she-kur ed-ir-em | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Bəli | be-li | Agreeing with someone |
No | Yox | yokh | Disagreeing with someone |
Excuse me | Üzr istəyirəm | uzr ist-ey-ir-em | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Mən üzr istəyirəm | men uzr ist-ey-ir-em | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Siz ingilis dili danışırsınız? | siz in-gil-is dili da-nish-ir-siniz | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Mən başa düşmürəm | men ba-sha du-shmur-em | When you don't understand what's being said |
Where is the bathroom? | Tualet haradadır? | tua-let ha-ra-da-dir | Asking for directions |
How much does this cost? | Bu neçədir? | bu ne-che-dir | Asking for the price of something |
I need a doctor | Mənə həkim lazımdır | me-ne he-kim la-zim-dir | In case of a medical emergency |
Can you help me? | Mənə kömək edə bilərsiniz? | me-ne kom-ek ed-e bil-er-siniz | Asking for help |
Water | Su | su | Asking for water |
Food | Yemək | ye-mek | Asking for food |
Beer | Pivo | pi-vo | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Şərab | she-rab | Ordering wine |
Check, please | Hesabı, zəhmət olmasa | he-sa-bi, zeh-met ol-ma-sa | Asking for the check |
Good night | Gecən xeyr | ge-che-n khe-yr | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Scarf for visiting religious sites
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver’s license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Travel insurance information
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Mobile phone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Power bank
Adapters and converters
Laptop and charger (optional)
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Books or e-books for entertainment
Travel guide and map
Reusable water bottle
Umbrella or raincoat
Travel-size laundry detergent
Weather Conditions
Sheki, Azerbaijan is known for its temperate climate, making it a pleasant destination for most of the year. However, the weather can vary, so it's important to plan accordingly. The summer months (June to August) can be quite warm, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunblock, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The winter months (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to 28°F (-2°C). If you're visiting during this time, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Snowfall is common during these months, so waterproof boots are also recommended. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 68°F (20°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, so pack comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the weather conditions. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly in Sheki, so it's wise to pack a variety of clothing options. Lastly, don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat, as Sheki experiences rainfall throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation typically occurring in the spring and autumn months.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 5° / -3° | January is the coldest month in Sheki, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for possible snowfall. |
February | 7° / -1° | February is still quite cold, with occasional snow. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter landscapes. |
March | 12° / 2° | March sees the start of spring with temperatures slowly rising. However, it can still be chilly, especially in the evenings. |
April | 17° / 7° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a good time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
May | 21° / 11° | May is warm and generally sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with spring colors. |
June | 25° / 15° | June is the start of summer with long, warm days. It's an excellent time for hiking and exploring the countryside. |
July | 28° / 18° | July is the hottest month in Sheki, with temperatures often exceeding 25 degrees. It's a perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals. |
August | 28° / 18° | August is also quite hot, but it's a great time to visit the local markets and try the summer fruits. |
September | 23° / 13° | September marks the start of autumn. The weather is still warm, but the nights can be cool. |
October | 18° / 8° | October is a beautiful month with autumn colors. The weather is cooler, making it ideal for long walks. |
November | 13° / 3° | November is a transition month with temperatures dropping. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
December | 9° / -1° | December is a cold month with short days. It's a good time to enjoy the winter scenery and local cuisine. |
Did you know?
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