2-Day Sheki Adventure: Food, Wine and Outdoor Fun with Friends

Sheki, Azerbaijan

2 days

Old houses of Sheki
Traditional scullcaps
Old palace of Shaki Khans
Khan mosque
Details on the palace of Shaki Khans

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 1

Exploring Sheki's History and Cuisine

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Sheki Khans' Palace, a stunning example of Azerbaijani architecture. This 18th-century royal summer palace offers intricate frescoes and stained glass work.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Azerbaijani lunch. Try local dishes like piti, a mutton soup cooked in a clay pot, and Sheki halva, a sweet dessert made from rice flour, sugar, and nuts.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, exploring its cobblestone streets and historic caravanserais. Don't miss the local craft shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try dishes like dolma, stuffed grape leaves, and qutab, a thin, crispy bread filled with meat or vegetables.

Evening

Spend the evening at a Local Wine Tasting. Sheki is known for its excellent wines, so this is a great opportunity to sample some local varieties.

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)

Sheki Khans' Palace

1
Sheki Khans' Palace

A magnificent historical building from the 18th century, showcasing the finest examples of the architecture and decorative arts of that period.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Old Town

2
Old Town

The historic part of Sheki, filled with traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and ancient structures.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Local Wine Tasting

3
Local Wine Tasting

Experience the rich flavors of Azerbaijani wines, made from locally grown grapes.

Tours
Food and Drink
Albanian Church

4
Albanian Church

A beautiful ancient church that is part of the Caucasian Albania, a historic region with a rich cultural heritage.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Sheki Fortress

5
Sheki 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.

Attractions
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Piti

Piti

A traditional soup made from mutton and vegetables, cooked in a clay pot. It's a must-try dish in Sheki, Azerbaijan.

Dushbara

Dushbara

A popular Azerbaijani soup that consists of tiny dumplings filled with ground meat and spices. It's a common dish in Sheki.

Qutab

Qutab

A thin, crispy pancake filled with greens, meat, or cheese. It's a popular street food in Sheki.

Sheki Halva

Sheki Halva

A traditional Sheki dessert made from rice flour, sugar, and butter. It's often served with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Kebab

Kebab

A popular dish in Sheki, made from skewered and grilled pieces of meat, often served with flatbread and vegetables.

Dolma

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

Kufta Bozbash

A rich mutton soup with large meatballs, potatoes, and chickpeas. It's a traditional dish in Sheki.

Shirin Plov

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

Choban Salad

A simple and refreshing salad made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs. It's a common side dish in Sheki.

Turshu

Turshu

A variety of pickled vegetables, a common accompaniment to meals in Sheki.

Ayran

Ayran

A traditional Azerbaijani drink made from yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt. It's a popular refreshing drink in Sheki.

Chai

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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 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 services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Sheki. However, local taxi apps may offer a similar service.

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 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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency AZN

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 03; Fire: 01; Police: 02

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Sheki, Azerbaijan is one of the oldest human settlements in the Caucasus, with archaeological evidence dating back to 2500-2000 BC?

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