While Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, often draws the spotlight, few venture into Sheki, a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. This charming city, recognized in 2019 as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with its historic center and the famed Sheki Khan’s Palace, is a fascinating stop along the ancient Silk Road. With its cobblestone streets, bustling bazaars, and vibrant cultural heritage, Sheki invites visitors to experience its stories and treasures in just one day. Here’s an ideal itinerary to make the most of your 24 hours in Sheki.
10 a.m. – Begin with the Xan Sarayi (Sheki Khan’s Palace)
Your journey through Sheki starts at its star attraction, Xan Sarayi, or Sheki Khan’s Palace, perched on a hill at the town’s northeastern edge. Built in 1762 as a summer palace for the ruling khan, this two-story masterpiece is shaded by towering chinar trees. The palace facade dazzles with colorful patterns of turquoise, cobalt, and ochre tiles, beautifully complemented by intricately designed wooden latticework windows. It is the only fully restored building within the fortress complex, which once housed the khan’s residences and a winter palace.
Inside, each room bursts with vibrant murals and frescoes that depict floral and paisley motifs, as well as scenes of hunting and warfare on the upper floor. But the palace’s most captivating feature is the shebeke windows—a mesmerizing mosaic of stained glass assembled without nails or glue, casting vivid colors that dance across the rooms in the sunlight. The enchanting atmosphere and historical beauty of Xan Sarayi set the stage for your day in Sheki.
11 a.m. – Explore the Artisan Bazaar and Fortress Grounds
After touring the palace, head to the nearby artisan bazaar on the fortress grounds. This lively market showcases Azerbaijan’s rich artistic traditions and provides a glimpse into local craftsmanship. One of the must-see stalls is the shebeke workshop, where artisans skillfully create stained glass and wooden latticework, a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations. Witnessing the intricate process that goes into creating these unique designs brings new appreciation for the art you admired in the palace.
Other stalls offer a variety of Azerbaijani handicrafts, including embroidery, pottery, and the famous 11-stringed instrument known as the tar. Additionally, a small museum within the fortress complex offers a quick overview of Sheki’s cultural heritage through displays of traditional artifacts, tools, and pottery—perfect for history buffs wanting to learn more about Sheki’s Silk Road legacy.
11:45 a.m. – Visit the Yukhari Karvansaray Hotel for a Tea Break
To experience a taste of Sheki’s Silk Road past, stroll about ten minutes down the main road to the Yukhari Karvansaray Hotel. Originally built in the 18th century to host traders and travelers, this caravanserai has been beautifully restored, retaining its old-world charm with a lush central courtyard surrounded by a two-level arcade of stone arches. Though there are newer accommodations in Sheki, this historic inn offers a window into the life of early Silk Road travelers.
If you’re not staying overnight, stop by for a tea break at the çayxana (teahouse), where you can relax in cozy alcoves. Here, tea is served in the traditional Azerbaijani style, alongside dried fruits, nuts, and a selection of murabba (jams) like apricot and white cherry. Don’t miss Sheki’s famous baklava, a delicacy with layers of nuts and honey that pairs wonderfully with freshly brewed tea.
1 p.m. – Lunch at Restoran Qaqarin
For lunch, head to Restoran Qaqarin, just a short walk from the caravanserai. Here, you can sample Sheki’s distinctive cuisine, including plov (fragrant rice baked in thin pastry) and perhaps a glass of local Azerbaijani wine. Sheki is known for its silk industry, and a visit wouldn’t be complete without picking up a kelagayi, a traditional Azeri silk scarf. These elegant scarves, often patterned with intricate designs, make wonderful souvenirs and can be worn as scarves or stoles.
While exploring, make sure to stop at Aliahmad Sweets, only five minutes away, to try the city’s famous halva. Known locally as pakhlava, this sweet treat is crafted with layers of nuts, spices, and honey—a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
3:30 p.m. – Discover the Albanian Church of Kish
A 20-minute drive north of Sheki lies the village of Kish, nestled in a picturesque valley framed by the Caucasus Mountains. Here, cobblestone streets lead to the historic Albanian Church of Kish, which dates back to the 1st century A.D. Although modest in size, the church holds a serene beauty and a deep historical significance. Today, it functions as a museum, displaying artifacts and ancient skeletons from excavations in the area. Wandering around the church and village offers a quiet retreat from Sheki’s busier streets, with the stunning mountain scenery providing a perfect backdrop for photos.
8 p.m. – End Your Day with a Traditional Dinner at Nuxa
Return to Sheki in time for dinner at Nuxa, a popular restaurant located within the Marxal Resort and Spa. Here, you can savor piti, Sheki’s beloved dish. This thick, hearty stew combines lamb, chickpeas, chestnuts, vegetables, and a hint of apricot, and is traditionally cooked in clay pots known as dopu for up to 12 hours, giving it a rich, layered flavor. Eating piti like a local involves tearing pieces of soft lavash bread, soaking it in the broth, and sprinkling sumac before enjoying the dish. The second course involves mashing the stew’s remaining ingredients into a chunky paste—truly a meal to remember.
Sheki’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and culinary delights ensures a memorable experience that goes beyond a typical travel itinerary. By immersing yourself in its unique traditions, vibrant markets, and historical sites, you’ll leave with a genuine appreciation for this charming city tucked away in the Caucasus Mountains. Though a single day might only scratch the surface, Sheki’s blend of ancient and modern offers travelers an unforgettable encounter with Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage.
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