Sheki is one of the most charming cities in the country and a must-see for those traveling the ancient Silk Road.
Surrounded by the Greater Caucasus Mountains, it combines history, traditional architecture and a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the dynamism of the capital.
In this post I'll tell you what to see and do in Sheki, where to stay, some practical recommendations and the reasons why this city has become one of the most interesting destinations in northern Azerbaijan.
Table of Contents
Where is Sheki located?
Sheki is located in northwestern Azerbaijan, about 300 kilometers from Baku, in the direction of the border with Georgia. It is situated in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, at about 700 meters above sea level, giving it a cooler and more pleasant climate than the capital, especially in summer.
The city is part of the historic Sheki-Zaqatala region, a mountainous area known for its green landscapes, traditional villages, and its importance within the ancient trade routes that linked the Caspian Sea with the Caucasus and the Black Sea.
Furthermore, its location makes it an excellent base for continuing your journey to Qakh, Zaqatala or even Tbilisi (Georgia).
How to get to Sheki from Baku
You can reach Sheki from Baku by bus, train, or private transport. The journey usually takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the means chosen.
By bus
The most practical option is by bus. There are frequent services that depart from the Baku terminal (see location on map) towards Sheki. The journey takes about 5 hours, and the vehicles are usually modern and air-conditioned.
The Sheki bus terminal is relatively close to the center (see on map), making it easy to access the historic center or your accommodation.
By train
Another option, more comfortable than the bus but less practical in my opinion, is the Baku–Sheki night train, which departs from the capital's main station and arrives early in the morning. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online via the official Azerbaijan Railways website.
Once in Sheki, the train station is located about 7 km from the center (see on the map). You'll need to take a taxi to get closer to the city.
By private transport
If you prefer more flexibility, you can opt for a rental car or a private driver, which will allow you to make intermediate stops in places like Ismayilli, Gabala or Lake Nohur.
Tip: the bus option is usually the most practical for most travelers. Services run frequently throughout the day, the route is direct, and it drops you off just a few minutes' walk from the center of Sheki—ideal if you're traveling with a backpack or want to avoid extra transfers.
What to see in Sheki
Sheki is one of Azerbaijan's most charming cities, with traditional architecture that seems frozen in time and a mountainous environment that completely surrounds it.
It's not a big city, and in fact, most of its attractions can be seen in a day. Even so, there are some old sites that are worth visiting.
Walled citadel
The walled citadel of Sheki is a fortified enclosure that dominates the upper part of the city and functions as a historical center; its walls, towers and gates delimit a set of ancient buildings that are worth exploring at a leisurely pace.
Within the complex, there are several historical, religious and civil buildings, which showcase the architectural diversity of the area and help to understand the strategic and commercial importance of Sheki in past centuries.
Among the most striking buildings are:
The Round Temple
The round temple is a unique construction due to its layout and proportions, preserving interesting architectural and decorative vestiges.
Alongside it are small historic houses, workshops and outbuildings that today house exhibitions, craft shops or simply serve as a good backdrop for photos.
Palacio de los Kanes de Sheki
It is, without a doubt, the jewel of the city. Built in the late 18th century, the Palace of the Khans of Sheki was the summer residence of the local rulers and is one of the finest examples of Azerbaijani architecture.
Its facade, decorated with colored glass mosaics and carved wood without a single nail, is impressive, but the most amazing thing is inside: detailed stained glass, original frescoes, and ceilings decorated with floral and geometric scenes.
It's a shame they don't allow photos inside, but I still recommend going in; it's totally worth it.
The entrance fee is inexpensive, and visits are only permitted with a guide. It's best to go early in the morning or towards the end of the day to avoid tour groups.
Practical tips for visiting the citadel
- Enter early to climb to the upper parts of the wall and enjoy the views over the historic center.
- Wear comfortable shoes because the pavements are uneven; and if you can, take a tour with a local guide so they can explain the original function of each building (many have histories or recent repairs that are not obvious at first glance).
- The citadel is ideal for those who enjoy tangible history and exploring spaces where architecture tells the story of daily life in other eras.
Sheki Caravanserai
Just a few minutes from the palace is the Caravansaray, an old inn that served as lodging for merchants traveling the Silk Road.
Its stone structure, with interior courtyards and vaulted passageways, remains almost intact.
Today it functions as a hotel, but you can freely visit to admire its architecture or have tea in its peaceful courtyard.
The rooms are simple but authentic, and at night the place has an almost magical atmosphere, with the dim lighting highlighting the arches and stone walls.
My visit to Azerbaijan was part of a grand journey along the ancient Silk Road. In this post you can learn more about the countries visited and how to do it all on your own.
Bazaar and artisan shops
The Sheki bazaar is another must-see. It's not big, but it retains a genuine local atmosphere, where you can see people buying fresh produce and try typical sweets like Sheki halva, a kind of nut and honey cake very popular in the region.
There are also small shops selling glass and wood crafts, silk workshops and some shops selling regional products such as honey, nuts or spices. It's a great place to buy authentic souvenirs without Baku's inflated prices.
Churches and historical monuments
In the surroundings of the city are the remains of ancient temples and fortresses, a testament to the cultural mix that characterized the region.
One of the most interesting is the Albanian Church of Kish, located about 6 km from the center. It is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in the Caucasus and offers a small museum with information about the religious history of the area.
From there, on clear days, you can get great views of the valley, so many travelers combine the visit with a short walk or lunch at one of the nearby restaurants with terraces.
I wasn't lucky, and the days I was in the area were all gray and rainy, but if the weather helps, it's sure to be super beautiful.
How to get to the Albanian Church of Kish
You can reach the Albanian Church in several ways:
- On foot or at a leisurely pace: If you enjoy walking, it's easily doable from the center in about an hour and a half. The path is mostly uphill, but the rural scenery and mountain views make it very pleasant. It's a good option if you want to experience local life outside the town center.
- By taxi or Bolt: the most practical way. A taxi from the center of Sheki takes about 10 to 15 minutes and costs very little (usually around 3 to 5 manat, depending on the season). You can easily order one with the Bolt app, which works well in the city.
- Local transport: Some local minibuses go to Kish, although the schedules aren't very regular and they're mostly used by residents. If you're up for it, it's the cheapest option, but it's best to check with your accommodation before you go.
Walks and nature
In addition to its historical heritage, Sheki is surrounded by mountains, forests and small rivers, making it a good base for those who enjoy hiking or rural excursions.
From the city you can organize trips to nearby villages such as Kish or Kum, or even take longer routes to Ilisu National Park.
Where to stay in Sheki
Sheki is a small city and easy to explore on foot, so the ideal place to stay is near the historic center or in the vicinity of the Sheki Khans Palace, where most of the restaurants and attractions are concentrated.
During my stay I stayed at the Canal Hostel, an option I recommend especially if you're traveling on a backpacker's budget or simply want a more social atmosphere.
The place is very well located, has a shared kitchen, clean rooms and a spacious common area, perfect for chatting with other travelers.
One interesting thing is that many of the guests were Chinese travelers, something increasingly common in this part of the Caucasus, so the conversations became an interesting mix of cultures and experiences.
It's a great meeting point to share routes, tips, or even organize excursions to the Palace, the caravanserai, or the nearby mountains.
If you prefer something more traditional, there are also charming options within Sheki's historic caravanserai, where you can literally sleep in a building that was once part of the ancient Silk Road, although it tends to be a bit more expensive and less sociable.
How many days to stay in Sheki
One or two full days are enough to get to know Sheki and its main attractions well. In one day you can visit the historic center, the walled citadel, and the Palace of the Khans, while with two days you'll have time to explore more leisurely, visit the Kish Church, or take a walk in the surrounding area.
What is the best time to visit Sheki
The best time to visit Sheki is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the green landscapes of the Caucasus are at their best.
In summer it can be hot during the day, but the nights are cool thanks to the altitude.
Autumn is also an excellent option; there are fewer tourists and the colors of the mountains make the whole environment even more photogenic.
During the winter, temperatures drop considerably and some roads may be covered in snow, but if you are interested in seeing another side of northern Azerbaijan, it is still an accessible and charming destination, especially if you combine the visit with the Shahdag or Qusar areas.
Final thoughts. Is Sheki worth visiting?
Definitely. Sheki shows you another side of Azerbaijan, very different from the modernity and fast pace of Baku. Its natural surroundings, traditional architecture, and the warmth of its people make it completely worth spending at least a couple of days there.
Furthermore, it's an easy destination to visit: it's well-connected by bus and train, safe, affordable, and compact, making it easy to explore on foot. You don't need much planning or your own vehicle to enjoy it.
It's a place where you can still walk around without crowds and chat with the locals. If you want to get a better understanding of the country beyond its capital, including Sheki in your itinerary is an excellent choice.
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