Baku , Azerbaijan

Sheki Historical and Architectural Tour

Active

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sheki city has a rich history the real atmosphere of authentic Azerbaijani town can be discovered here. Despite the many historical and architectural attractions, tourists here also enjoy strolling along the narrow streets with tiny houses famous for their red tile and carved wooden gates. Numerous historical monuments of medieval architecture that have reached us from the depth of the history remained in the vicinity of Sheki. They include fortresses, watch towers, churches and ruins of monasteries dated to the period of Caucasian Albania.

Available options

Sheki Historical and Architectural Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Taxi Fee to Kish Albanian Church

Professional Personal Driver

Entrance tickets to Sheki Khan Palace & Church of Kish in Sheki

Private Transportation

Professional English Speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

On the way, visit Diri Baba mausoleum in Maraza village. Diri Baba Mausoleum is two-storeyed mosque of the 15th century. For a long time, local residents believed in a legend that a sacred person called Diri Baba was buried here and remained imperishable.

Shamakhi Juma Mosque – On the way, you will have a stop in Shamakhi Juma Mosque that is built in 743 which is the most ancient known mosque in the Caucasus region. Juma Mosque (743 AD) is one of the tourist attractions often visited by travellers.

The Yeddi Gumbaz monument's name is defined be the number of gravestones in the crypt. Today the gravestones look like half-destroyed stone domes as if grown directly from under the ground in the middle of deserted graveyard. Therefore the atmosphere of this district seems a little mysterious.

If you are curious about more ancient than the khanate period, Kish Albanian Church can be the best visual example for you. This religious place is located in the village of Kish, approximately 5 km north of Sheki. It has functioned at a different times as Caucasian Albanian Apostolic church, a Calcedonian church with the Georgian church. The current structure of the church was built in 12th century.

Sheki Khan’s Palace built in the year 1762 and served as the administrative building of the King of Sheki. No nails and glue were used in the construction of the building. Also, the windows of the building are made with a special windowmaking style called Shebeke. The uniquely beautiful two-floored palace with its magnificent interior windows were made from multi-colored glass mosaics up to 5000 glasses pieces in each square window) exterior and amazing construction will be fascinated for you.

Our next destination after Shaki Khans Palace will be Shaki Caravanserai. Carvanserais used to be roadside inn for travelers, mostly traders who made long journey between east and west in caravans. You are welcome in through the gigantic wooden doors and explore the handsome building and inner yard.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it's known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient Maiden Tower and the iconic Flame Towers.

Top Attractions

Maiden Tower

A 12th-century monument that is a symbol of Baku. Its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (5 AZN)

Flame Towers

Three futuristic skyscrapers that are landmarks of modern Baku. The towers are designed to resemble flames, a reference to Baku's ancient history as a center of the fire-worshipping Zoroastrian religion.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to view from outside

Old City (Icheri Sheher)

The historic core of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, attractions within have varying costs

Baku Boulevard

A scenic park along the Caspian Sea with walking paths, cafes, and entertainment options.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, activities have varying costs

Heydar Aliyev Center

A stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. The center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and conferences.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (depends on the event)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and vegetables. It's often served at special occasions and is considered a national dish.

Main course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Dushbara

Tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and served in a broth. It's a popular street food in Baku.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Piti

A traditional soup made with lamb, chickpeas, and noodles, served in a clay pot.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Dolma

Grapes leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

Appetizer Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gobustan National Park Exploring mud volcanoes Visiting the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory Strolling along Baku Boulevard Enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse Relaxing at a local hammam (bathhouse) Exploring the Old City Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Baku with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are moderate, and the city hosts several festivals during these months.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Azerbaijani
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Baku is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Heydar Aliyev International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Baku Railway Station

By bus

Baku International Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bina Taxi, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City (Icheri Sheher) Nizami District Khatai District

Day trips

Gobustan National Park

60 km from Baku • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and a unique desert landscape. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.

Lankaran

220 km from Baku • Full day or overnight

A city in southern Azerbaijan known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and the nearby Hirkan National Park. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Shamakhi

120 km from Baku • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient Juma Mosque, the Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleums, and the nearby Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. It's a great place for history lovers and those interested in astronomy.

Festivals

Baku International Jazz Festival • October Baku International Film Festival (BAFTA) • October Novruz Bayrami • March 20-21 (or around the spring equinox)

Pro tips

Visit the Flame Fountain in Baku Boulevard, a unique attraction where natural gas flames continuously burn from a stone fountain
Try traditional Azerbaijani tea in a local teahouse, such as Sazaghan Teahouse or Chaykhana #1
Explore the Old City on foot, taking in the narrow streets, historic sites, and local markets
Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid