We’ve already given you plenty of reasons to visit Azerbaijan in 2025 in our Good to Go list, from the additional flight routes connecting the country to the UK to the new Mud Volcanoes Tourism Complex.
But just in case you needed yet another reason to book flights to this underrated central Asian country this year, this newly relaunched rail route is making it even easier to combine your trip to Baku with a visit to Sheki, home to one of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Part of the Baku–Balakan route, you’ll be able to book onto the sleeper train departing Baku at 11.50pm, arriving at Sheki at 5.48am the next morning. The return leg of the journey departs Sheki at 12.45am, arriving back in the capital at 6.50am.
Once in town, you’ll be able to pay a visit to the city’s historic centre, which has its origins in the 6th century BCE. Part of the Silk Road, the town’s economy was once built on silkworm breeding, and this is reflected in its architecture, with high-pitched roofs leaving space in the attic to accommodate the process. You can also feel the influence of the city’s different rulers, and of its relations with traders from other countries, through its caravanserais, public fountains, mosques and public baths.
Alongside the historic centre, you can also visit the Khan’s Palace, which was built in the 18th century. The ornate building is a fascinating example of a monument from the khanate period, and features shebeke, an Azerbaijani stained glass window technique.
While in the capital itself, you can visit pay a visit to another UNESCO World Heritage Site: The walled city of Baku, Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower. Plus, the Gobustan Rock Art UNESCO World Heritage Site is just an hour’s drive from the city.
More information: ady.az
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