Samarkand on the Great Silk Road

Take a day-night flight. Night on board.

Breakfast at the Hotel

We will kick off our day with a visit to Registan Square, the historic heart of Samarkand. This iconic square is surrounded by three stunning madrasas: Ulugh Beg Madrasa, Sherdor Madrasa, and Tilla-Kari Madrasa, and is home to the vibrant Siyab Bazaar.

Next, we'll explore the Bibikhanim Mosque, which was the largest mosque in Central Asia during its time. Following that, we'll visit the Guri Amir Mausoleum, originally constructed as a madrasa by Timur’s grandson and later converted into Timur’s mausoleum.

Lunch at a local café, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional local cuisine.

Afternoon: We’ll continue our city tour with visits to the Afrasiyab Mausoleum to view the region’s ancient pre-Islamic frescoes. We’ll also explore the mausoleum of Prophet Daniyar, located in the historic city of Afrasiyab, and visit the first observatory built by Timur’s grandson, Ulugh Beg.

Dinner at a local café, featuring traditional dishes.

Hotel Accommodation

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: Begin the day with a visit to the Shahi Zinda Necropolis, a stunning complex of mausoleums and tombs that reflect the rich history of Samarkand. Following this, we'll head to the Meros Paper Factory in Konigil. This traditional paper-making facility has been renowned for its craftsmanship, producing paper from mulberry tree branches.

Lunch at a local restaurant in Samarkand, where you can enjoy delicious regional dishes.

Afternoon: Depart for Bukhara by car (approximately 279 km, 5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive as we journey towards this historic city.

Dinner at a local café in Bukhara, featuring authentic local cuisine.

Hotel Accommodation in Bukhara

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: Begin your exploration of Bukhara with a tour of the Old City. Start with a visit to the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a remarkable 9th-century structure and the resting place of the founder of the Samanid dynasty. Next, explore the Mausoleum of Chashma Ayub, renowned for its "holy water," situated near a bustling oriental bazaar. Continue to the Bolo Haouz Mosque, known as the "Mosque of Forty Columns," which dates back to the 18th century.

Lunch at the Ark of the Last Emirs of Bukhara, where you can enjoy a meal in a historic setting.

Afternoon: After a refreshing tea break on the terrace, visit the Poi Kalon Complex, featuring the impressive Kalon Minaret from the Karakhanid period, the Kalon Mosque, and the Miri Arab Madrasa, which has been in operation since the 16th century. Marvel at the beauty of the Ulugh Beg and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasas. Along the way, you’ll also see the old trading vaults and traditional hammam.

Later: Explore the Labi Hauz Complex, a popular spot among both tourists and locals, surrounded by three historic buildings. Don’t miss the old Jewish synagogue and a local doll workshop, which offer unique cultural insights.

Dinner at a local café in Bukhara, savoring traditional dishes.

Hotel Accommodation in Bukhara

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: Transfer to the train station for your journey to Khiva. The train ride covers 460 km and lasts approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes.

Upon arrival in Khiva, you will be met by our driver and transferred to your hotel.

Lunch at a local café in Khiva, where you can enjoy traditional local fare.

Afternoon: Begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the Kalta Minor Minaret, an architectural gem of Khiva. Next, explore the historic Khona Ark Fortress, including its coin courtyard and summer mosque. Discover the rich history of the past two centuries at the former Madrasa of Chan Muhammed Rahimhan II.

Continue your exploration at the Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, a revered pilgrimage site with "holy water." The fascinating story of this mausoleum is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Late Afternoon: Enjoy some free time for your own discoveries. For panoramic views of the city, visit the towers of Islam Khodja and Aksheikh Bobo, which offer excellent photo opportunities.

Dinner at a local café in Khiva, where you can savor more local specialties.

Hotel Accommodation in Khiva

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the unique Juma Mosque, renowned for its 213 non-repeating columns that create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Next, explore the Allakulihan Palace, which includes the reception court, court of justice, and the harem, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of Khiva.

Lunch on the train as you transfer to the train station for your journey to Tashkent.

Afternoon: Board the train for your trip to Tashkent, covering a distance of 1,100 km, with an approximate duration of 15 hours and 5 minutes. Enjoy your time on the train, relaxing and taking in the scenic journey.

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: Begin your exploration of Tashkent, a city rich with Oriental charm. Start with the Barak Khan Complex, including Hast Imam Square, the Kaffal Shoshi Mausoleum, the Juma Mosque, and the Moi Mubarak Madrasa, which houses the ancient Holy Quran. Continue to the grand Chorsu Bazaar, renowned for its impressive blue dome and vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch at a local restaurant in Tashkent, where you can enjoy traditional dishes.

Afternoon: Continue your sightseeing with a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in the former palace of Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev. Following the museum tour, take some time to relax and unwind after your recent travels.

Dinner at a traditional restaurant in Tashkent, where you can savor local specialties.

Hotel Accommodation in Tashkent

Breakfast at the Hotel

Morning: After breakfast, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your return flight.

End of Trip 😊 Safe travels and welcome back!