We Love —
- Discovering a rich cultural heritage, with historic cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva bearing witness to the legacy of the Silk Road.
- Exploring landscapes ranging from arid deserts to majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventure.
- Sampling tasty, authentic Uzbek dishes such as plov, samsa, manti and lagman and other local specialities reflecting Central Asian influences.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
This itinerary showcases Uzbekistan’s most iconic cities, beginning in the vibrant capital of Tashkent, followed by the enchanting city-fortress of Khiva, the historic charm of Bukhara, and the grand splendour of Samarkand, the jewel of Central Asia. I favour this journey for its well-paced schedule, high-quality accommodation, and the wealth of excursions it offers. Ready to embark?
Welcome to Uzbekistan —
Uzbekistan, the hidden jewel in Central Asia, invites travellers to explore its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Once a pivotal hub on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan boasts breathtaking architectural wonders like Samarkand's Registan Square, Bukhara's Ark Fortress, and Khiva's Itchan Kala.
The country's diverse landscapes, from the expansive Kyzylkum Desert to the lush Fergana Valley, offer unique natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities.
Hospitality is a cornerstone of Uzbek culture, with visitors often treated to generous servings of traditional dishes like plov (a flavourful rice dish), samsa (savoury pastries), and fresh fruits. Music and dance are integral to social gatherings, with the sounds of the dutar and the energetic rhythms of traditional dances captivating audiences. Handicrafts such as intricate silk embroidery, ceramics, and ikat textiles showcase the artistic talents passed down through generations.
Highlights:
- Ancient Silk Road cities: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva
- Culinary delights: Plov, Lagman, Manty, Samsa and pastries
- Artisanal handicrafts: Intricate textiles, ceramics, and woodwork
- Diverse landscapes: Fergana Valley, Kyzylkum Desert, Nuratau Mountains
- Warm hospitality: Welcoming locals and vibrant festivals
With its rich heritage, warm-hearted people, and stunning natural beauty, Uzbekistan offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Asia.
Your itinerary in brief —
Your itinerary:
- Day 1: Tashkent
- Day 2: Tashkent - Urgench - Khiva
- Day 3: Khiva - Bukhara
- Day 4: Bukhara
- Day 5: Bukhara
- Day 6: Bukhara - Shakhrissabz - Samarkand
- Day 7: Samarkand
- Day 8: Samarkand - Tashkent
- Day 9: Tashkent - Chimgan - Tashkent
- Day 10: Tashkent - Departure
Experience authenticity... If you crave far-flung destinations, untouched beauty, and soul-enriching cultural immersion, this exceptional expedition promises a truly authentic experience. In certain regions, accommodation is refreshingly no-frills, offering you the opportunity to embrace the culture of each destination. Our unwavering dedication to excellence means that each location has been meticulously selected, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Your itinerary in detail —
Days 1-3
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TASHKENT
- Arrive at Tashkent International Airport (TAS) where you will be met by your guide.
- Transfer to your chosen hotel where you'll drop off your luggage (rooms are available from 2pm).
- Set off on an afternoon excursion, and begin exploring the capital of Uzbekistan.
- In the evening, enjoy a well-earned relaxing dinner at a local restaurant (not included, additional charge).
When in Tashkent, be sure to visit:
- The Museum of Applied Arts: Visit this former residence of a Russian diplomat, showcasing intricate Uzbek craftsmanship.
- The Khazrat Imam Complex: Explore this historic complex, which includes Barak Khan Madrasa (16th century), Kaffal Chashi Mausoleum, Koran Museum and Djami Mosque.
- Tchorsu Market: Take a stroll through this bustling, authentic market.
- New Town: Discover the modern side of Tashkent.
- Independence Square: A symbol of the nation's freedom.
- Navoi Theatre: Admire this cultural landmark.
- Amir Temur Square: Walk through this iconic square.
- Underground Railway: If time allows, visit the unique metro system, a gem of Central Asia.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 2: TASHKENT - URGENCH - KHIVA
- Start your day with a nourishing breakfast.
- Transfer to Tashkent Airport for your flight to Urgench.
- Upon arrival in Urgench, transfer to Hotel Khiva for luggage drop-off (rooms are available from 2pm).
- Discover the historic city centre of Khiva with a guide, also known as Itchan-Kala. It's a treasure trove of oriental architecture reminiscent of '1001 Nights'.
When in Khiva, be sure to visit:
- Moukhammad Amin Khan Madrasah and the iconic Kalta Minaret.
- Koukhna Fortress Ark: Visit the ancient citadel, including the Juma Mosque, the Throne Room and the Chancellery.
- Madrasah of Mohammed Rakhim: Explore the legacy of the poet Khan, known by the pseudonym Ferouz.
- Tach Khaouli (Palace of Stone): Discover the palace and its harem.
- Allakouli Khan Madrasa and Caravanserai: A hub of historical trade and education.
- Friday Mosque: Admire the unique structure supported by 218 carved wooden pillars.
- Islam Khodja Madrasa and Minaret: See the tallest minaret in Khiva.
- The Pakhlavon Makhmoud Mausoleum: Visit this striking and significant monument.
- Sayid Alaouddin Mausoleum: One of the oldest and most revered monuments in Khiva.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: KHIVA - BUKHARA
- Begin your day with a tasty breakfast, before departure for Bukhara.
- Set off on a journey through the scenic Kyzylkum Desert.
- Reach Bukhara by evening and settle into your chosen hotel to relax after a day of travel.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
Days 4-6
DAY 4: BUKHARA
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off to visit Bukhara.
- Walking tour of old Bukhara included
- Return to your hotel at the end of a busy day, to relax and recharge your batteries.
When in Bukhara, be sure to visit:
- The Old City of Bukhara: Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this historic caravan city, known for its narrow streets and captivating monuments.
- Po-i-Kalyan Complex: Visit this stunning ensemble featuring:
- Abdoulaziz Khan Madrasa
- Oulougbek Madrasa
- Dome of Money Changers and Dome of Hatter
- Kalon Mosque and Minaret
- Mir-i-Arab Madrasa
- Tok-i-Zargaron (Jewellers' Domes): Discover the vibrant artisan market under the domes.
- Visit to an Artisan Blacksmith: Experience traditional craftsmanship in Bukhara.
- Tim Abdoulla Khan: Explore the market hall, known for beautiful hand-woven ikat textiles.
- Magok-i-Attari Mosque: Visit this historic site, once an ancient Zoroastrian temple.
- Liabi-Khaouz Ensemble: Wander through this picturesque area, including Kukeldash Madrasa, Khanagha, and Nodir-Devon Begui Caravanserai.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: BUKHARA
- Start your day with a replenishing breakfast. delicious meal.
- Set off to visit more significant sites in Bukhara, including:
- Sitoraï-Makhi Khosa Palace: Explore the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, featuring stunning architecture and gardens.
- Mausoleum of Ismail Samani: Discover one of the oldest monuments in Bukhara, renowned for its exquisite brickwork.
- Tchachma Ayyub Mausoleum: Visit this nearby mausoleum, steeped in local legend and history.
- Bolo Khaouz Mosque: Admire the mosque with its twenty impressive columns, a beautiful example of Bukhara’s architecture.
- Ark Citadel: Conclude your tour at the fortress of the rulers, offering insights into the city's rich history and governance.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: BUKHARA - SHAKHRISSABZ - SAMARKAND
- Enjoy a hearty morning meal before your departure for Samarkand.
- Set off on your journey via Shakhrisabz, the ancient city of Kech, and birthplace of Tamerlane.
- Resume your journey onwards, to the magnificent city of Samarkand.
- Arrive in Samarkand, and transfer to your hotel for check-in and well-earned relaxation.
Your visit to Shakhrisabz should include the following must-see spots:
- Ak Saraî Palace: Visit the impressive remains of Tamerlane's grand white palace, known for its stunning earthenware decoration.
- Kok Goumbaz Mosque: Explore this notable mosque, renowned for its distinctive blue dome.
- Khazret Imam Mosque: Admire this significant religious site, a testament to local architectural style.
- Gumbazi-Seidan Mausoleum: Discover this historical mausoleum, an important landmark in the area.
- Jakhangir Mausoleum: Visit the mausoleum dedicated to Tamerlane's son, known for its intricate design.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
Days 7-10
DAY 7: SAMARKAND
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast.
- Excursion with visits to all the historic monuments included
- Discover Réghistan Square. Situated in the heart of Samarkand, it's an iconic space surrounded by three grand madrasas, which are well worth a visit:
- Tilia-Kari Madrasa: Admire the intricate details of this stunning structure.
- Shirdor Madrasa: Marvel at the decorative façade and architectural elegance.
- Oulough Beg Madrasa: A place of scholarly significance and beauty.
When in Samarkand, also be sure to visit:
- Gour Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of Timur, notable for its splendid ribbed dome and papier-mâché interior decoration.
- Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, an awe-inspiring ensemble of Islamic mausoleums, showcasing the full range of artistic techniques used in building decoration.
- Bibi-Khanoum Mosque - once the largest mosque in Central Asia, its grand scale and architectural prowess will captivate.
- Siab Bazaar - a vibrant market, and a sensory feast, where you can drink in the sounds, colours and aromas of Samarkand.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 8: SAMARKAND - TASHKENT
- Enjoy a tasty breakfast before setting off for the day.
- Visit a paper-making workshop, where you can participate in a hands-on session learning the traditional craft of mulberry or marbled paper making.
- Step into the Oulougbek Observatory: a 15th-century astronomical marvel where Oulougbek accurately calculated the celestial year. Discover its rich history through the observatory and adjacent museum.
- Explore Afrosiab Site & Samarkand History Museum, one of the largest archaeological sites in Central Asia. View remarkable artifacts from ancient excavations, housed in the museum within the site.
- Transfer to the railway station and depart for Tashkent.
- Upon arrival in Tashkent, transfer to the hotel and settle in for the evening.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 9: TASHKENT - CHIMGAN - TASHKENT
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before starting another day of discovery.
- Set off to see the serene Chimgan Mountains (approximately 75 miles from Tashkent).
- Experience the tranquillity and natural beauty of this picturesque region, which is perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with the environment.
- Admire the lush green slopes of the high mountains in summertime, accompanied by the calming melodies of birdsong.
- Return to Tashkent after a day immersed in nature.
Overnight stay at the hotel in your chosen category.
Breakfast included.
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
- Enjoy one last hearty traditional Uzbekistani breakfast prior to departure.
- Transfer to Tashkent International Airport (TAS) in the morning for your flight home.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary. Important information about your train travel:
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
During your Uzbek adventure, you will stay in the following hotels (or similar):
Standard category:
- Tashkent: Hotel Milan (or similar)
- Khiva: Hotel Bek Khiva or similar
- Bukhara: Hotel Atlas or similar
- Samarkand: The Afrosiab or similar
Superior category:
- Tashkent: Mercure Plaza Tashkent or similar
- Khiva: Superior category not available
- Samarkand: Savitsky Plaza or similar
- Bukhara: Sahid Zarafshan Hotel Bukhara or similar
Deluxe category:
- Tashkent: Hyatt Regency or similar
- Khiva: Superior category not available
- Samarkand: Silk Road by Minyon or similar
- Bukhara: Mercure Bukhara or similar
Hotels listed in the program; if unavailable, accommodation in hotels of a similar category.
Single rooms available at extra cost. Maximum room capacity is 2 adults or 2 adults + 1 child.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay. For your train journey from Khiva to Bukhara, a lunch box will be provided for you to enjoy in the train.
Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Treat yourself to a full board stay and upgrade at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Included extras —
eSIM with 1GB internet
Enjoy easy access to the internet with a handy 1GB eSIM, bookable at the next stage of the booking process. Install your eSIM before departure in just a few taps.
Note: please check that your phone is eSIM-compatible before departure.
Your journey to Uzbekistan —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking. This flight may include one or more stopovers. The stopover may be technical (without a change of aircraft) or transit (with a change of aircraft).
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Uzbekistan
Want to discover a country like no other? Look no further than Uzbekistan. It's a veritable crossroads of borders, civilisations, lifestyles and religions.
The ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara unveil a tapestry of breathtaking architecture, vibrant markets, and rich history. In Samarkand discover the majestic Registan Square, marvel at the intricate mosaics of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Siab Bazaar. In Bukhara, explore the serene courtyards of the Kalyan Minaret and the enchanting Lyab-i Hauz, where time simply seems to stand still.
For the truly adventurous, an optional stop in Khiva offers a step back in time, with its well-preserved Itchan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage site that captivates with its ancient walls and timeless beauty.
Bukhara
Central Asia’s holiest city, Bukhara (Buxoro) has buildings spanning a thousand years of history, and an old centre that hasn’t changed much in two centuries. It is one of the best places in Central Asia for a glimpse of pre-Russian Turkestan.
Most of the centre is an architectural preserve, full of medressas and minarets, a massive royal fortress and the remnants of a once-vast market complex. The city’s accommodation options are by far the best and most atmospheric in the country.
Samarkand
No name is as evocative of the Silk Road as Samarkand (Samarqand). On the ground the sublime, larger-than-life monuments of Timur (Tamerlane) and the city’s long, rich history are enchanting. You can visit most of Samarkand’s high-profile attractions in two or three days. The Registan, Gur-e-Amir, Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Shah-i-Zinda are undoubtedly some of the finest attractions.
Samarkand is a modern city, that still retains its old town and plenty of grandeur to ensure it’s a breathtaking place to visit.
