Premium Uzbekistan In Depth (Silk Road History & Uzbek Village) 10D9N, Fully Guided

Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to Uzbekistan. Your adventure begins in Tashkent, the largest city in Central Asia. For many years, Tashkent was a key city of the USSR, and this history is evident in its unique blend of Russian and Uzbek architectural styles. Here, extravagant mosques, both ancient and new, stand beside modern highways and striking Soviet-era monuments.

Upon your arrival at the airport, a local representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. At 6 pm, you will have a welcome meeting to get acquainted with your local leader and fellow travellers. If you find yourself with some time to spare before the meeting, you might enjoy a stroll through the city to admire the contemporary architecture that distinguishes Tashkent from many other Silk Road destinations. Following your meeting, you will join the group for a welcome dinner at a superb local restaurant, where you can savour a selection of traditional Uzbek specialties.

Retreat for the evening to the elegant Hotel Inspira-S, a tranquil oasis conveniently located in the heart of Tashkent. Unwind in the serenity of the spa and wellness center, take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool, or simply relax in the sophisticated comfort of your room, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

Optional Activities: (at an additional cost) Art Gallery of Uzbekistan, Museum of Applied Arts

Join your leader for a captivating tour of Tashkent, beginning with a visit to the sacred heart of the city, the Khast Imom Complex. Here, you will discover an ensemble of majestic Islamic architecture, including the Barak Khan Medressa, once a prestigious Islamic college, and the tranquil Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, the final resting place of a renowned local scholar. A true highlight is the complex's library, which houses one of the oldest existing Qurans in the world.

From the spiritual realm, you will journey into the vibrant, bustling world of the Chorsu Bazaar. Housed beneath a magnificent blue dome, this is one of Central Asia's oldest and largest markets. Lose yourself in a sensory wonderland as you wander through aisles piled high with colourful spices, fresh produce, and local handicrafts. It is a fantastic opportunity to witness local life and, with your leader as your guide, perhaps even share a conversation with the famously friendly Uzbek vendors.

Afterwards, descend into another of Tashkent's marvels: its ornate metro system. Each station is a unique work of art, adorned with intricate mosaics, chandeliers, and carvings that tell the story of the nation's past. The tour concludes at the grand Amir Timur Square, where a statue of the great conqueror stands proudly. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. You may wish to visit the striking Kukeldash Medressa, another of the city's historical jewels, which has served as a school, a fortress, and even a caravanserai over its long history.

Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours

This morning, an early departure brings you to the high-speed Afrosiab train for a swift and comfortable journey to Samarkand, the legendary heart of the ancient Silk Road. For centuries, this fabled city has been a vibrant melting pot of artisans and traders, a coveted prize for conquering armies, each leaving their indelible mark on its rich and complex history.

Upon arrival, your first stop is the Ulugbek Observatory. Built in the 1420s by the Timurid prince and astronomer Ulugbek, this was once one of the finest observatories in the Islamic world. Your leader will explain the fascinating story of its founder, a ruler whose passion for the stars was both groundbreaking and controversial. Next, you will visit the Afrosiab Museum, which stands on the site of ancient Samarkand. Here, you will find a treasured 7th-century Sogdian fresco depicting King Varkhouman, offering a vivid glimpse into the city's pre-Islamic past.

Later, journey to the nearby village of Konigil to visit the Meros paper mill. Here, you will discover the meticulous, thousand-year-old method of producing paper from mulberry bark, a tradition revived by the master artisan Mukhtarov brothers. You'll witness the entire fascinating process, from cleaning the bark to polishing the finished sheets. Following this unique insight into local craft, the rest of the evening is yours to explore Samarkand at your own pace.

Find solace at the Hotel Royal Samarkand, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort just a stone's throw from the city's heart. After a day of exploration, surrender to tranquility in the hotel's sauna and swimming pool, or indulge in a curated selection of European and national dishes at the restaurant.

Prepare to delve deeper into Samarkand's cultural heart as your leader guides you through its most captivating sites. Your journey begins at the holy Shah-i-Zinda complex, a breathtaking necropolis known as the ‘Town of the Dead’. As you wander through this avenue of mausoleums, you'll find yourself surrounded by more than 20 unique and exquisitely decorated tombs, each adorned with dazzling tilework that tells a story of devotion and artistry.

Next, you will stand before the imposing Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the formidable conqueror, Timur (Tamerlane). Inside this architectural masterpiece, your leader will recount the tales of his dynasty, bringing the history of this mighty ruler to life. From there, you will proceed to the iconic Registan Square, the monumental heart of ancient Samarkand. Allow yourself a moment to be humbled by the grandeur of the three mosaic-adorned madrassas that tower over the square, their intricate patterns and majestic facades a testament to the city's golden age.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Siob Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where friendly local traders preside over colourful stalls overflowing with spices, fruits, and traditional crafts. This afternoon, you will venture beyond the city to the esteemed Bagizagan winery, widely considered the finest wine producer in Uzbekistan. Enjoy a special insight into the local winemaking process and indulge in a tasting of their unique vintages.

As evening descends, a truly intimate cultural experience awaits. You will be welcomed into the home of a local family for a cooking demonstration of 'plov', the national dish. In Uzbekistan, men take great pride in preparing this delicious rice pilaf over an open flame in a traditional cauldron, and you will have the pleasure of sharing this cherished meal with your hosts, creating a memory to last a lifetime

Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours

This morning, a high-speed train will whisk you away to the holy and historic city of Bukhara. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is regarded as Central Asia’s most sacred city, its ancient heart preserved through centuries. Upon arrival, your leader will guide you through a cityscape adorned with monuments spanning a thousand years, from the 8th to the 18th century.

Your journey into the past begins at the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the 10th-century resting place of the powerful Samanid dynasty, its intricate brickwork a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. Next, you will visit the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, built around a sacred spring believed to have been created by the prophet Job. Finally, marvel at the elegant, 20-pillared Bolo-Khauz Mosque, a stunning example of 18th-century craftsmanship that once served as the Emir's royal place of worship. You will see how the meticulous restoration of these sites, with their shimmering mosaic and majolica decorations, reveals the true glory of their original designs.

After your tour, you will check into a beautifully converted traditional Jewish house. Each room in this historic and authentic dwelling tells a story, offering a unique and fascinating place to rest. This evening, after dinner at a local restaurant, a captivating Uzbek folklore and music performance awaits you within the timeless walls of one of the city’s grand madrassas.

Note: The hotels that you stay in tonight may be different from the typical Premium class hotels and the rooms can be quite small, given they are in historic buildings. They are, however, comfortable, well-located in the old part of the city and family-owned and operated heritage properties. There are three different Jewish Houses that your group may be staying in, all of which are of a similar standard. Please be aware however, that your group may be split up tonight. On departures where the Jewish Houses are not available, you will stay in an alternative well-located hotel in a building of historical significance.

This morning, after breakfast, you will continue your exploration of Bukhara alongside your leader. Your first stop will be the imposing ruins of the 5th-century Ark of Bukhara, an ancient city-within-a-city that once housed the emirs of Bukhara and served as the centre of their power. From there, you will proceed to the magnificent Po-i-Kalyan complex, dominated by the towering Kalyan Minaret, which has watched over the city for centuries.

Afterwards, immerse yourself in the vibrant commercial heart of the old city as you explore the Taki Zargaron and other historic trading domes. Here, amidst the bustling atmosphere, you will find a colourful array of goods, from intricate embroideries and traditional jewellery to fragrant spices and unique handicrafts—perfect treasures to remember your journey along the Silk Road. Feel free to test your haggling skills and share a moment with the local craftsmen and merchants. Later, you'll visit the tranquil Lyabi-Hauz complex, an architectural ensemble surrounding one of the few remaining ancient ponds in Bukhara.

The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to explore at your own pace. You might choose to revisit the Lyabi-Hauz as twilight descends, when the historic buildings are beautifully illuminated, or simply wander through the city's enchanting lanes. Your leader will be available to provide recommendations for further sightseeing or dining.

Travel Time: Approx. 7 hours

After a leisurely morning in Bukhara, you will visit Sitorai Mohi Hosa, the summer palace of Alim Khan, Uzbekistan’s last emir. As you explore the lavishly decorated compound, a fascinating blend of Russian and traditional Bukharan architecture, your leader will share tales of the emir's opulent lifestyle. Afterwards, bid farewell to Bukhara and begin your journey to Khiva. Your drive will take you through the vast expanse of the Kyzyl-Kum, or "Red Sands" desert, an ancient landscape that has been home to nomadic peoples for centuries. Upon arriving in the historic city of Khiva in the evening, the remainder of the day is yours to rest and recharge after your travels.

Nestled in the heart of the ancient city, Arkanchi Hotel offers a serene retreat just steps away from Khiva's historic marvels. Unwind in the hotel's inviting swimming pool, soak in the panoramic views on the rooftop terrace or indulge in a rejuvenating sauna session, ensuring a perfectly restorative end to your day of desert adventures.

Spend a full day immersed in the wonders of Khiva, a city so immaculately preserved it feels like stepping into a living museum. Confined within its formidable ancient walls, the Old City is a treasure trove of history, best discovered on foot. Allow your leader to guide you through its most captivating monuments, beginning with the striking, unfinished Kalta Minor Minaret, whose vibrant turquoise tiles gleam in the sun. You'll then explore the Khan museum, delving into the region's royal past, before visiting the 17th-century Juma Mosque, a marvel of Islamic architecture with its forest of intricately carved wooden pillars.

Your journey continues to the elegant Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa, the city's tallest structure, offering breathtaking views for those who ascend. Discover the Kuhna Ark, the formidable fortress that once served as the khan's residence, and ascend the Ak-Sheikh Baba observation platform to gaze upon the sprawling cityscape. Conclude your tour at the serene 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace, known as the "Stone House," and wander through its opulent courtyards and richly decorated rooms. As evening approaches, ascend to one of the city’s rooftop terraces for a glass of champagne, watching as the setting sun bathes the ancient city in a warm, golden light.

Tonight, you are invited to a special cooking class to uncover the secrets of Khorezmian cuisine. Under expert guidance, you will learn to prepare traditional regional dishes such as shivit oshi—vibrant green noodles infused with dill—before savouring the delicious results of your culinary efforts for dinner.

Travel Time: Approx. 1.5 hours

In the morning, a transfer will take you to the airport for your flight back to Tashkent. Upon arrival, you'll begin your exploration of the capital, starting with the grand facade of the Navoi Theatre. Named after the 16th-century writer and mystic Ali-Shir Nava'i, this elegant, multi-arched building holds a unique piece of history, having been partially constructed by Japanese prisoners of war after World War II. From there, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Broadway Alley, a bustling pedestrian street where there’s always something to see. Take your time to stroll beneath the shady trees, browse the works of local artists, and perhaps purchase a final souvenir. As evening descends, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner, raising a glass to the unforgettable experiences and timeless beauty of this spectacular Silk Road country.

This morning, as our shared journey concludes after breakfast, you may find yourself reflecting on such an incredible journey you have had. If you wish for just a little more time to linger in the captivating city of Tashkent and wish to extend your exploration, please contact us

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.