Overview:
Discover the heart of the Silk Road with our "Uzbekistan - The Silk Road Tour." This unforgettable adventure takes you through Uzbekistan's most iconic cities. Begin in Tashkent, the vibrant capital blending modernity and tradition, then travel to the ancient walled city of Khiva with its stunning Islamic architecture. Explore Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with historic mosques, minarets, and bazaars. Conclude in Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road, famed for the magnificent Registan Square and awe-inspiring cultural treasures. Rich history, dazzling architecture, and authentic experiences await at every turn.
Holiday price per person based on availability and two people sharing a standard twin or double room:
- 3-star accommodation: from £2,965 pp
- 4-star accommodation: from £3,245 pp
Departure is guaranteed with a minimum of 2 travellers.
2025 Departure Dates:
| sEASON |
DEPARTURE |
| All year* |
Every Tuesday |
*The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to early November) when the weather is most pleasant.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure for Tashkent
Your journey to the heart of Central Asia begins with a direct flight from London Heathrow to Tashkent, Uzbekistan's vibrant capital. The flight, lasting approximately 7 hours, will have you arriving in Tashkent in the early hours of the next day, ready to start your Silk Road adventure.
Day 2: Early Arrival & Tashkent City Tour
Arrive in Tashkent in the early morning, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for an early check-in. Take time to relax, refresh, and enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading out to explore this fascinating city with your guide.
Highlights of the day:
- Khast Imam Complex: Dive into the spiritual heart of Tashkent. This site, dating back to the 16th-20th centuries, houses beautiful Islamic architecture and is home to one of the oldest existing copies of the Quran.
- Barak Khan Madrasah: Marvel at this historic madrasah, a serene testament to Uzbekistan’s Islamic heritage, now a hub for artisans and cultural exhibits.
- Chorsu Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Tashkent's most vibrant markets. Experience the sights, smells, and flavours of this traditional bazaar filled with spices, textiles, and local delicacies.
- Tashkent Metro Tour: Take a unique ride through Tashkent’s metro system, an architectural marvel blending Soviet grandeur with modern design. Each station is a masterpiece of mosaics and artistry.
- Amir Temur and Independence Squares: Stroll through these emblematic squares, each telling a part of Uzbekistan's historical and cultural narrative. Admire monuments to Tashkent’s storied past while soaking in the dynamic city vibe.
- Museum of Applied Arts: Conclude your day with a visit to this charming museum showcasing exquisite Uzbek craftsmanship, including ceramics, embroidery, and stunning carpets.
Return to your hotel in the evening for a well-deserved rest after an enriching first day in Uzbekistan.
Day 3: Tashkent – Urgench (domestic flight), transfer to Khiva
Your day begins bright and early with a transfer to the airport at 5:00 for a domestic flight from Tashkent to Urgench at 7:00. After a quick 1.5-hour flight, arrive in Urgench at 8:30, where you'll embark on a scenic 30-minute drive to Khiva, a UNESCO-listed gem that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Upon arrival, leave your luggage at the hotel (check-in at 14:00) and take some time to settle in. Afterward, meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin an enchanting tour of Itchan Kala, Khiva’s historic inner city, surrounded by ancient mudbrick walls.
Highlights of the Day:
- Juma Mosque: Visit the 10th–18th-century mosque, featuring 213 intricately carved wooden pillars, creating a mystical forest-like ambiance within this timeless structure.
- Kunya Ark Fortress: Step into history at this impressive residence of Khiva's rulers, once home to royal courts, stables, and mosques. Explore the citadel and enjoy panoramic views from the top.
- Kalta Minor Minaret: Marvel at the stunning, unfinished minaret adorned with mesmerizing turquoise tiles—an iconic symbol of Khiva's skyline.
- Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah: Discover this majestic 19th-century madrasah, now transformed into a hotel, where the architecture and décor evoke a bygone era.
- Tash-Khauli Palace: Wander through the splendid palace, built as a harem for Khiva's khan between 1832 and 1841, showcasing intricate tilework and a glimpse into royal life.
- Mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud: Admire this beautifully adorned tomb of Khiva’s patron saint, its interior rich with intricate tile mosaics and a serene atmosphere.
- Mausoleum of Sayid Allauddin: Pay homage at the tomb of the famous Sufi teacher of the Nakhshbandi order, another treasure in Khiva’s cultural tapestry.
- Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasah: Explore Khiva’s tallest minaret and accompanying madrasah, with stunning tilework and breathtaking views for those who climb to the top.
- Alla Kuli Khan Madrasah: Visit this grand madrasah, with a facade adorned in unique Corasmian-style majolica tiles, shimmering with hues of black, blue, and white.
Overnight in Khiva.
Day 4: Khiva – Free Day
Spend the day discovering the magic of Khiva at your own pace. Wander the narrow alleyways, soak in the charm of the walled city, and explore its hidden corners. You might revisit favourite spots in the Itchan Kala Complex, capture unique photographs of the turquoise-tiled minarets, or simply enjoy the local ambiance at a traditional chaikhana (tea house).
Overnight at the hotel in Khiva.
Day 5: Khiva to Bukhara via Kyzylkum Desert (transfer)
After breakfast, meet your driver at 9:00 for the overland journey to Bukhara through the Kyzylkum Desert. This scenic drive takes 6–7 hours, offering a glimpse into Uzbekistan's arid, yet beautiful landscapes of golden sands and rugged terrain. Along the way, stop for a lunch break and enjoy the tranquillity of the desert surroundings.
Arrive in Bukhara in the evening, check in at your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing night.
Day 6: Bukhara City Tour
After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 am for a walking tour through Bukhara’s historic core, known for its remarkably preserved medieval Islamic architecture.
Highlights of the Day:
- Ismail Samani Mausoleum: Admire this 10th-century masterpiece, celebrated for its intricate brick patterns and geometric designs, a marvel of early Islamic architecture.
- Chashma Ayub Mausoleum: Learn about the "Spring of Job," said to have healing properties, now home to the unique Museum of Water.
- Bolo-Hauz Mosque: Visit this elegant mosque built in 1712, with its delicate wooden columns reflected in the adjacent pond.
- Ark Fortress: Step into the mighty fortress where Bukhara’s khans once ruled; explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic views.
- Poi-Kalyan Complex: Marvel at the striking ensemble of the madrasah, mosque, and the iconic Kalyan Minaret.
- Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasahs: Witness the stark contrast between the simplicity of Ulugbek's early 15th-century structure and Abdulaziz Khan's richly decorated madrasah from 1651.
- Trading Domes: Visit Tim Abdullah Khan and other ancient trading domes, once bustling hubs of Silk Road commerce.
- Magok-I Attari Mosque: Explore the oldest building in Bukhara, with its unique blend of Islamic and Zoroastrian influences.
- Lyabi-Hauz Complex: End your day at this charming square by the pond, a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy the evening.
Overnight at the hotel in Bukhara.
Day 7: Bukhara to Samarkand (train)
After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 for an exploration of more gems in Bukhara before heading to Samarkand.
Highlights of the Day:
- Chor Minor Mosque: This enchanting structure features four distinctive minarets, making it one of Bukhara's most unique landmarks.
- Naqshbandi Complex: Visit one of Central Asia’s most significant pilgrimage sites, a sacred complex buzzing with visitors seeking spiritual blessings.
- Sitora-i-Mokhi Khosa Palace: Tour the elegant summer residence of Bukhara’s emirs, blending Russian and traditional Bukharan styles.
- Chor-Bakr Necropolis: Discover this sprawling and serene ancient cemetery, significant for its spiritual and historical heritage.
After lunch, transfer to the train station at 16:00 for the high-speed train to Samarkand at 16:55, arriving at 19:21. Transfer to your hotel for the night in Samarkand.
Day 8: Samarkand City Tour
After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 am for a day dedicated to Samarkand, the crowning glory of the Silk Road.
Highlights of the Day:
- Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Visit the breathtaking burial site of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), a symbol of Uzbekistan’s golden age.
- Registan Square: Stand in awe of the most iconic Silk Road landmark, surrounded by three stunning madrasahs adorned with colorful mosaics.
- Bibi Khanum Mosque: Explore the vast mosque built in 1399, one of the largest in the medieval Islamic world.
- Siab Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the bustling market to sample fresh produce, spices, and authentic Uzbek street food.
- Shahi Zinda Complex: End your day exploring this spectacular necropolis, with its richly decorated tombs spanning the 11th to 19th centuries.
Overnight at the hotel in Samarkand.
Day 9: Samarkand – Tashkent (train)
After a leisurely breakfast, meet your guide at 12:00 for a final exploration of Samarkand before departing for Tashkent.
Highlights of the Day:
- Ulugbek Observatory: Discover this 15th-century marvel, where the great astronomer Ulugbek charted the stars with stunning accuracy.
- Mausoleum of Hodja Daniyar: Visit this revered site, attracting pilgrims from Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.
- Afrasiab Museum: Dive into the region’s rich history and the legacy of the ancient city of Afrasiab.
- Konigil Village: Experience the art of making traditional Samarkand paper, a craft dating back to the 8th century.
- Transfer to the train station at 16:00 and board the high-speed train at 17:00, arriving in Tashkent at 19:30.
Day 10: Tashkent – Chimgan – Tashkent
After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 am for a day trip to the stunning mountain landscapes of Chimgan.
Highlights of the Day:
- Amirsoy Resort: Take a scenic drive through the Ugam-Chatkal National Park to this mountain retreat. Ride the modern cable car to an altitude of 2,290 meters, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views, crisp air, and leisurely walks. Tickets payable in cash on the spot.
- Charvak Lake: Relax at this beautiful reservoir surrounded by mountains, where you can opt to rent a water vehicle for an exhilarating experience (payable locally).
Return to Tashkent in the late afternoon.
Day 11: Departure from Tashkent
After breakfast, bid farewell to Uzbekistan. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your return flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Silk Road journey.
Package Includes:
- Direct return flights from London Heathrow to Tashkent on Uzbekistan Airways
- 1 piece of check-in luggage per person (up to 20 kg)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure in Tashkent
- 10 nights’ accommodation in 3*or 4* hotels:
- 2 nights in Tashkent (1 full night + early check-in)
- 2 nights in Khiva
- 2 nights in Bukhara
- 2 nights in Samarkand
- 2 nights in Tashkent
- Breakfast at the hotels
- Transportations by air-conditioned, private vehicle during the tour with driver
- Entrance tickets for monuments as per itinerary
- Domestic flight: Tashkent – Urgench (economy class)
- Train tickets: Bukhara – Samarkand (economy class)
- Train tickets: Samarkand – Tashkent (economy class)
- 24-hour emergency contact number
- ATOL protection
- All taxes
Enquire now »