Highlights of Uzbekistan - 10 Days

Upon arrival at Tashkent International Airport, make your own way to the hotel. Take some time to freshen up and leave your luggage before we begin exploring the cultural heart of Uzbekistan’s capital - the largest city in Central Asia.

Meet your expert guide and driver for a discovery of Tashkent’s historic charm and vibrant rhythm. We start in the Old City, visiting the revered Khast-Imam Complex, home to the world-famous Quran of Caliph Uthman (Ottoman). Marvel at the architectural and spiritual beauty of Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tilla Sheikh Mosque, Mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari.

Next, immerse yourself in the colours and aromas of Chorsu Bazaar, where local life unfolds amid stalls of fragrant spices, produce, and textiles. We then board the elegant Tashkent Metro, a Soviet-era architectural gem, to reach the city centre. Visit the Museum of Applied Arts, showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich craftsmanship, before passing the Navoi Theatre and arriving at Amir Timur Square, surrounded by grand buildings and lively boulevards.

After the tour, return to the hotel for check-in and some rest. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Uzbek cuisine. Overnight in Tashkent

Optional Activities:

Tashkent Speaks Performance “Tashkent Speaks” is a captivating show based on real stories, memoirs, and interviews with local residents — perfect for first-time visitors seeking an authentic glimpse into city life. Includes transfers and audio device. Duration: 2 hours.

Tashkent - Urgench - Khiva. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, continue by road to Khiva, one of the most atmospheric Silk Road cities. Drop your luggage at the hotel and begin exploring Ichan-Kala, the walled inner town of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit Muhammad Aminkhana Madrasah, the largest Islamic school in Central Asia, and admire the striking Kalta Minor Minaret, an unfinished turquoise masterpiece. Explore Muhammad Rahim Khan Madrasah, the Kunya Ark Fortress, Mausoleum of Said Allauddin, and the Juma Mosque with its forest of carved wooden columns.

Continue to the Tash Hovli Palace (the “Stone Palace”), a 19th-century royal residence of Allakuli Khan, and explore the Madrasah and Caravanserai of Allakuli Khan, the Islam Khoja Complex, and the spiritual Mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud.

Return to the hotel for dinner, reflecting on a day steeped in Khiva’s timeless beauty

Khiva - Bukhara. After breakfast, check out and travel overland to Bukhara (approx. 450 km / 6–7 hours). Today’s journey follows the ancient Silk Road through the Kyzylkum Desert, offering sweeping views of sand dunes and the Amu Darya River.

Arrive in Bukhara by late afternoon and check in at your hotel. This evening, enjoy a traditional dinner with a local family, accompanied by a colourful folklore performance — a warm introduction to Bukhara’s rich culture.

After breakfast, meet your guide and explore Bukhara’s architectural treasures. Visit the Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, a historic plaza surrounded by the Nodir Divan Begi Madrasah, the Honako, and the Kukeldash Madrasah. Stop by the Khoja Nasreddin Monument, a tribute to Central Asia’s beloved folk hero.

Discover the Magoki-Attari Mosque, one of the oldest in Central Asia, before wandering through Bukhara’s domed bazaars — Toki Sarrafon, Toki Tilpak Furushon, and Toki Zargaron. Visit the Kosh Madrasah Ensemble (Abdullaziz Khan and Ulugbek Madrasahs), and the iconic Poi-Kalon Ensemble, with its soaring minaret, mosque, and madrasah.

Explore the Sayfiddin Caravanserai and Tim Abdullakhan Bazaar before ending the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

Begin the day at the Mausoleum of the Samanids, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. Visit the Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, said to contain a spring created by the Prophet Job, and the Bolo-Hauz Mosque, with its mirrored pool and carved wooden pillars. Continue to the Ark Fortress, the ancient seat of Bukhara’s emirs, before heading to the Sitorai-Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the opulent summer residence of the last emir.

Conclude with a visit to the charming Chor-Minor Madrasah, an architectural curiosity with four distinct towers inspired by Indian design. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Optional Activities:

Medieval Hammam Bath Experience Enjoy an authentic oriental hammam session in the heart of the old city, near the historic trading domes. Includes traditional peeling, herbal tea, and relaxation in a centuries-old bathhouse. Transfers included.

Bukhara - Samarkand. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and some free time to explore or join one of the optional excursions before transferring to the station for your Afrosiyob high-speed train to Samarkand (approx. 2 hrs 10 mins). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner.

Optional Activities:

Bukhara City Tour Visit the Jewish Quarter and the revered Nakshbandi Complex, a spiritual centre and pilgrimage site. Includes transfers and guide.

Tea Ceremony Experience a tasting of herbal and spiced teas at the “Spices of the Silk Road” tea house, accompanied by oriental sweets and melodies. Includes transfers.

Miniature Painting Masterclass Learn the art of traditional miniature painting in a local artist’s home. Includes materials, guidance, and transfers.

After breakfast, meet your guide and explore Samarkand, one of the Silk Road’s crown jewels. Visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, final resting place of Tamerlane, and the magnificent Registan Square, framed by the Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tillya-Kori Madrasahs.

Admire the monumental Bibi-Khanym Mosque, stroll through Siyob Bazaar, and visit the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a dazzling avenue of tiled mausoleums.

This evening, you may join an optional Uzbek family dinner and take part in preparing Plov, the nation’s signature dish.

Optional Activities:

Boat Ride on the Republican Rowing Channel Enjoy tranquil views of the Silk Road Samarkand complex from the water. Includes transfers.

Illuminated Registan Square by Night Experience Registan under the lights and music of the evening show. Includes transfers.

Samarkand - Tashkent. After breakfast, visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, one of the most advanced astronomical centres of the 15th century. Continue to the Mausoleum of Khoja Daniyar, a revered pilgrimage site, before touring the Khujum Silk Carpet Factory, where traditional weaving techniques are preserved.

After lunch, transfer to the station for your high-speed train back to Tashkent. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner.

Optional Activities:

Wine Tasting at Bagizagan Winery Sample local wines and cognacs while learning about Uzbekistan’s winemaking traditions in a charming underground tasting room. Transfers included.

After breakfast, set off for the Ugam-Chatkal National Park, a beautiful mountain reserve about two hours northeast of Tashkent. Explore scenic trails, enjoy panoramic views, and breathe in the fresh alpine air.

Visit the Amirsoy Resort for optional mountain activities or a cable car ride, and stop by the shimmering Charvak Reservoir for a leisurely stroll. On the return to the city, explore Magic City, a lively entertainment park with museums and themed attractions. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time before making your way to the airport for your onward flight.