Embark on an enchanting 4-day cultural journey through the historic cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, starting from Tashkent. This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of these ancient cities, which have preserved their architectural grandeur from the Middle Ages.
In Samarkand, the jewel of Central Asia, you will explore the legendary Registan Square, a majestic ensemble of three grand madrasahs that once served as the heart of Tamerlane’s vast empire. The intricate tilework and imposing facades of these structures epitomize the opulence of the Timurid era. The tour continues to the Shakhi-Zinda Complex, a revered Islamic pilgrimage site housing the shrine of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad. This necropolis, adorned with stunning mosaics and intricate designs, offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic achievements of the region.
Another highlight of Samarkand is the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane and the Timurids. This architectural marvel reflects the grandeur of the Timurids and stands as a testament to their influence. Alongside these iconic landmarks, the tour includes visits to other unique monuments that further illuminate Samarkand’s illustrious past.
The journey then takes you to Bukhara, a city that has been a beacon of Islamic culture for over two millennia. Bukhara’s timeless appeal is embodied in its historic sites such as the Samanid Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. The Kalyan Minaret, often referred to as the «Tower of Death,» and the Ark Citadel, a fortress of profound historical significance, are also key highlights. The Lyabi-Khauz pond, a tranquil oasis surrounded by ancient buildings, epitomizes Bukhara’s enduring charm and serves as a gathering place that has witnessed centuries of history.
This 4-day tour through Samarkand and Bukhara is a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural essence of Central Asia. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a culture aficionado, this tour offers a captivating exploration of some of the most storied locations in the Islamic world.
Start your journey early with a transfer from your Tashkent hotel to the railway station at 06:30. Board the high-speed Afrosiyob train, departing at 07:30 and arriving in Bukhara at 11:17. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an Shahina Travel driver and taken to your hotel for check-in and luggage drop-off. Begin your exploration of Bukhara’s historic center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guided walking tour. Visit notable landmarks including the Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and Chor-Minor Madrasah. Continue to the ancient trade domes, Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasahs, Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and the Miri-Arab Madrasah. Conclude your day with a visit to the Ark Fortress and Bolo-Khauz Mosque. Overnight at your hotel in Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Check out from your hotel and embark on a morning excursion to Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer palace of Bukhara’s last emir, blending Oriental and Russian architectural styles. Next, visit the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi and return to Bukhara to explore the Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums. At 14:40, transfer to the train station for your journey to Samarkand. The Afrosiyob train departs at 15:52 and arrives in Samarkand at 17:25. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Samarkand for overnight accommodation.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
After breakfast, meet your guide and driver to start your Samarkand city tour. Begin with the awe-inspiring Registan Square, followed by the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, once the grandest mosque in the Islamic world. Explore the bustling Siyob Bazaar, then visit the Ulugbek Observatory and the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, a complex of mausoleums and sacred sites. Conclude your day with a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Check out from your hotel by noon and continue your exploration with a visit to the Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel (closed on Sundays). Then, drive to Konigil village to witness the traditional process of making Samarkand paper from mulberry bark. Enjoy some free time with your car and driver at your disposal. In the late afternoon, transfer to the railway station to catch the high-speed Afrosiyob train back to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to your Tashkent hotel or private residence, concluding your memorable tour of Samarkand and Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist | $1280 | $770 | $730 | $650 | $610 |
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with a local guide in each city Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights 3 nights hotel accommodation (shared double/twin room) Ticket for high-speed train Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara-Tashkent
Tour leader to accompany travellers for the whole period of the tour Any Private Expenses Lunches, Dinners Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
A fantastic way to explore the cultural and historical treasures of Uzbekistan. The visits to Registan Square, Gur-Emir Mausoleum, and the local bazaars were highlights. The hands-on activities, including making our own pottery, were delightful. The tour was seamless, and the local guide was fantastic.
This tour exceeded my expectations. The historical sites of Samarkand and Bukhara were fascinating, and the local experiences, such as the traditional paper-making in Konigil, were outstanding. The guide was informative, and the tour was well-paced. Highly recommend it to anyone interested in Central Asian history!
An incredible journey through Uzbekistan’s past. The tour covered all the major sights, including the breathtaking Registan Square and the Ark Fortress. The hands-on experiences, like pottery making and traditional cuisine, added a special touch. Everything was well-organized, and our guide was excellent!
The 4-day tour was a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavor. Samarkand’s bustling Siyob Bazaar and Bukhara’s historic trade domes were highlights. The local dinners and interactions with artisans were exceptional. Our guide was knowledgeable and made the experience engaging and enjoyable.
A fantastic tour that beautifully showcased the cultural heritage of Samarkand and Bukhara. The visits to historical sites like the Samanid Mausoleum and Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis were impressive. The local interaction, including the paper-making workshop, made the tour even more memorable. Definitely a must-do for history enthusiasts!