CLASSIC UZBEKISTAN ITINERARY: TASHKENT, SAMARKAND, BUKHARA & KHIVA 9N/10D

DAY 1: Arrival in Tashkent – Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival at Tashkent International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our local representative. After a brief meet-and-greet, enjoy a tour orientation led by your tour manager, who will walk you through the exciting journey ahead.

Proceed to your hotel for check-in and take some time to relax after your travels. In the evening, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner and settle in for an overnight stay at your hotel in Tashkent.

DAY 2:  Tashkent – Heritage Sites & City Tour

After breakfast, set out to explore the historic and cultural highlights of Tashkent. Begin with a visit to Amir Timur Square, a grand public space dedicated to the famed 14th-century conqueror. Continue to the Khast Imom Complex, the spiritual heart of the city, where you'll find beautifully preserved Islamic architecture and the revered Moyie Mubarek Library Museum, home to one of the world’s oldest Qurans.

Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chorsu Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s oldest markets, known for its domed halls filled with spices, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

After lunch, enjoy a panoramic Tashkent city tour featuring key landmarks such as Independence Square, the Palace of International Forums, and the striking Tashkent Metro, famed for its artful design. Stroll through leafy boulevards and modern cityscapes that reflect the city’s Soviet and contemporary influences.

Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Tashkent.

DAY 3: Tashkent to Samarkand – Ancient Wonders & Cultural Delights

After breakfast, board a comfortable fast train from Tashkent to the legendary city of Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia and a key stop along the ancient Silk Road. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant offering authentic Uzbek flavours.

In the afternoon, begin your exploration with a visit to Ulugbek’s Observatory, a remarkable 15th-century astronomical marvel built by the famed Timurid astronomer and ruler. Continue to the Afrosiab Museum, located near the ancient ruins of old Samarkand, showcasing artefacts and murals that reveal the city’s pre-Islamic history.

Next, discover the art of traditional craftsmanship at a handmade paper workshop, where artisans still produce paper using age-old techniques from mulberry bark.

For those interested, an optional visit to the Bagizagan Winery can be arranged, where you can enjoy a guided tour and sample some of Uzbekistan’s locally produced wines.

Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner and settle in for an overnight stay at your hotel in Samarkand.

DAY 4:  Samarkand – Architectural Marvels & Bazaar Experience

After breakfast, continue your discovery of Samarkand’s iconic landmarks, starting with a visit to the Shakh-i-Zinda necropolis, a stunning avenue of mausoleums adorned with intricate tilework and spiritual significance. Next, explore the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the great conqueror Timur (Tamerlane), known for its grand dome and rich interior decoration.

Marvel at the majestic Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once among the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. Then, experience the local lifestyle at Siob Bazaar, a bustling traditional market where you can see and sample local produce, dried fruits, spices, and Uzbek sweets.

Conclude the morning with a visit to the heart of Samarkand — the Registan, a breathtaking ensemble of three madrassas framed by azure domes and intricate mosaics, representing the finest of Timurid architecture.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon is free to relax or explore at your own pace.

Later, enjoy dinner and return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Samarkand.

DAY 5:  Samarkand to Bukhara – Road Trip & Historic Sights

After breakfast, depart for Bukhara, a city famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture and spiritual legacy. The scenic drive covers approximately 275 km and takes around 4.5 hours, offering views of Uzbekistan's rural landscapes along the way.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant En route before arriving in Bukhara in the afternoon.

Upon arrival, begin your sightseeing with a visit to the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of the oldest and most elegant structures in Central Asia, showcasing early Islamic architecture. Continue to the Ark Fortress, a massive royal citadel that served as the residence of Bukhara’s emirs for centuries.

In the evening, soak in the cultural spirit of the city with a traditional folklore music performance, bringing to life the melodies and dance of Uzbek heritage.

Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Bukhara.

DAY 6:  Bukhara – Cultural Gems & City Sights

After breakfast, set off to explore the timeless charm of Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage city with over two thousand years of history. Begin your day at the elegant Bolo Hauz Mosque, known for its beautifully carved wooden pillars reflected in the adjacent pool. Continue to the unique Chor Minor, a quaint madrassa with four distinctive minarets.

Visit the iconic Kalon Minaret and Mosque, architectural masterpieces that once guided caravans across the Silk Road, followed by a stop at the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, believed to house the spring of Prophet Job. Explore the Toki Zargaron Trading Dome, one of Bukhara’s ancient market domes, where jewellers and artisans once sold their crafts.

Wander through the tranquil Lyabi Khauz Complex, a peaceful plaza centred around a historic pond and surrounded by madrassas and teahouses that echo the spirit of old Bukhara.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue with a relaxed city tour of Bukhara by bus, giving you a broader view of this historic desert city’s landmarks and lifestyle.

Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Bukhara.

DAY 7: Bukhara to Khiva – Royal Legacy & Desert Journey

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Sitorai Mohi Hosa, the exquisite summer palace of Alim Khan, the last emir of Bukhara. This lavish residence blends Russian and Oriental architectural styles and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the former royal court.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the train station to board a fast train to Khiva, a remote and enchanting city on the edge of the Kyzylkum Desert, known for its fairy-tale architecture and ancient walled city.

Upon arrival in Khiva, transfer to your hotel and settle in.

Dinner will be served at a local restaurant or hotel, followed by an overnight stay in Khiva.

DAY 8: Khiva – Walking Tour of Ancient Itchan Kala

After breakfast, set out on a captivating walking tour of Khiva, one of Central Asia’s most atmospheric Silk Road cities. Begin your exploration at the iconic Kalta Minor Minaret, a brilliantly tiled, turquoise structure that stands as a symbol of Khiva’s unique architectural heritage. Visit the Khan’s Palace, now home to the Khiva Museum, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s royal and cultural history.

Continue to the 17th-century Juma Mosque, renowned for its forest of intricately carved wooden columns that create a tranquil and spiritual space. Marvel at the towering Islom-Hoja Minaret, the tallest in Khiva, and explore the adjoining medressa, both reflecting the city’s rich Islamic heritage.

End your tour at the elegant Tosh Hovli Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece showcasing traditional Uzbek design, complete with lavish courtyards, harem quarters, and beautifully tiled reception rooms.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then spend the afternoon at leisure—perfect for exploring Khiva’s local markets, picking up handcrafted souvenirs, or simply soaking in the timeless charm of Itchan Kala, the city’s UNESCO-listed old town.

Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel in Khiva.

TOUR SUMMARY

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan on this 10-day journey through the legendary Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Explore ancient mosques, grand mausoleums, bustling bazaars, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all steeped in centuries of history.

Highlights include Registan Square, Khast Imom complex, Ark Fortress, Itchan Kala, and visits to traditional craft workshops and local markets. Travel by fast train and scenic drives, enjoy authentic Uzbek cuisine, and experience local traditions, including folklore performances and optional museum or winery visits.

Perfect for cultural travellers and history lovers, this Uzbekistan tour offers a seamless blend of guided sightseeing and free time, making it an unforgettable journey through Central Asia’s most iconic destinations.

DAY 9:  Khiva to Tashkent – Culture, Tribute & Leisure

After breakfast, transfer to Urgench Airport (near Khiva) for your flight back to Tashkent. Upon arrival in the capital, enjoy a scenic drive through the city, pausing to admire the elegant Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre from the outside—a Soviet-era architectural gem named after the great Uzbek poet Alisher Navoi.

Take a leisurely walk along Broadway Alley, a lively pedestrian street lined with street artists, souvenir stalls, and local cafés—a perfect spot to soak in the city's modern vibe.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue with a visit to the Lal Bahadur Shastri Monument, a heartfelt tribute to the former Indian Prime Minister who passed away in Tashkent in 1966.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time for shopping at local bazaars or boutiques. For those interested, you may optionally visit the State Museum of the History of the Timurids, which houses a stunning collection of Timurid-era artefacts, manuscripts, and royal relics—or do both, time permitting.

Conclude the day with a farewell dinner and settle in for your final overnight stay in Tashkent.

Detailed Itinerary . Best time: May - September

Navruz dance photo by Canontsigan, from Wikimedai commons licensed under CC by SA-4.0

Bolo Hauz Mosque photo by Ymblanter, from Wikimedai commons licensed under CC by SA-4.0

Tashkent city photo by Solijonovm1996 from Wikimedia commons licensed under CC by SA-4.0

Broadway Alley photo by Yunuskhuja Tuygunkhujaev, from Wikimedai commons licensed under CC by SA-4.0

DAY 10: Departure from Tashkent – Journey Home

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of Uzbekistan’s ancient cities, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Tour Ends