Cultural treasures of the Silk Road
We invite you to an unforgettable trip to the land of legends - Uzbekistan. During this journey we get to know the Silk Road, visit old trading centers, experience the scents of the oriental bazaars, architectural masterpieces, the history of the individual regions and a wide variety of cultures and traditions. In addition to the historic cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent, we visit the fertile Fergana Valley, which is famous for the cultivation of fruit and vegetables, silk production and traditional handicrafts. We look over the shoulder of artisans and go on culinary forays.
Tour-Code: UZB01
Culture tripPeople, nature & history
11 Days/ 10 NightsIncluding the days of arrival and departure
Number of participantsSmall groups: 4-14
Accommodation3-4 * and boutique hotels
FeaturesVisit the most beautiful cities of Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent!
MealsHalf board: 10x breakfasts, 8x dinners
TransferFrom & to the airport
GuideEnglish speaking guide throughout the entire trip
ITINERARY
Arrival and transfer to the hotel
Your driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Tashkent
Your driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Tashkent
1st highlight: Kokand
After breakfast at the hotel, we will take the train to the town of Kokand, which is about 230 km from Tashkent. Upon arrival we will visit the magnificent Islamic palace of Xudayar Khan. This is a beautiful building with the main facade, which is decorated in bright colors with different ornaments, geometric figures and floral patterns. We visit the interiors and courtyards of the palace, containing the museum for cultural studies with exhibits on the history of the city and the region.
We take a look at the imposing Dschuma Mosque (UNESCO World Heritage). In the 18th - 19th century it became possible to use this mosque not only as a place of prayer, but also as a place of assembly and teaching. The uniqueness of the building lies in the geometry of the interior, which is created by 212 carved slender pillars.
2nd highlight: Rishtan
In the afternoon we arrive in Rishtan, the center of Uzbek ceramics. The first evidence of ceramic production was found here in the 13th century. The clay soils in the area were ideal for particularly fine pottery. That is why this city soon became the most important ceramic center in the entire region. During our visit, a potter explains and shows us the process of making ceramics.
We enjoy our dinner in a local restaurant in the small town of Ferghana.
Overnight in Ferghana
After breakfast at the hotel, we will take the train to the town of Kokand, which is about 230 km from Tashkent. Upon arrival we will visit the magnificent Islamic palace of Xudayar Khan. This is a beautiful building with the main facade, which is decorated in bright colors with different ornaments, geometric figures and floral patterns. We visit the interiors and courtyards of the palace, containing the museum for cultural studies with exhibits on the history of the city and the region.
We take a look at the imposing Dschuma Mosque (UNESCO World Heritage). In the 18th - 19th century it became possible to use this mosque not only as a place of prayer, but also as a place of assembly and teaching. The uniqueness of the building lies in the geometry of the interior, which is created by 212 carved slender pillars.
2nd highlight: Rishtan
In the afternoon we arrive in Rishtan, the center of Uzbek ceramics. The first evidence of ceramic production was found here in the 13th century. The clay soils in the area were ideal for particularly fine pottery. That is why this city soon became the most important ceramic center in the entire region. During our visit, a potter explains and shows us the process of making ceramics.
We enjoy our dinner in a local restaurant in the small town of Ferghana.
Overnight in Ferghana
1. Highlight: City tour through Ferghana
We start our tour in the city of Ferghana. It's a fascinating combination of western and traditional Uzbek ways of life: from modern restaurants and bars to oriental bazaars. To get to know the city better, we take part in a city tour through the multifaceted streets and the cultural center.
2nd highlight: visit to the Yodgorlik silk factory in Margilan
Afterwards we drive through varied landscapes to Margilan, one of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan. Legend has it that the city was founded by Alexander the Great. The dish of chicken (pers.: murgh) and bread (pers.: nan) offered to him in this town formed the basis for the name of the place. The most famous silk factory "Yodgorlik" is still located here, where silk is made in the traditional way and by hand. We get to know the individual steps of silk production better.
In the afternoon, we drive over the impressive Kamchik Pass (2,268 m) to Tashkent and take the express train to Samarkand. After we arrived we have a Uzbek dinner.
Overnight in Samarkand
We start our tour in the city of Ferghana. It's a fascinating combination of western and traditional Uzbek ways of life: from modern restaurants and bars to oriental bazaars. To get to know the city better, we take part in a city tour through the multifaceted streets and the cultural center.
2nd highlight: visit to the Yodgorlik silk factory in Margilan
Afterwards we drive through varied landscapes to Margilan, one of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan. Legend has it that the city was founded by Alexander the Great. The dish of chicken (pers.: murgh) and bread (pers.: nan) offered to him in this town formed the basis for the name of the place. The most famous silk factory "Yodgorlik" is still located here, where silk is made in the traditional way and by hand. We get to know the individual steps of silk production better.
In the afternoon, we drive over the impressive Kamchik Pass (2,268 m) to Tashkent and take the express train to Samarkand. After we arrived we have a Uzbek dinner.
Overnight in Samarkand
Highlight: The oriental pearl Samarkand - all day
At around 2770 years old, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world and at the same time the center of the famous Silk Road. We explore the history of the city and its surroundings in the city museum and in the archaeological site "Afrosiyob". Among the artefacts are the remains of ancient swords, knives, arrows, coins, manuscripts and statues.
Then we visit the historical building complex "Shohizinda" ("The living ruler"), one of the most famous mausoleums in Asia. From the 14th century, the nobles of the Muslim dynasty of the "Timurids" were buried here.
Our path continues to the paper factory, where centuries-old traditions are lived. Here we experience the production process of the paper, which is made from the fibers of the mulberry tree in a traditional way.
At the end of this eventful day we will visit the Ulug Beg observatory from the 15th century. Ulug Beg was one of the rulers from the Timurid dynasty who was a precise astronomer.
Samarkand became one of the centers of science during his reign. One of the masterpieces of that time was the observatory he built. We will have a dinner afterward.
Overnight in Samarkand
At around 2770 years old, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world and at the same time the center of the famous Silk Road. We explore the history of the city and its surroundings in the city museum and in the archaeological site "Afrosiyob". Among the artefacts are the remains of ancient swords, knives, arrows, coins, manuscripts and statues.
Then we visit the historical building complex "Shohizinda" ("The living ruler"), one of the most famous mausoleums in Asia. From the 14th century, the nobles of the Muslim dynasty of the "Timurids" were buried here.
Our path continues to the paper factory, where centuries-old traditions are lived. Here we experience the production process of the paper, which is made from the fibers of the mulberry tree in a traditional way.
At the end of this eventful day we will visit the Ulug Beg observatory from the 15th century. Ulug Beg was one of the rulers from the Timurid dynasty who was a precise astronomer.
Samarkand became one of the centers of science during his reign. One of the masterpieces of that time was the observatory he built. We will have a dinner afterward.
Overnight in Samarkand
Highlight: Continuation of the city tour through Samarkand - all day
On this day we explore Samarkand further and visit Registan Square with 3 impressive, huge and ornately decorated madrasas (religious educational institutions) as well as the Islamic college, where only the sons of rich families studied: the Ulug Beg madrasa from the 15th century, the Sherdor Madrasa and the Tillakori Madrasa, both from the 17th century. Then we stroll through the Tashkent Street, where the souvenir shops are. This leads us to the most important sight of Samarkand, in particular to the largest mosque in Central Asia - the Bibi Khanum Mosque. Here we hear exciting stories and legends about the masterpiece.
Afterwards, a visit to an oriental bazaar is planned. Trying raisins, apricots and nuts is expressly encouraged on a culinary foray in the bazaar. In the evening, we cook a typical meal together with an Uzbek family.
Overnight in Samarkand
On this day we explore Samarkand further and visit Registan Square with 3 impressive, huge and ornately decorated madrasas (religious educational institutions) as well as the Islamic college, where only the sons of rich families studied: the Ulug Beg madrasa from the 15th century, the Sherdor Madrasa and the Tillakori Madrasa, both from the 17th century. Then we stroll through the Tashkent Street, where the souvenir shops are. This leads us to the most important sight of Samarkand, in particular to the largest mosque in Central Asia - the Bibi Khanum Mosque. Here we hear exciting stories and legends about the masterpiece.
Afterwards, a visit to an oriental bazaar is planned. Trying raisins, apricots and nuts is expressly encouraged on a culinary foray in the bazaar. In the evening, we cook a typical meal together with an Uzbek family.
Overnight in Samarkand
Highlight: Shahrisabz, the hometown of Amir Timur - all day
On the historic Silk Road we drive through mountainous landscapes to the city of Shahrisabz, the hometown of the famous ruler Amir Timur. This city was probably founded in the 3rd century BC. At that time, the city was known for its handicrafts and trades and was one of the centers of Zoroastrianism, a religion particularly found in the Iranian cultural area. Alexander the Great is said to have been here around 328 BC and here he met his future favorite wife Roxana. Amir Timur was born in this city in 1336 and later created one of the largest and most powerful empires of his time.
Today there is the outstanding monument of the Timurid Dynasty, the impressive Ak-Saray Palace ("White Palace"). The use of mainly dark and light blue mosaics and the large geometric patterns give the palace a special softness of colors and a mysterious touch. Its huge walls are 38m high and house a museum with a collection of ceramics, clothing and jewelry. In the late afternoon, our journey continues to Bukhara - the famous rich oasis city in the Kyzylkum desert, where we enjoy dinner together.
Overnight in Bukhara
On the historic Silk Road we drive through mountainous landscapes to the city of Shahrisabz, the hometown of the famous ruler Amir Timur. This city was probably founded in the 3rd century BC. At that time, the city was known for its handicrafts and trades and was one of the centers of Zoroastrianism, a religion particularly found in the Iranian cultural area. Alexander the Great is said to have been here around 328 BC and here he met his future favorite wife Roxana. Amir Timur was born in this city in 1336 and later created one of the largest and most powerful empires of his time.
Today there is the outstanding monument of the Timurid Dynasty, the impressive Ak-Saray Palace ("White Palace"). The use of mainly dark and light blue mosaics and the large geometric patterns give the palace a special softness of colors and a mysterious touch. Its huge walls are 38m high and house a museum with a collection of ceramics, clothing and jewelry. In the late afternoon, our journey continues to Bukhara - the famous rich oasis city in the Kyzylkum desert, where we enjoy dinner together.
Overnight in Bukhara
Highlight: City tour through Bukhara - full day
In the middle of the desert sand lies the oasis city of Bukhara, also called "the star of the Islamic world". The city was founded by a Persian prince as a royal citadel around 2500 years ago. Thanks to its excellent strategic location, the city developed quickly. In the 13th century it achieved considerable economic and cultural importance, but was conquered by Genghis Khan's troops in 1220. A second invasion by the Russian Red Army took place again in 1920. Each of these epochs has left an important mark on the culture and architecture of Bukhara.
Today we begin our acquaintance with the city by visiting the mausoleum of Ismail Samani. He was one of the ancestors of the Samanid dynasty, who renounced Zoroastrianism and adopted Islam in this area. Then we take a look at the Muslim sanctuary "Chashma Ayub" from the 14th century and continue exploring the city by foot. We stroll through old city streets with imposing active mosques, madrasas and the classic architectural complex "Labi Hauz" in the city center , which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.
We will have Dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Bukhara
In the middle of the desert sand lies the oasis city of Bukhara, also called "the star of the Islamic world". The city was founded by a Persian prince as a royal citadel around 2500 years ago. Thanks to its excellent strategic location, the city developed quickly. In the 13th century it achieved considerable economic and cultural importance, but was conquered by Genghis Khan's troops in 1220. A second invasion by the Russian Red Army took place again in 1920. Each of these epochs has left an important mark on the culture and architecture of Bukhara.
Today we begin our acquaintance with the city by visiting the mausoleum of Ismail Samani. He was one of the ancestors of the Samanid dynasty, who renounced Zoroastrianism and adopted Islam in this area. Then we take a look at the Muslim sanctuary "Chashma Ayub" from the 14th century and continue exploring the city by foot. We stroll through old city streets with imposing active mosques, madrasas and the classic architectural complex "Labi Hauz" in the city center , which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.
We will have Dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Bukhara
1st highlight: Choir Minor Madrasa
After breakfast we explore the city further and visit the Chor Minor Madrasa("Four Minarets") with an Indian architectural style that is unique in Central Asia. Then we visit the magnificent summer residence of the last Bucharian emir - Sitorai Mokhi Hossa,"the place where moon and stars meet "is designated. The residence was built at the end of the 19th century by the decree of the Emir Ahadkhan by the best craftsmen in Russia at the time.
2nd highlight: Bahauddin Naqshbandi memorial
We continue to the memorial of Bahauddin Naqshbandi, one of Tamerlan's spiritual Sufi mentors from the 14th century. As a boy, Bahauddin Naqshbandi experienced visionary appearances and was recognized as a brilliant scholar of Islam. His philosophy was based on the principle "In the heart - God, in the hands - work". Today his mausoleum is considered the Central Asian Mecca.
In the afternoon, we have time to visit Bukhara's Jewish neighborhood and a doll workshop. The family who work here has been making dolls and performing puppet shows for generations. In the evening, we enjoy traditional Uzbek dishes in a restaurant.
Overnight in Bukhara
After breakfast we explore the city further and visit the Chor Minor Madrasa("Four Minarets") with an Indian architectural style that is unique in Central Asia. Then we visit the magnificent summer residence of the last Bucharian emir - Sitorai Mokhi Hossa,"the place where moon and stars meet "is designated. The residence was built at the end of the 19th century by the decree of the Emir Ahadkhan by the best craftsmen in Russia at the time.
2nd highlight: Bahauddin Naqshbandi memorial
We continue to the memorial of Bahauddin Naqshbandi, one of Tamerlan's spiritual Sufi mentors from the 14th century. As a boy, Bahauddin Naqshbandi experienced visionary appearances and was recognized as a brilliant scholar of Islam. His philosophy was based on the principle "In the heart - God, in the hands - work". Today his mausoleum is considered the Central Asian Mecca.
In the afternoon, we have time to visit Bukhara's Jewish neighborhood and a doll workshop. The family who work here has been making dolls and performing puppet shows for generations. In the evening, we enjoy traditional Uzbek dishes in a restaurant.
Overnight in Bukhara
1st highlight: flight to Tashkent
After breakfast we drive to the airport in Urgensch and start our journey to Tashkent by plane. Upon arrival we go to the city.
2nd highlight: Tashkent - all day
A city tour in the capital of the country awaits us, as well as an excursion to an interesting group of buildings called "Khast-Imam". Among other things, there is the "Barak Chan" Madrasa from the 16th century with a library of oriental manuscripts . Here, the world-famous Koran of Caliph Osman is kept, the main source of the holy Islamic book. The historic complex is located in the old town and is still largely made up of old mud houses that survived the earthquake of 1966.
Then the colorful "Tschorsu" bazaar invites us to stroll. The bazaar was already known in the Middle Ages and stood at the crossroads of the caravan processions of the Silk Road. Today it is one of the largest markets in Tashkent Giving an impression of the country and its people.
Today is our last evening. We enjoy our farewell dinner together in a local restaurant.
Overnight in Tashkent
After breakfast we drive to the airport in Urgensch and start our journey to Tashkent by plane. Upon arrival we go to the city.
2nd highlight: Tashkent - all day
A city tour in the capital of the country awaits us, as well as an excursion to an interesting group of buildings called "Khast-Imam". Among other things, there is the "Barak Chan" Madrasa from the 16th century with a library of oriental manuscripts . Here, the world-famous Koran of Caliph Osman is kept, the main source of the holy Islamic book. The historic complex is located in the old town and is still largely made up of old mud houses that survived the earthquake of 1966.
Then the colorful "Tschorsu" bazaar invites us to stroll. The bazaar was already known in the Middle Ages and stood at the crossroads of the caravan processions of the Silk Road. Today it is one of the largest markets in Tashkent Giving an impression of the country and its people.
Today is our last evening. We enjoy our farewell dinner together in a local restaurant.
Overnight in Tashkent
Highlight: free time - all day
Today you can organize the day as you like. If you need tips, our guide will be happy to help.
Overnight in Tashkent
Today you can organize the day as you like. If you need tips, our guide will be happy to help.
Overnight in Tashkent
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport
At the agreed time, the driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby and will take you to the airport. Your return flight ends the tour.
See you on a new journey!
At the agreed time, the driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby and will take you to the airport. Your return flight ends the tour.
See you on a new journey!
• 10 x nights in 3-4 * & boutique hotels
• 11 x breakfast
• 8 x dinner
• Transfers from & to the airport
• All described excursions
• English speaking guide throughout the entire trip
• Entrance tickets
• 11 x breakfast
• 8 x dinner
• Transfers from & to the airport
• All described excursions
• English speaking guide throughout the entire trip
• Entrance tickets
International Flights
flight tickets from Urgensch to Tashkent 80€
Not mentioned meals and drinks
Self-organized excursions
Insurance
Tips
Visa
flight tickets from Urgensch to Tashkent 80€
Not mentioned meals and drinks
Self-organized excursions
Insurance
Tips
Visa
DATES & PRICES
We will be glad to prepare this tour on other dates upon your request!
Guaranteed discounts:
- 8% for groups of 10 people or more
Guaranteed discounts:
- 8% for groups of 10 people or more
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