Silk Road Splendors: 8-Day Classic Uzbekistan Tour
Overview
The definitive 8-day Silk Road tour covering Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva with all major UNESCO sites and expert guided tours.
Embark on the ultimate Silk Road journey through Uzbekistan's four greatest cities. This 8-day private tour covers every UNESCO World Heritage highlight — from the magnificent Registan Square in Samarkand to the perfectly preserved walled city of Khiva, with the living museum of Bukhara and the cosmopolitan energy of Tashkent in between.
Each city reveals a different chapter of Silk Road history. In Samarkand, marvel at Timur's turquoise-domed masterpieces. In Bukhara, wander through centuries of Islamic architecture around Lyabi-Hauz and the Ark Fortress. In Khiva, step inside the mud-walled Ichan Kala, frozen in time. Your expert guide weaves together the stories of conquerors, scholars, and merchants who shaped this crossroads of civilizations.
The tour balances guided sightseeing with free time to explore bazaars, photograph stunning architecture, and taste regional cuisine. Comfortable intercity transport — including a scenic train ride — connects each destination.
Highlights
- Explore the iconic Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and Bibi Khanym in Samarkand
- Wander Bukhara's Ark Fortress, Lyabi-Hauz, and Kalyan Minaret
- Step inside Khiva's perfectly preserved Ichan Kala walled city
- Scenic high-speed train ride between cities
- Visit vibrant bazaars and taste regional Uzbek cuisine in each city
- Private expert guide throughout for personalized storytelling
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Private transportation including intercity transfers
- High-speed train ticket (Bukhara-Samarkand or similar)
- 7 nights hotel accommodation (4-star)
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout
- All entrance fees to monuments and museums
- Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
- Airport transfers
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not mentioned in itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guide and driver
- Visa fees
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the tour start time. You can cancel up to 1 days in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- Full refund if cancelled 1+ days before departure.
- No refund if cancelled less than 1 days before departure.
- Changes not permitted less than 1 days before departure.
- Weather-dependent: If canceled due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
-
Day 1
Airport pickup. Afternoon city tour: Khast Imam Complex with the world's oldest Quran, Chorsu Bazaar, Amir Timur Square. Welcome dinner at traditional restaurant. -
Day 2
Tashkent to Samarkand
Morning high-speed train to Samarkand (2hrs). Visit Registan Square, Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Timur's tomb). Evening free to explore local restaurants. -
Day 3
Samarkand Full Day
Full day: Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Bibi Khanym Mosque, Ulugh Beg Observatory, Siab Bazaar. Afternoon visit to paper-making and silk workshops. Sunset at Registan. -
Day 4
Samarkand to Bukhara
Morning train to Bukhara. Afternoon walking tour: Lyabi-Hauz ensemble, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, trading domes. Evening Sufi music performance (seasonal). -
Day 5
Bukhara Full Day
Full day: Ark Fortress, Kalyan Minaret and Mosque, Chor-Minor, Ismail Samani Mausoleum. Afternoon free for bazaar shopping and photography. Traditional Bukharan dinner. -
Day 6
Bukhara to Khiva
Scenic drive across Kyzylkum Desert to Khiva (450km, 6hrs with stops). Arrive late afternoon. Evening walk along the illuminated walls of Ichan Kala. -
Day 7
Khiva Full Day
Full day exploring Ichan Kala: Kunya-Ark Citadel, Islam Khodja Minaret (panoramic views), Juma Mosque with 218 carved wooden pillars, Tosh-Hovli Palace. Afternoon free time. Farewell dinner. -
Day 8
Khiva - Departure
Morning free for final photos and souvenir shopping. Transfer to Urgench airport for flight to Tashkent and onward departure. Tour ends.
Meeting Point & Pickup
Hotel Pickup Included
Free pickup from any hotel within Bukhara city center (5 km radius). Please provide your hotel name when booking.
Know Before You Go
-
Comfortable footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes
-
Weather protection: Bring sunscreen and hat in summer, warm layers in winter
-
Camera: Bring a camera for photos (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and some local currency for personal expenses.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Please contact us for specific age recommendations for this tour.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Please see our terms for details.