Golden Road to Samarkand

On day one, you'll depart from London Heathrow on flight HY-202, scheduled to leave at 16:20. After a long-haul journey, you'll arrive in Tashkent at 03:10 the following day. This overnight flight marks the beginning of your exciting adventure in Uzbekistan. 

Upon arriving in Tashkent, you'll be warmly greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for immediate check-in and some well-deserved rest. With a history spanning nearly 2000 years, Tashkent has transformed from a modest settlement into a major metropolitan hub, becoming one of the most significant industrial, financial, and cultural centres in both Uzbekistan and Central Asia. Your tour will introduce you to a range of fascinating sites, including some rare ancient landmarks. You'll meet your local guide and embark on a city tour, beginning with Khast Imam Square, the spiritual heart of Tashkent, featuring the immense Osman Koran, reputedly the world’s oldest. Next, you'll explore the Kukeldash Madrassah, a functioning 16th-century school, and wander through Chorsu Bazaar, one of the largest and historically important markets in Central Asia, once a key stop along the Great Silk Road. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a 19th-century building crafted by local artisans. You'll then enjoy a panoramic tour of the city, visiting Alisher Navoi Theatre Square, Amir Temur Square, the Earthquake Memorial, and Independence Square. If time allows, you may even take a ride on the Tashkent metro. Breakfast is included, and you'll spend the night in Tashkent. 

Transfer to the train station for your high-speed journey to Samarkand, departing at 08:00 and arriving at 10:08 (schedule subject to change). Upon arrival in Samarkand, a pivotal Silk Road city, you'll discover a place shaped by a rich tapestry of historical influences. From the conquests of Alexander the Great and the Arab expansion to Genghis Khan and Tamerlane, Samarkand's culture is a fascinating blend of Iranian, Indian, Mongolian, and various Western and Eastern influences.
Meet your local guide to begin your city tour, starting with the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane and his descendants from the 15th century. Next, explore the Afrosiab Museum, which delves into the city's ancient origins. Visit the remains of the largest medieval observatory, established by Ulugh Beg, the renowned astronomer and Timur’s grandson, in the 15th century. Also, tour the Silk Paper Centre “Meros,” where local artisans have revived the ancient craft of Samarkand paper.
Breakfast is included, and you'll spend the night in Samarkand. 

Continue your exploration with a visit to Registan Square, historically known as the "Sandy Place," which has been a central hub of Samarkand since the era of Tamerlane the Great. The Square is flanked by three magnificent madrassahs: the Ulugh Beg Madrassah (1417-1420), the Sher-Dor Madrassah (1619-1636), and the Tilla-Kori Madrassah (1646-1660). Also, visit the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, dedicated to Timur’s eldest and beloved wife, and explore the vibrant Siab Bazaar, a bustling farmers’ market renowned for its lively atmosphere (closed on Mondays). Conclude your tour with a visit to the Necropolis Shakhi-Zinda, an impressive ensemble of mausoleums dating from the 11th to 19th centuries, which is said to be built around the grave of Kussam, a son of Abbas and cousin of Mohammed.
Breakfast is included, and you will spend the night in Samarkand. 

Transfer to the train station for your high-speed journey from Samarkand to Bukhara, departing at 10:46 and arriving at 12:29 (schedule subject to change). Upon arrival at Kagan Train Station, a short 30-minute drive will take you to the heart of Bukhara.

Bukhara’s architectural heritage is incredibly rich, featuring an array of historical marvels, including caravanserais, trading domes, public baths, and grand pools, as well as defensive walls, city gates, khanakas, mausoleums, mosques, and madrassahs. The city’s intricate decorative methods, majestic designs, and innovative architectural ideas are truly awe-inspiring.
Upon arrival, meet with your local guide and begin exploring Bukhara. Your tour will include the Fortress Ark, the citadel and former residence of the Emirs of Bukhara; the 18th-century Bolo-Khauz Mosque; the Chashma-Ayub Shrine, renowned for its curative waters; and the Samanids Mausoleum, a 9th-century gem revered as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture in Central Asia.
Breakfast is included, and you will spend the night in Bukhara. 

Another day is dedicated to discovering the wonders of Bukhara. Begin with a visit to the Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, where you'll marvel at the iconic Kalyan Minaret, a symbol of the city dating back to the 12th century and explore the Miri-Arab Madrassah (16th century) and the Djuma Mosque (15th century). Continue to the historic madrassahs of Ulugbek (15th century) and Abdulaziz-Khan (17th century) and immerse yourself in the vibrant trading domes: Tok-i-Sarrafon (Moneychanger’s Bazaar), Tok-i-Tilpak Furushon (Cap Maker’s Bazaar), and Tok-i-Zargaron (Jeweller’s Bazaar, 1570). Visit the Magoki-Attari Mosque (12th and 16th centuries) and the Liabi-Khauz Complex, which includes the Nodir-Divan-Beg Madrassah (17th century), Kukeldash Madrassah (16th century), and Khonako (17th century). You'll also have the chance to explore a local puppet workshop and see Chor Minor, a colourful madrassah known for its distinctive four towers. Throughout your visits, enjoy the rich flavours of traditional teas infused with aromatic spices.
Breakfast is included, and you'll spend the night in Bukhara. 

Enjoy a free morning for personal exploration and last-minute shopping in Bukhara with no guide or car provided. In the afternoon, transfer to the train station to board the high-speed train to Tashkent, departing at 15:44 and arriving at 19:53 (schedule subject to change). Upon arrival in Tashkent, you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Breakfast is included, and you'll spend the night in Tashkent. 

Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your flight HY-201 to London Heathrow, departing at 11:10 and arriving at 14:50. Breakfast is included.