Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Uzbekistan's modern capital and get oriented with a gentle introduction to the city's blend of Soviet architecture and contemporary Central Asian culture.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Clear customs and immigration at
Tashkent International Airport. Exchange currency or withdraw som from ATMs. Transfer to your accommodation in the city center and rest after your flight. Take time to freshen up and adjust to the new time zone before beginning exploration.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Arrange airport transfer through your hotel in advance for convenience
Lunch
A traditional Central Asian restaurant near your hotel
Uzbek classics like plov and lagman
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Amir Temur Monument and surrounding area
Visit the Amir Temur Monument, a grand statue honoring Uzbekistan's national hero in a beautifully landscaped square. Stroll through the surrounding park and observe daily life in
Tashkent. Walk along nearby boulevards to get a feel for the city's layout and Soviet-era architecture mixed with modern developments.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a local eatery serving fresh bread from tandoor ovens, then walk through illuminated city squares
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Mid-range hotel near metro stations)
Central location provides easy access to attractions and restaurants while being close to transportation for tomorrow's sightseeing
Download offline maps and learn basic Russian or Uzbek greetings—locals appreciate the effort and English isn't widely spoken outside major hotels
Day 1 Budget: $50-70
Dive into
Tashkent's rich artistic heritage and historical sites, exploring museums and monuments that showcase Uzbekistan's complex past.
Morning
Visit Museum of Applied Arts
Explore the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a stunning traditional mansion. Marvel at intricate suzani embroidery, carved wooden doors, ceramics, and jewelry that represent centuries of Uzbek craftsmanship. The building itself is a masterpiece of traditional architecture with beautifully painted ceilings and carved columns. Allow time to appreciate the detailed workmanship in each exhibit.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A café in the old city serving fresh salads and grilled meats
Uzbek home-style cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Museum of Victims of Political Repression and Alisher Navoiy National Park
Visit the Museum of Victims of Political Repression to understand Uzbekistan's Soviet-era history through moving exhibits and personal stories. Afterward, relax in Alisher Navoiy National Park, a green oasis popular with locals. Enjoy the shade of mature trees, watch families picnicking, and experience everyday
Tashkent life away from tourist sites.
3-4 hours
$3-5
Evening
Visit the iconic blue-domed bazaar for dinner ingredients and street food, experiencing the vibrant market atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel as previous night)
Staying put saves time and allows you to prepare for tomorrow's early train to Samarkand
Visit the Railway Museum if time permits—it's small but fascinating, showcasing vintage locomotives and Uzbekistan's railway history
Day 2 Budget: $55-75
Take the high-speed train to legendary
Samarkand and begin exploring one of Central Asia's most magnificent cities.
Morning
Board the comfortable Afrosiyob high-speed train for a scenic journey through Uzbekistan's countryside. The train travels at speeds up to 250 km/h, covering the distance in just over two hours. Watch the landscape transform from urban sprawl to agricultural plains and distant mountains. Arrive in
Samarkand and transfer to your accommodation.
3-4 hours including transfer
$20-30
Book train tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season
Lunch
Regional Uzbek specialties
Mid-range
Afternoon
Experience your first glimpse of the legendary
Registan Square, one of the world's most stunning architectural ensembles. Three magnificent madrasas—Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori—frame the square with their towering portals and intricate tilework. Explore the courtyards, climb minarets for panoramic views, and browse handicraft shops in former student cells. The afternoon light beautifully illuminates the azure tiles.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Evening
Return to watch the square illuminated at dusk, then enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the monuments
Where to Stay Tonight
Old City Samarkand (Traditional guesthouse or boutique hotel)
Walking distance to major attractions allows you to experience the magical evening and early morning atmosphere around historic sites
Return to
Registan Square after dark when it's beautifully lit—the evening light show is spectacular and the crowds have thinned
Day 3 Budget: $65-85
Explore the monumental architecture commissioned by Timur (Tamerlane), from his grand mausoleum to ancient astronomical observatories.
Morning
Visit Amir Temur Mausoleum Gur-i Amir Complex
Explore the Amir Temur Mausoleum Gur-i Amir Complex, the final resting place of the great conqueror Timur and his descendants. The ribbed turquoise dome is one of
Samarkand's most recognizable landmarks. Inside, marvel at the ornate interior decoration, golden stalactite ceiling, and the jade tombstone marking Timur's grave. Learn about the dynasty that transformed
Samarkand into a cultural capital.
2 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A courtyard restaurant serving shashlik and fresh bread
Grilled meats and salads
Budget
Afternoon
Observatory of Ulugbek and Ulugh Beg Madrasa
Visit the Observatory of Ulugbek, built in the 1420s by Timur's grandson, a brilliant astronomer-king. See the remains of the massive sextant used to chart the stars with remarkable accuracy. The adjacent museum explains Ulugbek's astronomical achievements. Then visit the Ulugh Beg Madrasa at
Registan Square to learn more about this scholar-ruler's contributions to science and education.
3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Traditional music performance
Attend a folk music and dance performance at a cultural center, followed by dinner featuring
Samarkand's famous wines
Where to Stay Tonight
Old City Samarkand (Same accommodation as previous night)
Convenient base for exploring remaining Samarkand attractions tomorrow
Visit the Observatory early or late to avoid tour groups—the site is small and can feel crowded during peak hours
Day 4 Budget: $60-80
Discover
Samarkand's most spiritually significant sites and delve into ancient history at archaeological museums.
Morning
Explore Shah-i-Zinda necropolis
Walk through the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, a stunning avenue of mausoleums climbing a hillside. This sacred site contains some of Central Asia's finest tilework, with each tomb displaying unique patterns in brilliant blues, turquoises, and golds. The complex is associated with a cousin of Prophet Muhammad and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. Count the steps—legend says the number differs going up and down.
2-3 hours
$5-7
Lunch
A teahouse near the necropolis serving traditional dishes
Uzbek soups and pastries
Budget
Afternoon
Visit Afrasiyab Museum and ancient city ruins
Explore the Afrasiyab Museum, which houses artifacts from ancient
Samarkand's predecessor city. See the famous 7th-century frescoes depicting ambassadors from various kingdoms. Walk through the archaeological site of Afrasiyab itself, where excavations reveal layers of civilization dating back over 2,500 years. The elevated position offers views across modern
Samarkand.
2-3 hours
$5-7
Evening
Dinner and bazaar exploration
Visit Siyob Bazaar for dinner ingredients and local snacks, experiencing the vibrant market atmosphere and sampling dried fruits and nuts
Where to Stay Tonight
Old City Samarkand (Same accommodation)
Final night in Samarkand before tomorrow's journey to Bukhara
Visit Shah-i-Zinda early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds—the tilework glows beautifully in morning sun
Day 5 Budget: $55-75
Travel to Bukhara, one of the Silk Road's most perfectly preserved medieval cities, and begin exploring its labyrinthine old town.
Morning
Drive or train to Bukhara
Travel to Bukhara by shared taxi or train, a journey of approximately four hours through the Kyzylkum Desert landscape. Watch the scenery shift from green valleys to arid plains. Arrive in Bukhara and check into your accommodation in or near the old town. Take time to orient yourself in this compact, walkable city center.
4-5 hours
$15-25
Shared taxis are faster and more frequent than trains for this route
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in the old town serving Bukharan pilaf
Bukharan specialties
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore Kalan Minaret and surrounding complex
Visit the iconic Kalan Minaret, the 12th-century tower that dominates Bukhara's skyline. At 46 meters tall, it was the tallest structure in Central Asia for centuries. Explore the adjacent Kalan Mosque and Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. Wander through the surrounding streets lined with domed bazaars, each traditionally specializing in different crafts and goods.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Evening walk and dinner
Stroll through the illuminated old town, then dine at a courtyard restaurant in a converted caravanserai
Where to Stay Tonight
Bukhara Old Town (Traditional guesthouse or boutique hotel in historic building)
Staying within the old town puts you steps from major attractions and allows you to experience the magical atmosphere after day-trippers leave
Bukhara's old town is compact and best explored on foot—wear comfortable shoes and get lost in the maze of lanes between monuments
Day 6 Budget: $60-80
Immerse yourself in Bukhara's remarkable architectural heritage, from ancient citadels to beautifully preserved madrasas and monuments.
Morning
Visit Rukhobod Mausoleum and surrounding monuments
Explore the Rukhobod Mausoleum, one of Bukhara's oldest monuments dating to the 10th century. Wander through the dense cluster of historic buildings in this area, including beautifully decorated madrasas with intricate tilework and carved wood. Visit artisan workshops where craftsmen practice traditional techniques passed down through generations. The compact nature of Bukhara's old town allows you to visit multiple sites easily.
3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A teahouse near Lyabi-Hauz plaza serving traditional dishes
Uzbek dumplings and kebabs
Budget
Afternoon
Explore covered bazaars and trading domes
Wander through Bukhara's historic covered bazaars, each housed under distinctive domes. These trading spaces have operated for centuries, maintaining their traditional character. Browse carpets, suzani textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Watch craftsmen at work in small workshops. The bazaars offer insight into Bukhara's mercantile heritage and provide excellent opportunities for souvenir shopping and cultural interaction.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Traditional folklore show and dinner
Enjoy a performance of traditional music and dance at a historic madrasa, followed by dinner featuring local specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Bukhara Old Town (Same accommodation as previous night)
Continuing to stay in the old town for convenient access to remaining attractions
Bargaining is expected in the bazaars—start at about 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate respectfully with a smile
Day 7 Budget: $65-85
Delve deeper into Bukhara's history with visits to ancient fortresses and explore the city's outskirts for a more complete picture.
Morning
Visit the Ark Fortress area
Explore the historic fortress complex that served as the residence of Bukharan emirs for centuries. Walk through the massive gates into courtyards and museums displaying artifacts from Bukhara's royal past. Climb to the ramparts for panoramic views over the old city. The fortress has witnessed over 2,000 years of history and offers fascinating insights into the region's political heritage.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A local eatery serving fresh bread and grilled meats
Simple Uzbek fare
Budget
Afternoon
Visit summer palace and surrounding sites
Take a short trip to the outskirts to visit a former emir's summer residence, showcasing a different architectural style with Russian influences. Explore the gardens and decorated rooms. Return to the old town to visit any monuments you missed, or simply wander the atmospheric lanes, discovering hidden courtyards and local life beyond the main tourist circuit.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Evening
Farewell dinner in Bukhara
Enjoy a special dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated old town, savoring Bukharan specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Bukhara Old Town (Same accommodation)
Final night in Bukhara before tomorrow's journey to Khiva
Visit Lyabi-Hauz plaza in the evening when locals gather—it's the social heart of Bukhara and wonderful for people-watching
Day 8 Budget: $60-80
Embark on a scenic desert drive to the remote oasis city of Khiva, arriving in time to catch your first sunset over this extraordinary walled city.
Morning
Drive across the Kyzylkum Desert to Khiva
Begin the long but fascinating drive across the Kyzylkum Desert to Khiva, approximately seven hours. The journey follows the ancient caravan routes, passing through small desert settlements and offering glimpses of traditional rural life. Stop at roadside teahouses for refreshments and leg-stretching breaks. The landscape's stark beauty and remoteness help you appreciate Khiva's oasis setting.
7-8 hours
$40-60
Arrange a private driver or join a shared taxi—this route has no train service
Lunch
A roadside chaikhana (teahouse) serving simple hot dishes
Basic Uzbek food
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive in Khiva and first exploration of Itchan Kala
Arrive in Khiva and check into your accommodation. Enter through the gates of Itchan Kala, the walled inner town that feels like stepping into a medieval time capsule. Take an initial orientation walk through the compact historic center, marveling at the concentration of monuments. Climb one of the minarets for sunset views over the turquoise-tiled rooftops and desert beyond.
2-3 hours
$15-20
Purchase the combined ticket for Itchan Kala monuments at the entrance—it's valid for multiple days
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a restaurant within the walls, then walk through the illuminated streets—Itchan Kala is magical after dark
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or near Itchan Kala (Traditional guesthouse in converted historic building)
Staying within the walls allows you to experience the unique atmosphere when day-trippers have left
Khiva can be very hot in summer and cold in winter—the walls trap heat or cold, so dress appropriately for the season
Day 9 Budget: $70-90
Spend a full day exploring Itchan Kala's remarkable concentration of monuments, palaces, and madrasas in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Morning
Explore Itchan Kala monuments
Dedicate the morning to thoroughly exploring Itchan Kala, visiting its magnificent monuments. Marvel at the intricate tilework on madrasas, explore the narrow lanes between high walls, and visit small museums showcasing traditional crafts. The entire walled city is essentially an open-air museum, perfectly preserved and remarkably intact. Each building reveals layers of history and architectural innovation.
3-4 hours
$15-20
Lunch
A courtyard restaurant serving regional specialties
Khorezm regional dishes
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit Toshhovli Palace and Kuhna Ark
Explore Toshhovli Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece featuring stunning courtyards decorated with blue and white majolica tiles. Visit the harem, throne room, and reception halls. Then explore Kuhna Ark, the ancient fortress and former residence of Khiva's khans. Climb to the watchtower for panoramic views. Visit the mint, stables, and mosque within the complex to understand royal life.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Sunset photography and dinner
Climb a minaret for golden hour photography, then enjoy dinner while watching traditional dance performances
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or near Itchan Kala (Same accommodation as previous night)
Another night to fully appreciate Khiva's unique atmosphere
Visit monuments in the morning before tour groups arrive—Khiva is small and can feel crowded when multiple groups are present
Day 10 Budget: $65-85
Discover Khiva's living traditions through artisan workshops and craft demonstrations, then prepare for your return journey.
Morning
Visit artisan workshops and craft demonstrations
Explore workshops within Itchan Kala where master craftsmen practice traditional techniques. Watch woodcarvers creating intricate patterns, visit a ceramics workshop to see pottery being shaped and glazed, and observe textile artisans working on suzani embroidery. Many workshops welcome visitors and offer insights into centuries-old techniques. Consider purchasing authentic handicrafts directly from makers.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Lunch
A small family-run restaurant serving home-cooked meals
Traditional Uzbek dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Final exploration and relaxation
Revisit favorite spots within Itchan Kala, climb different minarets for varied perspectives, or simply relax at a teahouse watching daily life unfold. Browse handicraft shops for last-minute souvenirs. Take final photographs of the remarkable architecture. The compact size of Khiva allows you to thoroughly explore every corner and discover hidden details you might have missed.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Farewell dinner in Khiva
Enjoy a special dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views over the illuminated city walls and monuments
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or near Itchan Kala (Same accommodation)
Final night in Khiva before tomorrow's journey back toward Tashkent
Early morning is the best time for photography in Khiva—the light is soft and the streets are empty of tourists
Day 11 Budget: $55-75
Travel back across the desert to Bukhara, with time to revisit favorite spots or explore areas you missed on your first visit.
Morning
Drive from Khiva to Bukhara
Begin the return journey across the Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara. The seven-hour drive allows time for reflection on your Khiva experience and anticipation of returning to Bukhara. Stop at the same or different roadside teahouses for breaks. The desert landscape takes on different character depending on the time of day and season.
7-8 hours
$40-60
Book your return transport in advance, especially during peak season
Lunch
A roadside stop serving hot tea and fresh bread
Simple fare
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive in Bukhara and free time
Arrive in Bukhara in late afternoon and check into accommodation. Enjoy free time to revisit favorite monuments, explore areas you missed during your first stay, or simply relax at Lyabi-Hauz plaza watching the sunset. Browse shops for any souvenirs you didn't purchase earlier. The familiarity of returning to Bukhara allows for a more relaxed pace.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Relaxed dinner
Enjoy a casual dinner at a local favorite, perhaps trying dishes you didn't sample during your first visit
Where to Stay Tonight
Bukhara Old Town (Guesthouse or hotel in the historic center)
Convenient location for tomorrow's journey to Samarkand or exploring any missed sites
Use this evening to organize your purchases and souvenirs—you'll appreciate having everything packed before the final travel days
Day 12 Budget: $65-85
Travel back to
Samarkand for a final day in this magnificent city, with opportunities to revisit highlights or discover new corners.
Morning
Take the morning train or shared taxi back to
Samarkand, a journey of approximately four hours. Settle into your accommodation and refresh after the journey. The return to
Samarkand offers a chance to appreciate sites with fresh eyes and deeper understanding after your journey through Uzbekistan's other historic cities.
4-5 hours
$15-25
Lunch
A restaurant you enjoyed during your first
Samarkand visit
Afternoon
Visit Khoja Daniyor Mausoleum and free exploration
Visit the Khoja Daniyor Mausoleum, a pilgrimage site with a long, mysterious tomb said to contain the remains of the biblical prophet Daniel. The peaceful setting includes ancient pistachio trees and offers a quieter alternative to the main monuments. Spend remaining time revisiting
Registan Square or exploring neighborhoods you missed, or simply relaxing at a teahouse.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Evening
Return to
Registan Square for a final sunset and evening illumination, then enjoy a farewell dinner at a special restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Samarkand Old Town (Hotel near major monuments)
Convenient for tomorrow's early departure to Tashkent and final sightseeing opportunities
Visit Tourist village - Konigil if interested in traditional paper-making—it's a working workshop demonstrating ancient
Samarkand techniques
Day 13 Budget: $60-80
Return to
Tashkent with time for final explorations or souvenir shopping before your departure from Uzbekistan.
Morning
Enjoy a final morning walk through
Samarkand's old town if time permits before your departure. Board the high-speed train back to
Tashkent, arriving in approximately two hours. The modern, comfortable train provides a fitting conclusion to your journey, connecting ancient cities with contemporary efficiency. Transfer to your accommodation or directly to the airport depending on your flight schedule.
3-4 hours
$20-30
Book your return train ticket in advance to ensure good timing with your flight
Lunch
A restaurant in
Tashkent or meal on the train
Light fare
Budget
Afternoon
Final shopping and exploration in
TashkentDepending on your flight time, enjoy last-minute shopping at
Chorsu Bazaar for spices, dried fruits, and souvenirs. Visit any
Tashkent sites you missed on arrival, or simply relax at a café reflecting on your journey. Purchase final gifts and ensure you have local snacks for the journey home. Allow plenty of time for airport transfer and check-in.
2-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Departure
Transfer to airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of the Silk Road's timeless cities
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of journey
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights—
Tashkent airport can have long queues during peak times
Day 14 Budget: $50-70