Upon your arrival at Tashkent International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your tour guide. Your first city tour will then begin, introducing you to the highlights of the capital.
You will visit Khast Imam Square with the Barak Khan Madrasa and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum. This historic ensemble is located in the old city, which still consists of many traditional mud-brick houses that survived the devastating earthquake of 1966.
The complex was built around the tomb of one of Central Asia's first Quranic preachers, who was also a prominent scholar. The library is particularly impressive, housing a collection of rare manuscripts, including the world-famous 7th-century Osman Quran.
Afterward, we will travel to the traditional Chorsu Bazaar, which was already an important trading center on the Silk Road in the Middle Ages.
In the afternoon, we will stroll through modern Tashkent. On the way, we'll visit Independence Square with the "Mourning Mother" monument, which commemorates the victims of World War II. Afterward, we'll continue to the Alisher Navoi Opera House and stroll to Amir Timur Park – a popular meeting place in the heart of the city.
You can attend the opera today if there's a good performance on the program.
Accommodation: Qushbegi Plaza in Tashkent
Today we experience the contrasting capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, a city that blends post-Soviet charm with oriental flair. It's remarkable how seamlessly modernity and tradition merge in Tashkent.
First, you'll visit the Zangi Ata Complex (at 9:00 AM) – a popular pilgrimage site just outside the city. This is a vast complex with impressive buildings. We'll then take a ride on the Tashkent Metro, the only metro system in Central Asia. Afterward, we'll visit the Tashkent TV Tower, where, at a height of 110 meters, you can order light refreshments from the mobile restaurant.
Dinner will be at a lovely restaurant in Tashkent.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Qushbegi Plaza Hotel in Tashkent
Transfer to the local airport at 5:00 AM. You will depart from Tashkent to Urgench at 7:00 AM, arriving in Urgench in the early morning at 3:30 AM.
First, drive through the Kyzylkum Desert towards desert ruins. Your first stop will be the ruined fortress of Toprak-Kala, located in the heart of the desert. Toprak-Kala is a significant ancient settlement, a monument to the Khorezm culture of the 1st to 6th centuries AD. In the 3rd century AD, it served as the capital of Khorezm. This historical site was unearthed in 1938 by the Khorezm Expedition led by S.P. Tolstov.
Afterward, you will visit Kyzyl-Kala, also known as Qyzyl Qala or the "Red Fortress," an ancient fortress in modern-day Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan. This fortress, built between the 1st and 4th centuries AD, was part of the Khorasmia region. Kysyl-Kala is located about 1 km west of Toprak-Kala and was likely built as a fortified defensive structure for the nearby town of Toprak-Kala, which was the capital of Khorezm in the 3rd century AD. Overnight stay in Khiva.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Minor Boutique Hotel in Khiva
The breathtaking fairytale city of Khiva reveals the fascination of the legendary Silk Road. The city boasts a history spanning more than 2,500 years, but its current appearance only developed between the 18th and 20th centuries, during which the magnificent old town, Itchan Kala, took shape. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town was once the residence of eccentric khans and today resembles a vibrant open-air museum. Today we will visit the former residence of the khan – Kuhna Ark, the unfinished Kalta Minor minaret, and the Juma Mosque, whose wooden beamed ceiling is supported by 212 intricately carved wooden columns. We will then have lunch in a traditional Khwarazmian teahouse. Afterward, we continue to the famous 19th-century Tosh Hovli Palace and the Islam Khoja Minaret, the city's iconic landmark. We will then visit the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Mahmud, whose interior rooms are considered masterpieces of Khiva decorative art. In the evening, we will enjoy the sunset over the oasis.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Minor Boutique Hotel in Khiva
Today we travel along the Silk Road to the next oasis city, Bukhara, following the traces of the ancient caravans that once traversed the Kyzylkum Desert and led us to the desert city of Bukhara, which we will reach in the late afternoon. The long journey is well worth it. Along the way, we will see numerous green oases irrigated by the Amu Darya River. Keep your cameras ready, as we have planned photo stops at unusual and picturesque locations. For lunch, we will take picnic bags filled with fruit and other treats into the desert. After arriving in Bukhara, we can take a stroll through the historic old town and get our first impressions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
A highlight of your trip! Bukhara (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) presents itself today as a unique, authentic open-air museum. Like pearls on a string, mosques, madrasas, and minarets line the narrow, winding alleyways, most of which are pedestrianized. The Poikalon complex is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The Kalon Minaret, built in the 12th century, rises like a lighthouse and once served as a navigational aid for caravans; it is the symbol of Bukhara.
We will also visit a carpet weaving workshop with a gigantic carpet shop.
Other highlights include the Ark Citadel (the former residence of the Emir) and the Samanid Mausoleum. The heart of Bukhara is the architectural ensemble of the Labi-Hauz, consisting of three large monumental buildings: the Kukeldash Madrasa in the north, the Nadir Devon Begi Madrasa in the west, and the Khanaqa in the east.
Dinner will be served this evening at a lovely restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
This morning we will visit a merchant's house in the old city and learn about the family's tragic fate. We will see how wealthy merchants and traders lived in Bukhara 100 years ago at the house of the merchant Khojayev, which now serves as a museum. Sufism encompasses a large number of branches, and representatives of all orders were active in what is now Uzbekistan at different times. The Naqshbandi Sufi order left the greatest mark and proved its enduring relevance. Bahauddin Naqshbandi was one of Timur's spiritual mentors. His philosophy was based on the principle "In the heart – God, in the hands – work." The necropolis or memorial site of Bahauddin Naqshbandi is considered the Mecca of Central Asia. We will have dinner at a nice restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
Continue to Samarkand, the city of tales from One Thousand and One Nights (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
En route, visit the historic Rabbati Malik caravanserai, a significant 11th-century structure that once served as an important resting and trading post on the legendary Silk Road. Merchants, caravans, and travelers found shelter, supplies, and opportunities for exchange here on their long journeys through Central Asia. Even today, the monumental remains convey a powerful impression of the former importance of this place.
Nearby, you will visit a sardoba, an intricately designed domed water reservoir that played a vital role for caravans and the local population in earlier times. This remarkable engineering feat ensured a reliable water supply even in the arid steppe regions and testifies to the advanced technical knowledge of the builders of that era.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel or similar
In Samarkand, the tale of One Thousand and One Nights begins anew for us… At over 2,750 years old, it is one of the oldest cities in the world and the heart of the famous Silk Road.
Today, we begin our tour at the silk paper factory founded by the master Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the ancient tradition of papermaking using Samarkand technology has been revived at this factory. Interestingly, the entire production process is done by hand, and every guest can observe the process.
Afterward, we visit one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Islamic world – the tomb complex of Saint Daniel, as well as Ulugbek's Observatory, once the largest research center in Central Asia.
Following this, we visit the Shah-i-Zinda complex, a magnificent ensemble of various mausoleums clad in majolica and mosaic tiles in the Timurid style.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Samarkand is the heart of the Silk Road and one of the oldest cities and cultural centers in the world. Its architecture lends the city a majestic yet incredibly inviting atmosphere. Today, during our city tour, we will be impressed by the palatial mausoleum of the ruler Amir Timur, the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. You will then experience the highlight of your trip – Registan Square with its three impressively vast and intricately decorated madrasas. After lunch, we will visit what was once the largest mosque in Central Asia – the Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Timur wanted to demonstrate his boundless technical and financial resources by commissioning the most beautiful mosque in the Eastern world. Afterward, we will visit the Siab Bazaar, where the vibrant atmosphere and exotic aromas will transport you to a world straight out of One Thousand and One Nights.
Today, we will sample the Uzbek dish – Plov. This is the king of Uzbek national dishes. Enjoy a traditional dinner with a local family.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Today we're taking a trip to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of the great Timur. We'll travel by car over the mountain pass, stopping for photos along the way. We'll visit the remains of Timur's summer palace, Ak Saray, which took approximately 20 years to build; the Jahongir Mausoleum for Timur's eldest son, who died in a riding accident; and the Kuk Gombaz Mosque, whose blue dome is visible from afar and boasts incredible acoustics. In the afternoon, we'll return to Samarkand.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Check out of the hotel early in the morning at 6:00 a.m. Transfer to the airport. Departure at 09:00.
End of the trip.
Choosing the right travel partner is just as important as choosing the destination itself. With more than 10 years of experience creating unforgettable journeys across Central Asia, DOCA TOURS offers authentic experiences, carefully selected accommodations, expert local guides, and seamless logistics from the moment you arrive until your departure.
Every itinerary is designed to help you discover Uzbekistan beyond the guidebooks. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites and legendary Silk Road cities to traditional cuisine, local craftsmanship, and genuine cultural encounters, every detail has been thoughtfully planned to provide an enriching and stress-free travel experience.
Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as part of a group, our team is committed to delivering exceptional service, professional support, and memories that will last a lifetime.
✓ Carefully selected hotels
✓ Professional English-speaking guides
✓ Private transportation throughout the tour
✓ Domestic flight & high-speed train tickets
✓ Entrance fees to monuments and museums
✓ Daily breakfast
✓ 24/7 assistance from DOCA TOURS
Choosing the right travel partner is just as important as choosing the destination itself. With more than 10 years of experience creating unforgettable journeys across Central Asia, DOCA TOURS offers authentic experiences, carefully selected accommodations, expert local guides, and seamless logistics from the moment you arrive until your departure.
Every itinerary is designed to help you discover Uzbekistan beyond the guidebooks. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites and legendary Silk Road cities to traditional cuisine, local craftsmanship, and genuine cultural encounters, every detail has been thoughtfully planned to provide an enriching and stress-free travel experience.
Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as part of a group, our team is committed to delivering exceptional service, professional support, and memories that will last a lifetime.
✓ Carefully selected hotels
✓ Professional English-speaking guides
✓ Private transportation throughout the tour
✓ Domestic flight & high-speed train tickets
✓ Entrance fees to monuments and museums
✓ Daily breakfast
✓ 24/7 assistance from DOCA TOURS
Upon your arrival at Tashkent International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your tour guide. Your first city tour will then begin, introducing you to the highlights of the capital.
You will visit Khast Imam Square with the Barak Khan Madrasa and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum. This historic ensemble is located in the old city, which still consists of many traditional mud-brick houses that survived the devastating earthquake of 1966.
The complex was built around the tomb of one of Central Asia's first Quranic preachers, who was also a prominent scholar. The library is particularly impressive, housing a collection of rare manuscripts, including the world-famous 7th-century Osman Quran.
Afterward, we will travel to the traditional Chorsu Bazaar, which was already an important trading center on the Silk Road in the Middle Ages.
In the afternoon, we will stroll through modern Tashkent. On the way, we'll visit Independence Square with the "Mourning Mother" monument, which commemorates the victims of World War II. Afterward, we'll continue to the Alisher Navoi Opera House and stroll to Amir Timur Park – a popular meeting place in the heart of the city.
You can attend the opera today if there's a good performance on the program.
Accommodation: Qushbegi Plaza in Tashkent
Today we experience the contrasting capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, a city that blends post-Soviet charm with oriental flair. It's remarkable how seamlessly modernity and tradition merge in Tashkent.
First, you'll visit the Zangi Ata Complex (at 9:00 AM) – a popular pilgrimage site just outside the city. This is a vast complex with impressive buildings. We'll then take a ride on the Tashkent Metro, the only metro system in Central Asia. Afterward, we'll visit the Tashkent TV Tower, where, at a height of 110 meters, you can order light refreshments from the mobile restaurant.
Dinner will be at a lovely restaurant in Tashkent.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Qushbegi Plaza Hotel in Tashkent
Transfer to the local airport at 5:00 AM. You will depart from Tashkent to Urgench at 7:00 AM, arriving in Urgench in the early morning at 3:30 AM.
First, drive through the Kyzylkum Desert towards desert ruins. Your first stop will be the ruined fortress of Toprak-Kala, located in the heart of the desert. Toprak-Kala is a significant ancient settlement, a monument to the Khorezm culture of the 1st to 6th centuries AD. In the 3rd century AD, it served as the capital of Khorezm. This historical site was unearthed in 1938 by the Khorezm Expedition led by S.P. Tolstov.
Afterward, you will visit Kyzyl-Kala, also known as Qyzyl Qala or the "Red Fortress," an ancient fortress in modern-day Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan. This fortress, built between the 1st and 4th centuries AD, was part of the Khorasmia region. Kysyl-Kala is located about 1 km west of Toprak-Kala and was likely built as a fortified defensive structure for the nearby town of Toprak-Kala, which was the capital of Khorezm in the 3rd century AD. Overnight stay in Khiva.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Minor Boutique Hotel in Khiva
The breathtaking fairytale city of Khiva reveals the fascination of the legendary Silk Road. The city boasts a history spanning more than 2,500 years, but its current appearance only developed between the 18th and 20th centuries, during which the magnificent old town, Itchan Kala, took shape. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town was once the residence of eccentric khans and today resembles a vibrant open-air museum. Today we will visit the former residence of the khan – Kuhna Ark, the unfinished Kalta Minor minaret, and the Juma Mosque, whose wooden beamed ceiling is supported by 212 intricately carved wooden columns. We will then have lunch in a traditional Khwarazmian teahouse. Afterward, we continue to the famous 19th-century Tosh Hovli Palace and the Islam Khoja Minaret, the city's iconic landmark. We will then visit the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Mahmud, whose interior rooms are considered masterpieces of Khiva decorative art. In the evening, we will enjoy the sunset over the oasis.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Minor Boutique Hotel in Khiva
Today we travel along the Silk Road to the next oasis city, Bukhara, following the traces of the ancient caravans that once traversed the Kyzylkum Desert and led us to the desert city of Bukhara, which we will reach in the late afternoon. The long journey is well worth it. Along the way, we will see numerous green oases irrigated by the Amu Darya River. Keep your cameras ready, as we have planned photo stops at unusual and picturesque locations. For lunch, we will take picnic bags filled with fruit and other treats into the desert. After arriving in Bukhara, we can take a stroll through the historic old town and get our first impressions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
A highlight of your trip! Bukhara (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) presents itself today as a unique, authentic open-air museum. Like pearls on a string, mosques, madrasas, and minarets line the narrow, winding alleyways, most of which are pedestrianized. The Poikalon complex is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The Kalon Minaret, built in the 12th century, rises like a lighthouse and once served as a navigational aid for caravans; it is the symbol of Bukhara.
We will also visit a carpet weaving workshop with a gigantic carpet shop.
Other highlights include the Ark Citadel (the former residence of the Emir) and the Samanid Mausoleum. The heart of Bukhara is the architectural ensemble of the Labi-Hauz, consisting of three large monumental buildings: the Kukeldash Madrasa in the north, the Nadir Devon Begi Madrasa in the west, and the Khanaqa in the east.
Dinner will be served this evening at a lovely restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
This morning we will visit a merchant's house in the old city and learn about the family's tragic fate. We will see how wealthy merchants and traders lived in Bukhara 100 years ago at the house of the merchant Khojayev, which now serves as a museum. Sufism encompasses a large number of branches, and representatives of all orders were active in what is now Uzbekistan at different times. The Naqshbandi Sufi order left the greatest mark and proved its enduring relevance. Bahauddin Naqshbandi was one of Timur's spiritual mentors. His philosophy was based on the principle "In the heart – God, in the hands – work." The necropolis or memorial site of Bahauddin Naqshbandi is considered the Mecca of Central Asia. We will have dinner at a nice restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Komil Hotel in Bukhara
Continue to Samarkand, the city of tales from One Thousand and One Nights (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
En route, visit the historic Rabbati Malik caravanserai, a significant 11th-century structure that once served as an important resting and trading post on the legendary Silk Road. Merchants, caravans, and travelers found shelter, supplies, and opportunities for exchange here on their long journeys through Central Asia. Even today, the monumental remains convey a powerful impression of the former importance of this place.
Nearby, you will visit a sardoba, an intricately designed domed water reservoir that played a vital role for caravans and the local population in earlier times. This remarkable engineering feat ensured a reliable water supply even in the arid steppe regions and testifies to the advanced technical knowledge of the builders of that era.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel or similar
In Samarkand, the tale of One Thousand and One Nights begins anew for us… At over 2,750 years old, it is one of the oldest cities in the world and the heart of the famous Silk Road.
Today, we begin our tour at the silk paper factory founded by the master Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the ancient tradition of papermaking using Samarkand technology has been revived at this factory. Interestingly, the entire production process is done by hand, and every guest can observe the process.
Afterward, we visit one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Islamic world – the tomb complex of Saint Daniel, as well as Ulugbek's Observatory, once the largest research center in Central Asia.
Following this, we visit the Shah-i-Zinda complex, a magnificent ensemble of various mausoleums clad in majolica and mosaic tiles in the Timurid style.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Samarkand is the heart of the Silk Road and one of the oldest cities and cultural centers in the world. Its architecture lends the city a majestic yet incredibly inviting atmosphere. Today, during our city tour, we will be impressed by the palatial mausoleum of the ruler Amir Timur, the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. You will then experience the highlight of your trip – Registan Square with its three impressively vast and intricately decorated madrasas. After lunch, we will visit what was once the largest mosque in Central Asia – the Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Timur wanted to demonstrate his boundless technical and financial resources by commissioning the most beautiful mosque in the Eastern world. Afterward, we will visit the Siab Bazaar, where the vibrant atmosphere and exotic aromas will transport you to a world straight out of One Thousand and One Nights.
Today, we will sample the Uzbek dish – Plov. This is the king of Uzbek national dishes. Enjoy a traditional dinner with a local family.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Today we're taking a trip to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of the great Timur. We'll travel by car over the mountain pass, stopping for photos along the way. We'll visit the remains of Timur's summer palace, Ak Saray, which took approximately 20 years to build; the Jahongir Mausoleum for Timur's eldest son, who died in a riding accident; and the Kuk Gombaz Mosque, whose blue dome is visible from afar and boasts incredible acoustics. In the afternoon, we'll return to Samarkand.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: City Hotel in Samarkand
Check out of the hotel early in the morning at 6:00 a.m. Transfer to the airport. Departure at 09:00.
End of the trip.
