Guided Tour :
Departure to Uzbekistan
Your Silk Road adventure begins today with a flight from Paris to Urgench on a scheduled airline (Uzbekistan Airways or Turkish Airlines). Dinner and overnight will be provided on board as you travel toward the heart of Central Asia for a journey of unforgettable discoveries.
Welcome to Khiva, the Pearl of the Oasis
Arrive early morning at Urgench airport where you will be met by your driver for a short transfer to the ancient city of Khiva. After checking into your hotel and enjoying your first traditional Uzbek breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the walled city of Itchan Kala. Highlights include the iconic unfinished Kalta Minor Minaret, the Kukhna Ark Fortress, the Tash Khauli Palace (including the harem), and the Juma Mosque, famous for its 218 intricately carved wooden columns. Immerse yourself in this magical, Arabian Nights setting.
Crossing the Red Desert to Bukhara
Following breakfast, depart for an epic 450 km journey across the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Desert) toward Bukhara. You will follow ancient caravan routes and catch glimpses of the Amu Darya River, a striking blue ribbon cutting through the arid landscape. You will arrive in Bukhara in the late afternoon for hotel check-in and dinner.
Bukhara, the Holy City
Spend a full day exploring the noble city of Bukhara, a major center of Islamic learning. Your tour includes the majestic Poi-Kalyan Complex, the traditional domed trading bazaars, and the ancient Magok-i-Attari Mosque. You will also visit the Lyabi-Khauz Pool—the social heart of the city—the historic Ark Citadel, and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, widely considered an architectural masterpiece of the 10th century.
Summer Palace & Train to Samarkand
In the morning, visit the unique Chor Minor Madrasa with its four distinct towers, the Bahaouddin Naqshbandi Complex, and the Sitora-i-Mokhi Khossa Palace, which beautifully blends Russian and Oriental architectural styles. After lunch, transfer to the station for the 16:16 train to the legendary city of Samarkand. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Samarkand, Heart of the Silk Road
Experience a dazzling day in one of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia. Visit the iconic Registan Square, home to three blue-tiled madrasas, and the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane. Explore the massive Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the vibrant Siab Bazaar, which is full of local colors, flavors, and life. In the evening, enjoy the magical atmosphere of the city’s illuminated monuments.
Ancient Crafts & Journey to Tashkent
Continue your exploration with the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning avenue of blue-tiled mausoleums, followed by the Afrosiab Museum and the Ulugh Beg Observatory. In the afternoon, visit a local silk carpet workshop and discover the ancient art of traditional mulberry paper production. At 17:30, depart via the Afrosiyob high-speed train to Tashkent, arriving at 19:40.
Tashkent, Between Tradition and Modernity
Explore Uzbekistan’s capital city, starting with the Khast-Imam Complex, which houses the famous 7th-century Quran of Caliph Uthman. Visit the Kukeldash Madrasa and the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, the largest market in the country. You will also take a tour of the Tashkent Metro, a unique underground museum where every station is designed as a distinct work of art.
Return to France
Enjoy your final Uzbek breakfast before transferring to Tashkent airport (approximately 6 hours before departure) for your return flight to Paris. This marks the end of a truly memorable journey through the Silk Road.
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