Itinerary

Uzbekistan is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. With your constraints in mind, here’s a delightful 7-day itinerary that will take you through Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, all while enjoying the charm of smaller hotels. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent

Morning:

• Arrive in Tashkent, the capital city. After checking into a cozy hotel like the Art Hotel or Hotel Old City, take a moment to freshen up.

Afternoon:

• Head to Khast Imam Complex, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and visit the world-famous Uthman Quran.
• Stroll through the Chorsu Bazaar to experience local life and maybe pick up some delicious snacks.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some plov (Uzbek rice dish) and shashlik (grilled meat).
• If you have energy left, take a leisurely walk around Amir Timur Square.

## Day 2: Tashkent to Samarkand

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Independence Square and the Museum of Applied Arts.
• Grab a quick lunch before heading to the train station.

Afternoon:

• Take a high-speed train to Samarkand (about 2 hours). Check into a charming hotel like Hotel Bibi Khanym.
• Once settled, visit the iconic Registan Square. The intricate tile work is simply mesmerizing!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying some manty (dumplings).
• If you’re up for it, take a night walk around Registan to see it beautifully illuminated.

## Day 3: Exploring Samarkand

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, a stunning ensemble of mausoleums.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the nearby Siyob Bazaar for lunch and some shopping.
• Don’t miss the Ulugh Beg Observatory for a glimpse into the astronomical advancements of the past.

Evening:

• Dinner at a local restaurant, and perhaps try some local wines.
• Relax at your hotel or enjoy a quiet evening stroll.

## Day 4: Samarkand to Bukhara

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Afrosiab Museum to learn about the ancient history of Samarkand.
• Grab lunch before heading to the train station.

Afternoon:

• Take a train to Bukhara (about 1.5 hours). Check into a quaint hotel like Hotel Zargaron.
• Start your exploration with the Ark Fortress, a massive citadel that’s steeped in history.

Evening:

• Dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some kebabs or lagman (noodle soup).
• Enjoy a leisurely evening in the historic center, soaking in the atmosphere.

## Day 5: Discovering Bukhara

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Bolo Haouz Mosque and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Trading Domes and the Lyabi-Hauz area, where you can relax by the pond.
• Have lunch at a local café, enjoying the view.

Evening:

• Dinner at a traditional restaurant, and if you’re lucky, catch a local music performance.
• Stroll through the old streets, perhaps stopping for some tea.

## Day 6: More of Bukhara

Morning:

• Visit the Chor Minor and the Kalyan Minaret for stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Bukhara Museum of Fine Arts and the Sitorai Mokhi Khosa (the summer palace of the last emir).
• Enjoy lunch at a local spot.

Evening:

• For your last night in Bukhara, have a special dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.
• Reflect on your journey over a cup of tea.

## Day 7: Return to Tashkent

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely morning to soak in the last moments in Bukhara.
• Head to the train station for your return trip to Tashkent.

Afternoon:

• Once back in Tashkent, visit any sites you may have missed, like the Tashkent Metro stations, which are works of art in themselves.
• Have lunch at a local café.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some more local dishes.
• If time allows, do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Departure

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a final stroll or a visit to a local park before heading to the airport.

And there you have it! A week filled with history, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your adventure in Uzbekistan! If you have any questions or need further details, feel free to ask!