Once one of the most influential cities on the ancient Silk Road - linking China, the Middle East, and Europe - this four-day tour combines history, culture and architecture and provides a fascinating insight into the grand city of Samarkand.
Explore iconic sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Registan Square - which you'll visit after-dark for its iconic light show - and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, known as the final resting place of Timur. Wander the vibrant bazaars, such as the vibrant and popular Siab Bazaar, known for its fresh local produce and traditional goods.
In the company of Sir Anthony Seldon, Murray Lindo and your tour manager, you'll visit several sacred complexes and monuments, also visiting the Ulugbek Observatory and the Afrasiab Museum - one of the most important in Samarkand.
You'll stay at the four-star Hilton Garden Inn Samarkand, a short drive from Registan Square and its three madrassahs. During the tour, you can look forward to group dinners and cultural experiences including traditional paper-making. This tour offers a rich introduction to Samarkand's enduring beauty, history and spirit.
Essential Information
Please note, the flight inclusive option departs a day before, arriving in Samarkand on 12 May, when the tour starts.
Flights
11 May: LGW - IST 14.05 - 19.55
IST - SKD 21.50 - 04.10 (+1)
15 May: SKD - IST 09.00 - 12.10
IST - LGW 14.30 - 16.40
After breakfast, you are free to spend the rest of the morning at your leisure. This afternoon, meet your guide for an introductory tour of Samarkand, including visits to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum and Registan Square. There is also the option to join a master class by Arabic calligraphy in Registan Square (not included). This evening, enjoy dinner at the Platan Restaurant and afterwards, go on an evening walk in Registan Square, where you'll see the illuminated façade and 3D light show. Return to the hotel.
After breakfast, continue the city tour with visits to the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, one of Central Asia's most impressive architectural monuments; the vibrant Siab Bazaar, known for its fresh local produce and traditional goods; the Hazrati Khizr Mosque, revered for its historical significance and hilltop views; and the Shakhi Zinda Complex, a sacred necropolis renowned for its exquisite tilework. This evening, enjoy dinner at the Samarkand Restaurant.
After breakfast, your day's excursion begins with visits to the Afrasiab Museum and the ancient Afrasiab Hills. After, visit the Ulugbek Observatory, one of the region's most important astronomical sites. Continue to the Konigil Paper Mill, where you'll take part in a masterclass on traditional paper-making and enjoy a pilaf demonstration. This afternoon, visit the Saint Daniel's Mausoleum, an important pilgrimage site set in a serene natural environment. This evening, enjoy dinner at the Emirhan Restaurant, offering a scenic view of the rear façade of Registan Square.
This morning, dependent on your flight time, you'll either enjoy a breakfast box before check out, or breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a standard room and includes flights, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Please note, the flight inclusive option departs a day before (11 May) to arrive in Samarkand on 12 May, when the tour begins. Single supplement £450. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL bonded).
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a standard room and excludes flights, subject to availability. Please call to add flights on. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £450. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL bonded).