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.
Please note, flights are not included but can be added on. Please speak to our reservations team for more details
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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