Welcome to our exclusive day trip to Samarkand, one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in the world. This tour offers you a unique opportunity to discover the highlights of this legendary city—easily and quickly accessible with the modern “Afrosiyob” high-speed train. Samarkand, a city that has captivated travelers from around the globe for centuries, awaits you with its impressive history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant culture.
Your Journey Begins: Onward to Samarkand with the “Afrosiyob”
The day begins early in the morning when you board the “Afrosiyob” high-speed train, which will take you from Tashkent to Samarkand in less than two hours. This comfortable train offers modern amenities and allows you to travel in style and comfort while you look forward to the discoveries ahead.
Historical Highlights in Samarkand
Upon your arrival in Samarkand, your guided tour begins with a visit to the famous Registan Square, the heart of the city and one of the most impressive squares in the world. Surrounded by the three splendid madrasahs of Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kori, the Registan is a true masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The intricate mosaics, grand domes, and majestic facades of the madrasahs tell stories from Samarkand’s golden age when the city was a major center of culture and science.
Next, you will visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, another architectural jewel built by Timur, the great conqueror. This monumental mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world, impresses with its sheer size and the intricate craftsmanship of its structures. The nearby Bibi-Khanym Bazaar invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant hustle and bustle of the local market, where you can savor the aromas and colors of Central Asia.
The Mausoleums and the Legacy of Timur
Another highlight of your tour is a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur and his descendants. This imposing mausoleum with its azure dome symbolizes the power and wealth of the Timurid Empire and stands as a prime example of Persian-Mongol architecture. The interior of the mausoleum, richly adorned with gold and marble, offers deep insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of this site.
Not far away lies Shah-i-Zinda, an impressive complex of mausoleums and shrines nestled against a hillside. This sacred site, one of the oldest in Samarkand, houses the tombs of relatives and companions of the Prophet Muhammad. The intricate tilework and serene, spiritual atmosphere make Shah-i-Zinda an unforgettable experience.
Modern Amenities and Local Cuisine
After a morning full of awe-inspiring discoveries, you will enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to sample the renowned Uzbek cuisine. Try local specialties such as plov, shashlik, and other delicacies prepared with fresh, regional ingredients.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, built by Timur’s grandson Ulugh Beg. This scientific center was one of the most significant observatories in the world during the 15th century and stands as a fascinating testament to the mathematical and astronomical achievements of the Timurids.
Return to Tashkent
Your day trip concludes with a leisurely stroll down the Craftsmens’ Alley, where you can purchase beautifully crafted souvenirs and handmade products. In the late afternoon, the “Afrosiyob” train will take you back to Tashkent, where you will arrive in the evening.
Our day trip to Samarkand with the “Afrosiyob” high-speed train offers you the chance to experience the timeless beauty and rich heritage of one of the world’s most important cities in a single day. Discover the wonders of Samarkand and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this ancient city—an unforgettable experience that transports you to the golden era of the Silk Road.
After breakfast we drive to Samarkand. In Samarkand we will visit the three Medressen of the Registan – the Ulugbek-Medresse (built 1417-1420), the Sher-Dor-Medresse (1619 – 1636) and the Tillo-Kori-Medresse (1646 – 1660). The legendary Timurid mausoleum Guri Amir (XIV-XV century) enchants the viewer with its golden interior decoration. You will enjoy hearing some legends while visiting the Bibi-Chanum Mosque and the Medresse (XIV century). We visit the traditional oriental “Siyab Bazaar“. Near the Siyab bazaar there is an ensemble of Shohi-Zinda (the living king, “IX.-XIV century), one of the world’s most famous group of mausoleums, which fasinate you with its beautiful architecture. Next we will visit the famous Ulugbek Observatory (1428-1429 which was built on one of the hills of Chupanata). The observatory was a unique design in his time. Afternoon Transfer to the Train Station. We drive to Tashkent (dep. 17.00 – arr. 19.20).
