We start from Tashkent, meeting at 06:45 at the Northern train station (or transfer from your hotel on request). You will take the high-speed train “Afrosiob.” Departure to Samarkand at 07:28. Arrival in Samarkand at 09:42, meeting with guide and driver.
You will explore Samarkand with your guide. Legendary Samarkand – the capital of ancient Sogdiana – is one of the oldest cities in the world, of the same age as Rome, Athens and Babylon! You will learn about the history and culture of Samarkand , see its architecture and taste local cuisine.
Visit Ulugbek Observatory (XV c), the Museum of Archaeology of Afrosiob, the Necropolis of Shahi Zinda (XIV-X cc) – “City of the Dead” – complex of 20 elegant mausoleums covered with blue glittering tiles. We stop at a legendary Saint Daniel’s grave. This Old Testament prophet is known in three religions. Muslim, Christian and Jew come to pray here. It is a remarkable place with unforgettable atmosphere! Lunch in a national house (included in the price).
After lunch you will visit Registan Square (15-17 c), which was the main city square during Tamerlan ‘s reign. It is surrounded by three majestic buildings: Ulugbek madrasah, Sher Dor and Tilla Kari madrasahs. Bibi Hanum mosque (XIVc) was built on Timur ‘s orders to become the grandest building of the time. Visit Guri Emir mausoleum with a majestic blue dome (XVc) – it is a burial place of Amir Timur, his sons and grandchildren. Stroll on to the 14th century mausoleum Rukhabad – the grave of theologian and mystic Burhaneddin Sagaradzhi. Overnight at hotel of Samarkand.