Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours

Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours

Central Asia’s past reaches back into time immemorial, and nowhere is this heritage more tangible than in Uzbekistan, whose legendary cities and relics of old continue to astonish and impress even the most seasoned of travelers. Azure mausoleums, spiraling minarets, grandiose madrasahs and stately palaces herald us to eras which, thanks to such astonishing treasures as the Registan, Ark Fortress and Gur-Emir, are not relegated to legend alone.

Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours transport you back in time to experience each successive era of the nation’s colorful and tumultuous past. Zoroastrian and Buddhist ruins speak of a pre-Islamic era, while the medieval city complexes of Bukhara and Samarkand paint a life-size portrait of Uzbekistan at its zenith under the leadership of Tamerlane. From Kuva to Khiva, Kokand to Khorezm, Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours burst with Old World charm and historically monumental relics that beg to be explored, photographed and appreciated.

Top 4 must visit cities during the Uzbekistan Private Tours

If you're planning a private tour of Uzbekistan, make sure to include these top 4 must-visit cities on your itinerary.

Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Samarkand - Known as the jewel of the Silk Road, Samarkand is home to some of the world's most stunning Islamic architecture, including the Registan and Shah-i-Zinda.
 
Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Bukhara - One of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the world, Bukhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a lot of architectural monuments.
 
Khiva, Uzbekistan
Khiva - Located in the middle of the Kyzylkum Desert, Khiva is a living museum of ancient culture and one of the most atmospheric cities in Central Asia.
 
Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan
The Fergana Valley is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant markets. Visitors can explore the valley's historic cities, such as Kokand, Margilan, and Rishtan, to experience traditional Uzbek architecture, handicrafts, and cuisine. The valley is also renowned for its silk production, and visitors can witness the intricate process of silk weaving in the famous silk factories of Margilan.
 

Make sure to add these cities to your private Cultural tour of Uzbekistan to experience the country's rich history, culture, and architecture firsthand.

Top 8 sites in Uzbekistan including UNESCO sites and Silk Road architecture

Registan Square, Samarkand
Registan Square in Samarkand - A stunning example of Islamic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
Itchan Kala, Khiva
Itchan Kala in Khiva - A walled city with over 50 historic monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
Shah-i-Zinda, Samarkand
Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand - A series of mausoleums adorned with intricate tile work, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
Margilan Silk Factory
Margilan Silk Factory - An opportunity to witness the intricate process of silk weaving, and shop for handmade silk products.
 
Ayaz Kala, Karakalpakstan
Ayaz Kala and Toprak Kala in Karakalpakstan - Two ancient fortress cities that were once stops on the Silk Road.
 
The Ark, Bukhara
The Ark in Bukhara - A fortified palace that was once the seat of government for the Bukharan emirs.
 
Bukhara Old City
Bukhara Old City - A well-preserved medieval city with over 200 historic monuments, including mosques, madrasahs, and trading domes, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
Hast Imam, Tashkent
The Hast Imam Complex is a historical and religious site in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and a popular destination for tourists. The complex includes several mosques, mausoleums, and the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman, which is considered one of the oldest copies of the Quran in the world.
 

Ensure to include these destinations in your cultural tour of Uzbekistan for a first-hand experience of the country's rich history, culture, and architecture.


Historical Spots of Uzbekistan Tour Historical Spots of Uzbekistan
7 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Khorezm
Uzbekistan remains the most-visited country in Central Asia for one key reason: the history of this land remains vibrant and tangible through its numerous palaces, madrasahs, fortresses, mausoleums and monuments. The Historical Spots of Uzbekistan Tour is a weeklong excursion to the greatest historical attractions of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent, and includes individualized options that allow you to truly customize the trip to meet your budget and traveling preferences.

Golden Road to Samarkand Tour Golden Road to Samarkand Tour
6 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara
On the Golden Road to Samarkand Tour, join countless travelers before you on the road to one of the greatest cities of all time. You’ll begin your journey in the capital city Tashkent, continue to Samarkand to explore both the well-known and lesser sights of the area, and end in Bukhara, another famed Silk Road city. With this private tour option, you’ll have the freedom to choose the tour structure and price range, allowing for a tour down this well-traveled path that’s uniquely you.

Welcome to Uzbekistan Tour Welcome to Uzbekistan Tour
5 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand
Welcome to Uzbekistan Tour is the perfect package for anyone who may have time constraints or other travel plans yet still wants to see the best of Uzbekistan. This 5-day tour will walk you through the must-see sights of Uzbekistan’s three key cities – Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent – with a schedule carefully planned to maximize your time in-country while still allowing for independent exploration and free time.

Crossroads of the World’s Cultures Tour Crossroads of the World’s Cultures Tour
8 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand
On Crossroads of the World’s Cultures Tour in Uzbekistan, you’ll spend seven memorable days traversing Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand, visiting each city’s most acclaimed sights and traveling by Uzbekistan’s new bullet train between the cities. Before and during the tour, you’ll be provided with professional service, support from knowledgeable and friendly local staff and the opportunity to tailor the Crossroads of the World’s Cultures Tour to suit your personal preferences.

Short Tour of UNESCO Sights Short Tour of UNESCO Sights
3 Days | All year round | Bukhara, Samarkand
The Short Tour of UNESCO Sights is a well-planned journey to Samarkand and Bukhara, the two cities that have put Uzbekistan on the map. This 3-day tour allows you to re-live history in a manner so rarely possible in our world today. Plus, it can easily be accommodated into your schedule and affords you the option of choosing a Standard, Budget or Transfers package.

Uzbekistan Classic Tour Uzbekistan Classic Tour
from US$ 750
8 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand
On the Uzbekistan Classic Tour history, culture and exotic landscapes await you around every corner! This weeklong trip includes the best of Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent – Uzbekistan’s three most-visited cities – and a mountain trip to visit Charvak Lake and the pine forests of Ugam-Chatkal National Park.

Silk Road Caravan in Uzbekistan Tour Silk Road Caravan in Uzbekistan Tour
10 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, Nurata, Samarkand
The Silk Road Caravan in Uzbekistan Tour retraces the steps of ancient merchants through the famed cities of Urgench, Khiva, Bukhara, Gijduvon, Samarkand and Tashkent. This extensive 10-day Uzbekistan tour includes unhurried time to tour each major city plus an overnight stay in a yurt camp, visit to off-the-beaten-path petroglyphs and tour of a fortress built by Alexander the Great.

Uzbekistan Caravan Tour from Urgench Uzbekistan Caravan Tour from Urgench
8 Days | All year round | Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent
We have handpicked this 8-day Uzbekistan Caravan Tour from Urgench for you to enjoy Silk Road travel destinations. In just eight days, you will travel through Uzbekistan's biggest towns, including Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent – the country's capital. Upon arrival, you will tour Khiva, a major Silk Road trading city.

Fergana Valley Budget Tour Fergana Valley Budget Tour
from US$ 255
3 Days | March-October | Kokand, Rishtan, Fergana, Margilan, Kuva, Aksikent
Fergana Valley Budget Tour is a 3-day exploration of Uzbekistan’s eastern lands. Travel gorgeous mountain passes and shop at lively Kumtepa Bazaar, learn pottery and silk embroidery techniques from the masters themselves, visit Buddhist remains in Kuva and roam the deserted ruins of once-grand Aksikent. This tour provides transportation to and from Tashkent and can easily be accommodated into other travel plans.

Ancient Cities of the Orient Tour Ancient Cities of the Orient Tour
9 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Ellik Kala, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand
The Ancient Cities of the Orient Tour is a 9-day expedition to Uzbekistan’s most famed destinations in Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand and the Kyzylkum Desert. The desert fortresses that comprise the Golden Ring of Ancient Khorezm; the Ark Fortress where powerful emirs once ruled; the 2,000-year old remains of Ming Urik that now sit in the middle of a modern capital city; and the exquisite tomb of Tamerlane, whose exterior rivals many palaces, are all awaiting you on your customized, private journey!

Treasures of Uzbekistan In-Depth Tour Treasures of Uzbekistan In-Depth Tour
14 Days | April-October | Tashkent, Nukus, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Shakhrisabz, Termez
On the Treasures of Uzbekistan In-Depth Tour you’ll retrace the footsteps of explorers of old as you discover this glorious land for yourself. Leave no stone unturned on this 2-week expedition that carries you from metropolitan Tashkent to the barren desert of Nukus, from the grand vestiges of legendary Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand to mysterious remains at Termez and Shakhrisabz, with cultural and historical treasures awaiting you around every corner.

Uzbek Art and Culture Tour Uzbek Art and Culture Tour
12 Days | March-October | Tashkent, Kokand, Fergana, Margilan, Rishtan, Samarkand, Shakhrisabz, Bukhara, Khiva, Nukus
Uzbekistan has long excelled in craftsmanship, thanks in part to the influence of Tamerlane, who encouraged the arts to flourish during his reign. The Uzbek Art and Culture Tour will take you through the workshops, museums and architectural wonders of Tashkent, Fergana Valley, Samarkand, Shakhrisabz, Bukhara, Khiva and Nukus, a 12-day journey filled with artistic inspiration and cultural appreciation.

Uzbekistan Quest Tour Uzbekistan Quest Tour
5 Days | All year round | Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara
Uzbekistan Quest Tour will take your travels to a whole new level! As you explore the sites of Silk Road cities Samarkand and Bukhara and capital city Tashkent, you will discover history firsthand while completing quest-like tours at each destination.

Best of Uzbekistan Tour Best of Uzbekistan Tour
5 Days | All year round | Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent
Embark on a magical journey with the Best of Uzbekistan Tour, a brief excursion into the heart of an oriental fairy tale. This tour showcases the most significant architectural and historical landmarks of the country's ancient cities, including monuments recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You'll explore medieval madrassas, encounter revered religious sites, and immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of colorful bazaars. Additionally, the tour offers a chance to indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Uzbek cuisine.

Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours by OREXCA

Do you want private tailor made tour to Uzbekistan? Discover the rich culture and history of Uzbekistan through our cultural and historical tours, which offer a deep dive into the country's diverse regions and traditions. Our tours go beyond the usual group itinerary and include visits to architectural monuments and master craftsmen's workshops.

Uzbekistan's regions boast unique cultures and architectural styles, with distinct spices, textiles, and pottery patterns. Khiva is renowned for its ancient hand-dyed natural carpets made from silk and wool, while Bukhara has been home to master metalworkers for centuries. Samarkand boasts monumental architecture from Timur's capital, as well as traditional hand embroideries known as suzani. In the Fergana Valley, visitors can learn about the intricate ikat patterns woven in silk, while Kashkadarya offers insight into the basma and iroqi weaving styles that adorned ancient rulers' clothing. For ceramics enthusiasts, Rishtan is a must-visit, famous for its beautiful blue ceramics.

Our Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours offer unforgettable experiences and memories. Take home not only colorful souvenirs and bright photos but also a newfound appreciation for the unique culture and history of Uzbekistan. Contact us for pricing information.

Uzbekistan Tourist Visa for travelers

You want to find the answer to your question about Uzbekistan tourist visas. How do I apply for an Uzbekistan visa? How much does an Uzbekistan visa cost? Do I need a visa?

Frequently Asked Questions on Uzbekistan Historical and Cultural Tours

The fastest and easiest way to arrange your trip to Uzbekistan, by booking a tour package with OREXCA. Going for a vacation to Uzbekistan means an opportunity to discover incredible UNESCO sights and come closer to the Silk Road history. Book your Uzbekistan Cultural tour from your country with us and do not waste your time on researching, organizing, and planning. The tour includes trips to top travel destinations, including Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. You’ll also be able to visit some of the best attractions, like Registan Square, Shakhi-Zinda, Lyabi-Khauz, Kalon Ensemble, Itchan-Kala and Hazrat Imam complex. Book a vacation package with OREXCA to spend less time planning and more time enjoying.
Your Cultural Tour package to Uzbekistan includes everything you need for a fun and hassle-free time in the country. Tour packages normally include reservations at recommended hotels in a central location, a travel plan including visits to top attractions and arrange local guides, and the opportunity to add short tours, tickets, and activities to your daily itinerary. With a tour package you’ll also have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent.
The optimal length of a vacation in Uzbekistan is around 5-14 days. You’ll have enough time to explore a great variety of attractions across multiple cities during your tours to Uzbekistan. If you have time for a longer adventure, we can arrange a tailor-made tour. Enjoy every minute of your tour in Uzbekistan by booking a package designed by local DMC tour operator OREXCA.
The best and most popular time to go to Uzbekistan is in the April, May, September, and October months. Their period is vibrant, beautiful, and offers plenty of things to see and do in Uzbekistan. Be aware that tour packages in Uzbekistan in this season usually get fully booked quickly. If you plan on visiting Uzbekistan in these months, we recommend reserving your trip in advance. Although this period is the most popular time to go for a vacation, Uzbekistan is a nice place to visit any time of the year. To save money and not stay in a long queue for sights, consider traveling to Uzbekistan outside of the peak travel season.
Violent crime in Uzbekistan is rare, and the country has been politically stable for many years. The most likely annoyance that you will face is merchants and taxi drivers who will try to overcharge you for their goods and services. As with any place you travel, we recommend that you keep your passport and valuables in a safe place and be particularly cautious for pickpockets in crowded areas, such as bazaars and public transport during the Uzbekistan Cultural tour. That being said, most Uzbeks are very welcoming and willing to help you in whatever way they can.
According to the 2019 Solo Safety Travel Report, Uzbekistan ranks 5th in the world for safety and convenience for solo travelers. For travelers who prefer solo or independent travel, Uzbekistan is a great choice for your next trip.
In addition to vivid photographs and memories from your tours to Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan is a great place to find inexpensive and good-quality souvenirs, oriental-style household items and handmade arts and crafts. There’s a huge and varied selection of souvenirs in Uzbekistan: silk scarves, dresses, fabrics, shoes, jewelry, wooden and metal handicrafts, paintings and miniatures, hand-carved knives, ceramics, carpets, local embroidery... the list goes on. The cheapest souvenirs cost about a dollar, and the most expensive hand-woven carpets, up to several thousand dollars.
It is important to remember that it is forbidden to export art objects from Uzbekistan, objects more than 50 years old, or anything of significant cultural value. When buying an expensive souvenir in Uzbekistan, the seller must provide a receipt and a certificate confirming that your purchase is not an antique or an important object of cultural heritage in Uzbekistan.
As a general rule, you can dress as you would in your home country. However, when visiting open mosques during sightseeing, it is advisable for women to cover their heads with a light scarf and to wear shorts that extend below the knee.
Ask your guide to get a local SIM card and use mobile internet anywhere. Wi-Fi is usually available at hotels, you can also use wi-fi at a local café. Enjoy during your Uzbekistan Cultural Tour.