Tashkent to Tehran

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Tashkent

Arrive in Tashkent at any time.

Day 2 Tashkent

Tashkent is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, dating back over 2000 years. Despite the new office buildings and modern metro system, Tashkent still retains its charm as a former Silk Road trading hub with its colourful Old Town and bustling markets.

Day 3-4 Samarkand

Marvel at the madrassahs and mosques that form one of Central Asia's most spectacular town centres as you wander about Registan Square.

Day 5-6 Bukhara

Bukhara is teeming with historic and dramatic architectural landmarks. Get lost exploring the maze of alleyways, visit the ancient fortress, or watch the world go by from Labi Hauz as you enjoy a fresh kebab.

Day 7 Makhi Khosa and Chor Bakr

Escape the city to the historical sights of Makhi Khosa and Chor Bakr. Makhi Khosa was the summer palace of the emirs, while Chor Bakr is an imposing necropolis built around the grave of Abu Bakr Sa'd - a 'descendant' of the prophet Mohammed.

Day 8-9 Mary

Just inside the Turkmenistan border stands Mary and the nearby town of Merv, which was built in the 3rd century AD. Wake up early to catch the ancient ruins shrouded in morning mist, making the town look like a mythical lost city.

Day 10-11 Ashghbat

President Turkmenbashi has promised to take Turkmenistan in to the 'golden age'. Ashghbat, the capital city, is a perfect example with a blend of over-expensive projects and old trading markets selling local crafts.

Day 12-13 Mashhad

An important pilgrimage site for Shi'ite Muslims, Mashhad is the religious heart of Iran. The town has beautiful mosques and the tomb of Imam Reza, containing two gold covered chambers.

Day 14-15 Shiraz

This former Iranian capital has long been considered the heart of Persian culture. Shiraz is home to exquisite mausoleums housing the remains of some of country's most important cultural icons.

Day 16 Persepolis

Dating as far back as 500 BC, the ancient ceremonial capital of Persepolis is a breathtaking archaeological site. Centred around an immense half-artificial, half-natural terrace, the quality and scope of these monumental ruins are sure to impress.

Day 17-19 Esfahan

Undoubtably the most beautiful city in Iran, Esfahan is a delight to explore. Surrounding Imam, the massive town square, are beautiful bridges, blue-tiled mosques, colourful gardens, and a fascinating bazaar.

Day 20 Tehran

Daring modern buildings stand beside ancient palaces and museums in the modern-day capital of Tehran.