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20-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey: Istanbul, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan Highlights

Viewed by 211 travelers

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and warm bread in this cozy spot known for authentic regional flavors.
TRY80, 1h0m

9:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Discover the rich history of this iconic Byzantine-turned-Ottoman architectural masterpiece with impressive mosaics and a stunning dome; open 9am-7pm.
TRY100, 2h0m

11:45am

Blue Mosque

Visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its six minarets and exquisite blue İznik tiles; open until 7pm, closed to visitors during prayer times.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Balikçi Sabahattin

Savor fresh seafood dishes in this historic restaurant near Sultanahmet, renowned for its grilled fish and meze platters.
TRY150, 1h15m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans with beautiful courtyards, treasury, and exhibitions; open 9am-6pm.
TRY120, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk through Gülhane Park

Relax in this historic urban park adjacent to Topkapi Palace, perfect for a gentle stroll among gardens and fountains.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine overlooking the Golden Horn with specialties like kebabs and traditional Turkish desserts at this popular eatery.
TRY180, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus & Modern Sights

Istanbul, Turkey on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Start your day with a stylish breakfast in a Bosphorus neighborhood with a view, serving fresh pastries and Turkish coffee.
TRY90, 1h0m

10:00am

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a 2-hour ferry tour along the Bosphorus Strait to see palaces, bridges, and Istanbul's skyline from the water; cruises run 10am-6pm.
TRY70, 2h0m

12:30pm

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the 19th-century Ottoman palace known for its European style and lavish interiors; open 9am-4:30pm.
TRY90, 1h30m

2:15pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy rich regional Turkish dishes from Anatolia in this vibrant restaurant on the Asian side’s Kadıköy market area.
TRY100, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Istiklal Avenue & Galata Tower

Stroll this bustling pedestrian street full of shops, cafes and historic sites, then climb Galata Tower for panoramic views; tower open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Coffee Break at Mandabatmaz

Taste some of the best traditional Turkish coffee in this cozy cafe, loved by locals for strong brews and warm atmosphere.
TRY30, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a modern twist and spectacular city views at Mikla, a top Istanbul restaurant with Nordic-Turkish fusion.
TRY350, 2h0m
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Day 3: Markets & Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Indulge in traditional Turkish baklava and pastries with tea in this famed dessert spot open from early morning.
TRY60, 0h45m

8:30am

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with thousands of shops selling carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs; open 9am-7pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Spice Bazaar

Discover aromatic herbs, spices, and sweets in this colorful bazaar near the Eminönü ferry docks; open 9am-7pm.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at this historic eatery inside the Spice Bazaar, famous for classic Ottoman dishes and elegant ambiance.
TRY120, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Süleymaniye Mosque and Gardens

Visit this grand mosque complex with beautiful gardens and views over the Golden Horn; open until early evening.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Flight to Baku, Azerbaijan

Take an evening flight from Istanbul to Baku; flight time about 3 hours. Plan for airport transfer and check-in upon arrival.
EUR150, 3h0m

9:00pm

Check-in and Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a light dinner at your Baku hotel or nearby restaurant to rest up for next day's activities.
AZN50, 1h0m
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Day 4: Baku City Tour

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Voyage Café

Start with a hearty breakfast at this charming café known for excellent coffee and pastries in Baku’s city center.
AZN15, 1h0m

9:30am

Old City (Icherisheher) Tour

Explore Baku’s UNESCO-listed historic core, including Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah Palace, rich with medieval architecture.
AZN10, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Firuze Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov (pilaf) and kebabs in a beautiful setting near the Old City.
AZN40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Flame Towers and Upland Park

See the iconic Flame Towers and get panoramic views of Baku from Upland Park; a perfect photo spot.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Carpet Museum

Discover Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-weaving heritage at this architecturally impressive museum by the Caspian Sea.
AZN15, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Nakhchivan Restaurant

Sample diverse Azerbaijani cuisine featuring lamb dishes and local breads in an upscale atmosphere.
AZN50, 1h30m
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Day 5: Nature & Ancient Sites

Gobustan & Baku, Azerbaijan on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before a day trip exploring natural and historical wonders near Baku.
Included with hotel, 0h45m

8:30am

Gobustan National Park

Explore ancient petroglyphs dating back 40,000 years and unique mud volcano formations; park open 9am-6pm.
AZN8, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Picnic Near Mud Volcanoes

Relax with a prepared picnic lunch near one of the world's rare mud volcanoes, enjoying the unique landscape.
AZN20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Mud Volcano Area

Witness bubbling mud lakes and steaming vents that make this a rare natural phenomenon.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Baku

Head back to the city with time to relax or visit additional sights.
Included, 1h30m

5:00pm

Leisure Time in Fountain Square

Enjoy cafés, shops, and street performances in Baku’s lively Fountain Square area.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chinar

Dine at this stylish restaurant featuring Azerbaijani and international fusion dishes with a lovely ambiance.
AZN60, 1h30m
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Day 6: Sheki Heritage

Sheki, Azerbaijan on June 10, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast and Early Departure

Have breakfast at your hotel and depart early for Sheki, a historic town about 4-5 hours from Baku by car or bus.
Included, 1h0m

11:30am

Sheki Khan’s Palace

Tour this stunning palace famous for colorful stained glass windows and intricate frescoes, open 9am-7pm.
AZN15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sheki Local Restaurant

Savor Sheki specialties like piti stew and sweet halva in a traditional eatery.
AZN30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Sheki Caravanserai and Local Market

Explore the historic Silk Road caravanserai and browse local crafts and fresh produce at the market.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Local Workshops

See traditional silk weaving and crafts unique to Sheki, with opportunities to watch artisans and buy souvenirs.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sheki Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy dinner of regional dishes in your comfortable accommodation in Sheki.
AZN40, 1h30m
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Day 7: Lahij Village & Nature

Ismayilli, Azerbaijan on June 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Departure to Lahij

Eat breakfast then travel approx 1.5 hours to Lahij, a medieval mountain village famous for craftsmen.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Lahij Village Tour

Wander cobbled alleys, admire traditional copper workshops, and meet artisans creating metal goods; village is pedestrian-friendly.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Village Guesthouse

Taste home-cooked Azerbaijani mountain cuisine prepared by locals in a cozy guesthouse setting.
AZN30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Nature Walk and Hiking Nearby

Explore surrounding mountain landscapes with short hiking trails offering beautiful views of the Caucasus foothills.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Baku

Travel back to Baku for overnight stay and rest.
Included, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Sumakh Restaurant

Enjoy a culinary experience with rich Azerbaijani flavors and elegant presentation close to Baku city center.
AZN60, 1h30m
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Day 8: Ganja Excursion

Ganja, Azerbaijan on June 12, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast and Travel to Ganja

Have breakfast and embark on a 4-hour drive or train ride west to Azerbaijan’s second city, Ganja.
Included, 4h0m

11:00am

Visit Nizami Mausoleum

Explore the monument dedicated to the renowned Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi, a cultural icon of the region.
AZN5, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Khan Teref Restaurant

Enjoy Azerbaijani dishes including dolma and kebabs in a restaurant offering traditional decor.
AZN40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Ganja’s Javad Khan Street & Bottle House

Stroll this lively street with boutiques and historic architecture, then visit the unique Bottle House built of glass bottles.
AZN10, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Baku

Head back to Baku ensuring timely arrival for next day’s schedule.
Included, 4h0m

9:00pm

Dinner at Nergiz Restaurant

Relish a late dinner featuring pilaf and fresh grilled meats in a popular local establishment.
AZN50, 1h30m
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Day 9: Relaxation & Spa

Naftalan, Azerbaijan on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Travel to Naftalan

Early breakfast followed by a 3-hour drive to Naftalan, famous for therapeutic petroleum spas.
Included, 3h0m

11:00am

Naftalan Spa Treatment

Experience unique oil-based spa therapies known to relieve pain and improve skin health; resorts operate 9am-7pm.
AZN150, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Spa Resort

Enjoy nutritious and local cuisine offered within the spa complex for a health-conscious meal.
AZN40, 1h0m

4:00pm

Leisure and Rest

Spend the afternoon relaxing in resort facilities or taking gentle walks in the beautiful surroundings.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Resort Restaurant

Savor a specialized dinner menu with local and international dishes before returning to Baku.
AZN50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Uzbekistan Arrival

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Flight from Baku to Tashkent

Take a morning flight from Baku to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Flight time approx 2.5 hours.
USD200, 2h30m

11:30am

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Settle into your hotel in Tashkent and rest briefly after your arrival.
Included, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Caravan Restaurant

Enjoy Uzbek traditional dishes such as plov and manti in an atmospheric local restaurant.
UZS80000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Tashkent Old City Walking Tour

Explore Khast Imam Square, Tashkent’s historic Islamic center, including Barak-Khan Madrasah and Tillya Sheikh Mosque.
USD5, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Afsona

Relish a fine dining experience with modern Uzbek cuisine in a chic setting.
UZS120000, 1h30m
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Day 11: Tashkent Culture

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in your hotel to prepare for a full day of sightseeing.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Chorsu Bazaar

Experience the colorful fabric, spice, and produce market under a distinctive blue-domed pavilion.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Tashkent Museum of Applied Arts

Discover exquisite Uzbek crafts, ceramics, and textiles in a beautiful mansion; open 9am-5pm.
USD3, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pilaf House

Savor authentic Uzbek plov and other specialties in a traditional atmosphere.
UZS90000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Amir Timur Museum and Independence Square

Explore the museum dedicated to Timur and stroll the expansive Independence Square, both key cultural landmarks.
USD4, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Japanese Garden

Take a peaceful walk in the beautifully landscaped Japanese Garden, a tranquil oasis in the city.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Besh Chinor

Enjoy traditional Uzbek dishes in a classic setting featuring live music some evenings.
UZS110000, 1h30m
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Day 12: Travel to Samarkand

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and High-Speed Train to Samarkand

Depart early by Afrosiyob high-speed train (approx 2 hours) to Samarkand, famed Silk Road city.
USD15, 2h0m

9:30am

Arrival and Check-in at Hotel

Settle in at your accommodation and prepare for sightseeing.
Included, 1h0m

11:00am

Registan Square

Visit Samarkand’s iconic complex of three stunning madrasahs adorned with beautiful mosaics and tilework.
USD10, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Bibikhanum Tea House

Enjoy Uzbek tea and traditional fare near the historic Bibikhanum Mosque.
USD8, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Explore the mausoleum of the conqueror Timur, noted for its impressive dome and architecture.
USD6, 1h0m

4:30pm

Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble

Walk through this significant religious necropolis with a series of stunning tiled mausoleums.
USD5, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Samarkand Restaurant

Dine on authentic and contemporary Uzbek cuisine in a warm, inviting venue.
USD15, 1h30m
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Day 13: Samarkand Culture & Markets

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast to fuel a day of exploration.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Discover this grand mosque built by Timur’s wife, once among the largest in the Islamic world.
USD5, 1h0m

11:00am

Siab Bazaar

Experience Samarkand’s bustling market selling spices, fruits, nuts, and local handicrafts.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bazaar Restaurant

Enjoy hearty Uzbek dishes amid the lively market atmosphere.
USD10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Ulugh Beg Observatory

Learn about the medieval Islamic astronomer Ulugh Beg and his astronomical observatory ruins.
USD4, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Afrasiyab Museum

View archaeological finds and frescoes from ancient Samarkand atop the archaeological site of Afrasiyab.
USD6, 1h0m

5:00pm

Tea Break at Old City Café

Relax with Uzbek tea and light snacks in a traditional café.
USD4, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Plov Center

Indulge in Uzbekistan’s national dish, plov, in a lively local restaurant.
USD12, 1h30m
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Day 14: Travel to Bukhara

Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Train to Bukhara

Take the high-speed train from Samarkand to Bukhara (approx. 1.5-2 hours) early morning.
USD10, 2h0m

9:30am

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel and prepare for exploration of this ancient city.
Included, 1h0m

11:00am

Lyabi Hauz Ensemble

Visit this peaceful plaza centered around a pond, featuring historic madrasahs and traditional tea houses.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chinar Restaurant

Enjoy Uzbek and Central Asian cuisine in a relaxed setting overlooking Lyabi Hauz.
USD12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Ark Fortress

Tour the massive ancient fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara’s emirs for centuries.
USD7, 1h30m

4:00pm

Bolo Hauz Mosque

Visit this charming mosque known for its wooden columns and peaceful courtyard.
Free, 0h45m

5:00pm

Shopping at Bukhara Bazaar

Browse handcrafted textiles, pottery, and carpets in the sprawling local bazaar.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Minzifa Garden Restaurant

Dine in a garden setting offering traditional Uzbek cuisine and live music.
USD15, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Bukhara

Day 15: Bukhara Historic Sites

Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a day rich in history and culture.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Kalon Minaret and Mosque

Visit the iconic 12th-century minaret and adjoining mosque, symbols of Bukhara’s Islamic heritage.
USD7, 1h30m

11:30am

Mir-i-Arab Madrasah

Explore the active Islamic school with stunning blue tilework opposite the Kalon Mosque.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chaykhana Muborak

Enjoy traditional Uzbek teahouse fare in cozy, historic surroundings.
USD10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Samanid Mausoleum

See one of the oldest Islamic monuments in Central Asia, noted for its intricate brickwork.
USD5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Chor Minor

Explore the charming four-towered madrasa, a unique architectural landmark of Bukhara.
Free, 0h45m

4:30pm

Relax at Hotel or Local Café

Take time to rest or enjoy a tea break before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Minzifa Garden Restaurant

Savor Uzbek specialties in a garden ambiance with traditional music performance.
USD15, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Bukhara

Day 16: Travel to Khiva

Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Drive to Khiva

Travel approx. 6-7 hours by private car or share taxi to Khiva, rich in Silk Road history with well-preserved architecture.
USD50, 7h0m

2:00pm

Hotel Check-in and Rest

Check into your hotel and relax after the journey.
Included, 1h30m

3:30pm

Evening Walk inside Ichan Kala

Take a leisurely walk inside the UNESCO-listed old town, exploring streets lit by the setting sun.
USD10, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Terrassa Café

Dine at a rooftop restaurant offering views of Ichan Kala and delicious Uzbek cuisine.
USD15, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Khiva

Day 17: Khiva Cultural Tour

Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for a full day exploring Khiva’s impressive monuments.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Kalta Minor Minaret and Islam Khodja Complex

Visit the iconic short minaret and nearby complex featuring a mosque, minaret, and madrasa.
USD7, 1h30m

10:30am

Kunya-Ark Citadel

Explore the former fortress and residence of Khiva’s rulers with museums and panoramic views.
USD10, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Khiva Chaykhana

Taste traditional Uzbek dishes in a historic tea house within Ichan Kala.
USD12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Juma Mosque with Forest of Columns

Visit this mosque famous for its unique wooden columns and serene atmosphere.
USD5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Tash Hauli Palace

Explore the ornate palace of Khiva’s last ruler with finely decorated rooms and courtyards.
USD5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Shopping and Tea Break

Browse local handicrafts and relax at a café in the old town.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Palvan Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Uzbek meal including plov and shashlik in a cozy environment.
USD13, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Khiva

Day 18: Khiva & Return to Tashkent

Khiva/Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Morning Walk

Enjoy breakfast followed by a last stroll in Ichan Kala to capture morning light and local life.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive or Flight to Tashkent

Return to Tashkent by flight (~1 hour, from Urgench airport) or longer drive (~6-7 hours). Flight recommended for time saving.
USD70, 1h0m (flight)

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch in Tashkent

Arrive in Tashkent, hotel check-in, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
UZS80000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax or Optional Shopping

Spend afternoon relaxing at your hotel or visiting local markets for souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Besh Chinor

Celebrate the end of your journey with a special dinner of Uzbek dishes and live traditional music.
UZS120000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Khiva/Tashkent

Day 19: Departure

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Uzbekistan and prepare for departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Transfer to Airport

Private transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your onward journey.
Included, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Tashkent
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