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22-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan

Viewed by 190 travelers

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with an authentic Turkish breakfast featuring regional specialties in a cozy ambiance. Open from 8am to 8pm.
TRY150, 1h

10:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul's rich history. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY100, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in this famed local restaurant near Sultanahmet, open 12pm-11pm.
TRY200, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Topkapi Palace

Tour the opulent palace that served as the home of Ottoman sultans and offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Open 9am-6pm.
TRY120, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mikla

Dine at this rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views, famous for its modern Turkish cuisine. Reservations recommended, open 6pm-12am.
TRY350, 2h
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Day 2: Istanbul Historical Sights

Istanbul, Turkey on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Tea Garden

Enjoy traditional Turkish tea and börek along the Bosphorus in this peaceful spot, open from early morning.
TRY60, 1h

10:00am

Visit the Blue Mosque

Admire the exquisite Ottoman architecture and the stunning blue tilework inside this iconic mosque. Open daily from 8:30am to one hour before dusk.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world's largest covered markets with thousands of shops selling ceramics, carpets, spices, and more. Open 9am-7pm.
Free to enter, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli

Taste classic Ottoman cuisine in a historic restaurant located inside the Spice Bazaar, open 12pm-5pm.
TRY180, 1.5h

4:00pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic ferry ride along the Bosphorus strait to see European and Asian shores of Istanbul. Cruises operate until sunset.
TRY50, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Savor contemporary dishes inspired by Anatolian traditions in an elegant setting. Open 6pm-11pm.
TRY300, 2h
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Day 3: Istanbul to Baku Flight

Istanbul, Turkey to Baku, Azerbaijan on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before your flight to Baku.
Included in hotel, 1h

10:00am

Flight to Baku

Fly from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku. Flight duration approx 3 hours.
USD150, 3h

2:00pm

Check-in to 4-star hotel in Baku

Settle into your comfortable hotel such as the Boulevard Hotel Baku, located near the Caspian Sea promenade.
USD100/night, 1h

4:00pm

Walk along Baku Boulevard

Stroll the scenic promenade beside the Caspian Sea, enjoying parks, cafes, and sunset views. Open daily.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Nargiz Restaurant

Taste traditional Azerbaijani dishes like plov and kebabs in this popular city center restaurant. Open 12pm-11pm.
AZN50, 1.5h
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Day 4: Baku City Tour

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a buffet breakfast served at the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Old City (Icherisheher)

Explore Baku’s historic walled city, including the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah Palace. Open 9am-6pm.
AZN10, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dolma Restaurant

Dine on Azerbaijani specialties in a charming Old City venue. Open 12pm-10pm.
AZN40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit the Carpet Museum

Learn about Azerbaijan’s rich carpet weaving traditions in this architecturally striking museum. Open 10am-6pm.
AZN8, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Flame Towers

See the iconic trio of skyscrapers lit by LED flames at sunset. Best views from the park below.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Firuze Restaurant

Sample traditional Azerbaijani cuisine with live music in an inviting setting. Open 6pm-11pm.
AZN45, 2h
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Day 5: Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before an excursion.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Gobustan National Park

Discover prehistoric rock carvings and mud volcanoes about 1 hour drive from Baku. Open 9am-6pm.
AZN20, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch picnic or local eatery near Gobustan

Enjoy a picnic or try local Azerbaijani foods at cafes near Gobustan.
AZN30, 1h

2:00pm

Visit nearby mud volcanoes

Experience natural mud volcanic activity, a rare natural phenomenon unique to the area.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Baku and relax

Rest at your hotel or enjoy a spa treatment.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Chinar

Dine in a stylish restaurant serving modern Azerbaijani cuisine with excellent ambiance. Open 6pm-11pm.
AZN50, 2h
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Day 6: Baku to Sheki

Sheki, Azerbaijan on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before traveling to Sheki.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Sheki

Travel approximately 4-5 hours by car to scenic Sheki, a town known for its historic architecture and natural beauty.
USD40 for transport, 5h

2:00pm

Check-in and lunch at Karvansaray Hotel Restaurant

Relax with traditional Sheki Azerbaijani cuisine in a historic caravanserai setting.
AZN40, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Sheki Khan's Palace

Admire this beautifully restored 18th-century palace famous for its stained glass and frescoes. Open 9am-7pm.
AZN8, 1.5h

6:00pm

Walk the Old Town

Explore the traditional streets of Sheki, showcasing charming architecture and local crafts.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at local restaurant

Enjoy freshly prepared Azerbaijani dishes focusing on local produce, open evenings.
AZN30, 1.5h
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Day 7: Sheki to Baku Return

Sheki to Baku, Azerbaijan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before your return drive to Baku.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Morning stroll and local market visit

Experience Sheki’s morning market and buy local sweets such as Sheki halva.
Free entry, 1h

10:30am

Drive back to Baku

Return by car to Baku for continued exploration of Azerbaijan’s capital.
USD40, 5h

4:00pm

Check-in and rest

Rest at your hotel before evening activities.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sumakh

Enjoy authentic Azerbaijani flavors in a modern setting with great service. Open 6pm-11pm.
AZN45, 2h
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Day 8: Baku Cultural Day

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with a buffet breakfast to energize your day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ateshgah Fire Temple

Discover this ancient Zoroastrian temple located about 30 minutes from Baku. Open 9am-7pm.
AZN12, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mangal Steak House

Indulge in grilled meats and local dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Open 12pm-11pm.
AZN50, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Modern Baku Museums

Visit the Museum of Modern Art and the Heydar Aliyev Center, celebrating modern architecture and Azerbaijani culture. Museums generally open 10am-6pm.
AZN15, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Scalini Italian Cafe & Restaurant

Enjoy Italian and Azerbaijani fusion dining with fine wine in a stylish setting, open 6pm-11pm.
AZN55, 2h
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Day 9: Fly to Tashkent

Baku, Azerbaijan to Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast before your flight to Uzbekistan.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Baku to Tashkent

Direct flight approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, arriving in Uzbekistan’s capital.
USD200, 2h15m

12:00pm

Check-in at 4-star hotel in Tashkent

Settle in at a comfortable hotel such as the Wyndham Tashkent, centrally located.
USD100/night, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Plov Center

Taste traditional Uzbek plov, a signature rice dish, in this popular local venue. Open 11am-9pm.
UZS45000, 1h

2:30pm

City sightseeing - Amir Timur Museum and Independence Square

Explore these key cultural and historical landmarks open from 9am to 6pm.
UZS30000, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Chorsu Bazaar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this large market with fresh produce and handicrafts. Open until 7pm.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Café Minzifa

Enjoy Uzbek and European dishes in a beautifully decorated Uzbek house. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS70000, 2h
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Day 10: Tashkent to Samarkand

Tashkent to Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast before traveling to Samarkand.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Afrosiyob High-Speed Train to Samarkand

Enjoy a quick and comfortable 2-hour train ride covering 300 km to this historic city.
UZS150000, 2h

11:30am

Check-in at Siyob Bazaar Hotel

Settle into your centrally located 3-star hotel with authentic Uzbek atmosphere.
USD70/night, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Platan Restaurant

Taste traditional Uzbek cuisine near Registan Square, open 11am-10pm.
UZS60000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Registan Square

Explore Samarkand’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning madrasahs dating back centuries. Open 9am-7pm.
UZS35000, 2h

4:30pm

Explore Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Visit the tomb of Tamerlane, an architectural masterpiece with intricate tile work. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS25000, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bibikhanum Teahouse

Dine in a historic teahouse serving local specialties just steps from Registan, open until 10pm.
UZS50000, 2h
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Day 11: Samarkand Historical Sites

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with a full breakfast before your day of exploration.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque

One of Central Asia’s grandest mosques famous for its scale and decoration. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS20000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Shah-i-Zinda Complex

Explore this sacred necropolis known for stunning tile work and mausoleums. Open 9am-7pm.
UZS30000, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Karimbek

Enjoy authentic Uzbek dishes including shashlik in a traditional atmosphere. Open 12pm-9pm.
UZS55000, 1.5h

2:30pm

Visit Ulugh Beg Observatory

Learn about the scientific advances of the Timurid ruler and his observatory ruins. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 1h

4:00pm

Free time or optional visit to Samarkand’s bazaar

Explore local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts at leisure.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Old City Cafe

Taste local and international dishes in a charming historic setting.
UZS45000, 1.5h
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Day 12: Samarkand to Bukhara

Samarkand to Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Bukhara.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Train or drive to Bukhara

Travel approximately 4 hours to the historic city of Bukhara by train or private transfer.
USD30-50, 4h

1:30pm

Check-in at Hotel Komil

Settle in at this well-regarded 4-star hotel blending modern comforts with traditional decor.
USD80/night, 1h

2:30pm

Lunch at Minzifa

Eat traditional Uzbek and Bukharan specialties in a beautiful garden setting. Open 12pm-10pm.
UZS50000, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Ark Fortress

Explore the ancient fortress and former royal residence overlooking Bukhara’s old town. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS20000, 1.5h

6:00pm

Evening walk around Lyab-i Hauz

Relax by the historical pond area surrounded by cafes and madrasahs.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Chinar

Dine on Bukharan and Central Asian dishes in an atmospheric setting with live music. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS55000, 2h
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Day 13: Bukhara Historical Day

Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Poi Kalyan Complex

Tour one of Bukhara's iconic landmarks, featuring a grand minaret and mosque. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 1.5h

10:45am

Explore Chor-Minor

See the unique madrasa with four small minarets in a quiet neighborhood. Open 9am-6pm.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Silk Road Tea House

Enjoy Uzbek dishes and tea in a traditional setting close to the old town.
UZS45000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Samanid Mausoleum

Marvel at this early Islamic architecture masterpiece over a thousand years old. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping for local crafts

Browse silk scarves, ceramics, and other handicrafts in Bukhara’s bazaars.
Free to browse, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Old Bukhara Restaurant

Savor authentic Bukharan cuisine including manti and shurpa in a traditional ambiance. Open 6pm-10pm.
UZS55000, 2h
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Day 14: Bukhara to Tashkent

Bukhara to Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Bukhara before traveling back.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train or drive back to Tashkent

Travel approx 6-7 hours by train or private transfer returning to Uzbekistan’s capital.
USD30-50, 7h

3:00pm

Check-in at hotel

Rest at your hotel preparing for next day activities.
USD100, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Caravan Restaurant

Enjoy Uzbek specialties in a warm and inviting ambiance with traditional decor. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS60000, 2h
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Day 15: Tashkent Museums

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with a breakfast buffet before visiting museums.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

Discover Uzbekistan’s rich past through extensive exhibits. Open 9am-5pm.
UZS15000, 2h

11:30am

Visit Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan

View a collection of Uzbek and Russian art including paintings and sculptures. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Besh Qozon

Savor Uzbek staples in an inviting traditional environment just minutes from the museums. Open 12pm-10pm.
UZS50000, 1h

2:30pm

Walk in Amir Timur Park

Enjoy greenery and statues in a central park dedicated to the great conqueror Timur.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Kukeldash Madrasah

Tour this historic 16th century Islamic school near the Chorsu Bazaar. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS10000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Opera Night Club & Restaurant

Indulge in international dishes with a night-club experience. Open 6pm-12am.
UZS65000, 2h
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Day 16: Tashkent to Khiva

Tashkent to Urgench and Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before an early flight westward.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Tashkent to Urgench

Fly approximately 1 hour to Urgench airport, the gateway to Khiva.
USD80, 1h

10:30am

Transfer to Khiva

Short 30-minute drive to the historic city of Khiva.
USD10 taxi, 30m

11:00am

Check-in at Hotel Asia Khiva

Settle in at this charming 3-star hotel within walking distance to attractions.
USD60/night, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Terrassa

Dine on Uzbek cuisine with views of the city walls. Open 12pm-10pm.
UZS40000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Ichan Kala (Inner City)

Tour the UNESCO-listed fortified old town with madrasahs, mosques, and palaces. Open 9am-7pm.
UZS25000, 3h

6:00pm

Watch sunset from Kalta Minor Minaret

Enjoy panoramic views of Khiva at sunset from this iconic unfinished minaret.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Khiva Restaurant

Savor Central Asian cuisine in a traditional setting with local ambiance. Open 6pm-10pm.
UZS35000, 1.5h
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Day 17: Khiva Historical Tour

Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin the day with breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kunya Ark Fortress

Explore the old fortress with royal apartments and barracks. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS20000, 1.5h

10:45am

Visit Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum

See the beautiful mausoleum dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Open daily.
UZS15000, 45m

11:45am

Visit Juma Mosque

View the unique mosque with 212 wooden columns dating back to the 10th century. Open daily.
UZS10000, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Homush Restaurant

Experience Uzbek hospitality and cuisine in a local setting. Open 12pm-9pm.
UZS35000, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Tash Khauli Palace

Tour the richly decorated palace with magnificent tiles and stonework. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS20000, 1.5h

5:00pm

Visit Islam Khodja Minaret and Museum

Climb the tallest minaret in Khiva and learn about local history and culture. Open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Zarafshan

Delight in local Uzbek dishes in an atmospheric setting. Open 6pm-10pm.
UZS40000, 1.5h
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Day 18: Khiva to Tashkent

Khiva to Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before transferring back to the airport.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Transfer to Urgench Airport

Short drive to catch your morning flight back to Tashkent.
USD10 taxi, 30m

10:00am

Flight to Tashkent

Return flight approximately 1 hour to Tashkent.
USD80, 1h

11:30am

Check in at hotel

Return to your hotel to relax or rest after your flight.
Included, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Old Tashkent

Taste traditional Uzbek dishes in a charming courtyard restaurant. Open 12pm-10pm.
UZS40000, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore TV Tower and Alisher Navoi Park

Visit the iconic TV Tower and stroll nearby parklands for views of the city. Open daily.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Afsona Restaurant

Enjoy modern Uzbek cuisine with a contemporary twist in a stylish setting. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS70000, 2h
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Day 19: Day Trip to Chimgan Mountains

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a full-day nature trip with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Chimgan Mountains

Approximate 1.5 hour drive to the picturesque mountains offering hiking, picnicking, and fresh air.
USD50 for private transfer, 1.5h

9:30am

Hiking and exploring Chimgan

Hike scenic trails and explore alpine meadows and peaks. Open all day.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Picnic lunch in nature

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by stunning scenery.
Included in tour or self-arranged, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Charvak Reservoir

Relax by the large reservoir with options for boat rental and swimming. Open all day.
Free or minimal boat rental cost, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Tashkent

Drive back to the city and relax at your hotel.
Included in transfer cost, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Safran Restaurant

End your day with international and Uzbek cuisine in a refined setting. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS60000, 2h
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Day 20: Tashkent Museums and Markets

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast buffet energizes your last full days of exploring.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Museum of Applied Arts

See exquisite traditional crafts including textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Open 10am-6pm.
UZS15000, 2h

11:30am

Visit Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theater exterior

Admire the stunning architecture and take photos at this cultural venue.
Free, 30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Opera Restaurant

Dine on Uzbek-European fusion with elegant surroundings. Open 12pm-10pm.
UZS60000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Minor Mosque and Nearby Parks

Visit one of Tashkent’s beautiful mosques and stroll the scenic parks nearby. Open daily.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Shopping at Central Department Store and local markets

Buy souvenirs, textiles, and gifts in city center markets. Open until early evening.
Free to browse, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Bukhara Restaurant

Celebrate the end of your trip with a feast of local dishes in a warm atmosphere. Open 6pm-11pm.
UZS70000, 2h
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Day 21: Departure Preparation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Uzbekistan with time to pack and relax.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Leisure time / optional last minute shopping

Use any spare time for photos, rest, or small local shops near hotel.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Check-out and transfer to Tashkent International Airport

Depart from your hotel and travel to the airport for your flight home or onward destination.
USD15 taxi, 1h
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Day 22: Departure Day

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 26, 2025

Varies

Flight departure

Fly home or to your next destination with wonderful memories from your cultural journey.
Varies, Varies
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