Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Extended 21-Day Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan Tour: Cultural and Historical Exploration

Viewed by 170 travelers

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with regional specialties like fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and warm bread in a cozy and authentic setting.
TRY80, 1h0m

9:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore this world-famous Byzantine masterpiece with its stunning dome and impressive mosaics; open daily from 9am to 7pm.
TRY100, 2h0m

11:45am

Blue Mosque

Visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque renowned for its six minarets and exquisite blue İznik tiles; open until 7pm except prayer times.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Balikçi Sabahattin

Savor fresh and expertly grilled seafood near Sultanahmet in this historic spot loved for its meze platters.
TRY150, 1h15m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent former home of Ottoman sultans with lavish courtyards and treasury exhibitions; open 9am to 6pm.
TRY120, 2h0m

5:00pm

Gülhane Park Leisure

Relax with a gentle stroll through this historic urban park featuring beautiful gardens and fountains next to Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish kebabs and desserts with views of the Golden Horn at this popular and atmospheric eatery.
TRY180, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 2: Bosphorus and Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Relax with a Bosphorus view breakfast serving fresh pastries, eggs, and authentic Turkish coffee in the charming Bebek neighborhood.
TRY90, 1h0m

10:00am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic 2-hour ferry ride along the Bosphorus Strait to admire Ottoman palaces, bridges, and city views; cruises operate from 10am to 6pm.
TRY70, 2h0m

12:30pm

Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the lavish 19th-century Ottoman palace showcasing European architectural styles and ornate interiors; open 9am to 4:30pm.
TRY90, 1h30m

2:15pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Sample authentic Anatolian regional dishes in a lively café on Istanbul’s Asian side in Kadıköy market area.
TRY100, 1h0m

3:30pm

Istiklal Avenue and Galata Tower

Walk the bustling pedestrian street full of shops and cafes then climb Galata Tower for panoramic city views; tower open 9am to 7pm.
TRY50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Coffee Break at Mandabatmaz

Enjoy some of Istanbul’s best traditional Turkish coffee in a cozy café favored by locals.
TRY30, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Dine on modern Turkish-Nordic fusion cuisine with spectacular views of the city skyline at this acclaimed restaurant.
TRY350, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 3: Markets and Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Start your day with delicious baklava and Turkish pastries at this world-famous sweet shop open early morning.
TRY60, 0h45m

8:30am

Grand Bazaar

Explore one of the largest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops for carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs; open 9am to 7pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Spice Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the scents and colors of spices, dried fruits, and sweets near the Eminönü ferry docks; open 9am to 7pm.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine inside the Spice Bazaar on Ottoman-style dishes in a beautifully restored historic venue.
TRY120, 1h0m

2:00pm

Süleymaniye Mosque and Gardens

Visit one of Istanbul’s grandest mosques with beautiful architecture and views over the Golden Horn; open till evening.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Transfer to Istanbul Airport

Prepare and travel to the airport for your evening flight to Baku, Azerbaijan.
TRY150 (taxi), 1h0m

6:30pm

Flight to Baku

Catch an evening flight from Istanbul to Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku (approx. 2.5 hours flight).
USD150 (estimate), 2h30m
Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 4: Arrival and Old City

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 8, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Nar & Sharab

Taste traditional Azerbaijani breakfast dishes with fresh bread, herbs, and cheeses in this charming local restaurant.
AZN15, 1h0m

10:30am

Icherisheher (Old City)

Explore Baku’s UNESCO-listed historic core, including Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace; open daily 10am-6pm.
AZN10, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Mangal Steak House

Enjoy delicious grilled meats and traditional Azerbaijani dishes in a modern setting near the Old City.
AZN30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Baku Boulevard Walk

Stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade, visit the Carpet Museum and enjoy views of the Flame Towers.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Firuze

Experience authentic Azerbaijani cuisine in an atmospheric restaurant famed for its local flavors and ambiance.
AZN40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Baku

Day 5: Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Near Baku, Azerbaijan on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local and international options to prepare for the day of exploration.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Gobustan National Park

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site to see prehistoric rock carvings and mud volcanoes; open 9am-7pm.
AZN15, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gobustan Visitor Center Cafe

Light lunch offering local snacks and drinks before heading back to Baku.
AZN10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Mud Volcano Tour

Explore the nearby mud volcanoes unique to the region, a fascinating natural phenomenon.
AZN20, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Baku, Rest

Rest and freshen up at your hotel after an active day of sightseeing.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Nargiz Restaurant

Sample classical Azerbaijani dishes such as plov and kebabs in a comfortable, traditional setting.
AZN35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Near Baku

Day 6: Sheki Day Trip

Sheki, Azerbaijan on June 10, 2025

6:00am

Departure to Sheki

Begin early morning drive or guided tour (about 4-5 hours) to Sheki, a scenic town famous for its crafts and architecture.
AZN70 (transport), 5h0m

11:00am

Visit Sheki Khan's Palace

Tour the ornate 18th-century palace known for its stunning stained glass and intricate decorations; open 10am-6pm.
AZN12, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Local Restaurant in Sheki

Enjoy Sheki specialties like piti stew and fresh bread in a traditional restaurant.
AZN20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Sheki’s Caravanserai and Bazaar

Discover local crafts, silk production, and handicrafts in the historic bazaar area.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Baku

Drive back to Baku for the evening, rest, or explore nearby areas at leisure.
Included, 5h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Art Garden Restaurant

Relax after travel with well-prepared Azerbaijani dishes in a charming garden setting.
AZN40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Sheki

Day 7: Baku Museums and Culture

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a filling breakfast featuring local and continental options.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Azerbaijan National Museum of Art

Explore Azerbaijani art including Medieval manuscripts, carpets and contemporary works; open 10am-6pm.
AZN8, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Scalini Italian Restaurant

Take a break with quality Italian cuisine in central Baku, a favorite among visitors.
AZN25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Modern Art Museum

Discover pieces from Azerbaijani and international modern artists housed in a beautiful building; open 10am-6pm.
AZN7, 1h30m

3:30pm

Teze Bazaar Shopping

Shop fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs from this lively market emphasizing local products.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Chinar

Dine on modern Azerbaijani cuisine influenced by global trends in an elegant, contemporary restaurant.
AZN50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Baku

Day 8: Ateshgah & Yanar Dag

Surakhani, Azerbaijan on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to the outskirts of Baku.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Ateshgah Fire Temple

Visit this historic Zoroastrian fire temple known for its eternal flame and peaceful courtyard; open 9am-6pm.
AZN6, 1h30m

11:30am

Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

Witness the natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside, a fascinating natural wonder nearby Ateshgah.
AZN8, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch in Surakhani

Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani dishes like kebabs and pilaf at a local eatery near these landmarks.
AZN20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to Baku & Rest

Return to city center for rest or optional evening activities at leisure.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sumakh

Dine in a stylish restaurant with delicious Azerbaijani flavors emphasizing fresh herbs and spices.
AZN45, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Surakhani

Day 9: Day at Leisure in Baku

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel with a variety of options to start a relaxed day.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Optional Shopping or Spa Day

Take this day to shop for souvenirs, relax at a local spa, or explore additional museums and galleries at your own pace.
Varies, Flexible

1:00pm

Lunch at Nakhchivan Restaurant

Taste hearty Azerbaijani home-style dishes emphasizing slow-cooked specialties.
AZN30, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Sky Grill

Enjoy a final sumptuous meal with panoramic views of Baku’s skyline and Caspian Sea in an elegant setting.
AZN60, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Baku

Day 10: Departure Preparation

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Pack

Enjoy one last hotel breakfast and pack your belongings for departure to Uzbekistan.
Included, 2h0m

10:30am

Last-minute Shopping or City Walk

Take a final stroll or shop in downtown Baku to grab any last souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chaikhana

Relax with flavorful teas and Azerbaijani snacks in a traditional tea house atmosphere.
AZN20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Transfer to Baku Airport

Prepare and travel to Heydar Aliyev International Airport for your Uzbekistan flight.
AZN20 (taxi), 1h0m

6:00pm

Flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Evening flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, approximately 2.5-hour flight.
USD200 (estimate), 2h30m
Find Hotels in Baku

Day 11: Tashkent Arrival & Exploration

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Afsona

Eat traditional Uzbek breakfast including non bread, jams, and teas in a cozy local restaurant.
UZS50000, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Khast Imam Complex

See the religious heart of Tashkent with ancient Quran, Barak Khan Madrasah and Minor Mosque; open daily 9am–6pm.
UZS30000, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Caravan

Taste classic Uzbek dishes like plov, shashlik, and lagman in a traditional atmosphere.
UZS70000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Amir Timur Museum and Independence Square

Explore history and monuments dedicated to Uzbekistan's national hero and modern independence.
UZS40000, 1h30m

4:30pm

Chorsu Bazaar

Explore a bustling market offering spices, crafts, and local foods, perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Plov Center

Enjoy a flavorful dinner featuring Uzbekistan’s signature dish, plov, in an outstanding local venue.
UZS60000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tashkent

Day 12: Tashkent to Samarkand

Tashkent > Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 16, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast to prepare for high-speed train journey to Samarkand.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Train to Samarkand

Take the fast Afrosiyob train from Tashkent to Samarkand, approximately 2 hours.
UZS120000, 2h0m

11:00am

Check-in & Relax

Check into your Samarkand accommodation and unwind before sightseeing.
Included, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bibikhanum Teahouse

Enjoy local dishes and traditional teas near the famous Registan square.
UZS80000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Registan Square

Visit Samarkand’s iconic complex of medressas with exquisite tilework, a symbol of Central Asia; open 9am-6pm.
UZS50000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Explore the tomb of Timur the Lame, a masterpiece of Timurid architecture; open 9am-5pm.
UZS40000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Samarkand Restaurant

Dine on flavorful Uzbek cuisine including samsa and kebabs in a warm traditional setting.
UZS70000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tashkent > Samarkand

Day 13: Samarkand Sights & Culture

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on June 17, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Experience a hearty Uzbek breakfast with fresh bread, cheese, and tea.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Walk among stunning mausoleums richly decorated with majolica tiles; open 9am-5pm.
UZS30000, 1h30m

11:45am

Ulugh Beg Observatory

Visit this historic observatory site founded by Timur’s astronomer grandson; open 9am-5pm.
UZS25000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Old Samarkand

Relish traditional Uzbek pilaf and fresh salads in an atmospheric restaurant.
UZS70000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

See one of the grandest mosques of Central Asia, recently restored; open 9am-6pm.
UZS40000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Siab Bazaar

Vibrant market selling spices, nuts, and local produce; perfect for shopping and photos.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Karimbek

Enjoy delicious shashlik and other grilled delights in a charming garden setting.
UZS60000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Samarkand

Day 14: Samarkand to Bukhara

Samarkand > Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before train or car transfer to Bukhara.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Transfer to Bukhara

Approximately 4-5 hour journey by train or private car to Bukhara.
UZS150000 (train/private car), 5h0m

2:30pm

Check-in and Rest

Arrival at hotel and rest before exploring Bukhara.
Included, 1h0m

4:00pm

Lyabi Hauz Ensemble

Explore this lively plaza surrounded by madrasahs, a historic social and cultural center.
Free, 1h0m

5:30pm

Visit Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah

Famous for intricate columns and tile decoration adjacent to Lyabi Hauz.
UZS20000, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chinar

Traditional Uzbek cuisine with modern touches, near the historic center.
UZS70000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Samarkand > Bukhara

Day 15: Bukhara Highlights

Bukhara, Uzbekistan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a comforting breakfast with local breads and preserves.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Ark Fortress

Visit the ancient citadel at Bukhara's heart which served as residence for emirs; open 9am-6pm.
UZS30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Bolo Hauz Mosque

Famed for its delicate wooden columns and peaceful fountains; open 9am-5pm.
UZS15000, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Minzifa

Enjoy traditional Uzbek meals served with fresh herbs and ayran yogurt drink.
UZS65000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Poi Kalyan Complex

Explore the great mosque, minaret and madrasah dominating Bukhara's skyline; open 9am-6pm.
UZS40000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Chor-Minor

See the unique four-minaret structure, a charming highlight at Bukhara’s edge; open until sunset.
UZS15000, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Old Bukhara

Dine on local specialties such as shurpa and samsa in an inviting courtyard setting.
UZS70000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Bukhara

Day 16: Bukhara to Khiva

Bukhara > Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 20, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast and Early Departure

Early breakfast and transfer to Khiva by private car (approx. 6-7 hours) for maximum sightseeing time.
UZS250000 (car), 7h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch

Arrive in Khiva and enjoy a relaxed lunch at hotel or local restaurant.
Included/UZS60000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Khiva Old Town (Itchan Kala)

Explore this walled city museum with outstanding madrasahs, mosques, and minarets; open 9am-6pm.
UZS40000, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Terrassa

Enjoy dining on traditional Khorezm cuisine atop a rooftop terrace overlooking the old city.
UZS70000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Bukhara > Khiva

Day 17: Khiva Full Day

Khiva, Uzbekistan on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a filling breakfast to fuel up for exploring Khiva.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Kalta Minor Minaret

Visit the unfinished yet strikingly colorful minaret near the city entrance; open 9am-6pm.
UZS15000, 0h30m

10:30am

Kunya-Ark Citadel

Tour the historic fortress that once housed Khiva’s rulers and government offices.
UZS30000, 1h0m

12:00pm

Tash Hauli Palace

Explore this grand palace with beautiful tile work and ornate courtyards.
UZS30000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Khorezm Restaurant

Relish local dishes unique to the Khorezm region such as shivit oshi and grilled fish.
UZS60000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Islam Khoja Minaret & Museum

Climb this tallest minaret in Khiva and visit the adjacent ethnographic museum; open 9am-5pm.
UZS25000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Evening Walk & Shopping

Wander the ancient streets and shop for local silk, carpets, and souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Khiva Lounge

Relax and enjoy a final Khiva dinner with a fusion of Uzbek and international dishes.
UZS70000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Khiva

Day 18: Khiva to Tashkent

Khiva > Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 22, 2025

6:00am

Breakfast and Early Transfer

Early breakfast and transfer to Urgench Airport for domestic flight to Tashkent.
Included/UZS50000 (taxi), 1h0m

9:00am

Flight Urgench to Tashkent

Fly about 1 hour, connecting Khiva to Tashkent for final days.
UZS250000 (flight), 1h0m

11:00am

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check-in at Tashkent hotel and rest, prepare for remaining sightseeing or shopping.
Included, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Afsona

Taste contemporary Uzbek cuisine with a modern style in a stylish setting.
UZS70000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre

View this impressive arts venue and if possible book tickets for evening performances.
Varies, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Broadway Alley (Sayilgoh Street)

Enjoy strolling open-air art galleries, cafés, and street music performances.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Twiga

Indulge in fine dining with international and Uzbek fusion cuisine.
UZS90000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Khiva > Tashkent

Day 19: Tashkent Museums & Culture

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a nutritious breakfast before your museum visits.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

Discover Uzbekistan’s rich history and culture through engaging exhibits; open 9am-6pm.
UZS30000, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Plov Lounge

Enjoy Uzbekistan’s national dish plov alongside local salads and bread.
UZS60000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tashkent TV Tower or Japanese Garden

Visit Tashkent’s iconic TV tower for city views or relax in the tranquil Japanese Garden.
UZS20000 / Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping at Next

Explore Next Shopping Mall for souvenirs or luxury buys.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Besh Chinor

End your day with traditional Central Asian dishes in a lush garden restaurant.
UZS80000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tashkent

Day 20: Leisure & Departure Prep

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast and prepare for your departure.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Optional Last-minute Shopping or City Walk

Take a last stroll or purchase souvenirs at Chorsu Bazaar or local boutiques.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Deja Vu

Taste international dishes with a Central Asian twist in a trendy downtown café.
UZS70000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Pack and Rest

Rest at hotel and pack for your international departure.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Sky Lounge

Celebrate your trip with dinner offering panoramic views of Tashkent cityscape.
UZS100000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Tashkent

Day 21: Departure Day

Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 25, 2025

Morning

Flight Departure

Check-in and depart from Tashkent airport for your international flight home or onwards.
Varies, Varies
Find Hotels in Tashkent
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About 3 days in Turkey, arriving Istanbul

Best Turkey Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your 3 days in Turkey, arriving Istanbul Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go