Want to make the most of four festive days? Discover Ancient Bukhara!
2026-08-29 10:05:00 / News
How to Get There
By high-speed Afrosiyob train — around 4 hours from Tashkent
By plane — just over 1 hour
By car or taxi — approximately 575 km from Tashkent
Day 1 — Explore the Old City
Start your day at the Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, one of the most charming places in Bukhara’s historic center. Enjoy a cup of tea beside the ancient pond — the hauz — admire the surrounding madrasas, and take in the everyday atmosphere of the Old City.
Then stroll beneath the city’s historic trading domes. Visit local craft shops, discover the work of Bukhara’s artisans, and pick up unique souvenirs. Continue your journey through the city’s history at the Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum, dedicated to the history and merchant life of one of Bukhara’s prominent figures. For traditional crafts and handmade souvenirs, be sure to visit the Malika Sulton center.
Save one of Bukhara’s most impressive architectural landmarks, the Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, for the afternoon. Admire its famous minaret, take a walk around the square, and stay until the evening lights come on — the ensemble is especially beautiful at sunset. Round off the day with traditional Bukhara cuisine and an evening stroll through the historic city center.
Day 2 — Step Deeper into History
Visit the Ark Fortress, an ancient citadel that served for centuries as the center of power of Bukhara’s rulers. Pass through its massive gates, explore the fortress grounds, and discover its museum exhibitions.
Then take part in a gastronomic master class to learn the secrets of preparing the traditional Bukhara dish Oshi Sofi, and try making it yourself alongside local chefs.
Spend the evening enjoying Bukhara’s unique atmosphere. Choose a cozy teahouse or café — the Joy and Old Bukhara establishments are particularly popular — take a leisurely walk through the quiet streets, browse the souvenir shops, and admire the historic center illuminated at night.
Day 3 — Discover the Residence of the Emirs
Visit the remarkable Chor-Bakr Necropolis in the vicinity of Bukhara. With its impressive scale and distinctive architecture, the complex resembles a genuine ancient city.
Then head to the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the country residence of the last emirs of Bukhara, where Eastern traditions blend with European architectural influences. Explore the palace halls and gardens and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Emirate era.
Day 4 — Take a Trip to Gijduvan
On your final day, venture beyond Bukhara to discover the famous Gijduvan ceramics and the traditions of local artisans.
Visit the Narzullaev family pottery workshop and see the entire process of creating ceramics — from preparing the clay and working on the potter’s wheel to hand-painting the finished pieces. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel or decorate a ceramic item yourself. A handmade bowl or plate will become more than just a souvenir — it will be a lasting reminder of your journey through Bukhara.
Where to Stay?
Bukhara offers accommodation options to suit every type of traveler:
Hotels
Boutique hotels
Family-run guesthouses
Hostels
What to Try?
Bukhara Plov — one of the region’s most iconic dishes and an essential part of discovering its traditional cuisine.
Vaguri — a traditional Bukhara dish made with lamb.
Balaza — a rich traditional Bukhara soup made with meat, chickpeas, and aromatic spices.
Gijduvan Shashlik — one of the region’s best-known local dishes and a perfect way to round off your gastronomic journey.
Save this four-day itinerary and head to Bukhara for a festive getaway filled with history, culture, cuisine, and unforgettable Eastern charm!