Arrive at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Hotel Caravan Sarai 3* or similar

Spend the morning as you please. Spend the afternoon strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itchan Kala, a walled city fortress and veritable open-air museum. Welcome dinner. (B-D)

Tour the Islam Khoja minaret towering over the city. Both a religious and military observation post and a landmark for caravans, this historic monument attests to Khiva’s strategic importance on the Silk Road. Next, visit the Pakhlavan Makhmoud Mausoleum, a major pilgrimage site with a stunning turquoise dome. Then, explore a former caravanserai (an inn for caravan travellers) now used as a bazaar. End the day at the Tash Khauli Palace, a trove of Khorezmian art with its sumptuous courtyards, faience tiles, and carved woodwork. Spend the afternoon as you please. (B-D)

In the morning, set off for Bukhara with stops along the way in the Kyzylkum Desert. The journey follows the legendary Amu Darya River, which provides a striking contrast to the arid landscape. Arrive in Bukhara, a museum city with a rich spiritual and commercial past and a wealth of architectural treasures. Check in at the hotel in the heart of the old city for a bit of well-deserved rest. Hélène Oasis Hotel 4* or similar (B-D)

Set off for a wonderful day in Bukhara, pearl of Central Asia. Stroll the streets and soak up the historic vibes of this magnificent city. Tour the stunning Po-i-Kalon architectural complex, with its madrasas, covered bazaars, and iconic mosques. Next visit the astonishing synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Explore the many mausoleums, including that honouring the Samanid dynasty, then visit the Bolo-Haouz Mosque. End your day at the monumental Ark Citadel. (B-D)

Spend the morning touring the peaceful Bakha ad-Din Complex, a famous pilgrimage site. Head 4km north to discover the sublime summer palace of Boukhara, which blends Oriental and European styles. The Chor Minor madrasa, with its four minarets, is a must-see, as is the Toshev family’s embroidery workshop. Spend the afternoon as you please. In the evening, learn all about miniature painting and then enjoy a delicious dinner on site. (B-D)

Depart for Sentyab with a stop in Gijduvan, a village known for its pottery. Continue to Nurata to see the thousand-year-old fortress of Alexander the Great. Then, stop in the picturesque village of Sentyab for an introduction to Uzbek cuisine. Spend a memorable and festive evening with villagers for a truly authentic experience in the heart of the Nuratau Mountains. Stay the night in the home of a local. (B-D)

Leaving Sentyab, take a pleasant hike to Ukhum, where you’ll have lunch with a local family and learn about their traditions. Continue to Hayat, a mountain village surrounded by orchards. Experience Uzbek hospitality at a traditional home, then take a walk in the surrounding area to enjoy the nature and get a glimpse of daily life in a rural Uzbek village. Stay the night in the home of a local. (B-L-D)

Hit the road for Samarkand, legendary crossroads of the Silk Road. Visit Registan Square with its three sumptuous madrasas, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, and the Afrasiab History Museum. At sunset, stroll among the ruins of the ancient city. Jahongir Hotel 4* or similar (B-D)

Feast your eyes on the vast riches of Samarkind with a tour of Shah-i-Zinda, a stirring and lavishly adorned necropolis. Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, then immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and intoxicating aromas of the grand bazaar. Have dinner in the home of a local. Spend the afternoon as you please. (B-L-D)

Take a morning train to Tashkent, located at the strategic crossroads of the legendary Silk Road and the mysterious Gold Road. Explore the Museum of Decorative Arts, Chorsu Bazaar, Kukeldash Madrasa, and Khast Imam Complex. Have a goodbye dinner in a local restaurant. Sayyoh Hotel 3* or similar (B-D)

Transfer to the Tashkent airport. (B)