Central Asia
The perfect 7 days itinerary
Central Asia, a region in Asia stretching from the Caspian Sea in the west to China in the east and from Afghanistan in the south to Russia in the north. The region consists of the former Soviet republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. It is also colloquially referred to as "the stans" as the countries generally considered to be within the region all have names ending with the Persian suffix "-stan", meaning "land of". Central Asia has a rich history with cities that were once important stops on the Silk Road.
What to do in Central Asia?
This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Central Asia. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Arrive in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring the city. Visit the Central State Museum to learn about the history of Kazakhstan. In the evening, take a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Day 2: Exploring Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Travel to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Visit the Ala-Too Square, the central square of the city. Explore the State History Museum and the Osh Bazaar, one of the largest markets in Bishkek.
Day 3: Discovering Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Head to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. Visit the National Museum of Tajikistan and the Statue of Ismoil Somoni, a historical figure in Tajikistan. Enjoy a stroll in Rudaki Park, named after the celebrated Persian poet Rudaki.
Day 4: Visiting Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Travel to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Visit the Turkmenistan Independence Monument and the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Explore the Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of the largest open-air markets in Central Asia.
Day 5: Exploring Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Head to Samarkand, one of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia, located in Uzbekistan. Visit the Registan, a public square that was the heart of the ancient city. Explore the Shah-i-Zinda, a necropolis in the north-eastern part of Samarkand.
Day 6: Visiting Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Travel to Bukhara, another historic city in Uzbekistan. Visit the Ark of Bukhara, a massive fortress located in the city. Explore the Po-i-Kalyan complex, which includes the Kalyan minaret and mosque.
Day 7: Departure
Depart from Bukhara. This marks the end of your journey through Central Asia. You'll leave with memories of ancient cities, rich history, and diverse cultures.