Private Walking Tour in Old Town Bukhara
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Private Walking Tour in Old Town Bukhara

Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Bukhara is a colorful, mysterious, and very interesting place. We will walk along the winding streets of the Old City, admiring the majestic minarets, madrasahs, and mosques. Let's discover the Ark fortress, Registan Square, Samanid's mausoleum, and ancient trading domes. Our professionals will share the mysterious history and architectural features of these places.

Available options

Private Walking Tour in Old Town Bukhara

Pickup included

What's included

Licensed Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Lyabi-Hauz is a square which consisted of three large monumental buildings: Kukeldash Madrasah, Nodir Divan-begi Madrasah and Khanaka and a small artificial pond where locals like to relax. We will reveal how Lyabi-Hauz is connected with the merchant class, Judaism and Khoja Nasreddin.

2

We will explore the Jewish Mahalla (quarter) and see the first Synagogue in Bukhara.

3

I will show you the ancient domes: Toki-Sarrafon, Toki-Telpak Furushon and Toki-Zargaron. And, here we will discuss the history of Bukhara as an important point on the map of the Great Silk Road.

4

Maghoki Attori mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. We will explore its history and religions which it was connected with.

5

Ulugbek Madrasah in Bukhara is one of the earliest buildings, which was constructed by the donation of Ulugbek.

6

Built in 1652, a few centuries later than Ulugh-Beg Madrasah (built in 1417), Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, which stands across from it, is an integral part of Bukhara’s most outstanding architectural ensemble. Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah marks the remarkable progress of medieval Central Asian architecture; it shows us how amazingly high the skills of Central Asian architects, builders and artists were at the time.

7

The Kalon Mosque is the biggest mosque in Bukhara and the second-largest historical mosque in Central Asia. It is a part of the Poi-Kalon ensemble and is built on the Kosh principle (two buildings opposite each other) opposite the Miri-Arab Madrasah.

8

The Kalon Minaret (also 'Kalyan Minaret'), about 47 metres high, is one of Bukhara's landmarks and part of the Poi-Kalon ensemble.

9

Miri-Arab madrasah was the only spiritual educational establishment in the USSR that had restarted to function after the WWII. Most leading Imams of post Soviet countries had graduated from this religious center.

10

The Ark, a royal town-within-a-town, is Bukhara's oldest structure, it was home to the rulers of Bukhara for over a millenium.

11

Bolo Hauz mosque is one of the most peaceful sites in Bukhara with its calming pond and elegant pillared facade. It is located opposite the Ark Fortress, and was designed to function both in the cold winter and hot summer months.

12

The Chashma Ayub, the Spring of Job, commemorates this site. Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, which purportedly marks the spot where the Prophet Job struck the arid ground and a spring of pure drinking water miraculously burst forth, saving his followers when those around them were dying of thirst. It is commonly believed that the water still keeps its clearness and herbal power.

13

The Samanids' mausoleum was innovative, because it used baked brick to an unprecedented degree. Previous to this, most important buildings—palaces and temples—in the region had been built of unbaked brick and covered with stucco.

14

Upon request, We can have a break for coffee/tea or food during the city tour. There is no fixed place to make it, but I can recommend the best locations.

What's not included

Tips
Upon request, we can enter the Juma Mosque, Citadel Ark and the Mausoleum of the Samanids. Other sights and museums that require an admission fee are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide
DE RU EN FA IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Ismail Samani Mausoleum is a cube shaped building from fired bricks. The guide will be waiting you at the withered tree near the mausoleum.

About Bukhara

Bukhara is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in Central Asia, renowned for its rich history, stunning Islamic architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. This ancient Silk Road city offers a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan's past, with over 140 architectural monuments dating back over a millennium.

Top Attractions

Po-i-Kalyan Complex

The Po-i-Kalyan Complex is the heart of Bukhara's historic center, featuring the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i Arab Madrasah. This UNESCO-listed site is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is a massive fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara's rulers for centuries. It houses museums and historic buildings within its walls.

Historical 1 hour 5,000 UZS

Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble

The Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble is a picturesque complex centered around a large pond (hauz) and surrounded by madrasahs, mosques, and tea houses. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum

This mausoleum is said to be built around a spring that appeared miraculously when the prophet Job (Ayub) touched the ground with his staff. It's a peaceful spot with beautiful tile work.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Trade Domes

Bukhara's trade domes, such as the Toki Zargaron (Jewelers' Dome), Toki Telpak Furushon (Hatsellers' Dome), and Toki Sarrofon (Money Changers' Dome), are a testament to the city's rich trading history. These domes once housed bustling markets and still retain their historic charm.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices, often served at celebrations and gatherings

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Samsa

Baked pastries filled with meat, pumpkin, or potatoes

Snack Varies by filling, often contains meat

Shurpa

A flavorful soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices

Soup Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Popular Activities

Camel trekking Sandboarding Hiking Tea house visits Spas and hammams Reading in parks Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historic sites. The temperatures are comfortable, and the crowds are manageable.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Uzbek
  • Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bukhara is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators
  • • Negotiate taxi fares in advance
  • • Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air
  • Bukhara International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train

Bukhara Railway Station

By bus

Bukhara Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Bukhara. They are affordable and connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center Modern Bukhara

Day trips

Vobkent
30 km from Bukhara • Half day to full day

Vobkent is a small town known for its historic mosque and mausoleum, offering a glimpse into the region's Islamic heritage.

Gijduvan
40 km from Bukhara • Full day

Gijduvan is famous for its ceramics and traditional pottery workshops, offering a hands-on experience in this ancient craft.

Kyzylkum Desert
100 km from Bukhara • Overnight

The Kyzylkum Desert offers a unique desert experience with opportunities for camel trekking, stargazing, and exploring the vast sand dunes.

Festivals

International Festival of Classical Music • September Siyavushbek Festival • August

Pro tips

  • Visit the Po-i-Kalyan Complex early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
  • Try the local plov at a traditional chaikhana for an authentic experience
  • Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars, as prices are often inflated for tourists
  • Carry small change for bus rides, taxis, and small purchases
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 16-70
1
Childs
Age 7-15
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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