|
IN BRIEF
|
Have you always dreamed of traversing the mysterious lands of Central Asia, amidst millennial cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the remnants of the legendary Silk Road? Pack your bags, because starting in 2026, Uzbekistan invites you to explore its treasures aboard the brand new Samarkand Express, a luxury train that promises more than just a simple journey… A true adventure filled with refinement, history, and unexpected discoveries!
Uzbekistan, a country at the crossroads of civilizations and the ultimate treasure of Central Asia, is preparing to offer an extraordinary experience: a luxury train journey to discover its ancient cities. Starting in 2026, aboard the brand new Samarkand Express, travelers will traverse the Silk Road in unparalleled comfort, encountering breathtaking landscapes and a fascinating history. Bukhara, Khiva, Samarkand… so many cultural gems with a rich past, now brought together for an unforgettable journey of luxury, culture, and escape.
While Uzbekistan may not yet be the top tourist destination in Central Asia, it is already establishing itself as the most iconic, with its postcard-worthy landscapes and unmissable historical cities. The country has always inspired travelers seeking steppes dotted with minarets, vibrant bazaars, and legendary caravanserais. It is in this unique atmosphere that the Samarkand Express project was conceived: a luxury train promising an immersion in the heart of Uzbek treasures.
An Innovative Project on the Silk Road
Scheduled for 2026, the Samarkand Express marks a step in the gradual opening of the country to international tourism. Accompanying the simplification of entry formalities, this luxury train hopes to become a vehicle for exchanges between travelers from all walks of life and Uzbek hospitality. The magic begins right from the departure of Tashkent, the vibrant capital, before following the trail of the famous Silk Road. On board, 66 fortunate passengers will enjoy 38 refined cabins and top-notch service spread across 13 carriages. The welcome, cuisine, and decor strive to be worthy of the greatest railway legends, reminiscent of the Orient Express. Those interested in similar experiences will find happiness exploring this unique concept, which is also highly sought after in Europe (see here).
The Must-See Stops on the Journey
The proposed itinerary promises wonder at every stop. After discovering Tashkent, with its covered markets and architecture blending Soviet influences with Eastern traditions, it’s on to the mythical Samarkand. This city, the beating heart of the Silk Road, showcases architectural marvels recognized by UNESCO at every corner. Next is Bukhara, whose historic center gives the impression of stepping back in time, followed by the mysterious Khiva, protected by its powerful earthen walls and its medieval center, Itchan Kala. Each of these stops feels like a meeting with the past.
Luxury on the Rails: Services and Experiences Onboard #
The Samarkand Express positions itself firmly in the high-end market, akin to other legendary trains such as the Royal Mansour of Tamuda Bay or Dream of the Desert in Saudi Arabia (learn more). Here, everything is designed to offer absolute comfort: elegant cabins, cuisine inspired by local gastronomy, attentive staff… The Uzbek version of slow travel is about taking the time to admire the landscapes, engage with fellow enthusiasts of discovery, and savor each moment away from the daily hustle. Travelers will notably have the opportunity to learn about Uzbek customs, attend craft demonstrations, or enjoy lively evenings onboard.
À lire exploration of the breathtaking landscapes of Conflent in the Eastern Pyrenees
Plan Your Tailor-Made Adventure
While booking procedures or exact prices are yet to be confirmed as the grand inauguration approaches, the Samarkand Express primarily targets an audience eager for unique experiences. Tailored solutions are already accompanying the rise of cultural tourism and slow travel in this region, similar to railway journeys in Europe, in small groups or exclusive getaways (see here). The goal? To offer a new way to traverse Uzbekistan, far from traditional circuits, favoring the quality of exchanges over the number of sites visited.
Must-See Attractions in Uzbekistan to Discover by Train #
Besides the flagship cities of the journey, Uzbekistan is teeming with lesser-known gems ready to be explored away from the crowds. Those who love to go off the beaten path will appreciate, for example, the Aral Sea and its end-of-the-world landscapes, the old port of Moynaq dotted with shipwrecks against a desert backdrop, or the mysterious Shakhrisyabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane. These UNESCO-protected sites highlight the cultural richness and fascinating history of the country. Furthermore, the growing popularity of train circuits invites consideration of this mode of travel to explore other European destinations off the beaten path (discover here).
A Preview of Tashkent, the Modern Gateway
Elegant and bustling, the capital Tashkent will serve as the ideal starting point for this railway adventure. Between unabashed modernity and retro charm, its lively squares, colorful bazaars, and museums promise a gentle immersion into the Uzbek atmosphere. Even though Tashkent is often overshadowed by its historic neighbors, it offers an authentic face of the country, far from tourist clichés.
Uzbekistan, the New Star of Slow Travel by Train #
Beyond the rail and luxury experience, this project is part of the international trend of slow tourism, which captivates enthusiasts of unique and refined travel. As Europe demonstrates with the resurgence of direct and elegant trains between major capitals (see here), Uzbekistan is daring to connect its heritage jewels with flair, aiming to offer travelers a grand experience. To live the adventure, the operator’s site (arsenalegroup.com) will soon allow you to prepare for this extraordinary journey.
