Persian Silk Road Trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Persian Silk Road! This two-week trip will take you from Isfahan in Iran to Samarkand in Uzbekistan, with a total distance of 2705km. Along the way, you will explore the ancient cities of Yazd, Ferdows, Mary and Qarshi, each of which offers a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area. The best time of the year to drive this route is from April to October, when temperatures are pleasant and the landscape is in full bloom. During your drive, you will be able to take in the stunning landscapes and visit some of the most famous historical sites in the region. The road conditions are generally good, so you can make the most of your journey. This Persian Silk Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, regardless of their budget. Although it is more expensive than other routes, the experience and memories you will gain are priceless. So come and explore the ancient cities, culture and beauty of the Persian Silk Road!

Isfahan is a beautiful city located in the heart of Iran, and it is the perfect starting point for the “Persian Silk Road Trip”. The city is full of amazing sights, and it is a must-see destination for all travelers. The most famous and popular sights of Isfahan include the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the Chehel Sotoun Palace, and the Vank Cathedral. The Naqsh-e Jahan Square is one of the largest city squares in the world, and it is lined with grand buildings and monuments. The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and it is adorned with impressive tilework and ornate decorations. The Chehel Sotoun Palace is a beautiful Safavid palace with a complex garden and a grand hall. The Vank Cathedral is a unique Armenian church with a stunning interior. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is the Isfahan International Airport (IFN). From there, travelers can rent a car to begin their journey along the “Persian Silk Road Trip”. Car rentals are available at the airport, so travelers can easily find the perfect vehicle for their trip. Isfahan is an amazing city full of sights, and it is the perfect starting point for the “Persian Silk Road Trip”. With its impressive architecture, historical monuments, and beautiful gardens, Isfahan is an unforgettable destination.

Are you ready to explore the beauty of Isfahan and Yazd? This road trip will take you on a journey of 321 km, with a driving time of fewer than 4 hours. On your way, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Iran. In Isfahan, make sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. You can also explore the historical bridges of Si-o-se Pol and Khaju, and the Grand Bazaar. In Yazd, you can visit the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence, the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, and the Jameh Mosque of Yazd. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let’s hit the road!

Embark on an amazing road trip starting in Yazd, Iran and ending in Kerman! This 372km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, and you'll get to see some of the most interesting places in the area. In Yazd, you'll find the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence and the Amir Chakhmagh Complex. The Towers of Silence are large circular structures used for ritual exposure of the dead, while the Amir Chakhmagh Complex is a complex of monuments, mosques and bazaars. Your next stop is the city of Anar, which is home to the Anar Fire Temple, a Zoroastrian site that has been in use for over 1500 years. You can also visit the Anar Grand Mosque and the Anar Bazaar. Your next stop is the city of Mahan, where you'll find the Shah Nematollah-e-Vali Shrine. This shrine is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Iran and is dedicated to the Sufi poet and mystic, Shah Nematollah-e-Vali. Your last stop is the city of Kerman, where you'll find the Ganjali Khan Complex and the Kerman Grand Mosque. The Ganjali Khan Complex is a large complex of monuments, mosques and bazaars, while the Kerman Grand Mosque is a beautiful mosque built in the 17th century. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Kerman to Ferdows? This 545 km journey will take you less than 7 hours to complete and will be one of the best stages of your tour. Start your journey in Kerman and visit the Ganjali Khan Complex, a historical site with a museum, mosque, bathhouse, and bazaar. Then, you can explore the Shahzadeh Garden, a beautiful Persian garden with a traditional pavilion. Continue your journey to Ferdows and visit the Shahr-e Sukhteh, an archaeological site with ruins of an ancient city. You can also visit the Ferdowsi Tomb, dedicated to the famous Persian poet, Ferdowsi. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip from Kerman to Ferdows!

Welcome to the road trip stage between Ferdows and Mashhad! This stage is a great opportunity to explore the fascinating culture and history of Iran. The route is only 366 km long, and you can easily drive it in less than 4 hours. As you go, make sure to pay attention to the numerous historical sites that you will encounter. Along the way, you can visit the ancient city of Ferdows, which is one of the oldest cities in Iran, and the stunning Gonbad-e Qabus tower, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Mashhad, you can explore the Imam Reza Shrine Complex, an important pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims, as well as the beautiful Kooh Sangi Park. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Start your roadtrip in Mashhad, Iran, the spiritual capital of the country. Located in the northeast of the country, it is the second most populous city in Iran. While in Mashhad, don’t miss out on visiting the Imam Reza Shrine, the largest mosque in the world. The shrine is a complex which includes the mausoleum of the eighth Shia Imam and the Goharshad Mosque. You can also explore the city’s other attractions like the Tomb of Nader Shah, the Ferdowsi Tomb, and the Naderi Garden. After you’re done exploring Mashhad, hit the road for Mary, your next destination. It is a 395 km drive, taking you fewer than 6 hours. As you drive, you will pass through the city of Sarakhs, known for its historical monuments and the Sarakhs Bazaar. You will also pass through the city of Torbat-e-Heydarieh, known for its ancient sites, including the remains of a Zoroastrian fire temple. Finally, you’ll reach Mary, a city with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can visit the ancient ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also explore the Mary Museum, the Mary Bazaar, and the Mary Mosque. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.

Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Mary, Turkmenistan to Bukhara? This journey of 388km will take you less than 6 hours. Your first stop should be the city of Mary, a great place to explore the ancient history and culture of Turkmenistan. Visit the ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient city of Nisa, the former capital of the Parthian Empire. The next stop is the city of Dashoguz, the capital of Turkmenistan’s northernmost province. Here, you can explore the old fortress, the archaeological museum, and the remains of the ancient city of Kunya-Urgench. Continue your journey to the city of Turkmenabat, located on the banks of the Amu-Darya River. Visit the ancient city of Konye-Urgench and the archaeological museum. Your final destination is Bukhara, a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the ancient city of Samarkand, the mausoleum of Sheikh Zayd ibn Ali, and the stunning Registan Square. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Take a road trip from Bukhara to Qarshi and explore the fascinating sites of Uzbekistan! This 163km route takes less than 3 hours and is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour. Start your journey in Bukhara, a city of ancient architecture and culture. Visit the iconic Kalyan Minaret, the Poi Kalon Ensemble and the Magoki-Attori Mosque. For a unique experience, take a walk through the Old Town and explore the narrow streets and colourful bazaars. Continue your journey to Qarshi, a city known for its historical monuments, traditional crafts and delicious cuisine. Visit the ancient ruins of the Muborak Qala fortress, the majestic Shah Faisal Mosque and the Madrasa of Ulughbek. Don't forget to explore the vibrant bazaars and sample the local delicacies. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

If you’re looking for a road trip adventure, look no further! The 154km journey from Qarshi to Samarkand is the perfect stage for an unforgettable journey. With a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the sights and sounds of both cities. Start your journey in Qarshi, the birthplace of the famous Central Asian poet, Alisher Navoi. Here you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Afrasiab, the tomb of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, and the historic Sultan Saodat Complex. Next, drive to Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can visit the Registan Square, the Bibi Khanum Mosque, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, and the Ulugh Beg Observatory. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip adventure!

Samarkand is the ultimate destination of the Persian Silk Road Trip. This ancient city in Uzbekistan is a must-see for anyone wanting to explore the Middle East. It is home to some of the most beautiful monuments and architecture in the region, making it a truly captivating destination. The Registan Square is one of the most impressive sights in Samarkand, with its three magnificent madrasas. The intricate designs and artwork of the madrasas will take your breath away. Other places of interest include the Ulugh Beg Observatory and the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, both of which offer spectacular views of the city. For those traveling by car, the road leading to Samarkand is a journey in itself. As you drive along the ancient Silk Road, you will be mesmerized by the scenery of Central Asia. Along the way, you can visit some of the many ancient cities and towns that are home to some of the oldest and most interesting cultures in the world. The closest international airport to Samarkand is the Tashkent International Airport (TAS). From here, you can take a short taxi ride or rent a car to complete the final leg of your Persian Silk Road Trip. Samarkand is a city that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. With its ancient monuments, stunning architecture and breathtaking views, it is the perfect destination to end your road trip.

We believe that the presented journey idea gave you plenty of inspirations for your future holidays.
Our itinerary can be used as a base that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original beauty spots.
If car travel is a travel mode that you prefer, there are a number of essential traffic regulations to follow and a number of elements to keep in mind to make your road adventure safe. These tips will surely become useful for drivers who are considering vehicle rental or camper hire.
Holidaymakers who choose Iran as their holiday destination should definitely be mindful of the local road regulations. In Iran, if you are planning to drive, try to avoid alcohol at any price. Holidayers ought to remember that the amount of alcohol that the driver can consume is extremely low and is only 0‰. When it comes to travelling inside the cities, it is best to never exceed 50km/h. In non-build-up areas, travellers can travel at the maximum car speed of 110km/h. On motorways, 120km/h is the maximum car speed that you should be mindful of in Iran. Driving with your headlights on at daytime and having a fire extinguisher and first aid kit greatly increase the safety of you and your passengers.
The majority of travellers are also interested in the travel expenses of the whole road trip. Well, depending on the budget option that interests you, the amount of money that you have to pay for your travel expenses may vary. A wide range of budget possibilities is showed below.
If you go for the cheapest option, you have to spend the maximum of 300 EUR on fuel to cover the planned 2,705km. Economy accommodation options can cost travellers approximately 924 EUR. Tourists should also remember about the fact that they will spend around 504 EUR for food and restaurants in this option. Travellers will have to pay around 2,100 EUR if they choose the budget rental car offer as well. Thus, the estimated travel expenses amount to around 1,728 EUR without vehicle hire and 3,828 EUR with vehicle hire.
When it comes to the standard offer, you should be prepared to pay the maximum of 400 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. Cost amounting to 1,848 EUR can be expected by all holidaymakers who are considering standard overnight stays. Drivers may expect that the standard option in terms of food and restaurants will cost about 672 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire car should expect a cost of about 6,300 EUR. The whole estimated cost of the tour is 9,220 EUR with car rental and 2,920 EUR without a rental car.
The available premium option has been prepared with the most demanding holidaymakers in mind. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay about 12,959 EUR for the whole Persian Silk Road Trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend more or less 4,139 EUR. Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium hire car can expect a cost of roughly 8,820 EUR. If you are interested in the highest standard of the adventure, the cost of the fuel needed to cover all stages around Iran is about 513 EUR. Holidaymakers who are interested in top services in all aspects of their tour should expect to pay roughly 2,618 EUR for overnight stays and more or less 1,008 EUR for food and restaurants.
Our road trip will also be ideal for all camper fans, as it can be easily adjusted to their expectations. If you choose this means of transport, the expenses are roughly 3,150 EUR. Travellers will spend approximately 613 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the tour. Tourists who opt for camper rental should expect to pay roughly 385 EUR for accommodation and about 504 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section shows all the presented details in a straightforward manner.
The period between March and May is great to visit the part of Iran showed in our road trip idea. If Persian Silk Road Trip has sparked your creativity, check out other intriguing road adventures that are available on our website. We hope that the broad spectrum of ideas will definitely come up to the expectations of the most demanding drivers.