The New Trains in Central Asia Travel Back in Time to Breathtaking Sights Along the Silk Road

In Central Asia, the new trains travel back in time. As early as the second century B.C., an important network of trading routes known as the Silk Road linked Europe and East Asia. Now, in Uzbekistan, the region's first high-speed railway system is making it easier to visit that part of the route. Italian photojournalist Francesco Lastrucci switched between these new trains—which are on par with France's TGV or Portugal's Alfa Pendular—and the slower Soviet-era trains. He traveled from the capital, Tashkent, to Khiva—with stops in Samarkand, Uzbekistan's second-largest city, and Bukhara. On board, Lastrucci encountered few tourists and even fewer English speakers. From left: The showroom of Bukhara Silk Carpets; Kukaldosh Madrassa, in Bukhara.
Buy rail tickets à la carte at railway.uz, starting from $21, or join curated Silk Road trips, such as this 17-day Silk Road Through the Caucasus itinerary with tour operator Abercrombie & Kent. Here, Lastrucci recounts his three days on the Silk Road, complete with his best recommendations in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
Tilla-Kari Madrassa, in Samarkand's Registan Square. En route from Samarkand to Bukhara on a modern train.
Day 1: Samarkand
'When I arrived in Samarkand, a city in east Uzbekistan that was a major stop on the Silk Road, I headed to Registan Square, which is arguably the most iconic site in the country. It started raining on my walk, so I ducked into Siyob Bazaar, a covered market with two levels and vendors selling food, pottery, and spices. A woman was selling bread, which, in Uzbekistan, is round like a wheel—although the decoration changes from region to region. In Registan Square, there are three madrassas, or religious schools, including Tilla-Kari Madrassa, which is connected to an ornately decorated mosque. I then took a fast train from Samarkand to Bukhara. Looking south, I could see mountains in the distance, bordering Turkmenistan. When we stopped at a station in Navoi, I peeked out the door and saw only locals.' From left: Bread for sale at Siyob Bazaar, in Samarkand; the Sherdor Madrassa in Samarkand, reflected in a shop's mirror. From left: Posing in front of Khiva's Ichan-Kala West Gate; Kalta Minor, an unfinished minaret in Khiva.
Day 2: Bukhara
'Bukhara is known for art and hand-woven textiles. I started my day at Bukhara Silk Carpets, in the city's old town, which has a huge showroom and a workshop behind it, where I met about 20 kind, welcoming women making rugs. Artisans set up stalls at the entrance of the ancient Kukaldosh Madrassa, many painting Persian miniatures, which are small pieces with intricate details. For lunch, I sampled the pumpkin manti, a classic Central Asian dumpling, and beef soup at Jam, a restaurant close to the madrassa. My visit fell right before Nauruz, the Persian New Year; many locals were preparing for the celebration. These women were dancing while cooking sumalak, a sweet paste made of sprouted wheat.'
'The train from Bukhara to Khiva was older than my first train. The landscape between the cities is all desert. For me, looking out at that expanse was hypnotic; like a form of meditation. When I got on the train, I was given a pillow and sheets and made my bed in the car, which I shared with three other people—two women, who only spoke Uzbek, and a university math professor who spoke English. We chatted the whole trip, and he even invited me for lunch at his house.' From left: Inside Kuhna Ark, in Khiva; passing by the Paklavon Makhmud Mausoleum. Women dancing in the streets of Bukhara.
Day 3: Khiva
'Khiva is smaller than Bukhara. The main attraction is the unfinished Kalta Minor minaret, which I visited early in the morning to photograph. My fingers were freezing as I took pictures, but it was worth it to have no one else around. In the late afternoon, I had tea at Terrassa Café & Restaurant, which has breathtaking views over Ichan-Kala, Khiva's Old Town. Away from the big crowds of Samarkand, my stay felt quieter, more intimate. I continued on to Paklavon Makhmud Mausoleum, the tomb of Khiva's patron saint, which has a magnificent turquoise dome and a blue-tiled façade. Kuhna Ark citadel feels like a city within the city of Khiva. It was built in the 17th century by the khan of Khiva and is surrounded by fortified walls and watchtowers. I climbed one of them and found the best view of Khiva.' Terrassa Café & Restaurant, in Khiva.

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Inside Bali's Potato Head: I visited a luxury hotel that is redefining zero-waste travel

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Take the candles on every surface - glass holders made from the bottom half of used wine bottles, and the candle itself a combination of beeswax and the used chip fat oil from the kitchen. Certain details catch your eye - like the oyster shells from the fish restaurant, which get threaded and turned into decorations, the coconut slippers in my bedroom, or the staff aprons made from worn-out bed linen. Then there are the countless objects we take for granted in hotels, soap bottles, refillable shampoo bottles, coasters and the glass and kitchenware, which are all made from collected plastic and turned into products in their waste studio. You can even sit on these creations. Led by British designer Max Lamb, a new collection of chairs called WASTED is launching in early August to the public. They were so sleek and beautiful (as though they belonged in a gallery) that I wanted to take them all home to adorn my small London flat. Sadly, they wouldn't fit in my suitcase. 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Best Travel Routes in Kyrgyzstan with a Private Driver

Kyrgyzstan, often called the 'Switzerland of Central Asia,' is a land of rugged mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and unspoiled nomadic culture. For travelers looking to truly explore its remote beauty and vibrant traditions, the best way to get around is to hire a driver with car in Bishkek. Not only does this allow for a flexible and stress-free journey, but it also connects you with a knowledgeable local who can help you navigate routes, communicate with locals, and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you're visiting for adventure, culture, or relaxation, a private driver opens up the country in ways that packaged tours or self-driving just can't match. Travel in Kyrgyzstan comes with unique challenges. The terrain is mountainous, road signage can be confusing (especially if you don't read Cyrillic), and public transport to scenic or rural areas is sparse. While renting a car and driving yourself is an option, it's not always ideal due to narrow roads, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather in high-altitude areas. A private driver offers a reliable and comfortable alternative. You get the convenience of a personal vehicle and the local expertise of someone who knows the roads, culture, and language. Many private drivers are also happy to act as informal guides, pointing out sites you wouldn't find on your own and helping you make the most of your trip. Let's take a look at some of the most scenic and culturally rich travel routes in Kyrgyzstan that are best experienced with a private driver starting from Bishkek. Distance : ~250 km : ~250 km Travel Time: 4-5 hours This is one of the most popular routes in the country, and for good reason. Issyk Kul is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by the Tien Shan mountains. The northern route passes through towns like Tokmok and Cholpon Ata, offering great spots for history and leisure. Burana Tower : A historic minaret from the Silk Road era. : A historic minaret from the Silk Road era. Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs : Open-air rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. : Open-air rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. Resort beaches: Perfect for a summer swim or boat ride. With a private driver, you can stop at your leisure, avoid crowded marshrutkas (minibuses), and perhaps even detour into nearby valleys like Chon-Kemin or Grigorievka. Distance : ~400 km : ~400 km Travel Time: 6-8 hours with stops Karakol is the gateway to the eastern mountains, famous for trekking, skiing, and hot springs. The southern route to Karakol is less traveled but offers extraordinary scenery. Fairy Tale Canyon (Skazka) : Surreal red rock formations shaped by wind and time. : Surreal red rock formations shaped by wind and time. Barskoon Waterfall : A peaceful stop for a short hike. : A peaceful stop for a short hike. Jeti-Ögüz Gorge: Known for its red rock formations like the 'Seven Bulls' and 'Broken Heart.' Your driver can help you time visits to avoid crowds and even assist with finding yurt stays or guesthouses along the way. Distance : ~300 km : ~300 km Travel Time: 6-7 hours This route takes you deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan's nomadic culture. Song Kul is a high-altitude lake (over 3,000 meters) surrounded by vast summer pastures. Overnight in a yurt : Experience life like a nomad. : Experience life like a nomad. Horseback riding : Popular in the area. : Popular in the area. Stunning sunrises: A photographer's dream. Roads to Song Kul are rough and often require 4×4 vehicles, especially in spring and early summer. A private driver ensures safe and steady travel and can help coordinate your lodging with local families. Distance : ~700 km : ~700 km Travel Time: 12–14 hours (best broken over two days) This is one of Kyrgyzstan's most epic drives, cutting through the central Tien Shan mountains and descending into the Fergana Valley. Too-Ashuu Pass : A dramatic mountain pass with panoramic views. : A dramatic mountain pass with panoramic views. Toktogul Reservoir : A turquoise lake perfect for photo stops. : A turquoise lake perfect for photo stops. Local villages: Get a real feel for rural life in Kyrgyzstan. Due to the route's complexity, hiring a driver is almost essential — especially one familiar with mountain conditions and variable weather. Distance : ~800–900 km : ~800–900 km Travel Time: 2–3 days recommended This western route brings you into lush walnut forests, lakes, and agricultural areas rich in flora and fauna. Arslanbob : Home to the largest natural walnut forest in the world. : Home to the largest natural walnut forest in the world. Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve: A serene lake surrounded by protected forests and mountains. A driver can help arrange accommodations in remote villages and ensure you don't miss any key viewpoints or cultural experiences. Choosing to hire a driver with car in Bishkek comes with several perks: Stress-Free Navigation : Avoid getting lost or dealing with unfamiliar road conditions. : Avoid getting lost or dealing with unfamiliar road conditions. Local Knowledge : Gain insights on local history, customs, and cuisine. : Gain insights on local history, customs, and cuisine. Flexible Itineraries : Go at your own pace, with the freedom to stop and explore. : Go at your own pace, with the freedom to stop and explore. Safe Transport : Roads can be challenging, especially in rural and mountain regions; an experienced driver ensures a smoother journey. : Roads can be challenging, especially in rural and mountain regions; an experienced driver ensures a smoother journey. Help with Language: Many local drivers understand basic English and can translate when needed. When booking a driver, look for trusted companies with a proven track record. Doctour Kyrgyz is a highly recommended provider offering professional drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and flexible travel options. Whether you need a short transfer or a multi-day expedition, their services can be tailored to fit your needs. Kyrgyzstan is one of the few places in the world where adventure, nature, and culture blend so effortlessly — and the best way to see it all is by road. From emerald valleys and glacier-fed lakes to ancient Silk Road towns and nomadic traditions, there's something magical at every turn. Hiring a driver with car in Bishkek gives you the freedom to explore safely, comfortably, and meaningfully. It's not just about getting from point A to B — it's about the journey, the stories, and the people you meet along the way. So, if you're planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan, consider investing in the luxury of local knowledge and private mobility. The mountains are calling — and your driver is ready. TIME BUSINESS NEWS