Full-Day Ashgabat City Tour with Old Nisa and Evening Illuminations

1 Day Round trip from Ashgabat Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Nisa, the historic capital of the Parthian Kingdom
  • 02 Discover the breathtaking foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains with panoramic views along the famous Health Trail
  • 03 Admire Ashgabat's impressive white-marble architecture, futuristic landmarks, and illuminated cityscape
  • 04 Visit iconic attractions including the Independence Monument, the Arch of Neutrality, the giant national flagpole, and the Olympic Complex
  • 05 Experience the spectacular Oguzkhan Fountain Complex with synchronized fountains and Guinness World Record landmarks
  • 06 Explore the elegant Ertugrul Gazy Mosque, inspired by classic Ottoman Turkish architecture

Discover the fascinating capital of Turkmenistan on this immersive full-day Ashgabat city and surroundings tour, featuring ancient UNESCO heritage sites, futuristic architecture, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Explore the historic ruins of Old Nisa, the former capital of the Parthian Kingdom, before experiencing the scenic foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains and panoramic city viewpoints along the famous Health Trail. Visit iconic attractions including the Independence Monument, Arch of Neutrality, Olympic Complex, giant national flagpole, Oguzkhan Fountain Complex, and the magnificent Ertugrul Gazy Mosque while admiring Ashgabat's famous white-marble architecture and evening illuminations.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
City Ashgabat
Languages English, Russian, Turkish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Ashgabat Landmarks, Old Nisa, and Kopetdag Foothills

Hotel Pick-up in Ashgabat

  • Begin the tour with pickup from your hotel lobby in Ashgabat, where your personal guide will welcome you.

  • Start the journey through the capital city of Turkmenistan while discovering its rich history, culture, and modern architectural landmarks.

Visit Old Nisa - UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Travel to the ancient ruins of Old Nisa, one of the oldest capitals of the Parthian Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Explore the remains of the royal fortress and ancient defensive walls dating back more than two thousand years.

  • Learn about the powerful Parthian Empire and the historical importance of Old Nisa in Central Asian civilization.

  • Admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and archaeological remains.

Optional Visit to an Akhal-Teke Horse Farm

  • Enjoy an optional visit to a traditional Akhal-Teke horse farm upon request.

  • Meet the famous Akhal-Teke horses, known for their elegance, speed, loyalty, and unique metallic-colored coats.

  • Learn about the cultural significance of these legendary horses in Turkmen history and identity.

  • Observe horse breeding traditions and enjoy photography opportunities with the horses.

Kopetdag Foothills and Health Trail

  • Continue to the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains for a scenic mountain experience.

  • Walk along the famous Health Trail while enjoying fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings.

  • Capture panoramic bird's-eye views of Ashgabat and the surrounding landscapes from elevated viewpoints.

  • Experience one of the city's most popular outdoor recreation areas.

Visit Magtymguly Memorial Park

  • Explore the beautifully landscaped Magtymguly Memorial Park dedicated to the famous Turkmen poet and philosopher Magtymguly Pyragy.

  • Enjoy peaceful walks through the park while admiring mountain scenery and artistic monuments.

  • Learn about the importance of Magtymguly in Turkmen literature and national identity.

Visit the Memorial Complex and Wedding Palace

  • Visit the Memorial Complex dedicated to the victims of the devastating 1948 Ashgabat earthquake.

  • Learn about the tragic history of the earthquake and its impact on the city and local population.

  • Continue to the futuristic Wedding Palace, famous for its unique star-shaped architectural design.

  • Admire the modern white-marble architecture and panoramic city views surrounding the palace.

Visit the Giant National Flagpole

  • Stop at the monumental 133-meter national flagpole, one of the tallest flagpoles in the world.

  • Observe the enormous national flag flying high above the city skyline.

  • Learn about the symbolism and national significance of this iconic structure.

Explore the Independence Monument and Arch of Neutrality

  • Continue through the grand boulevards and landscaped avenues of Ashgabat.

  • Visit the Independence Monument, one of the most important national landmarks in Turkmenistan.

  • Explore the famous Arch of Neutrality and admire its impressive architecture and symbolic design.

  • Discover the political and cultural importance of neutrality in Turkmenistan's history.

Visit the Oguzkhan Fountain Complex

  • Experience the spectacular Oguzkhan Fountain Complex featuring synchronized fountains and illuminated sculptures.

  • Admire the artistic design surrounding the statue of the legendary ruler Oguzkhan.

  • Learn about the Guinness World Record achievements connected to the fountain complex.

  • Capture beautiful photographs of one of Ashgabat's most impressive modern attractions.

Explore the Olympic Complex and Indoor Ferris Wheel

  • Visit the futuristic Olympic Complex, another Guinness World Record landmark in Ashgabat.

  • Explore the impressive sports facilities and modern architectural structures.

  • Enjoy a ride inside the enclosed indoor Ferris wheel while admiring panoramic views across the city.

  • Experience one of the world's largest indoor Ferris wheels.

Visit Ertugrul Gazy Mosque

  • Continue to the beautiful Ertugrul Gazy Mosque inspired by classic Ottoman Turkish architecture.

  • Walk through the elegant white-marble courtyards and admire the mosque's grand domes and minarets.

  • Experience the peaceful atmosphere of one of Ashgabat's most beautiful religious landmarks.

  • Learn about Islamic architecture and cultural influences in Turkmenistan.

Evening Illumination Tour and Return

  • Continue exploring Ashgabat's famous illuminated streets and white-marble buildings during the evening hours.

  • Admire the spectacular city lights and modern architecture glowing after sunset.

  • Return to your hotel at approximately 19:00, or continue until 21:00 at no additional cost for an extended evening illumination experience.

  • End the tour with unforgettable memories of Ashgabat's ancient history, modern landmarks, cultural heritage, and architectural wonders.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Ashgabat 1 city · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Tour package (LOI, registration fee, permit fee)
  • Guide for 1 day
  • Transport for 1 day
  • Daily water
  • Transfers during the entire route
  • Entry tickets: Old Nisa and Museum

What's Not Included

  • Visa fee: $55 - $85
  • COVID-19 test: $35
  • Meals and services
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Insurance

What to bring

  • Warm clothes

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Tour start
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 1 day finishes where it began, in Ashgabat.

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USD 260 /person
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