Understand

For over 2000 years, caravans have traversed the legendary Silk Road. Even before the time of Christ, Chinese silk had already made its way to Rome through this ancient route. However, the Silk Road was not only a path for goods; it was a path for ideas. Both Islam and Buddhism were introduced to China via the Silk Road, leaving behind significant relics of these religions. The influence of Eastern ideas also extended to Islamic countries and sometimes even reached Europe. Following in the footsteps of the great explorer Marco Polo, who journeyed along this route, modern-day travelers can experience the wonders of the Silk Road by train, bus, or private car. Some Wikitravel itineraries even partially follow this historic path. Popular Silk Road itineraries include: - Eurasia By Train - Europe to South Asia over land - Istanbul to New Delhi over land - On the trail of Marco Polo

Get in

Embarking on a Silk Road journey? You have the freedom to start from any European or Chinese city, but the most popular starting points are the historic cities of Xian and Istanbul. To focus on the central part of the road in Central Asia, it's best to fly into a city with excellent air connections. Consider Tashkent, Almaty, Urumqi, or Kashgar for a smooth and exciting adventure.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dim Sum - A collection of small bite-sized portions of various Chinese dishes, which can include dumplings, spring rolls, barbecued pork buns, and egg tarts. These are often served as a brunch or pre-lunch meal, accompanied by tea.

Peking Duck - A whole roasted duck that is a specialty of Beijing, known for its thin, crisp skin, rich, tender meat, and flavorful fat. The duck is typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

Kung Pao Chicken - A stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables (usually bell peppers and onions), and chili peppers, all coated in a spicy, savory sauce. It's a staple in Sichuanese and broader Chinese cuisine.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing