Great Central Asian Railway Journeys

BBC iPlayer In Development Travel

1 Season · 5 Episodes · Premiered May 11, 2026

Michael travels through Uzbekistan in Great Central Asian Railway Journeys, tracing routes that echo the ancient Silk Road. This series sees Michael embarking on an epic railway exploration through the heart of Central Asia. Crossing desert landscapes and historic cities, he explores a region shaped by empire, trade and faith. Through encounters along the line, he examines how modern railways now link places that were once at the crossroads of the world. 

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

Official Site

Next Air Time: Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000

Seasons & Episodes

Season 1

5 episodes
E01
Tashkent
Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000 29 min
Michael Portillo embarks on a thrilling new railway adventure following the Silk Road through the most populous country of Central Asia, Uzbekistan.
E02
Tashkent to Samarkand
Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000 29 min
Michael Portillo continues his railway tour on Tashkent's suburban electric railway, and in Samarkand, witnesses the magnificent architecture of the Registan.
E03
Samarkand
Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000 28 min
Michael Portillo's railway adventure in Uzbekistan continues in Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia.
E04
Samarkand to Bukhara
Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000 28 min
Michael uncovers the Central Asian origins of the apple in the lush oasis surrounding Samarkand, and stands in the shadow of the fortified Ark of Bukhara.
E05
Bukhara to the Kyzylkum Desert
Mon, May 11 2026 5:00 AM GMT+0000 29 min
Michael Portillo's railway adventure through Uzbekistan reaches its finale in the historic city of Bukhara. He visits a centuries-old Jewish community and experiences the life of nomadic tribes.

Cast

Michael Portillo
Michael Portillo as Presenter

User Reviews

Rate this show

Your star rating (required)