trip to uzbekistan

16 things to know before visiting Uzbekistan

Aug 12, 2023 • 9 min read

Everything you need to plan a trip to Uzbekistan from someone in the know © Andrii Lutsyk / Ascent Xmedia / Getty Images

Uzbekistan is the Central Asian destination that you’ve been dreaming about. Magnificent blue-domed mosques, towering minarets, atmospheric Silk Road cities and ancient bazaars are coupled with the region’s best accommodation, easiest transportation and great value for money. It’s the most visited of the Central Asian republics and with good reason.

A decade ago, Uzbekistan had a reputation for tricky travel. The country was plagued by complex visa rules, corruption and bureaucratic hassles, but all this has changed dramatically in recent years and it’s now a surprisingly easy place to explore.

If you are at all tempted to explore the glories of Uzbekistan’s iconic Silk Road cities, then all the planning tips you need are here. I've been visiting since the mid-1990s as a Lonely Planet writer for the region and have dealt with pretty much every travel challenge you can imagine!

1. Uzbekistan can be uncomfortably hot in summer

Time your trip to coincide with the best weather. Land-locked Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate, which means cold winters and hot, dry summers. It’s possible to visit Uzbekistan year-round but the most comfortable months weather-wise are from March to May, and September to November.

July and August’s summer heat often bring punishing temperatures of over 40C (104F), though you may have to visit at this time if you are heading onward to the mountains of neighboring Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan .

2. Most nationalities get a visa-free one-month stay

Getting a visa for Uzbekistan is easy these days. Over 60 nationalities now qualify for visa-free travel for up to a month, including the UK, most EU countries, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea and Israel. Other countries (including the USA and India) are required to apply for an e-visa online , but this is an easy process that only takes a couple of days. Gone are the days of complicated visa invitations and trips to obscure embassies – hurray!

3. Book high-speed train tickets in advance

The most comfortable way to travel the modern Silk Road between Tashkent , Samarkand , Bukhara and the Fergana Valley , is on Uzbekistan’s modern high-speed Afrosiyob train service. It takes just over two hours to travel from Tashkent to Samarkand, and the same again to reach Bukhara from Samarkand. For longer distances, Russian-style sleeper trains are an atmospheric way to travel overnight between Tashkent and the remoter cities of Nukus, Khiva or Termiz.

However, seats do sell out on popular routes, especially for high-speed tourist services, so book tickets a week or more in advance. Try online via the Uzbekistan Railway e-ticket portal , use the Uzrailway phone app, or book through a local travel agency (for a markup).

4. Book B&Bs well ahead of your arrival in the high season

The traditional towns of Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara all offer an excellent selection of stylish, comfortable, family-run B&Bs, which are easily the most interesting places to stay. The best ones fill up quickly in late spring and summer, so be sure to book a few weeks in advance. Contact owners directly, or see what comes up on Booking.com .

5. Pre-book an airport pickup when flying into Tashkent Airport

Many international flights to Tashkent arrive into Uzbekistan’s sprawling capital in the dead of night. If you don’t fancy negotiating with a scrum of eager taxi drivers, while still bleary-eyed after a seven-hour flight, it might be worth booking an airport pickup through your accommodation.

If you'd prefer to take a taxi, be aware that overcharging by taxi drivers is not uncommon in Uzbekistan – always try to get a rough idea of the correct fare beforehand. The easiest way to arrange a taxi ride in Tashkent is via the ride-sharing app Yandex Go , though you’ll need a local sim card to use it.

6. Travel is easier if you speak a few words of Uzbek or Russian

English is not widely spoken in Uzbekistan outside of tourist hotels, so it helps to learn some words of Uzbek (a Turkic language similar to old Turkish), or Russian, which remains a lingua franca amongst older people right across the former Soviet Union. Street signs are mostly in Uzbek Latin script, though you may also see some Russian-style Cyrillic script; it’s useful to learn both so you can at least read signs for place names and bus destinations.

Knowing numbers in Uzbek or Russian will come in particularly handy when negotiating with shared taxi drivers. Google Translate can help, but only if you have smartphone data – to minimize roaming costs, tourist sim cards valid for a month are available from several local companies, notably Beeline and Ucell.

7. Be ready for the local bureaucracy

Uzbekistan is very tourist-friendly these days, but there are a few bits of lingering bureaucratic red tape that are worth knowing about. When entering the country, you cannot bring in any codeine-based medications (such as painkillers) and you may need to declare how much foreign cash you are carrying. In reality, you are unlikely to be quizzed at customs if you arrive by air into Tashkent, but you might be when entering via land crossings.

You may also find that your hotel or B&B gives you a small paper registration slip when you check in. In the past you had to show these for every night of your trip when leaving the country; these days, the old paper system has been superseded by an online system and slips are rarely checked, but you should still keep these when given them, just in case.

Be sure to carry your passport (or at the very least a photocopy) with you when you go sightseeing in Uzbekistan. Police have the right to inspect your passport on demand, and you’ll likely need to show it at checkpoints on any long-distance trip. Keep a photocopy to hand to avoid having to dig through your money belt in public.

8. Don’t bother with the black market when changing money

Changing money is relatively straightforward in Uzbekistan these days. You’ll get the same rate at banks and ATMs as you do from shady bazaar money changers, so there’s little reason to change money through unofficial channels.

Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are accepted by most accommodation and upmarket souvenir stalls. ATMs in major cities accept foreign cards, but stock up on Uzbek som (the local currency) if you are headed into the countryside.

Uzbek bills now come in denominations up to 100,000 som , so you won’t have to carry around the brick-sized wads of cash that were the norm just a few years ago. It’s always a good idea to have a stash of small denomination bills in Euros or US dollars for an emergency or a border crossing.

9. Brush up on your chaikhana etiquette

Chai (tea) is Central Asia’s social lubricant, so it helps to know the local tea etiquette. Look like an expert in the local chaikhana (teahouse) by pouring the first two bowls of tea back into the pot before drinking, to help it brew. Choose from Russian-style kara (black) or Asian-style kok (green) chai.

10. Body Language

Uzbeks are big hand-shakers, so be sure to shake the hands of any men you come into contact with, especially elders (known as aksakal in Central Asia). Another particularly graceful gesture used by Uzbeks and Tajiks is to place your hand on your heart when meeting someone. When meeting women, a slight bow is the norm, in place of a handshake.

At the end of a meal, Uzbeks and Tajiks generally place their hands in front of their face in a cupped prayer gesture and run them lightly over their face to give thanks for the meal. Following suit will earn you respect for understanding and following Uzbek customs.

11. Haggle, but don’t push things too far

Haggling over things like the price of taxis and buying produce at markets is common in Uzbekistan, but prices are not vastly overinflated, so only expect a modest discount. Aggressive haggling is not appreciated – keep things light-hearted and friendly. You may also be able to bargain for a discount on accommodation prices outside the high season.

12. Bazaars are your friend if you’re vegetarian

Food in Uzbekistan is quite meat-heavy, focused on the four staples of shashlik (lamb kebabs), plov (pilau rice), shurpa (stew) and laghman (noodles) – all sometimes featuring more fat than visitors may be used to. But there are almost always some vegetarian options, including plenty of Russian-influenced salads, so don’t be afraid to ask for a meat-free meal.

For food on the hoof, Uzbekistan’s bazaars are good places to stock up on dried fruits and nuts, fresh fruit (Uzbek melons and peaches are legendary), spicy Korean salads, jars of mountain honey and freshly cooked non (naan) bread.

13. Uzbekistan is generally safe

Uzbekistan is generally a very safe country for tourists. Despite sharing a border with Afghanistan, there is little religious extremism and crime against foreigners is rare. As in big cities anywhere, watch out for pickpockets on crowded city buses and bazaars in hubs such as Tashkent; tourist police frequent the more popular tourist sights.

14. Women travelers face few problems

Uzbekistan is a Muslim country, but people are very relaxed. There aren’t many things to worry about when it comes to clothing, and women travelers will have few problems traveling solo here. Short skirts, tank tops and yoga pants are best avoided, and you may want to cover your arms and legs when visiting the conservative Fergana Valley . Bring a headscarf to cover your hair when entering active mosques.

15. Health Issues

The most common complaints amongst visitors are heat exhaustion in summer and the occasional dodgy tummy after eating too much oily plov or shashlik. Wash your hands, avoid the tap water, and wash all fruit and salads before eating and you should be fine.

16. Get more from the sights

We have a couple of bonus tips. Be sure to return to the exteriors of the main architectural sights in Samarkand at night, as most are spectacularly lit up. Also, when planning your itinerary, avoid visiting Tashkent on a Monday, when most of the museums are closed.

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The Complete Guide to travel in Uzbekistan (2024) – 18 Very Useful things you need to know to visit Uzbekistan

This is the most complete and updated online guide to travel in Uzbekistan with all the information you need to know to plan your visit to Uzbekistan!

Located on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan is a country in Central Asia that has recently opened its doors to the world. Since doing so, this off-the-beaten-path destination is gradually becoming more and more popular with tourists.

Nowadays, it’s far easier to travel independently around this spectacular place than during my first trip to Uzbekistan in 2017. I’ve seen many positive changes during my later trips since then.

That’s why I’m happy to share this complete and updated guide to travel in Uzbekistan that will help you in preparing for your trip.

This travel guide will provide you with useful and up-to-date Uzbekistan travel tips, and recommendations to visit Uzbekistan.

Come and find out more about this wondrous land, brimming with rich history, culture, and stunning Islamic architecture in this Uzbekistan travel guide!

Tip: See my Uzbekistan Travel Page for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Uzbekistan!

Discover the mystical Silk Road cities and travel along the ancient caravan trails in the mountains and desert of Uzbekistan during the 14-day H i g h l i g h t s o f Uzbekistan Adventure Tour !

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Uzbekistan

• 18 important things to prepare your trip to Uzbekistan
• 26 beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan
• How to travel aroun d Uzbekistan by train
• What to pack for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Safety Guide
• Uzbekistan Money Guide
• Tours & Experiences: Guided City Tours in Uzbekistan, Adventure Tours in Uzbekistan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Visiting Uzbekistan in 2024 – Uzbekistan Entry Requirements

1.1 do i need a visa to travel to uzbekistan.

Starting from 1 February 2019, citizens of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and many more countries can travel to Uzbekistan visa-free for a period of 30 days .

Citizens of 76 countries including the United States, China, and India have been granted the right to receive an electronic entry visa for a period of 30 days.

If your country of citizenship isn’t on any list, you’ll need to apply for a visa at the Uzbek Embassy.

How to apply for an Uzbekistan e-visa?

Applying for an electronic visa for Uzbekistan is very easy but remember that you should apply at least 3 days before your arrival in the country .

Head online to the Official Electronic Visa Portal of Uzbekistan and fill in your information.

This visa is still date-specific so you need to enter the date of your arrival and departure. Remember that you can stay up to 30 days in the country.

Once you’ve filled in your personal details, you have to upload a passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport (look here for guidelines ).

After you’ve activated your application by entering your email address, you’ll need to pay the consular fee to receive your e-visa. The cost of obtaining an e-visa is 20 USD and has to be paid with a valid Visa card.

Once your application has been approved, the electronic visa will be sent to your email address in pdf format within 48 hours.

Print the e-visa so you can show it upon your arrival. Your passport should also be valid for three months from the date you arrive.

1.2 Can I extend my Uzbekistan visa?

If you travel to Uzbekistan on a free tourist visa, you can enter and exit as many times as you want.

I traveled for a couple of days to Tashkent and Samarkand , left the country by crossing the land border with Tajikistan and returned 8 days later to Uzbekistan. Upon my 2nd arrival in Tashkent, I received a new stamp that allowed me to stay another 30 days in the country. 

As there are no clear rules yet about how many days within a year you’re allowed to stay in Uzbekistan, you can currently do a couple of border runs in the nearby countries like  Kazakhstan ,  Kyrgyzstan , and  Tajikistan   and easily renew your tourist visa.

Before you get all excited, just keep in mind that this might change at some point in the near future. 

1.3 What happens if I overstay my Uzbekistan Visa?

Whilst traveling in Uzbekistan, it’s really important that you keep an eye on how many days you’ve spent in the country and that your outgoing flight is booked within your visa time allowance.

If you happen to overstay your visa for any extra time it may result in a 2,000 USD fine as well as the Uzbek authorities delaying your exit from the country by a week or more.

1.4 Uzbekistan Vaccination Requirements

There aren’t any compulsory vaccinations needed to travel in Uzbekistan.

However, it is recommended that you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A, and typhoid especially if you are planning on traveling to more remote villages.

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

2. When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is in spring (mid-April –  beginning of June) or autumn (mid-September – beginning of November). The temperatures during these seasons are very pleasant and it shouldn’t be too hot to walk around during the day.

Soaring temperatures usually start from the beginning of June until mid-September. When planning your travels in Uzbekistan, it’s also good to know that most of the country’s major events take place in either spring or autumn. 

2.1 What is the hottest month in Uzbekistan?

July and August are the hottest months of the year in Uzbekistan. With temperatures ranging from 35 ° C to sometimes even up to 40 ° – 45 ° C, visiting Uzbekistan during the summer can be quite uncomfortable.

It’s good to have this in mind if you are planning any long overland journeys as the sun is very strong.

2.2 Should I visit Uzbekistan in Winter?

Winter is a great time to visit Uzbekistan for anyone who wants to avoid crowds. The temperatures are not that cold, it can be sunny and crowds of tourists are nonexistent.

The chance of rain increases from mid-March, but March and April are still quiet months to visit.

Winter in Uzbekistan is very special and if it snows, you’ll get to see a magical winter wonderland. That’s why I once traveled to Uzbekistan in December. Unfortunately, I arrived a bit too late (or was it too early?) to see the cities fully covered in snow. 

It had snowed several days before my arrival and I could only enjoy the last bits of it in the capital Tashkent. In other cities, the snow had already disappeared by the time I arrived there. 

Another advantage of traveling during winter is that in the low season, the hotels and hostels are cheaper. 

3. Travel Insurance for Uzbekistan

It isn’t mandatory to have travel insurance if you are traveling to Uzbekistan. However, I would suggest getting one for the period of your trip. You just never know when you might need it …

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, I highly recommend HeyMondo as it covers both medical costs and theft.

What are the 3 best budget-friendly travel insurance companies

Need Travel Insurance for Central Asia ? I use and highly recommend HeyMondo Travel Insurance . As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

4. What is the best way to get to Uzbekistan?

4.1 where do you fly into uzbekistan.

Tashkent and Samarkand both have international airports. Tashkent International Airport is the most popular arrival destination into Uzbekistan and because the airport is fairly small, you would struggle to get lost.

There is a currency exchange office in the airport that offers a good exchange rate if you have US Dollars. There are nowadays also ATMs available in the airport of Tashkent where you can take out and exchange US Dollars and Uzbek som (see 7.5 How much money should I take to Uzbekistan ).

How to get from the airport to Tashkent city center by taxi and how much does it cost?

It’s a 30-minute drive to get from the airport to the city center of Tashkent by taxi.

As soon as you exit the airport, you’ll be greeted by many eager taxi drivers who are happy to bring you to the city center of Tashkent for 50.000 Uzbek som.

This is the same rate as the “official” taxi office in the airport, which doesn’t make sense as the standard price for a taxi from the airport to the city center of Tashkent is 25.000 som (around US$2 – US$3).  

This means you’ll have to negotiate the price with the driver and you might not feel like playing the bargaining game after a long flight. So here’s a good personal tip. 

When you exit the airport, ignore the taxi drivers who are standing at the gate. Walk to the left towards the parking lot across ‘Departures’. There you’ll find taxi drivers who just drove travelers from the city center to the airport. 

They’ll be happy to quickly return to the city center and therefore are a lot easier to negotiate with. Offer the driver max 25.000 som. Show him the money and tell him to take it or leave it. He’ll probably try to ask for more but as soon as you start walking towards another taxi, he’ll very likely take it…

Another tip: if you buy a SIM card at the airport, install the Yandex Go app on your phone. This app works like Uber and shows you the taxi rates.

How to get from the airport to Tashkent city center by bus and how much does it cost?

There are buses that run daily from 6 am until 11 pm between the airport and the city center.

When you exit the airport, walk past the parking lot and you’ll see them on your left.  A bus ticket costs 1200 som and can be bought on the bus itself. 

As there are different buses, it might be hard to figure out which bus to take. The apps Maps.me and wikiroutes can help you to see which bus and route to take to your hotel. Bus #67 goes straight to the city center. 

How to get from Tashkent City center to the airport and how much does it cost?

The easiest and most straightforward way is to ask the receptionist of your hostel or hotel to call a taxi for you. You can also install the app Yandex Go to order a taxi.

A taxi from the city of Tashkent to the airport will cost around 20.000 som, depending on where you are in the city.

Top Things to do in Tashkent – Tashkent City Guide

4.2 How to travel to Uzbekistan by road ?

Uzbekistan shares land borders with Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , and Tajikistan .

The security at the overland border points used to be very strict . Not only did you have to fill in a lot of paperwork, but you were also asked many questions about your trip and your bag would be opened and the contents searched for any prohibited items.

Nowadays, border crossings tend not to take so long. Border guards will still scan your luggage, ask if you’re traveling with a drone (which is strictly prohibited!) but they are not as strict as they used to once be. It’s rare that you will be asked to open your bag to be searched and you’re not required to fill in any paperwork.

Overland border crossings are now faster and far easier than they were. You should check online for up-to-date information, as borders can close without notice. All travel to the Termez region and to within 5km of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border is not advised at the moment.

Caution should be exercised in some areas bordering Tajikistan . The border between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan is currently closed.

The most common and easiest routes to travel overland to Uzbekistan are:

• From Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• From Shymkent (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• From Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus, train or shared taxi
• From Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus
• From Penjikent (Tajikistan) to Samarkand by shared taxi
• From Khudjand (Tajikistan) to Tashkent by bus

6 Best Places to visit in the Fergana Valley – The Complete Travel Guide

5. Where should you go in Uzbekistan?

5.1 top silk road cities to visit in uzbekistan.

If you’re going to travel in Uzbekistan to find treasures of the ancient Silk Road, you should visit the following 5 cities to see the most stunning and impressive Islamic architecture in the entire country:

The majority of these sites are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

5.2 More interesting places to visit in Uzbekistan

The country has, of course, more to offer than only beautiful Silk Road cities. If you want to go off-the-beaten path, you can visit the follow destinations in Uzbekistan:

• the Fergana Valley
• Karakalpakstan , an autonomous republic of Uzbekistan
• the Aral Sea and the ship graveyard in Moynoq
• hiking in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains

5.3 How many days do you need for Uzbekistan?

If you’re wondering how many days you need to visit Uzbekistan, then it’s kind of an open-ended question. It would be possible to visit the main tourist attractions in Uzbekistan within one week.

If you’re not time-restricted, I’d recommend at least 10 days to fully absorb everything this country has on offer.

Tourism in Uzbekistan is an economy that is growing larger and becoming more popular as time passes. I would urge you to plan a trip to soak up the sights before it perhaps becomes super touristy.

Uzbekistan itinerary suggestions: visit Uzbekistan in 1 to 4 weeks

6. Is Uzbekistan a safe country to visit?

Many people wonder if it’s safe to travel in Uzbekistan. It’s still a relatively unknown country in Central Asia and its neighboring country Afghanistan doesn’t have the best reputation. A country ending with -stan gets quickly associated with danger.

However, you absolutely have nothing to worry about! Uzbekistan is totally safe. You’ll see police officers on every street corner and at every public place. They even introduced a “Tourist Police” now. There Tourist Police officers have an office in every touristic city and are glad to be of any assistance when needed.

Tourism is a rich source of income and the Uzbeks genuinely want you to have a fantastic experience in their country. They are very hospitable and kind people and you’ll be received as a very welcome guest.

One of the most common scams in Uzbekistan is getting overcharged by taxi drivers. It starts as soon as you arrive at the airport or at any land border. The taxi drivers will usually charge you double or triple the standard rate.

You have to bargain hard and have a lot of patience to get the price down. If you’re not sure what the normal price is, try to get at least half the price of what the driver is offering you or install Yandex Go as this app will show you the rates upfront.

Another scam you have to be careful of is when you visit monuments or museums. When you pay the entrance fee, make sure that they don’t charge you automatically for a guide. In some places, especially in Samarkand , you have to pay extra if you want to take photos (with a camera, not with your phone).

Some ticket offices will automatically include a camera price or pretend there is one. If you’re in doubt, ask for the price list as every ticket office should have one, and check if you’re paying the correct fee.

Is Uzbekistan safe? 1 4 useful safety tips

Uzbekistan solo travel/ Is Uzbekistan safe to travel alone?

Yes, Uzbekistan is a very safe country to visit for solo (female) travelers! When I first traveled on my own to Uzbekistan in 2017, I was a bit anxious but I quickly experienced I had nothing to worry about.

The Uzbeks are very kind and hospitable, welcome you as a guest in their country and they want you to enjoy yourself.

How is it to travel alone as a woman in Uzbekistan?

7. Money and currency in Uzbekistan

7.1 what kind of money do they use in uzbekistan.

The Uzbekistani Som (UZS) is the official currency used in Uzbekistan.

• Banknotes circulating in Uzbekistan: 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 som.
• Coins circulating in Uzbekistan: 50, 100, 200 and 500 som

I always use the  Xe.com app  to convert and stay up-to-date with the current exchange rates. At this time of writing, the current exchange rates are ( November 2023) :

• $1 USD = 12,300 UZS
• €1 Euro = 13,000 UZS
• £1 British Pound = 15,000 UZS

Only a few years ago, the highest denomination available was a banknote of 5000 Uzbeki Som. I needed an extra bag to carry the 2400 banknotes after exchanging 150 US dollars for 1.200.000 Som…

The new banknotes of 10.000, 50.000, and 100.000 UZS make a huge difference in size and weight in your wallet (and the amount of time spent on counting your change…).

7.2 Which credit cards are accepted in Uzbekistan?

Visa is probably the most widely accepted credit card in hotels and restaurants. However, Uzbekistan still has a cash economy which means you won’t always be able to pay with your credit card.

It is slowly becoming more common practice, but it would be wise to carry some cash rather than depending on your card whilst traveling in Uzbekistan. 

7.3 ATMs in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva nowadays all have ATMs where you can take out US dollars and/or Uzbek Som with a VISA card. There are also 2 ATMs at the international airport in Tashkent. 

7.4 Exchanging money in Uzbekistan

The best place to exchange money in Uzbekistan is at one of the banks in Tashkent as they give the best exchange rate.

Just keep in mind that if you want to exchange money, your banknotes should be crisp and in good condition . It happened a few times that the exchange office gave me a lower rate as my banknotes were a little crumpled. 

Before you leave Uzbekistan, you can exchange your remaining Som at the bank or in one of the exchange offices at either the airport or at the land borders.

Update: You can nowadays also pay with Euro and US dollar bills in shops, restaurants, at the hotel, to guides and drivers,…

7.5 How much money do you need in Uzbekistan?

You may be wondering whether it is cheap to visit Uzbekistan? The average monthly wage in Uzbekistan is $300 which is useful to keep in mind.

With most people traveling to Uzbekistan visa-free these days, it’s pretty inexpensive to get around Uzbekistan. Although basic accommodation is not dirt cheap due to a convoluted tax code.

For a 10-day trip, depending on the activities you want to do, I would recommend taking 600 USD or Euro per person in cash to Uzbekistan (if you’re not planning on using your credit card).

Average prices are $10 for a basic meal, $15 for a hostel bed and $30 upwards for a double room in a decent hotel, and $10 for a train ticket.

Uzbekistan Money Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Uzbekistan?

7.6 Should you tip in Uzbekistan?

You don’t have to leave a tip in the restaurant as the service is automatically included in the bill. However, this is not mentioned on the menu and a lot of foreigners get confused or think they’re being overcharged once they receive the bill.

If you take a look at the bottom of the bill, you will see the service fee of 10 -15% added to the total cost of your meal.

Tipping your guide or driver is not mandatory but is getting lately more and more expected… I usually give an additional 10% tip on top of the price.

8. How to get around in Uzbekistan/Is it easy to travel around Uzbekistan?

8.1 are there trains in uzbekistan.

Yes, there are trains in Uzbekistan and the Uzbekistan railroad is the most convenient, interesting and fastest way to travel around the country!

The Uzbekistan railway connects now all the major touristic destinations: Tashkent , Samarkand , Bukhara , and – since December 2018 – Khiva . 

There are three types of trains (and I’ve tested them all!): the Afrosiyob , the Sharq  and the Night Train .

In my post Taking trains in Uzbekistan – The Uzbekistan railways guide , you’ll find a complete guide to the Uzbekistan train system, including information on taking the Uzbekistan high-speed rail, the Uzbekistan Sharq train and the Uzbekistan night train.

The Complete Guide to Train Travel in Uzbekistan

8.2 How to travel around Uzbekistan by bus

If you prefer to see the road instead of the railway, you can travel around Uzbekistan by bus. You can check the bus schedules and buy your ticket online or at the local bus stations. You’ll need your passport so bring it with you. You should also buy your ticket at least one day in advance.

Long distance buses are a slow and not very comfortable way to get around,  as well as not being much cheaper than a second class train or a ride with a shared taxi.

City buses are very cheap and you pay the fare directly to the driver on the bus. You can check the bus routes within cities on the apps maps.me and wikiroutes .

You’ll also see many minibuses racing around the cities. The most common ones are the ‘Damas’. These minibuses are great if you want to travel in a larger city or to travel to nearby towns or villages.

8.3 Getting around Uzbekistan by shared taxi

A shared taxi is a taxi that you share with usually 4 to 5 other passengers. It doesn’t have a fixed schedule but leaves once the taxi is full. They leave from a fixed location which is often near a bus station or just outside of a city.

Your hostel or hotel will know where to find them and you usually won’t have to search long for one. The drivers will probably find you first, they’ll ask where you’re going or they’ll be shouting out their destinations to you.

Be careful because they can be quite pushy and they like to double the rate if they think you’re an ignorant tourist. That’s why it’s a good plan to have an idea of how much you should pay for a ride beforehand and you can ask about this in your hotel or hostel.

Before you get into a shared taxi, confirm the price with the driver and tell him clearly that you want to share the taxi with other passengers. It can happen that the driver may think that you’d like to have the taxi to yourself and if you don’t want to share a taxi, you’ll have to pay for the other seats as well.

A trip of 2 to 3 hours to another city will cost you around 60.000 UZS, depending on how good you are at bargaining.

You can also take a private taxi to get around cities. Just flag them down on the side of the road. You should pay a maximum of 8.000 UZS for a ride within the city.

Taking a shared taxi used to be the only way to travel from Bukhara to Urgench and Khiva. This trip costs 80.000 UZS and isn’t very comfortable as it’s an 8-hour long drive, mainly through the desert. Since there is a train nowadays that connects Bukhara and Khiva, I’d go for this option.

You can also take a private taxi to get around cities . Just flag them down on the side of the road or, if you have a sim card, install the Yandex Go app   on your phone. The app functions like Uber.

Pay a maximum of 10.000 UZS for a ride within the city . 

If you’re visiting Tashkent, you can also get around the city by metro.  The Tashkent Metro Stations are very beautiful and taking the underground should be one of the things you definitely have to do while visiting Uzbekistan’s capital!

The 1 3 m o s t b e a u t i f u l m e t r o s t a t i o n s i n T a s h k e n t

8.4 Renting a car in Uzbekistan

It used to be impossible for foreigners to rent a car in Uzbekistan. This has changed and now you can find several car rental places in Tashkent . 

You can also travel to Uzbekistan with your own car, as long as you have all the required documents. More information can be found here .

It’s important to note that it’s very difficult to find diesel; propane is the main fuel in Uzbekistan, petrol comes in second. It’s also worth noting that some secondary roads can be difficult to drive on unless you have a 4×4. 

Check out the website of Caravanistan for more information on traveling by car in Uzbekistan.

8.5 Hitchhiking in Uzbekistan

Hitchhiking in Uzbekistan is possible and a fun way to connect with the locals. One thing you have to know is that most drivers will charge you money for the ride.

Be very clear from the start that you don’t have money if you don’t want to pay for the ride.

If you want to hitchhike, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to learn some Russian so you can explain your intentions to the driver and have a conversation with him. 

8.6 Domestic flights in Uzbekistan

If you don’t have much time and you want to cover the distance between Tashkent and Khiva quickly, you can take a domestic flight between Tashkent and Nukus or Tashkent and Urgench. Urgench is a 30-minute drive from Khiva.

The duration of the flight between Tashkent and Urgench is only 1.5 hours, between Tashkent and Nukus 1 hour and 40 minutes. You can book easily your flight ticket(s) on the website of Uzbekistan Airways.

If you book well in advance, the average price for a flight between Tashkent and Urgench costs 60USD. You can pay online by Visa and Mastercard.  

Important: When arranging a taxi to drop you off at the domestic airport, make sure the driver brings you to terminal 3 (domestic flights) and not terminal 2 (international flights).

When using the Yandex Go app, it will only show you “Tashkent International Airport”. Make sure you type in “Tashkent International Airport Terminal 3” , or you’ll end up at the wrong terminal!

Top Things to do in Khiva – The Complete Guide to Uzbekistan’s Open-Air Museum

9. Uzbekistan Tours

Uzbekistan could be described as one of the most special yet overlooked countries in the world that is brimming with natural beauty and rich with culture. Going on an organized private/group tour is a wonderful and worthwhile way to see some of this country’s most beautiful spots.

I recommend checking out some of these guided city tours in the Silk Road cities in Uzbekistan as you don’t only get to see the highlights of the city but also learn more about the rich historical background.

10. Where to stay in Uzbekistan – Accommodation in Uzbekistan

It used to be illegal to stay with a host family in Uzbekistan. Travelers had to register every night in a hotel or hostel. These rules have since become more flexible. 

Nowadays you’re allowed to camp, stay with a host family or book a room or apartment on Airbnb for 3 nights in a row without having to register. If you stay longer than 3 nights, you will need to check again in order to register.

The registration happens automatically as soon as you check in and payment for this registration is in the form of a “city tax” which is usually $3 per night.

The receptionist will ask for your passport and register you online. Sometimes you’ll receive a registration slip upon check-out, which you should keep in case the border guards would ask for them when leaving the country (although, I haven’t noticed them doing this in the past 2 years). Nowadays, all your stays should be registered online and traceable via your passport.

If you take the overnight train, this ticket is also seen as registration, so don’t throw this one away. If you’re overlanding and/or planning to regularly camp in the wild or stay with a local family, you have to register online on Emehmon .

If you’re having trouble with your online registration, I’d recommend staying in a ho(s)tel every 3 to 4 nights, just to have some proof of registration.

10.1 Hostels, hotels and Airbnb in Uzbekistan

Because of the growing number of tourists traveling in Uzbekistan, there are many new hostels and hotels appearing in all of the larger cities. It’s important to remember the $3 city tax that is added (or sometimes already included) in the price of your accommodation per night.

Booking.com is a great website to use when looking for hostels and hotels whilst staying in Uzbekistan and Airbnb also has many great apartment options to choose from. It all is just dependent on what your budget is.

There are some lovely options for independent and solo travelers such as small-scale boutique hotels or B&B’s. There is a wide range of high-quality hotels in Uzbekistan but keep in mind that the tourist economy is still developing in Uzbekistan.

During the high season, many of the rooms can be booked up weeks in advance, so if you know your itinerary , book early to avoid disappointment.

Not all of the hotels available are online yet so there may be a chance of securing a room for the night upon spontaneous arrival at a hotel and booking on the spot.

If you plan on visiting Uzbekistan during Winter, keep in mind that electricity black-outs can be an issue and in the Summer the hot water can sometimes be turned off. You can ask at reception if this is likely to happen during your stay.

10.2 Homestays in Uzbekistan

If you’re drawn to spending a few days in the countryside soaking up the Uzbek culture then a homestay is for you.

There is a network of homestays in the Nuratau mountains as well as in the village of Katta Langar near Shahrisabz . Vegetarian meals, solar-powered showers, and clean toilets are all available.

6 Fantastic Hiking Trails in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains in Uzbekistan

10.3 Staying in a yurt in Uzbekistan

Some of the people in Karakalpakstan still live in yurts for part of the year as they are culturally much closer to Kazakhs and Turkmens than to Uzbeks.

There are some desert yurt camps in the Kyzyl Kum and Aral Kum deserts and also near Urgench. These have been specifically set up for tourists so if you have your heart set on staying in a yurt, you can experience it here.

However, budget for this before you set off on your trip as they can be quite expensive.

How to visit the ship graveyard in Moynaq and the Aral Sea Disaster in Uzbekistan

10.4 Camping in Uzbekistan

Wild camping is permitted in Uzbekistan so why not take the opportunity to sleep under the stars whilst on your Uzbekistan trip. Why not camp in the mountains near Samarkand and Tashkent or in the desert for epic and atmospheric starlit skies.

It’s important that you are aware of the registration rules and it’s a good idea to camp for only a couple of nights before then booking into a hostel or hotel in order to fill in your registration card.

11. Uzbekistan Food and drinks

Uzbek food is characterized by meals including noodles, mutton, rice, and vegetables.

Traditional bread (tandir non) is particularly sacred in Uzbek culture. Flat and round, this bread is torn by hand and never thrown out.

The summers bring fresh, delicious and vibrant fruits that you can buy at the local markets along with vegetables, spices and sweet Uzbek candy.

Green tea is often drunk regularly throughout the day and is a common drink offered to guests.

There are many international restaurants in the larger more touristic cities if you find that you are craving a change from traditional Uzbek cuisine. 

11.1 5 Uzbek Dishes you have to try

Trying local cuisine and traditional dishes is a great way to experience a country’s culture.

‘Plov’ is the national dish of Uzbekistan and it’s one that Uzbeks are extremely proud of. It is commonly made as a family meal or made in larger quantities to celebrate special occasions such as weddings.

It is traditionally prepared in a large cooking pot (a Kazan) and the most famous version is made with a base of onions, carrots, and meat that is sautéed in fat.

The rice is then added, topped up with water and simmered until everything is cooked. Sometimes additional ingredients are added such as chickpeas, other vegetables, raisins, and fruit.

2) Shashlik

If you’re a fan of meat dishes, then you should try ‘shashlik’. Not only is it one of the most popular dishes in Uzbek cuisine, but it’s also a dish that is enjoyed right across Central Asia.

The word ‘shashlik’ comes from the Russian word for ‘shish kabob’. Traditionally, the dish is made with lamb however beef, chicken, and venison can be used instead. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try the grilled skewers with horse meat.

3) Kazan Kabob

‘Kazan kabob’, as its name suggests, is a dish that is prepared in a kazan, a large cooking pot also commonly used to make plov.

Marinated meat such as mutton or beef is fried with potatoes and then covered and steamed in a kazan on a low heat. When the meat is fully cooked it is finally served with onions and some fresh vegetables.

‘Obi non’, also known as ‘lepyoshka’, is a type of round, flat Uzbek bread that has been baked in a traditional clay oven called a ‘tandyr’. Similar to Indian naan bread, it’s thicker and then decorated on top. Additional meat, nuts, seeds and raisins are sometimes added.

It is considered one of the most important foods in Uzbekistan and is eaten with just about anything. It can be made in a variety of ways and changes slightly from region to region.

5) Shivit oshi

‘Shivit oshi’, also known as ‘khorezm lagman’ is an eye-catching Uzbek dish. Hand-pulled Lagman noodles are infused with fresh dill which gives them their distinctive bright green color. The dish originates from Khiva .

Fresh herbs and vegetables feature more in cuisine in this region in comparison to other areas in Uzbekistan. It’s a summer dish that is served only in Khiva and is traditionally topped with a meat and vegetable stew and a side of sour cream or yogurt.

11.2 Is vegetarian food available in Uzbekistan?

If you happen to be a vegetarian, visiting Uzbekistan and finding a meat-free meal can sometimes be tricky but not impossible. When visiting the cities, it’s quite common to find vegetarian options available in many of the restaurants.

Some vegetarian dishes available are eggplant satay with egg, pumpkin-filled dumplings and vegetarian flatbread (lavash) filled with cheese and tomato.

However, the main issue with eating vegetarian food in Central Asia is the bacteria in the water that is used to wash and rinse them. If there is a choice between a raw salad or a cooked meal, it’s wise to choose the cooked option.

If you happen to be a vegan, you may struggle to find a wide variety of choices available to you without dairy or meat.

11.3 What is the national drink of Uzbekistan?

Uzbek people are really big tea drinkers. Green tea or ‘Kuk-choy’ is served in a bowl or a glass and all meals start and end with tea.

Tea is offered as a gesture when welcoming guests into a home. If you happen to be poured a half-full bowl of tea, see it as a gesture of respect from the pourer.

12. What to pack for Uzbekistan?

Let’s start with a few things that you are NOT allowed to bring into Uzbekistan

12.1 Prohibited items – what is forbidden to bring to Uzbekistan.

Some guards might check your phone or laptop for any pornographic content (photos or videos of naked people) which is forbidden and will have to be deleted before entering Uzbekistan (I’m sure you can travel without for a while).

It also used to be strictly forbidden to bring painkillers with codeine, sleeping pills, antidepressants or any other medication with narcotic substances in the country. Nowadays the border guards don’t check the medication you’re bringing with you.

However, if you are bringing medication with you, ensure you keep things in their original packaging if you bring them from overseas. If you have a prescription, make sure it has the same name as on your passport.

And – unfortunately – drones are still prohibited .

12.2 What should I wear in Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan has a continental climate with four seasons. Pack appropriate clothes for the period in which you’re traveling.

If you’re traveling to Uzbekistan in winter (November – March), bring warm clothes as it can be very cold. Average Winter temperatures can be around -10°C/ 14°F and there can be a lot of snow.

Pack light clothing if you’re visiting Uzbekistan between the months of June and September as the temperatures in summer are around 38°C/ 97°F.

Uzbekistan is a secular state which means that in theory, people can wear whatever they want. However, the Uzbek people are rather conservative people who do not show much skin so it’s important to keep this in mind when packing.

Men can wear shorts and T-shirts but it’s better to leave any sleeveless shirts at home. It’s also not appropriate to walk around bare-chested.

You’ll see many Uzbek women wearing beautiful colored scarves tied around their heads. This is a cultural thing and it’s mainly older Uzbek women who wear these. Younger female travelers need not worry about covering their hair.

What is seen as appropriate will depend on where you’re going. Tashkent, the capital, is a modern city and many young girls and women walk around in short skirts, dresses, and shorts.

It’s okay if you wear shorts, dresses, skirts and tops or T-shirts with short sleeves in tourist places like Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. But it would be viewed as disrespectful to parade around in revealing mini-skirts, dresses and tops. You’ll draw unwanted attention to yourself.

If you like to explore less-touristic places like small towns and villages, dress modestly. Wear a T-shirt or a tunic over long trousers or a long skirt. Three-quarter pants or skirts are also fine, just don’t walk around the village in a vest top and short shorts.

If you visit mosques and religious sites, even in touristic cities, cover your arms. If you’re an influencer who wants a nice photo for Instagram, please remain respectful of the culture in Uzbekistan.

12.3 Travel essentials for Uzbekistan

• Water Filter Bottl e : I wouldn’t advise you to drink tap water in Uzbekistan. Buy bottles of water in the local supermarkets or better, bring a water bottle with a filter . These are reusable bottles that filter water using a microfiltration device. When you drink tap water using a water bottle with a filter, any dirt, bacteria or parasites will be trapped in the fibers of the filter, while the clean water passes through. It’s not only good for your belly and wallet, but it’s also great for the environment because you don’t have to buy any plastic bottles of water. I use and highly recommend the  Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle . 
• Anti-diarrhea tablets: yes, I’m afraid that this is an essential as well… 50% of the travelers I’ve met struggle at some point with stomach issues, due to a certain bacteria in the food. I always have Furazolidone tablets (which you can buy over the counter at a local pharmacy) as it has proven its worth. These tablets tackle the bacteria causing bowel problems within a day.
• International travel adapt or : the power sockets in Uzbekistan are of type C and F (the same as in Europe). The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. In case you need an adaptor, I use and recommend this  all-in-one Universal Travel Adaptor  as you can use it worldwide.
• Power bank :  a power bank is always handy to have with you in case of a power outage (which sometimes happens, even in the major Uzbek cities), during long bus or train rides, or if you’re planning to go camping.I use and recommend  Anker Power Bank   as it has a 20,000mAh cell capacity providing at least 5 full charges for my phone. I can even charge my camera batteries with it!
• Anti-theft money belt : handy and safe when you travel with cash
• Photography equipment: you can’t visit Uzbekistan without capturing its beauty on camera! Below is an overview of the gear I used. You can also see my article on  photography essentials and cameras for travel photographers  for more information.
• Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-90
• Main lens: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6
• Wide-angle lens : Leica DG Vario-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0
• Prime lens: Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7
• Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod (Hybrid Head)

13. Are drones allowed in Uzbekistan?

Drones in Uzbekistan are strictly prohibited. Operating, selling, importing, or buying a drone in Uzbekistan could even result in a prison sentence.

7 Best Places to visit in Karakalpakstan – The Complete Travel Guide

14. How is the Internet in Uzbekistan?

The internet connection in Uzbekistan isn’t always the best so downloading city maps for offline usage and bringing an old-fashioned travel guidebook with you will be useful.

The wi-fi connection in big cities like Tashkent and Samarkand is usually reliable and relatively fast. There’s also internet connection in Bukhara and Khiva but it can be slow.

It’s difficult to find a good internet connection when you travel to more remote areas.

14.1 Which is the best sim card in Uzbekistan and how to get one?

There are 5 main mobile phone providers in Uzbekistan: Ucell, Uzmobile, UCell, UMS, and Beeline.

The coverage with Ucell is pretty good and $7 will get you 22GB of data. You have to bring your passport with you to buy a SIM card and you must provide a registration slip of your ho(s)tel to have a SIM card registered to your name.

Update: you can now easily buy a SIM card at the airport in Tashkent upon arrival.

14.2 Uzbekistan Wi-Fi rental services

If you need to stay connected at all times during your trip (work or personal reasons), you can also opt to rent a Wi-Fi pocket device in Uzbekistan .

This device works like a home wi-fi router and allows you to stay connected at all times. It also has unlimited date plans and you can use the connection on multiple devices and even share it with your fellow travelers. You can read more about this Wi-Fi service here .

14.3 Recommended apps for travel in Uzbekistan

Here are some useful apps to use while traveling in Uzbekistan:

• Maps.me : This is a very practical app to find your way in Uzbekistan. You can download the map of the country for offline usage. The app gives you accurate directions and shows you where you can find the nearest restaurants, bus stations, ATM, hotels, places with wi-fi, points of interest. It also tells you the number of the bus you need to take when you travel within a city.
• Wikiroutes : Wikiroutes is a handy app if you travel by public transportation. It shows you the bus and/or metro route and tells you where to hop on and off. 
• Google Translate :   Translates written and spoken Russian or Uzbek. Only Russian is available to download for offline usage.
• Xe currency:   a very handy currency conversion app that always uses the latest rates in effect. It’s useful to keep track of how much things cost in Uzbekistan This app also works offline.
• Booking.com : I made all my reservations for hostels and guesthouses in Uzbekistan through this hotel and hostel booking website, which is also available as a phone app. No other app comes close to it in terms of inventory and price.
• Yandex Go Taxi : Yandex is the Central Asian version of Uber. I used this app to get around the major cities in Uzbekistan by taxi without having to bargain for the price and/or getting ripped off by a taxi driver. You can also use Yoko Taxi for getting around Bukhara.

15. Culture and etiquette in Uzbekistan

The Uzbek people of today hail from Turkic and Persian people who lived along the country’s borders and Turkic-Mongol nomads. During the Soviet rule, many other nationalities living in Uzbekistan were labeled Uzbeks in an effort to create more easily governable subdivisions.

Today, under the Islamic faith, women are expected to cover their bodies when in public. Although full veils are not that common, there are areas where it still is expected.

Elders in Uzbek culture are very highly respected and it’s customary for men to greet one another with a handshake. And overall Uzbek people try to carry themselves with dignity and patience.

Here are some handy tips:

• Bread is sacred in Uzbekistan. Try not to leave chunks on your plate or drop it on the floor. Especially don’t put it under your lap and save for later and, even worse, throw it in the bin (this will deeply upset the people)!
• Remove your shoes before going inside a guesthouse, homestay or any home. Even if you don’t need to, it’s a sign of respect.
• Don’t blow your nose at the table. Apparently it’s incredibly disrespectful and it will not go down well. By all means, itch your nose or wipe away snot with a tissue, but don’t go gung-ho and start emptying the bats in the cave.
• Veggies/vegans! When traveling in the cities and eating at restaurants, you’ll be fine. But… if you’re staying at guesthouses or homestays in the mountains, it’s a huge sign of honour for the hosts to present the guest with meat at dinner. You could try not eating the meat but it would be pretty disrespectful. I don’t eat meat in Europe but appreciated where I was and how kind it was of the host to cook me it and dove in. Same goes for the other dishes with dairy etc really.

16. What is the Religion in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a secular state. When the country was under the control of the Soviet regime, religious practices were dramatically suppressed. It was only after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 that the country gained back religious freedom.

Around 90% of the population are Sunni Muslim and the rest are Russian Orthodox. And though many people actively practice their religion, they can be quite liberal in their views about it. 

You’ll see women wearing headscarves but this is more connected to the culture than to the religion.

As a foreign woman, you’re not expected to cover your hair. There’s also no strict dress code (as you could read in 12.2 What to wear in Uzbekistan) that is related to religion.

17. Do people in Uzbekistan speak English?

In general, the Uzbek people don’t speak a lot of English. People who work in the hospitality sector know a bit of English but most people in Uzbekistan don’t speak the language.

Young people in the larger cities will know some English but with older people, it’s less common. However, in touristy areas, English is spoken and understood so don’t fear!

17.1 What languages are spoken in Uzbekistan?

The official language is Uzbek and it belongs to the family of Turkic languages so if you speak some Turkish, it may help you understand Uzbek a little bit. Especially the numbers are similar. My knowledge of the Turkish language helped a lot when I had to bargain with vendors and taxi drivers!

Russian is the second most commonly spoken language in Uzbekistan. Many people know and understand Russian and for 14% of the population, it’s their first language. If you can read the Cyrillic alphabet or you happen to know some Russian phrases, both would come in handy whilst traveling in Uzbekistan.

I learn a new language using the audio classes of Pimsleur . This is a great learning method to study a new language. It helped me a lot to quickly reach a basic level of Russian.

11 Tips to learn Russian quickly and effectively

I also recommend bringing a small pocket phrasebook like the Lonely Planet Centra Asia Phrasebook & Dictionary  as it contains useful phrases that you might need on your trip around Uzbekistan.

I also suggest you install the Google Translate App  for Uzbek translations (only online) and download Russian into your app that you can use offline.

17.2 Useful expressions to know before visiting Uzbekistan

• ‘Assalomu alaykum’ translates as ‘hello’ .
• ‘Salom’ means ‘good afternoon’.
• ‘Ismingiz nima?’ translates ‘What is your name?’
• ‘Tanishganimdan hursandman’ translates ‘I am glad to meet you’.
• Xayr! means Good bye!

18. Recommended books in Uzbekistan  

When traveling in Uzbekistan, I would recommend bringing a small pocket phrasebook like the Lonely Planet Central Asia Phrasebook & Dictionary as it contains some useful phrases.

I would also recommend reading one or more of the following books:

• Uzbekistan Bradt Travel Guide : one of the most comprehensive travel guide books about Uzbekistan
• Lonely Planet Central Asia , is ideal if you’re also planning on visiting other destinations in Central Asia
• The Silk Roads: A New History of the World : a journey through time, a revelatory new history of the world, connecting all the vast webs of roads to gain a greater understanding of modern history
• Uzbekistan – Culture Smart! offers an insider’s view of Uzbekistan’s fascinating history, national traditions, various cuisines, and cultural scene
• Uzbekistan: the Road to Samarkand is a stunning coffee table book with unique and luxurious, vibrant pictures that really highlight the wonders and history of Uzbekistan

I hope this guide helps you to travel around Uzbekistan with ease. I’m wishing you a fantastic time in this special country and enjoy marveling at the exquisite architecture! 

Do you still have questions about your upcoming journey to Uzbekistan? Let me know in the comments below or send me an emai l!

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57 thoughts on “the complete guide to travel in uzbekistan (2024) – 18 very useful things you need to know to visit uzbekistan”.

Hi Cynthia! At first thank you for this wonderfull and usefull Uz guide! I want to ask you if with the nowdays situation with sanctions against Russia is possible to use the app Yandex Go (a russian one) on an european smartphone or it is lock. Thank you so much

Hi Chiara, I’m able to use the app but nowadays, I’ve heard from other travelers that they unfortunately can’t access Yandex Go. I don’t know of an alternative yet. Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi Cynthia. Thank you so much for your insightful website. Do you know if it is possible to hire a driver that speaks English or a combination driver and guide one of which speaks English who could travel with my wife and I for the week we will be there?

Hi Doug, yes, that’s possible. You can send me an email (hello (at)journalofnomads.com) and I’ll help you further.

Cynthia! Your blog is so so helpful! Loads of love to you!

Thank you Paridhi! 🙂

Thank you so much for your excellent description. I will visit in last week of October,23.I am a senior Banker from Bangladesh. I have gone through the top to bottom of your literature it would be very helpful for my visit .

Hi Zulfiquer, happy to hear! Thank you for reading!

This is a great resource, Cynthia. Thanks so much for all your recommendations. I’m going to Uzbekistan in October with a group of friends and your guide is exactly what I was looking for.

Hi Rebecca, thanks so much! Wishing you all a fantastic trip!

hI FIRST OF ALL CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR INFOS I’m planning to go to Samarcand in october and got to know that once arrived I need to register within three days.. I am a free lance journalist writing travel reports for people on a budget so I will stay in a hostel. the hostel keeper asked me 5$ per day per registration and other rinfo say that surfing into the following site http://reg.emehmon.uz/ you can buy it on line BUT BUT BUT this site opens up but clicking on FILL IN THE FORM this is not hypertestual and doesn’t send to another proper page…. do you know or perhaps somebody who recently visited Uzbekisthan personally how to help me? thanks sauro

Hi Sauro, the website to register online often doesn’t work properly. The best way would be to do it via your hostel but they have to register you automatically and NOT charge extra for it. Guess you should check with another hostel…

Hello, Cynthia. What a comprehensive overview! I’m feeling a little wary to visit as a lone female traveler but after reading your article, I now feel excited to plan my trip. One question though, if tourists want to cross the border to Kyrgyztan and Kazakhstan, for example, are they simply allowed to do so, or must they secure a visa for those other countries (depending of course, on country of origin) beforehand? Thank you so much!

Hi Bernadette, I’m happy my article has helped you. Central Asia is fine for a solo female traveler! Whether or not you need a visa depends on the country of your passport. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan offer a free visa on arrival for a lot of countries, check if your country is on the list too. Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi Cynthia, This is an amazing resource you’ve created – even better than the Brandt guide (which is now sadly 4 years out of date)! It is a treasure trove of down-to- earth, practical information which is exactly what you need. I’ve been dreaming about (and had already done all the planning) for going to Uzbekistan in May 2020. But then a little virus stopped me in my tracks. My question is: has the war in Ukraine made any difference for visitors travelling in Uzbekistan? Given the country’s previously strong links to Russia (and with a large Russian speaking minority)? Especially if you are from Europe/England which is experiencing having a very hostile relation with Russia.

Hi Ben, thanks so much! And no, the war hasn’t made any difference. You don’t have to worry about it at all. I hope you can make your dream to visit Uzbekistan soon a reality!

Hi Cynthia, sorry to border you, have you heard of Advantour which is a website that helps visitors from abroad to buy train ticket with a commission? I was not able to pay for my night train ticket from Khiva to Tashkent on May 20 (Saturday) at 16h22 as the screen freeze & I tried many times. So happened I came across the above website not sure whether I should go ahead as I don’t mind to pay a bit more so I can plan the rest & in fact I save money for accomodation. Thank you very much for your attention and have a great day! Caterlina

Hi Caterlina, yes, Advantour offers train booking services but I don’t know what their commission is. It might be worth it to be certain that you have train tickets.

Wishing you already a fantastic trip to Uzbekistan! Warm wishes, Cynthia

Thank you soooo much, have a good day…! Can’t wait to go there in May. cc

Hi Cynthia,

Excellent resource on Uzbekistan – thank you so much for creating this.

Is there a resource that you used for homestays? How did you go about finding and selecting those?

Hi Joel, I found those homestays through my local guides. If you’d be interested in visiting f.eg. the Nuratau Mountains, you can always send me an email and I’ll bring you in touch with the right people.

Enjoyed reading your guide for Uzbekistan. It dies cover almost everything that is essential. I dont have immediate plans to go there but i will use the information provided by you whenever travel to Uzbekistan beckons in us.

Thanks for this wonderful post.

Hello Harshad, thank you so much!

I came across your website when I was searching infos about Uzbekistan. A country I wanted to visit since a long time and see all this beautiful architecture.

Thank you for the massive information you put out there. It’s probably the most comprehended and most detailed travel blog I’ve seen. You have no idea how helpful the infos are to me. Even-tough I traveled a lot in my life so far, Central Asia sounds more challenging. So after reading so much on your website I feel much more comfortable to fly there and explore it. So I booked for March 23 a trip there, TAS and SKD ! Can’t wait to see it all !

Thank you very much ! Best regards and stay safe

Hi Henri, thank you so so much for your kind words and I’m very happy that my blog inspired you and helped you with planning your trip to Uzbekistan!

Wishing you an unforgettable trip! Warm wishes, Cynthia

I had a wonderful time in Uzbekistan. Much better than I anticipated ! Came back with lots of memories of friendly people who sometimes didn’t spoke English and great pictures of all the sites. Thanks to you and all the information you put out and shared with us.

Oh, that’s wonderful to hear! Thank you so much for sharing!

Hi Cynthia, I have planned a trip Almaty to Tashkent to Samarkand to Bukhara for October 8 to October 20, booked the hotels (cancelable) but now trying to use your links to pay for train tickets I have hit problems. The Uzbek site will not let me register. (I click to register and get no response, with 3 different email addresses). Any ideas?

Hi Stuart, are you trying to buy your tickets via this link ? You should be able to easily register via your Google account.

Hi Cynthia, thank you so much for the article on UZBEKITSTAN, especially all useful tips on traveling around. My family will be entering Tashkent from the Tashkent Airport in September and we need to take private taxi to Samarkand due to tight scheduale. Do you think taxi on this destination is doable and do you have any experience/recommendations on this.

Hi Alenka, as Samarkand is a 4,5-hour drive from Tashkent, I don’t think you’ll find many taxi drivers at the airport who are keen to drive this distance. What I would recommend is contacting a local tour agency to arrange private transfer. It will be easier and a lot less hassle than negotiating with a taxi driver at the airport. Hope this helps?

Hi Cynthia, thx a lot for the info… Tour agencies are quite expensive, could you recommend someone ? Also my husband researched yandex app and he thinks, we have pretty good chance getting reasonable priced taxi from the airport … if of course we can buy a SIM card on the airport.

Hi Alenka, are you looking for city guides or a tour in Uzbekistan? The Yandex app works well in Tashkent and is so handy to get fair taxi rates. You should be able to buy a SIM card at the airport. Have a great trip! I’m currently in Uzbekistan 🙂

I’m visiting Uzbekistan soon on an organised trip. I have arranged to have 4 days on my own in Tashkent before the tour starts and I have found your article very useful and reassuring. Thank you. Well done travelling young. I left it until my sixties and now have less energy and bits of my body are wearing out!!

Hi Jane, I’m happy you found my posts useful! Wishing you a fantastic trip to Uzbekistan and kuddos for still traveling at a later age!!

Thanks for the wonderful background. I will be traveling to Uzbekistan with a few other hikers in September to hike the Marco Polo Trail.

You’re welcome Mary Lou! Wishing you a fantastic adventure ahead! Let me know if you’d have more any questions 🙂

Very nicely put through. good work

Thank you Ramneek! 🙂

Thanks so much – I am travelling solo to Uzbekistan tomorrow and this was very comprehensive.

Hello Hoey, I’m very happy to hear this guide will help you with your solo journey to Uzbekistan! I’m wishing you a fantastic trip!!

Excellent article. Thank you so much for all the information and your tips. I’ve been wanting to visit Uzbekistan for a whule now.

Hi Emma, thank you so much! Now is the best time to visit Uzbekistan. It’s not such a ‘hot’ destination yet and it’s so much easier now since they started issuing visas on arrival. When are you planning on going?

Hello Cynthia! I have read your vacation experience. Thank you for sharing your holiday experience.

Hi Sora, thank you! I’m happy you enjoyed reading this post!

Hi Cynthia! Great blog post! I’m researching the destinations for a 6 months trip around Asia next year and I found your blog really helpful on Central Asia. I got a bit of bad surprise when I saw that antidepressants are not allowed in Uzbekistan, do you know of any way I could legally take them with me anyway? I know you’ve probably no experience but it can’t hurt to ask, right? Have a nice day!

Hoi Annelies! Thank you 🙂 I think that you can bring antidepressants legally with you as long as you have the prescription with you. The rules in Uzbekistan are becoming less and less strict so I don’t think they’ll give you a hard time when you can show them the prescriptions of your medication. Hope that helps! Have a beautiful day and a great trip! Know that you can always email me if you have more questions or need help with planning your trip!

Super bedankt! This blogpost answered all my questions. I’m going backpacking with a friend (2 females) in april. Felt nervous but this post made me very excited!

Hoi Nanouk, ik ben heel blij om dit te horen! You really don’t have to be nervous about traveling as a woman in Uzbekistan. Honestly, I felt the same way before I traveled there as I had no idea what to expect. But the people were super friendly and they welcome travelers with open arms! Have a great time in April and enjoy the beauty of the country!

Thanks for providing such detailed information. Uzbekistan is on my bucket list, I fell in love with the architecture. One question I had was in regard to taking in medication. You mentioned antidepressants are strictly forbidden but the attached medications list from Caravanistan doesn’t have any SSRIs or SNRIs listed (as far as I can tell). Any place I can check this for sure?

You’re very welcome! I’m glad this post is useful to you! Regarding the medication, here’s another reliable source where you can check whether or not you can take any SSRIs or SNRIs with you: http://uzbekistan.travel/en/list-of-prohibited-drugs/

When are you planning on going to Uzbekistan?

Thanks! After looking this over, it doesn’t seem to contain any antidepressants, only short term anti anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. I was thinking of going in the fall of next year, which is a while away. It’s not the easiest to find travel information on the Central Asian countries, so I wanted to do some research well beforehand.

I don’t have much knowledge about medications and what is in there but it’s good to double-check with countries like Uzbekistan 🙂 If you would have a prescription that you can show at the border and what it’s used for, you should be fine! It’s good to think ahead and do some good research so you’re well-prepared, especially in countries that are still off-the-beaten-path. Central Asia is worth it, beautiful architecture (Uzbekistan), amazing nature and landscapes (Kyrgyzstan), hospitable people,… I’ll keep writing guides and posts about these destinations in the coming months but feel free to send me an email if you’d have any more questions!

Hi cynthia, thank you somuch for the article on UZBEKITSTAN. I will be entering Tashkent from the oybek border Tajikistan, sometime in September,I have read some daunting posts about crossing the border, Iam a little nervous,any recommendations.

Hi Magalie, the border crossing isn’t as bad as many might make it sound. I was pretty nervous about it as well but if you don’t take items with you that are on their ‘illegal’ list of things, you’ll be fine! They checked my first aid kit and the books that were on my e-reader but the officials were nice and friendly so you don’t have to worry. The rules are slowly on becoming less strict (f.eg. they never checked my hotel registration papers when I left the country) and if you’re traveling as a woman alone, they’re very respectful to you. I wish you happy and safe travels and let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!

I’ve been wanting to visit Uzbekistan for a while, partly because of the amazing architecture! This was great to read and really interesting. It sounds pretty strict.Thanks for sharing your tips and advice!

Hey Mike! Thank you! 🙂 It sounds strict but once you’ve passed the border, it’s actually really fine. The people are very nice and yes, the architecture is stunning! Any idea yet when you will go?

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Tips and how to travel to Uzbekistan (2024)

By Joan Torres 39 Comments Last updated on May 8, 2024

Once a hermetic country with very strict visa policies for foreigners, Uzbekistan has opened its borders to show the world the majesty of what used to be the core and center of the ancient Silk Road, a country filled with impressive shrines, mosques and perfectly shaped old cities.

Uzbekistan is, by far, the most tourist-friendly country in Central Asia and an unmissable destination for sightseeing city lovers.

However, this ex-Soviet Republic has many bureaucratic and cultural peculiarities, which you are highly recommended to know well in advance.

In this Uzbekistan travel guide, we will go through all of them, so here is a list of useful tips for traveling to Uzbekistan .

In this Uzbekistan travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Travel Insurance
• Useful books
• A Silk Road country
• Money in Uzbekistan
• Border crossings
• Cultural facts
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• More resources

our recommended travel insurance for Uzbekistan

With its Backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Uzbekistan.

🪪 Visa for traveling to Uzbekistan

Free visa on arrival for uzbekistan.

In 2019, requirements for traveling to Uzbekistan were eased, when they finally offered a 30-day free visa on arrival for most nationalities.

This VOA is valid in both airports and land borders and it applies to all Western nationalities, EXCEPT for the USA. Here you can see the updated list .

e-visa for Uzbekistan

Those nationalities which can’t get a VOA – and that includes nationals from the USA and India – can apply for an e-visa.

It’s a very easy process which only costs 20USD, takes 2-3 working days and this is the official website .

By default, you will get a 30-day visa, but it is also possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa. Unlike some years ago, the entry date is not fixed but you can enter any day you like within a 90-day period.

How to apply for an Uzbek e-visa

Apparently, the system has issues with some email domains, the photo format and, basically, it has quite a few bugs. Nowadays, however, most travelers do apply successfully, and all common issues and tips are well-explained here .

Visa for Uzbekistan via embassy

In the unlikely case the e-visa doesn’t work for you, you will have to go to the embassy, so I recommend starting to apply well-in-advance.

Typically, it would be a 1-week process in which you would need a passport copy, 2 passport photos, your hotel reservation, and your visa application form (printed and filled out).

By the way, one relevant difference vs the e-visa is that, with an embassy visa, the entry and exit dates are fixed, so you need to state the specific days you will be traveling in Uzbekistan and you can’t modify them. This means that you can’t enter before the entry date or leave after the exit date you specified.

For more information and details, read this post:  Getting a visa for Uzbekistan

🚑 Travel Insurance Uzbekistan

For Uzbekistan, get IATI Travel Insurance :

• So many different plans for all budgets, including specific plans for backpackers
• Coverage for up to 1-year trips, perfect for overlanding around the Stans
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

📚 Books for traveling in Uzbekistan

Here you have the most typical options, but if you want to get deeper, I recommend you check this list, containing the 28 best books on the Silk Road and the Stans , with specific books on Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan travel guide by Bradt

The most complete guide to Uzbekistan. I am a heavy consumer of Bradt Guides, as they give more local insights and personal experience than any other book.

Central Asia travel guide by Lonely Planet

If you are traveling to other countries in Central Asia, you may want to buy the generic guide in order to save some money. It contains a full chapter dedicated to Uzbekistan.

Murder in Samarkand by Craig Murray

If you want to know about all the human rights abuse during the regime from the previous president, this is the best book.

Tourism in Uzbekistan, a Silk Road country

Uzbekistan is the core of the silk road.

Uzbekistan is synonymous with the Silk Road, a country which is home to the three most important Silk Road cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Timeless mosques and historical buildings define a characteristic skyline in every city, Uzbekistan has been the main stopover for countless civilizations traveling east and west, while exchanging goods, ideas, and knowledge. Traveling in Uzbekistan and strolling downs its bazaars and old cities is like going back to the past. 

The most majestic shrines and buildings I have ever seen

From the imposing Registan to the cute, old city of Khiva, Uzbekistan is the perfect destination for travelers interested in stunning Islamic architecture.

It’s surprisingly touristic

Who would guess that the streets of the ancient Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan were filled with plenty of touristic shops, selling things from typical souvenirs to traditional local handicrafts, something unseen in Central Asia.

Tourist profile

While the most common tourist in Kyrgyzstan is a young backpacker, the main tourist in Uzbekistan is a 50-80-year old person who travels in a tour group. Actually, during high season, there are tens of groups all over the cities.

However, outside of the three main cities, there is nobody

In places like Tashkent , Moynaq and the Aral Sea and the Fergana Valley , we barely saw any tourist and the local interactions were much more rewarding.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Uzbekistan

Esim for browsing, calling and traveling in uzbekistan.

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Uzbekistan . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

The Internet is just OK

Internet is not as good as in Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan but it’s definitely better than Tajikistan. Most hotels will have decent Wi-Fi and 3G works perfectly well throughout the country.

How to get a SIM Card

Get Beeline, with which, for a couple of USD, you will get plenty of data and calls. It is very easy to buy a SIM Card and all you need is your passport. 

Get a VPN for traveling in Uzbekistan

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Uzbekistan. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 About MONEY: What you need to know when traveling in Uzbekistan

In Uzbekistan, they use the Uzbek SUM (UZS) . The currency value is extremely low and approximately:

1 USD = 12,673 UZS

Cash and ATMs in Uzbekistan

Some years ago, ATMs in Uzbekistan didn’t accept foreign cards but that has drastically changed now. There are loads of ATMs that you can use absolutely everywhere, even in markets.

Bear in mind, however, that with an international card, in some ATMs you can only withdraw USD, which you need to exchange at the bank. This way, they can charge you commission twice and by the way, when you withdraw, the commission is 1%. In practice nevertheless, this is not being the case anymore and today, more and more ATMs do give Uzbek SUM.

By the way, bring a spare backpack for the cash Sometimes, whatever quantity you change, they will give you all the money in 1,000UZS notes, meaning that you will be carrying 3 kilograms of cash. It’s very inconvenient.

Exchanging money in Uzbekistan

You can change money in most banks – Some years ago, the official bank rate was almost 100% lower than on the black market, so nobody wanted to exchange money in banks. This changed and, finally, the official rate has gone up to its actual value.

This means that you can now exchange money in banks, which can easily be found all over the cities. The best part is that some banks give you bigger notes, so there is no need to carry ten packs of cash.

You can still get money in the black market – However, I don’t recommend it, as they are the ones who always give you smaller notes and, when you count them, you always notice that there are one or two notes missing.

How much does it cost traveling to Uzbekistan?

Traveling in Uzbekistan is not as cheap as in Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan but, still, it’s very affordable. Typically:

• Budget accommodation: from 8 to 12USD
• Mid-range hotels: from 30 or 40USD.
• A meal in touristic restaurants: 5USD
• A meal in local eateries: 2-3USD 
• Taxis within cities:  a maximum of 2USD
• Several-hour train journeys: a maximum of 10 or 15USD

Most restaurants charge for service , which ranges from 10 to 20%, depending on the restaurant.

🛫 How to get to Uzbekistan

Traveling to uzbekistan by plane.

Uzbekistan has the most expensive flights in all Central Asia and the reason is that the airport taxes are extremely high. Apparently, along with a more liberal visa regime, the Government is planning to reverse it in order to encourage more tourism.

If you are on a budget and have enough time, you could fly to Almaty, Bishkek or Dushanbe and then enter Uzbekistan overland . From Europe, flights there are surprisingly cheap, especially to Bishkek.

If you are traveling in Iran , there are very cheap flights from Tehran to Aktau, a city in western Kazakhstan, very close to the Uzbek border.

If you are traveling in Azerbaijan , you can even take a ferry to Aktau or fly there, which is much quicker and even cheaper.

Personally, I started with a 2-month itinerary in Kyrgyzstan , traveled in Tajikistan through the Pamir Highway and the Wakhan Valley , and entered Uzbekistan through the  Fergana Valley .

Traveling to Uzbekistan via a land border

Uzbekistan shares a border with:

• Turkmenistan
• Afghanistan – It’s important, however, to check the latest security update. Read my Afghanistan safety guide

All borders are easy to cross, as long as you have a valid visa, especially for Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.

Border crossing and other bureaucratic rules when traveling in Uzbekistan

Most borders are open to overland travelers – As long as you have the visa, you can enter or exit Uzbekistan from any country, but just bear in mind that some borders are only open to nationals, while others may close temporarily.

However, all countries will have, at least, one or two entry points always open. For the latest updated information on border policy, check the  Caravanistan website.

They will go through all your stuff – Especially laptops, phones, and cameras.

With the exponential tourism increase, the guards don’t really go through your stuff anymore. 

Don’t bring any sensitive material – By sensitive I mean porn or any politically sensitive photos, including Governmental buildings or military stuff. If you happen to have some, upload them to the cloud or hide them very well in your computer.

However, at some border crossings, it’s not as bad as people say – I heard horror stories about Uzbek customs but, when I crossed from Tajikistan to the Fergana Valley , they just checked the photos of my DSLR camera and it seemed they were more looking at my pictures for fun than looking for sensitive photos, as the official was smiling and calling some of his colleagues to check them out.

They are also looking for drugs – And especially anything containing codeine. They will definitely, go through all your meds and, apparently, even if you have prescription pills containing codeine, they won’t allow you to enter with them and you may get in real trouble.

You will have to declare all your money, both entering and exiting – When you enter, you need to fill in a form, stating how much are you traveling with. You are supposed to keep this form because, when you leave, they will compare it with how much money you have left.

If you happen to have the same amount of money or more, they will assume that you worked there, so you might get into some problems. However, this rule may not apply in some borders because I left through Kazakhstan.

Uzbekistan 10 facts: the country, its people and their culture

1 – Uzbekistan is an ex-Soviet Republic – Which got its independence in 1991, after the USSR dissolution.

2 – Most people are Uzbeks – But, as in the whole Central Asia, you also find plenty of people from their neighboring countries, including Russians, Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, and Tajiks. People in Uzbekistan are so ethnically mixed but, whereas Kyrgyz and Kazakh people have stronger Mongolian features, and Tajiks and Turkmens more of a Persian look, I would say that Uzbeks are something in between.

3 – The official language is Uzbek – Which is a Turkic language, but most people also speak Russian as a second language.

4 – Learn some Russian – They use the Cyrillic alphabet and practically nobody speaks English, except in the touristic parts. Some basic words to get around will prove immensely useful.

5 – They are Sunni Muslims but not really – Officially, most people are Sunni Muslims, the Russian population (10%) being Christian Orthodox. However, like all ex-Soviet countries, religion is not a big deal and most people don’t really follow Islam. If I had to compare it to the rest of Central Asia, I would say that religion in Uzbekistan is practiced more than in Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan but less than in Tajikistan.

6 – No real dress code for women – Many Uzbek women are veiled but it’s mostly for cultural reasons, rather than religious. Except in some parts of the Fergana Valley, women can go as they please, within certain common-sense limitations, of course.

7 – Is Islam partially forbidden? – The Fergana Valley in Uzbekistan is home to the most radical Islamic group in Central Asia, an organization which even operated in Afghanistan under the Taliban. The Uzbek Government has tried hard to eradicate this group and, from what I heard, it has put some limitations on the way people practice Islam. For example, during prayer time, you will never hear the mosque’s speakers. I was told that this is one of several governmental measures.

8 – It’s a dictatorship – The first President of Uzbekistan ruled from its independence, in 1991, to 2016, when he died. He ruled under an authoritarian regime and didn’t forge many good international relationships. The new President is trying to change this though, the growth of tourism being one of the many new policies.

9 – But people don’t really care about politics – Uzbeks told me that the only thing they care about is inflation and nobody is interested in politics. There is no freedom of speech and you can’t say anything bad about the president or any governmental organization. They are OK with it so, according to them, a revolution will not happen any time soon. 

10 – The cotton crisis – Uzbekistan’s main economical pillar is the cotton industry and you will see plenty of cotton fields all over the country. Being so dependant on cotton has led to several crises and problems, the most dramatic one being the destruction of the Aral Sea in Uzbekistan . In Nukus, I met the European Union delegate in Uzbekistan, who told me that, with the new President, they are strongly trying to diversify the economy. 

🍲 Food and alcohol when traveling in Uzbekistan

Plov, plov, plov – Welcome to the world capital of plov , a Central Asian dish consisting of fried rice in lamb fat, meat and different vegetables. There are many kinds of plov and it varies by region. Uzbek people find it a real delicacy and they love it so much that, in the capital Tashkent , they even have a Central Asian Plov Center, a massive building serving only plov . After more than 5 months in Central Asia, I really hated plov .

But typical Central Asian food is also available – Laghman (noodles soup), manti (dumplings), shashlik (kebab) are popular dishes which you can eat when traveling in Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan.

More good restaurant options than in neighboring countries – Since it’s more touristic, you also find a wider range of options, especially serving international cuisine. For me, that was really an edge, especially after traveling in Central Asia for such a long time.

Alcohol is widely available – Vodka, beer and everything you want!

And local wine, as well! – Uzbekistan is the largest wine producer in Central Asia and its wine is not that bad, actually!

If you are a vegetarian, you are fucked – Well, not fucked but local cuisine mostly consists of meat and sometimes it’s even hard to find chicken. However, like I said, in the touristic places there are several options and, on most menus there are vegetarian options made ad-hoc for tourists. Additionally, your best bet will be the local markets, where you can find all sorts of vegetables, as well as Korean salads.

Loads of fruit! – Most of the fruit is grown in the Fergana Valley , it’s absolutely delicious and there is a lot of variety. When I was there in October, it was grapes and melons season!

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Uzbekistan

Budget hostels and guest houses.

There is a wide range of budget hostels and guest houses in most cities in Uzbekistan. Most of them are very good value and the perfect place to meet other travelers alike.

Hotels in Uzbekistan

There are also endless mid-range and luxury options in all main cities in Uzbekistan.

You always pay a 2USD registration fee – At any hotel, you always pay an extra 2USD per night you stay. This is a bit annoying for budget backpackers, as 2USD can sometimes be almost 30% of a dorm-bed price.

Keep your registration payslips

All hotels will give you a registration payslip that proves that you stayed there. You are likely to be asked for all your payslips when leaving the country. Basically, they are extremely paranoid and need proof of your actual itinerary, which you will show once, when you are leaving the country. Typically, they just require a payslip for every other day or two days. This means that, if you are camping or stay at people’s places, you would need to stay in a hotel every two days, at least.

Couchsurfing is supposedly illegal

However, you can find many profiles with reviews, so locals don’t really care about it.

🛺 How to move around Uzbekistan: transportation

Traveling around uzbekistan by train.

Trains are the way to travel in Uzbekistan. Most cities are connected by train, they run very regularly and are very comfortable.

It’s recommended to book your train tickets in advance – Especially for long-distance trains. You can book them at the train station itself and always remember to bring your passport.

There are different kinds of train – There is a regular, modern train and the high-speed one. They are built by a Spanish company, so they have many similarities to the AVE and other Spanish trains. Furthermore, there is the Russian train, which is the classic old one from the Soviet Union times.

You must try the Soviet train at least once – Traveling long distance on a Russian train is an experience by itself. I took it from Samarkand, all the way west to Kazakhstan, on a 32-hour journey. You are most likely to be the only foreigner on board and everybody is super friendly with you.

Traveling around Uzbekistan by shared taxi

Also common and really cheap. Between cities, it’s common to travel in shared taxis, which cost even less than a train.

Only in Tashkent, there is metro and it was inspired by the one in Moscow or Saint Petersburg and it’s a delightful masterpiece. For more information, read: Places to visit in Tashkent .

❗ More information for traveling to Uzbekistan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Uzbekistan destination

• Travel Guide to Fergana Valley
• Travel Guide to Moynaq
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Tajikistan-Uzbekistan border crossing
• Uzbekistan Itinerary

Travel guides to other countries in Central Asia

• Tajikistan Travel Guide
• Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Kazakhstan
• Pakistan Travel Guide
• Afghanistan Travel Guide

39 comments

Excelente información, gracias por compartirla.Aunque mi viaje no sea centrado en trekking la información me ha servido muchísimo, sobre todo en cuanto a cruce de fronteras, distancias y donde vale la pena quedarse. Muchos saludos y buenos viajes!

Un saludo Álvaro, disfruta Uzbekistán!

An excellent, detailed post. Thanks. I’d just like to contrast your vegetarianism comment with my own experience, though, and put others at ease: I was there in 2016 and ate some of the best food I’ve had internationally (the carrot and beetroot side dishes in Bukhara were to die for!) never once needing to resort to markets or special requests from a chef for a meal. We mostly ate in budget restaurants.

Kyrgyzstan, however, was a different beast altogether in that regard.

Thanks for the clarification! Good to know that, as a vegetarian, Uzbekistan is an easier choice. And yes, Kyrgyzstan is for sure more difficult. I remember meeting other travelers who, in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, they were forced to eat meat (or food cooked with meat) because that was the only available choice besides bread & jam!

Very well written and very informative! For sure I’ll read more of your various articles on Uzbekistan. I’ll travel to Uzbekistan in 3 days and am already quite excited. You asked for feedback on the e-visa application: It took me HOURS to apply! You have to upload your photo and a photo of the data page in your passport. It took me hours to upload these 2 photos. I managed to get my photo uploaded after numerous tries but didn’t know why. The passport photo was rejected again and again and…. What finally did the trick: I changed the ending of the file from …PNG to …png. After that I got the email with the confirmation and payment link within minutes. You have to pay with a credit card and they only accept a Visa Card which I don’t have. I asked around and found a friend with a Visa Card. It is no problem to pay with the Card of someone else. Nevertheless payment didn’t work, as I found out probably because it was after working hours in Uzbekistan. I tried again the next morning, was able to complete payment at first try and got the confirmation via email within minutes. I recieved the Visa the next day, quite speedy.

Hey, thank you so much for the visa feedback! Sounds like a nightmare 😀 !

It was! Thanks to advice I found on different websites I managed, without internet research it would have been impossible for me. I entered the country yesterday. Apparently it is no longer required to declare foreign currency (as long as you travel with less than 2000$, I think, or the equivalent).

Superb, excellent, detailed and tempted post. Really felt like to travel. Regards

Hi, thanks for the wealth of tips here. I’d like to know what is involved when “they go through all your stuff” especially things like digital equipment. Do they take out batteries, turn it on, dismantle?

They just may check your photos, nothing more.

Hey, where are the better rates in black market or banks? And is it not good for solo back packers? I don’t want this trip to end up being alone all the time or surrounded by people from group tours! And when is the high season in Uzbekistan? Is August a good time to visit?

Hey, your answers: – The rate is pretty much the same but it will all depend on which bank / person. You will see when you are there – I saw some backpackers – You can go in August, but it will be very hot. Other seasons are better

Great guide inspiring me in every travel manners to Uzbekistan.

Hey Joan, thanks for putting this guide and the update regarding ATMs. I am planning to visit Uzbekistan in September, but I am afraid that the country is becoming very touristic nowadays, so not sure if I would choose Uzbekistan over other Central Asian destinations. I don’t really like crowded places filled with souvenirs shops and with the tourism booming, it seems that Uzbekistan is moving in this same direction. Thank you and keep up the great work 🙂

Hey man, whereas it is true that some parts of Uzbekistan are literally becoming mass tourism destinations, the fact is that 99% of tourists will only visit Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, which are just 3 cities in a massive country. The rest of Uzbekistan is pretty unspoiled, especially Karakalpakstan and Fergana regions, as well as other areas which I didn’t visit. Even Tashkent seems pretty local, so I recommend you spend a few days in each of those 3 cities and then go discover the rest of the country.

I am a native citizen of Uzbekistan. Was just curious to read about my own country from perpectives of foreign tourist. Marcus, If you happen to visit in Tashkent, you may let me know, I can show some interesting places over here and give you more detailed guide for your further travel. And I will do it with no other intention than as a friendly host. +99899 3686220 you can find me by whatsApp and Telegram.

Bobur, am visiting your country soon, this very 2021…. And indeed, I wish we could link up…. my email is: [email protected] my number: 00233 209096062

Hi, I am planning to travel in May. Is it a good time to come to Uzbekistan? Can you please confirm your number as I could not find it in Telegram. Hope to speak. Thanks, Sona

Hi there, thanks for info, We are traveling tomorrow to Tashkent, me and my husband Kazakhstan citizens, but our two daughters has American citizens, so in website says children under 16 yrs old don’t need a visa, so I hope it’s still works and there is no required visa!

I am just curious where you got your statistic about Uzbekistan being one of the top 20 safest countries in the world because I can’t seem to find that specific information. I am trying to convince somebody to go, so a resource and reference on that number would be helpful to me. Thank you.

Hey Danielle, I think I saw it in the Bradt Guide of Uzbekistan 🙂

Your tips are all so helpful and I love your blog!

I’m going to Uzbekistan in September. As much as I am excited about it, I’m also concerned about diseases and stuff. Did you get vaccination before you went?

Hi Jade, basically, I am vaccinated of absolutely everything, so I didn’t get any particular vaccine for Uzbekistan but in any case, I don’t really recall anyone getting a special vaccine for Central Asia

Gracias por tus consejos generales pero creo que te equivocas sobre los temas de visado. Según información recopilada en 5 Páginas web, la lista de países a los que tú dices que dan visa on arrival Son las lista de países que no necesitan ningún visado, Son países “visa exemption” en los cuales está Argentina, Brasil y Chile y luego tú dices que los viajeros de paises latinoamericanos “deben” sacar Su visado en una embajada. Es bastante confuso y contradictorio. Te sugiero que reveas la información publicada.

Hola Alberto, Brasil no es un país hispano-hablante y por ésto jamás lo incluyo en mis artículos en español. Los países de habla hispana que tienen visado gratis son Chile, Argentina y España, tal y como dice en el artículo.

Por otro lado, yo no sé dónde has leído donde digo que los latinoamericanos tengan que sacarlo en la embajada. Lo que digo es: ”lo más seguro es que NO tengas que ir por este proceso, pero si el sistema de visado electrónico no te funciona, tendrás que ir a la embajada” – El resto de países hispano-hablantes tienen que conseguir el visado vía internet, pero el sistema alguna vez de cada muchas suele fallar, por lo que en este caso, pues deberían de hacerlo vía embajada.

Bien. Lo entendi muy bien al leerlo en primera instante. Gracias hermano. Creo q’ Alberto de leerlo todo de nuevo. Un abrazo desde Ghana. Africa.

Hello. An interesting article you wrote. As a person who was born and raised in Uzbekistan, I really recommend you to visit as well more not-touristic places. For example, there are streets on Darkhan (Hamid Olimjon subway station) where you can find beautiful spots that were not touched by modern architecture and are still in the old style. So, try to find places that are not so popular among tourists. Because you will see the real country/city if, of course, that’s what you want. Because I personally am more into naturalness. September is the perfect time period to visit it here because the weather’s nice, not so hot and not so cold yet as well as Spring is a perfect time. Also, you’ll get into a season of fruits, vegetables that are so delicious. Welcome!

Hi everyone, I would like to share a piece of information which would be, I guess, interesting and beneficial for travellers wishing and planning to visit Uzbekistan. The issue I want to bring up is the problem with buying train tickets online. Because when foreigners want to buy tickets at a place they, more often than not, are sold out. Foreigners usually have trouble buying tickets online if they attempt to do this with their Visa cards due to some technical imperfections on the website . Therefore, I want to give a solution by offering the assistance of local people who will make a purchase instead of travellers. Unlike travel agencies, they do not charge much. The fee varies from 5 to 10 dollars per person, no matter how many tickets the one is going to buy. Isn’t it a solution? The only thing needed is a copy of the passport. The same can be done with airplane tickets. There is no place for hesitation about their reliability as such kind of services can be found on respectable travelling and guiding platforms. I dont know whether I can refer to any of them here. But if you need I can write more.. Any questions are welcome.

Great suggestions herein. Please put your email so that, one can reach you via inbox with some more questions

Hi! I was wondering how airtight the comments about Uzbekistan officials not being stringent on enforcing quarantine is. I have some big travel plans that require my transit through the country next month from the UK, and I just want to check to see how solid the idea that the quarantine rule isn’t enforced before I actually book my flights, as if I’m forced to quarantine I will be wasting thousands of £s.

Hi Owen, So far, there are no travel reports from travelers who were forced into quarantine. Nevertheless, you should know that in these countries, anything can happen

Great postings. However I have been trying to get e visa fo Uzbekistan for past one week, without success, even after getting the validation link the payment gateway did not accept my Visa debit card, it is really frustrating. Has anyone faced this problem?

Pandu India

HI, This a great blog. I am also going to visit Uzbekistan in june. I just wanted to ask that will it be okay if i dont stay in hotel and stay at friend’s apartment. I am pretty nervous about it. i am planning to go for nine days. if you could help me with the answer that would be great.

Uzbekistan is getting more and more touristic every day, so you should be fine 🙂

We (me and my wife and small child) are landing in Bukhara and ending in Tashkent. We have 11 days (including travel to and from UK).

We really want to visit Khiva, but we arrive in Bukhara at 12pm midday after a long overnight flight, so it would be very difficult to jump straight on a train to Khiva from Bukhara after landing.

Alteratively, we could spend two days in Bukhara on landing, then go to Khiva for a couple of days, but it would then be a very long train back to Samarkand, which would be our next stop.

Do you have any advice for us? Thanks!

Hello, it seems you don’t have any other alternative… Trains are pretty good in Uzbekistan so taking a longer one won’t be much of an issue.

I take prescribed drugs as to will be 70 and take Tramadol regularly. Alright it’s not codeine but close enough. I would not travel without it, and I noticed how Muslim countries are obsessed with drugs, even though it’s a packaged med made by drug companies. If bringing in Tramadol is an issue, even with a letter from a doctor, should I skip any plans to go there? Thanks! I don’t want issues with the immigration police or have it confiscated!

Hi Michel, this is a very hard question to answer, and I am afraid I can’t give you an accurate answer…

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The Perfect Uzbekistan 10-Day Itinerary

06/07/2024 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Jacqueline Kieu.

Uzbekistan is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a rich cultural and historic experience thanks to its central location along the historic Silk Road Route and handful of well-preserved UNESCO sites and cities.

I spent one month in here and have compiled the absolute must-see places to visit with 10 days in Uzbekistan. Here’s where to go and what to see with a 10-day itinerary in Uzbekistan:

Table of Contents

Tashkent: Two Days

Almost all travelers will begin in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekstan. 

As the largest city in Central Asia, this sprawling metropolis is home to over 3 million people. It’s a fascinating place; a city that straddles a fine line between the old and new world.

Visitors in Tashkent willl find 1970s Soviet era architecture, which offer a sense of nostalgia amidst the otherwise modern buildings. The city is surprisingly clean, with wide tree-lined sidewalks and tons of parks and green spaces for leisure.

Many travelers tend to blast through Tashkent in a day (or less) because they are only interested in the Silk Road sites. Don’t make this mistake. To know Tashkent is to understand modern Uzbek culture.

You should spend at least half a day getting completely and utterly lost in the Chorsu Bazaar, a sprawling maze of outdoor shopping, eating, and overall insanity.

I recommend going in the morning and visiting the food market section, then grabbing some fresh non bread from Chorsu bakery while learning the unique way they bake it. Here’s a hint: it involves them sticking their whole body inside a burning oven.

Then, get lost again by attempting to take the metro. The metro is actually very well laid out, but challenging to decipher unless you can read Cyrillic. Anyway, it really doesn’t matter where you go, just be sure to check out the metro stations themselves as they are literally the most unnecessarily beautiful ones I’ve ever seen. My personal favorite was the Alisher Navoi Station, but each has their own unique design.

At some point, take a detour to marvel at the Minoor Mosque, also known as the White Mosque. Then spend an afternoon walking the lengths of Navoi Avenue, stopping along the way to check out the many parks and memorials.

Where to eat in Tashkent

The best part of Tashkent is the food. As the capital, you have access to a huge variety of national dishes at non-tourist prices.

Some of the best places in Tashkent for local eats are at the Chorsu Bazaar streetfood stalls and the National Food Hall. Look out for local goodies like plov (fried rice), samsa (meat pastry), fried lagman (noodles), meat skewers, and, if you dare, narib (shredded horse and cheese salad). 

Samarkand: Three Days 

From Tashkent, kick off your tour of the historic Silk Road Route by heading to the crowning jewel of the Silk Road itself – Samarkand.

Historically, Samarkand is one of the most important trade and culture hubs on the SIlk Road. As the former seat of rulers and nobility, you’ll find some of the most grandeur of palaces and monuments in the country right here.

The most famous landmark in Uzbekistan is without a doubt the Registan in Samarkand. This UNESCO site is a huge complex of 3 very old, very famous madrasas, or celebrated schools of Islam. 

Each madrasa was built during a different period of history, but all came together to form what is now Registan square. You’ll find the most meticulously detailed tilework all throughout the Registan providing the most aesthetic of sights. My advice is to come around sunset and stay for the evening light show.

You should also plan to wake up for sunrise at least once to visit the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum. This place gets crazy crowded after 8 am, so it’s best to start early. Plus, you have the most beautiful light reflecting off the tiles in the morning that make for stunning photography opportunities.

Another must visit is the mausoleum of Amir Timur, the founder of the Timur Empire and one of Uzbekstan’s most loved historical figures.

There are so many other landmarks to visit in and around Samarkand. Some I’d suggest are the Bibi-Khanyn Mosque, the Observatory or Ulugbek and the Silk Road Samarkand. The latter is like a small themed shopping mall where they showcase all the different regional cultures of Uzbekistan.

I’d also recommend a day trip to Shahrisabz, another UNESCO site famously known as the birthplace of Amur Timur. I booked a tour directly with the Samarkand Tourist Information Center . 

Where to eat in Samarkand

Art Cafe is the best place to try traditional dishes like plov and manti. For some awesome, freshly grilled meat skewers, head to Labi G’or.

Bukhara: Two Days 

As a city with over 2,000 years of history, Bukhara is one of the most well preserved Islamic cities left in the world. To wander around the city is nothing short of time traveling. 

You’ll pass by gorgeous madrasas tiles to the nines, impressive mosques that look ethereal when lit up at night, and tons of those iconic blue domed roofs.

The most prominent landmark in Bukhara is the Kalon Minaret and the entire Kalon complex. This is a major square in the city center where you’ll find beautifully tiled facades in every direction. During the afternoons it seems to be a gathering point for locals to hang out.

You can’t skip a visit to the Ark of Bukhara, the ancient outer walls of the city which now houses a museum. While here, be sure to head to the Bolo Hauz Mosque across the street as well. 

But the coolest mosque in Bukhara has to be Chor Minoor, found on the outskirts of town. This mosque is known for its characteristic 4 pillars that rise high above it’s roofs.

Once happy hour rolls around, head to the Divan-begi pond in the center of the old city, an incredibly romantic place for a glass of wine or dinner by the water. 

Nearby is Nodir Devonbegi, formerly a revered madrasa which is now used to host nightly cultural dance performances.

And if all else fails, you can’t go wrong in Bukhara by dropping everything to do some serious shopping. Bukhara is famous for it’s historic, covered shopping arcades that are still used today to house art galleries, souvenir shops, small cafes and more.

Where to Eat in Bukhara

Labi Hovuz is the best place to eat in Bukhara for both the vibes and the food. They have a huge menu of all the local specialties, plus the added bonus of dining right alongside the pond.

I’d recommend the manti, Uzbekistan’s version of a dumpling and Bukhara style fried lagman (with tomato sauce). 

Whenever the heat of the day becomes too much, head to Wishbone Cafe or Halva Cafe to relax and people watch. 

Khorezm Fortresses: One Day 

On your way to the last major stop on the Silk Road Route, you’ll pass through the Karakalpakstan Desert, the former site of ancient Khorezm civilization.

Khorezm is known as the Egypt of Central Asia and is home to some remarkable landmarks that are totally different from the glitzy, Silk Road cities. Instead of glittering blue domed mosques and tiled palaces, you’ll find sandy forts and ruins that have all but dissolved back into the desert.

Spend a day exploring the desert and hopping around the many Khorezm fortresses. The best way to see the area is by hiring a driver for the day, or if you have your own rental car you can do a self-guided tour.

I strongly advise getting a guide because some of the sites aren’t properly marked on Google Maps or even the road signs. Plus, you have really patchy signal in this area making it all too easy to get lost.

I went with Islambek Tours and can report an amazing experience.

Booking a tour usually means you’ll visit between 3 to 10 of the ancient forts, depending on the tour you book. Today, some of these forts are nothing more than a small mound while others are like giant sandcastles. Each fort will have its own backstory explained on a plaque you’ll find on arrival.

The coolest part is how few people visit this area, so you can really get your Indiana Jones on and explore ancient ruins with virtually no one around.

The best forts to visit are definitely Toprak Kala and Ayaz Kala, both of which are very well preserved and among the larger complexes. 

Ayaz Kala is also home to a yurt camp where you’ll find a semi-friendly population of free-roaming camels. If you’re up for it, you can stay overnight to get a feel for rural Uzbek life and a night of epic stargazing.

Khiva: Two Days

The last major stop on the Silk Road Route is Khiva. Some travelers skip it simply because it’s so much further from the other major cities, but that’s their loss because the journey is well worth it.

Khiva is a gem in the middle of an otherwise inhospitable desert. What was once a thriving, wealthy city thanks to booming trade, Khiva manages to hold onto it’s glorious past within it’s well preserved citadel walls.

Most of the sites in Khiva are found in the Itchan Kala fortress, a UNESCO site that can be deemed as an open air museum in it’s entirety.

Probably the most impressive site is the Kalta Minor Minaret, a strikingly vivid turquoise tower that stands at 57 meter tall. This feat of wonder may not be the tallest minaret in Khiva, but it’s certainly has a way of dominating the skyline with its size and color.

Next, you’ll want to visit the Juma Mosque for it’s ancient, traditionally carved wooden beams. This mosque does a great job of showcasing the local woodcarving craft, a longstanding practice amongst those in the region.

The Khuna Ark is where you’ll have the best views of the city from above and the most magical sunset of your life if you time your visit just right.

The Islam Kodja Minaret is another must-see site within Khiva, not that you could miss it if you tried. This is the tallest structure in Khiva itself, and can be seen throughout the fortress walls. The area underneath Islam Kodja is where you’ll find an outdoor bazaar of sorts selling all kinds souvenirs and local goods.

Overall, you can’t really go wrong with just wandering and getting lost while in Khiva. It felt like I could hardly wander more than 10 steps before stumbling upon another square or madrasa worth exploring.

Entry into Itchan Kala requires paid admission, even if your hotel is located there. The most common ticket for purchase is the 2 day pass which allows you free entry into almost all the museums, mosques and points of interest. You can buy the tickets at the West Gate on the day of arrival.

Where to eat in Khiva

The most popular restaurant in Khiva is definitely the Terrace Cafe & Restaurant. They serve up all the local specialties you must try like Tukhum Barak (egg dumplings) and Shuveet Osh (dill noodles), or my favorite, fried eggplant and beef.

It’s best to come at sunset, as they offer an incredible view of Khuna Ark lighting up for the evening at this time. I highly recommend making a reservation through your hotel the night before as it does tend to get booked out each night.

Other places to see in Uzbekistan

If you have more time in Uzbekistan, you have plenty of amazing places of the beaten path to explore. 

If you seek adventure, head to the Kyzylkum Desert for epic desert nights and hiking. While there you can visit Aydar Lake, a vast, Soviet manmade lake. This lake is one of the best areas for bird watching as it’s home to over 100 species of waterbirds.

If you travel to the very western corners of the country, you can check out the Aral Sea, a dried up lake bed where you can find several shipwrecks arrested in decay.

For more of Uzbek culture, opt to visit Boysun, especially during the Boyson Festival which takes place once every 2 years in spring. 

For a chance to truly immerse yourself in local life, head to the Fergana Valley close to the Kyrgystan border. This area is known for agriculture and local craft making. It sees very few tourists but the reward is superb hiking trails the chance to connect with friendly locals.

Uzbekistan Travel Information

Visa Requirements

Visitors from most countries will require a visa for Uzbekistan,  something that was notoriously difficult until recently. 

Luckily, most nationalities are now allowed to apply for an e-visa for Uzbekistan, using the website here . 

The fee is a flat rate of $20 USD, which will grant most tourists 30 days.

I wish I could say it was as easy as that, but many travelers (including me) have reported issues with the website, especially when it comes to uploading documents and processing the payment. 

It’s also impossible to get ahold of anyone by phone or email, so make sure to apply for your visa at least 2 months ahead of your trip just in case you run into some roadblocks.

Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

Most of Uzbekistan is characterized by an arid, desert landscape. This means that summers are scorching hot, and winters can get frigid cold. 

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is probably in spring and fall when the weather is less extreme and much  more comfortable. 

If you choose to visit any time between March and May, you’ll be rewarded by great weather and the chance to attend one of Uzbekistan’s spring festivals. There’s the Navruz festival in March that is celebrated all over the country, or the Boysun Bahori Festival every 2 years in Boysun.

READ NEXT: 13 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE Visiting Uzbekistan

Getting to Uzbekistan

Most travelers will get to Uzbekistan via air. Unless you are flying in from the Middle East or a nearby country, most flights will require a stopover somewhere. For travelers coming from North America, those flights tend to have a layover in Dubai , Abu Dhabi, or Kuwait .

If you plan to travel overland from Kazakhstan or Tajikistan, you’ll  just need to be sure you have your documents and visa secured beforehand.

Getting Around Uzbekistan

You have plenty of options for transportation in Uzbekistan. 

Renting a car makes sense if you are traveling as a group. Uzbekistan is huge so this gives you the freedom to go wherever you please. The roads are not the best, but also not the worst.

Another option is to fly. All of the cities in this itinerary either have an airport or are within an hour of one. Flying in Uzbekistan is fairly cheap by western standards. Stil, it does add up, so it may not really be feasible if you’re on a tight budget.

There are also buses, but almost everyone I spoke to did not recommend them. Lateness and lack of comfort were among some of the feedback I heard.

In my opinion, the best way to get around is by train. Uzbekistan is reasonably well connected by a great train system. A 4 – 6 hour ride can cost as little as $9 USD. There are also super new high speed trains, known as Afrosiyob, which offer very modern and comfortable amenities that can easily compete with the trains of Europe.

You can book your train tickets online though the Railway UZ website. Be sure to book a few days ahead as the seats do tend to fill up.

Within the city, you’ll want to download the Yandex Go app which is the primary rideshare app used in Uzbekistan. It works in all major cities and you can even link your credit card directly for convenience.

And that wraps up the perfect 10 day itinerary covering the best of what Uzbekistan has to offer. Happy travels!

About the author: Jacqueline is the author of Your Travel Flamingo , a website dedicated to digital nomad travel and, recently, Iceland travel. When she’s not on the road, she stays busy by exploring her homebase in Iceland.

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Two Week Uzbekistan Itinerary

Updated in 2020: A complete two week Uzbekistan itinerary. With so much to see in this quintessential Silk Road destination, planning can become tricky. To ease your planning process, I’ve crafted this two weeks in Uzbekistan itinerary so you don’t miss any of Uzbekistan’s highlights.

Visa update 2019: Uzbekistan is increasingly realizing its tourist potential, and has made it much easier to obtain a visa. Check out the MFA website to see if you can get an e-visa, or if you’re one of the lucky people who can enter the country 30-days visa-free.

From the opulent Registan in Samarkand to the twisting alleys of Khiva’s old town, Uzbekistan is a land of onion domes, grand archways, and towering minarets.

… needless to say, it’s an architecture buff’s wet dream.

But the country offers more than just drool-worthy architecture. From bazaars in Tashkent dishing out horse sausages and homemade cream, to the Ferghana Valley that spawned the founder of the Mughal Empire, to the desolate destruction of the Aral Sea region, Uzbekistan is a country with many faces. Luckily, for we tourists the faces are almost all smiling; Uzbeks are some of the friendliest people in Central Asia.

Might be useful? Pin it!

Complete two week Uzbekistan itinerary

Below you can find my recommendations for two weeks in Uzbekistan. This Uzbekistan itinerary will guide you to many of the highlights, but of course I also recommend some alternative destinations to get away from tourist crowds.

Pick and choose where you want to go, or you add some alternative destinations for a longer trip in Uzbekistan. You can also check out my overland itinerary for Uzbekistan and Tajikistan for more inspiration.

This itinerary also includes a guide to traveling in Uzbekistan, including information about money, transport, accommodation, and everything else you need to know for an epic trip to Uzbekistan.

Two weeks in Uzbekistan itinerary

• Day 1-2: Tashkent
• Days 3-5: Samarkand
• Days 6-8: Bukhara

Days 9-11: Khiva

• Day 12-13: Nukus
• Day 14: Travel day

Alternative destinations in Uzbekistan

Guide to travel in uzbekistan.

• Accommodation
• Interactive map

Days 1-2: Tashkent

The meat and dairy market in Chorsu Bazaar

For most, Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a rather underwhelming introduction to the country.

The city isn’t blessed with the jaw-dropping architecture that brings tourists to Uzbekistan (though you won’t know that… yet) , and the sights available don’t exactly make up for that.

Regardless, it’s pleasantly tree-filled and easy to navigate, and this is where most people will start their visit to the country. There are still plenty of things to see in Tashkent .

A boulevard in central Tashkent

Top things to see in Tashkent

• Tashkent Metro: A stunning remnant of the Soviet Era—and still expanding every year—some of the capital’s metro stations are works of art. I particularly enjoyed Alisher Navoi and Kosmonatavlar.
• Chorsu Bazaar: Tashkent’s main bazaar is a lively affair, with vendors selling everything from clothing to spices and vegetables.
• Amir Timur Museum: Museum dedicated to the warlord Amir Timur, who conquered most of Central Asia. A good stop for people interested in the man behind some of the most monumental buildings in the region, and founder of the Timurid empire.
• Hotel Uzbekistan:  Not far from the Amir Timur Museum is Uzbekistan’s most famous hotel: the Hotel Uzbekistan. Not everyone’s cup of tea, this brutalist building is a dream for photographers who favor austere architecture.
• Kukeldash Madrasah:  This madrasah (Islamic school) is by no means comparable with the ones in Samarkand or Bukhara. Regardless, it’s nice enough to warrant a visit, as it’s not far from Chorsu bazaar, and has a beautiful collection of old Korans in a building in the center of the complex.
• Plov Center:  The place to eat  plov , Uzbekistan’s favorite national food, in Tashkent.

The Amir Timur Museum

Where to stay in Tashkent

• Budget:  Topchan Hostel (where I stayed!) – Book Topchan Hostel now for the best deals
• Mid-range:  Bo’ston Hotel – Interested? Book Bo’ston Hotel now
• Luxury:  Ichan Qala Hotel – In need of some luxury? Check out the deals on Ichan Qala Hotel now

Plov a-cookin’ at the creatively named Plov Center

Getting around in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Tashkent Metro

Tashkent has a convenient and cheap metro system, although using it might seem daunting at first. Your bags are usually scanned before entering the metro station, and there are plenty of police around. Rest assured, they aren’t there to hassle you; just make sure no one misbehaves. Note that as of 2018, taking pictures of the metro stations  is allowed.

• A useful map of the main metro lines can be found here
• Tickets cost  1,200 som (US$0.15) regardless of destination

Taxis in Tashkent

Any car in Tashkent can be a taxi. Stand on the side of the road and hold your hand out, and a car will usually stop within minutes. If the driver is heading your way or feels like heading there, you can hop in. Make sure to agree on a price beforehand.

The driver will usually want you to make the first offer. If your offer is fair most drivers will agree with the price quickly. Ask your hotel or a friendly local what a reasonable price should be for your intended destination.

Kukeldash madrasah at sunset

Transportation from Tashkent

• Train from Tashkent to Samarkand: 2-4 hours
• Plane from Tashkent to Samarkand:  1 hour
• Shared taxi from Tashkent to Samarkand: 4 hours

Days 3-5: Samarkand

The magnificent Registan at sunrise

Samarkand is a definitive highlight of any trip to Uzbekistan. The first time you see the Registan is a moment you won’t soon forget! I highly recommend you visit the Registan at sunrise .

Although the city can feel a bit crowded and touristy at times, it’s easy to retreat to the winding back alleyways to get away from it all.

Men walking through the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis after morning prayers during Eid

Top things to see in Samarkand

• Registan: The three madrasahs that make up the Registan are a sight to behold. Hands down they’re some of the most incredible buildings in Central Asia. Just writing about them still gives me goosebumps. The magnificence of the Registan is best sampled at dawn, as the souvenir shops during the day take away some of its appeal. There’s also a light show in the evening every once in a while; hang out a bit after sunset to see if it’s on.
• Gur-e-Amir: The mausoleum to Tamerlane (Timur) is built in a distinctly Timurid fashion, with blue onion domes and plenty of elaborate tile work. Fun fact: Timur’s grave is actually buried in a vault deep below the main mausoleum.
• Shah-i-Zinda: Necropolis for many a ruler and their offspring. Visit in the late afternoon, when it’s least busy. It’s possible to enter for free, using one of the entranceways to the adjoining cemetery. The cemetery also offers a nice vantage point into the necropolis.
• Bibi Khanym Mosque:  Once one of the largest mosques in the world, large parts of it were destroyed over time. Restoration efforts have given it some of its shine back, though, and it’s still a sight to behold.
• Siyob Bazaar:  The largest bazaar in the country is easily found right next to the Bibi Khanym mosque. It’s a great place to wander, whether you’re on the hunt for fresh produce (a rarity in Uzbek restaurants) or just want to bask in the bustle.
• Afrasiyab ruins:  Ruins of an ancient city to the north of modern-day Samarkand. You’ll need your imagination, but it’s not every day you can wander freely through civilization ruins more than a thousand years old.

There are many more sights in Samarkand, too many to mention here. I recommend exploring Samarkand leisurely, to really soak in one of the grandest cities of the Silk Road.

An Uzbek schoolboy casually chilling on the Bibi Khanym mosque

Where to stay in Samarkand

• Budget:  B&B Bahodir – Book B&B Bahodir now
• Mid-range:  Jahongir B&B – Book a room at Jahongir B&B 
• Luxury:  Grand Samarkand Superior – Looking for the best deals? Check them out for Grand Samarkand Superior now

A salad vendor peddling her wares at the Siyob Bazaar

Transportation from Samarkand

• Train from Samarkand to Tashkent: 2-4 hours
• Train from Samarkand to Bukhara: 2-3 hours
• Shared taxi from Samarkand to Bukhara: 4 hours
• Bus from Samarkand to Bukhara: 5-6 hours
• Train from Samarkand to Khiva : 12 hours

Days 6-8: Bukhara

Looking out over the Kaylan Mosque

Bukhara is a perfect place to get lost in; I recommend just that. Though Samarkand is the grandest of Uzbekistan’s cities, Bukhara is the more historically significant of the two; it was the  hub of art and science in Central Asia during the Silk Road era.

Most tourists stick to the main sights, but the back alleys are full of surprises and make for a great afternoon of leisurely exploration. Wander for a while, occasionally refuel with a cold beer and some pumpkin manti (dumplings with pumpkin), and you’ll be good to go again.

The charming Chor Minor

Top things to see in Bukhara

• Po-i-Kalyan: One of Uzbekistan’s greatest architectural ensembles, the Po-i-Kaylan houses the Kaylan Minaret, the Kaylan Mosque, Miri-Arab Madrasah, and Amir-Allimkhan Madrasah. Though I’m not one for tourist restaurants, Chasmai Mirob is a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view over the complex (that also offers pumpkin manty !).
• Chor Minor:  Meaning “four minarets”, this charming little former madrasah gatehouse now houses a souvenir stall.
• Ark of Bukhara:  A massive fort, of which a small part is open to the public. Though not as impressive and surprisingly lacking in views despite the high vantage point, it houses some interesting exhibitions that will give you a bit of background context into Uzbekistan’s history.
• Lyab-i-Hauz: Though a bit touristy, Bukhara’s main square houses some exquisite buildings and is a perfect place for an afternoon ice cream or drink as you people watch.
• Bolo Hauz Mosque:  A stunning mosque with exquisitely decorated wooden ceiling panels and columns.

You could see Bukhara in two days, but since getting there can take some time I recommend at least three days. One of Uzbekistan’s joys is wandering about the back alleys of the cities, away from tour bus crowds; Bukhara is perfect for exactly that.

One of the many stunning ceiling panels of the wooden Bolo Hauz mosque near the ark.

Where to stay in Bukhara

Bukhara has the greatest concentration of guesthouses and homestays in the country. It pays to look around the internet to see what strikes your fancy— Booking.com is a good place to find accommodation in Bukhara. English isn’t always spoken in budget places, but considering how friendly everyone is, this hardly matters!

• Budget:  Jeyran Hotel – Book Jeyran Hotel now
• Mid-range:  Chor Minor Hotel – Have a look at Chor Minor Hotel
• Top end:  Komil Boutique Hotel – Indulge with Komil Boutique Hotel

Taking a break in Bukhara’s back alleys

Transportation from Bukhara

Note that previously Bukhara was not connected to Khiva by train… but as of 2018, there’s now a train line connecting the two cities!

• Train from Bukhara to Samarkand: 2-3 hours
• Shared taxi from Bukhara to Samarkand: 4 hours
• Bus from Bukhara to Samarkand: 5-6 hours
• Train from Bukhara to Tashkent: 6.5 hours
• Train from Bukhara to Khiva:  6 hours
• Bus from Bukhara to Khiva: 8 hours
• Shared taxi from Bukhara to Urgench (Khiva) : 7 hours

The Tura Murad Minaret. You can scale this beaut for epic views over Khiva.

Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is a unique town in Uzbekistan. It’s so well preserved, it’s almost museum-like! The old town is one huge historic playground and a photographer’s dream.

I recommend staying in Khiva at least two days to make sure you can soak up sights at a leisurely pace and perhaps go for a foray into some of the nearby villages. Most sights can be entered on a combined entrance ticket, sold at the main entrance to the old town.

Tip:  Don’t miss a chance to try shivut oshi (green noodles), a local specialty made with dill-infused dough. The color’s a bit disconcerting, I know, but never fear, they’re delicious. And that’s coming from someone who despises dill.

An epic sunset over Khiva’s old city.

Top things to see in Khiva

• Itchan-Kala:  Khiva’s historic old town, and the place you’ll spend most of your time. Basically an open-air museum. Make sure to get up early one day to see the sunrise from the city wall.
• Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah:  The largest madrasah in Central Asia now houses a luxury hotel, but is still a sight to behold.
• Kalta Minor Minaret:  Unfortunately it’s not possible to enter this unfinished minaret next to the Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah anymore. Regardless, it’s synonymous with Khiva, and you can’t miss it.
• Tura Murad Minaret:  A towering minaret in one of the corners of the Old City, which you can climb for 5,000 som (separate from the general old city entry ticket).
• Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum:  Another one of the few sights in Khiva ticketed separately, this mausoleum is an interesting stop.

What’s the point in trying to describe views like this?

Where to stay in Khiva

• Budget: Laliopa Guest House – Book Laliopa Guest House here
• Mid-range:   Hotel Old Khiva – Check out Hotel Old Khiva now
• Top end:  Hotel Shaherezada – Find the best deals for Hotel Shaherezada

The extensive walls around Khiva’s old city are free to climb, and are a perfect spot to catch some epic sunrises!

Transportation from Khiva

• Flight from Khiva to Tashkent: 1.5 hours
• Train from Khiva to Bukhara:  6 hours
• Train from Khiva to Tashkent: 16 hours
• Train from Khiva to Samarkand: 12 hours
• Shared taxi to Nukus: 3 hours

Days 12-13: Nukus

Nukus bazaar by mrhicks46

Nukus, home to the Savitsky Karakalpakstan Art Museum , is a bit of an oddity. It’s the capital of the autonomous Karakalpakstan region, a little-visited part of Uzbekistan. There is not so much to do in Nukus, but art lovers cannot miss the museum, which houses one of the finest art collections in Central Asia.

The Mizdakhan necropolis by kvitlauk

Top things to see in Nukus

• Nukus Museum of Art:  An art museum founded by The Russian painter, archeologist, and collector, Igor Savitsky. It houses one of the finest art collections in the entire region.
• Mizdakhan Necropolis: An ancient cemetery outside of Nukus with a mixture of Islamic and Zoroastrian influences.
• Moynaq:  An abandoned fishing village outside of Nukus, along the dried-up Aral Sea. More about it in the “Alternative destinations” section below.

A family praying in the Mizdakhan necropolis by Ismael Alonzo

Places to stay in Nukus

• Budget:  Hotel Nukus
• Mid-range:  Jipek Jolly – Book Jipek Jolly now

The desert near Nukus

Transportation from Nukus

Nukus could theoretically be done as a day trip from Khiva, but only if you hire a private taxi. Shared taxis tend to fill up slowly.

• Shared taxi from Nukus to Khiva: 3 hours
• Flight to Tashkent:  About 2 hours

Day 14: Travel day

Since traveling in Uzbekistan can take more time than you’d think, I left one day open in this two week Uzbekistan itinerary.

If you end up in Nukus and need to head back to Tashkent quickly, the best option is to fly back from Khiva. Otherwise, an overnight train from Khiva to Tashkent will do the trick.

If you want to travel to other Central Asian countries, I highly recommend traveling over land into neighboring Tajikistan for an epic mountain adventure. Crossing overland has gotten significantly easier in recent years, and Tajikistan is a dream. You can find more on how to cross from Uzbekistan into Tajikistan from Samarkand in my Uzbekistan-Tajikistan itinerary .

If you have more time for travel in Uzbekistan , read on for more off the beaten track places in Uzbekistan that might be of interest.

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Alternative destinations for your Uzbekistan itinerary

The colorful bazaar of Andijan

Andijan, capital city of the Ferghana Valley, lacks any must-see tourist sights. It has a nice bazaar, a decent Friday Mosque, and a destroyed mosque with an incredibly intricate ceiling… but none of these will blow you away.

Andijan does, however, houses some of the friendliest people in the country. Walk around town and you’ll see grinning faces, students trying to up their English game, and a friendly stranger or two who’ll invite you for dinner (and maybe a homestay, but alas, not allowed) . Andijan is also a decent base from which to explore the rest of the Ferghana Valley.

Note: Due to government concerns, you’ll need an accommodation slip for each night you stay in the valley. Couchsurfing or camping is not recommended here.

The food-filled Eski bazaar

Top things to see in Andijan

• Jama Mosque:  If you visited any of the places mentioned in the main itinerary, Andijan’s Jama Mosque is probably a letdown. Regardless, the gatekeeper is friendly, and more than willing to tell you about the mosque’s history.
• Nameless mosque : Not far from the Jama mosque (to the right, if you’re facing it) and across from the Eski Bazaar, is something that looks like a construction site. It has a debilitated minaret, and you wouldn’t normally walk over. I implore you to do so, though—the ceiling won’t disappoint!
• Andijan bazaar : Every Sunday and Thursday Andijan’s bazaar springs to life. It’s a great place to wander around and chat with some local people.

The epic ceiling of the nameless mosque

Where to stay in Andijan

• Budget/mid-range:  Andijan Hotel. It’s hard to find info online, but it’s centrally located, and all taxi drivers will know it. Don’t be deterred by the stateliness of it, budget travelers—it’s reasonably priced, especially for Uzbekistan.
• Luxury: Bogishamol Hotel – Check out Bogishamol Hotel now

Andijan’s towering Jama Mosque

Transportation from Andijan

It used to only be possible to travel from Andijan to Tashkent by shared taxi, but that has changed with the arrival of a new train station and train line.

• Shared taxi to Tashkent: 4-5 hours (see how to get from Andijan to Tashkent by shared taxi at the end of this post )
• Train to Tashkent:  6 hours

Like Andijan, Termez doesn’t have any must-see sights inside the city. It does have some places of interest nearby—such as ruins of an ancient Buddhist stupa —and you can see Afghanistan from parts of the city. Not many tourists make it there, and Termez has a Wild West feel to it.

Only recommended if you have time to spare, or if you’re heading to Afghanistan. John B Around the World has a great guide to Termez .

My last beer at a streetside barbecue joint in Termez before heading to dry Afghanistan .

Top things to see in Termez

• Mausoleum of Al Hakim At-Termizi:  Nowhere near as impressive as other mausoleum’s in the country, it’s still an interesting place to visit.
• Kirk Kiz Fortress:  A little out of town, this fortress is fun to rummage around in for a bit.
• Sultan Saodat Ensemble:  Not as grand as the ensemble in Samarkand, but still quite beautiful and definitely worth a visit when in Termez.
• Fayaz Teppa – Kara Tepa – Zurmala Stupa:  Some of the last remaining Buddhist holy places in the area.

Khakim-at-Termezi complex near Termez

Where to stay in Termez

• Budget:  Surhan Atlantic
• Mid-range/top-end: Meridian Termez

Fayoz-Tepe by Arian Zwegers

Transportation from Termez

• Train to Tashkent: 14 hours
• Train to Samarkand: 10-11 hours
• Shared taxi to Samarkand: 6 hours

If you’re going to Afghanistan, check out my Uzbekistan – Afghanistan border crossing report here .

Abandoned boats on the dried-up Aral Sea by kvitlauk

The Aral Sea is a testament to how human greed and poor planning can destroy the environment in a nearly irreversible way, and many people visit Uzbekistan just to see it.

Uzbekistan’s huge cotton industry has bled the sea, which the country shares with Kazakhstan, nearly dry. Kazakhstan is trying to fill the sea back up, but the water coming in is siphoned off again to the cotton fields of Uzbekistan. A saddening, but eye-opening, trip.

Moynaq , a small fishing village that used to be on the edge of the sea, is the easiest place to witness the current state of things. It’s best done as a day trip from Nukus , as it’s only a 3-hour drive away.

Practical guide and resources for traveling in Uzbekistan

$100 in Uzbek som back in 2016. Luckily, things have changed since then!

Money in Uzbekistan

Traveling to Uzbekistan comes with some quirks. It’s a cash-only economy, meaning your cards are often useless except in high-end hotels.

Money used to be a nightmare; you had to carry around huge stacks of bills and change foreign currency on the black market for the best rates. Luckily, the Uzbek government has done away with its restrictive currency policies, effectively killing the black market for money. It also printed large denomination notes; you no longer need a backpack just to carry around your Uzbek som!

Money can now be changed at market rates at Uzbek banks and exchanges. ATMs are more widely available in Tashkent and Samarkand, and should convert money at market rates. I still advise bringing cash when you visit Uzbekistan; ATMs can run out of money quickly.

Unless you’re going with a tour that has arranged everything for you (doubtful if you’re reading this) , you’ll have to bring cash. Cold hard US dollars are the currency of choice—make sure they’re in somewhat good condition—but other currencies are accepted, too.

For more information on the money situation and how to exchange money in Uzbekistan, check out my post on how much it costs to go backpacking in Uzbekistan.

A shared taxi in Uzbekistan

Transportation in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan isn’t huge, but getting around can be time-consuming. The most common means of transportation between cities are trains and shared taxis.

Shared taxis in Uzbekistan

Shared taxis have set places of departure, and leave when full.  To find shared taxis, ask your guesthouse where the shared taxi for your destination leaves from, though regular taxi drivers usually know, too.

In some cases, bargaining for a shared taxi is straightforward. Ask your guesthouse what the going rate is, and offer that to the taxi driver. They usually agree quickly if the price is fair.

Tip: Sometimes, shared taxi drivers will rush you to leave before their car is full, then make you pay for  all  the seats, not just yours. If it seems your taxi driver is trying to take advantage of you, simply put your bags in the car then stand outside the car until it’s clear that it’s full with other passengers.

Routes to less-visited places, such as Termez and Andijan, however, can have very stubborn drivers who refuse to give you a good price. Your best bet is to wait for locals to arrive and have them help you negotiate a price. Make sure to pay attention: drivers will sometimes ask them to overstate the price so they can charge you more.

Drivers will usually drop you off in front of your guesthouse or your desired destination.

Trains in Uzbekistan

Trains are more comfortable than shared taxis, and are definitely the way to go for long distances.

Uzbekistan has fast trains and slow trains. The fast trains, which only run during the day, are modern affairs, priced accordingly. Slow trains, which also run overnight, consist of old Soviet rolling stock. Uzbekistan recently introduced the Afrosiyob high-speed rail, which runs between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. It’s the most expensive, but by far the fastest transportation option.

The times I mention in this itinerary (except the train to Termiz) are mostly for fast trains. Slow trains take at least twice as long.

I only used slow trains. They are much cheaper, and though the ride is long the conversations you’ll have with curious Uzbeks help to pass the time. They also help you save on accommodation costs, since fast trains don’t go overnight. Most slow trains offer three types of seating:

Platzkart is an open wagon, with two beds to the side and four beds across from each other in each section. Kuppe has four-berth wagons and SV two-berth wagons. I preferred platzkart, as it’s cheap, comfortable enough, and a great place to meet locals.

You can (theoretically) book tickets online these days on the Uzbekistan Railways website , but I found it much easier to just go to the train station or a ticketing office a day before departure. Guesthouses can help with bookings, too. Seat 61 has a more extensive guide to trains in Uzbekistan .

Tip: If you take the train, make sure to arrive at the station at least half an hour before departure. You need to go through a security screening before reaching the platform.

Soviet-style hotel in Andijan

Accommodation in Uzbekistan

Since Uzbekistan has a bit of an obsession with control, they like to make sure foreign visitors stay in official lodging. To enforce this, hotels, guest houses, and hostels are required to register with the government, report each foreign visitor that stays, and provide a registration slip as proof.

Theoretically, all tourists visiting Uzbekistan have to present all these registration slips upon departure from Uzbekistan. However, in recent years border officials have become more relaxed about seeing every. single. slip. Officially you need have at least one proof of registration for every three day period—meaning you could disappear for the other two days—but not all officials seem to care. The exception is the Fergana Valley, where you do need to register every day.

If you’re staying in a hotel, guest house, or hostel, everything will be arranged for you. Just make sure to keep all your registration slips in a safe place. Camping and Couchsurfing are much trickier propositions, which I don’t recommend since you can put both yourself and your host at risk of punishment. If you’re taking a night train, keep the ticket as proof of “accommodation.”

In my experience in 2019, border guards seem much more relaxed about the need to register and mostly wave tourists through. However, I still recommend you keep your registration slips, just in case. You never know when you’ll get a stickler at customs and immigration.

More resources for travel in Uzbekistan

• Things to know before going to Uzbekistan – My go-to list of all things you need to know before traveling to Uzbekistan.
• Lonely Planet: Central Asia  – Because let’s face it, having a physical book is always best. This is the most up-to-date Lonely Planet with Uzbekistan coverage.
• World Nomads Travel Insurance – The travel insurance I used both times I visited Uzbekistan. Highly recommended!
• Uzbekistan? Overchargistan! – A look at the unfortunate practice of overcharging in Uzbekistan by Uncornered Market, one of my favorite blogs.

Interactive route map of places to visit in Uzbekistan

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Yay transparency! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy or book something with my links, I’ll get a small commission at no extra cost to you . Think of it as a way of saying thanks for making the itinerary 🙂

• Central Asia

Alex Reynolds

37 thoughts on “ two week uzbekistan itinerary ”.

Thank you your detailed information about Uzbekistan. I have been in Central Asia 2021 November for 6 days. I think this is the best time to visit for Uzbekistan, the whether not hot , was warm. I hired English speaking guide from Pegas Adventure travel company. My guide he was very helpful, he knows everything with big knowledge. I think 1 week not enough to see all places and buildings, need minimum 10 days.

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5 days in Uzbekistan: an itinerary with culture, history & food

• September 18, 2023

Uzbekistan is the second Central Asian country that we visited, right after Kazakhstan , but what a contrast! Where Kazakhstan was rich in nature, culture & landscapes, Uzbekistan gave us an enriching experience in history, architecture, culture & food! A key part of the historical ‘Silk Road’, a network of trade routes connecting the East and West, Uzbekistan was influenced by various cultures including Persian, Greek, Arab, Mongol, and Russian. The ancient Islamic architecture is stunning and because there was a close connection in the history of Uzbekistan & India, this was even more intriguing for us.

We could spend only 5 days in Uzbekistan, and they were fascinating, to say the least. However, we could have utilized these days a bit better had we known a few things in advance. This is why, research is key, and that’s what has made you land on my blog, hasn’t it? So here we go with some important things you need to know before visiting Uzbekistan, to have the perfect trip!

• How to dress in Uzbekistan: I read several blogs that said women should dress conservatively in Uzbekistan, so I carried all my ankle-length dresses and scarfs to cover my shoulders. However, when I arrived in Tashkent (and Samarkand as well), I noticed lots of women wearing knee-length dresses and sleeveless tops. While nobody was showing excessive skin, it wasn’t too conservative either. It is only when you’re entering places of worship that you might be required to cover your ankles, shoulders & even head, in some. However, you will have access to an abaya or long gown right outside these places, so no need to worry!

• Visa for visiting Uzbekistan: UAE residents have visa on arrival, so we didn’t have to apply for a visa in advance. However, most nationalities are likely to need a visa, and are eligible for an e-visa which takes about 2-3 days to be processed.
• On arrival in Uzbekistan: You’re unlikely to find Uzbek currency (sum or som) anywhere before you arrive in Uzbekistan so carry some USD on you and exchange them at the one currency exchange counter at Tashkent (or Samarkand) airport. 1 USD = 11,000 UZS, so be ready to become a millionaire (in som) when you’re there. LOL. Another important thing to do is get a local sim at the airport, and immediately download Yandex Go (Uzbekistan’s Uber) which is extremely convenient, useful, and cheap to travel within the cities. Also, English isn’t very widely spoken in Uzbekistan yet, so downloading google translate audio or any other translation app will be of help!
• Travelling between cities: Uzbekistan has a surprisingly well-developed train network between its key cities, especially from Tashkent to other smaller cities. They also have bullet trains (known as Afrosiyob High Speed Trains) that can cover these long distances in very short times and reasonable prices. These bullet trains are extremely convenient as the best mode of travel inter-city. However, the tickets to these trains can get sold out weeks in advance, so a good amount of planning beforehand is likely to be of great help. The normal trains take more than double the time than the bullet trains, and the flights from Tashkent to these cities are quite expensive comparatively. Make sure to book your bullet train tickets at least 2 weeks in advance during off-peak tourist season and 4 weeks in advance during peak tourist season/ local Islamic holidays.
• When to travel to Uzbekistan: This brings me to the best time to travel to Uzbekistan. We visited in May, and it was already quite hot, in mid-30s (centigrade), making it quite hard to walk during the day/ afternoon time. I can only imagine how difficult it would be during summer months. The best time to travel to Uzbekistan if you wish to avoid too much heat is March – early May or late September to November.

• Safety in Uzbekistan: Before travelling, I was advised by an acquaintance to not stay in Tashkent’s old town as it was extremely unsafe. While this did put me a bit of the defensive while I was there, to be honest, I did not face a single situation where I felt I was not safe. I even spent one day walking alone in the old town and while some men do stare and even try to talk to you, that’s the maximum they did and ran away the moment I responded to them in a loud voice, threatening them to alert the police. This isn’t uncommon in conservative countries in the Middle East, but it wasn’t unsafe in any manner. We were out and about late on several nights and could see a lot of cops everywhere.
• What not to miss in Uzbekistan: The food, the musical performances, staying with a local family, and some off-beat experiences such as wine tasting & hammam. This is, of course, apart from the usual tourist sites that you will visit.

5 days in Uzbekistan itinerary

Day 1: tashkent.

Most flights will arrive in the capital city, Tashkent. Tashkent is a very big city and has two contrasting sides to it – the old town area, which is quieter, more conservative, lesser crowded and more cultural, and then the more modern side near Amir Temur Square & Independence Square, which is more development and modernization. Tashkent today is a dynamic and vibrant city with a mix of Soviet-era architecture, modern high-rise buildings, and surprisingly, lots of green parks. While much of the ancient architecture was lost over the centuries, Tashkent still has several historical sites and buildings of interest too.

Our accommodation was in the Old Town area, so we started by exploring an unknown yet beautiful mosque located right next to it - Mausoleum & mosque of Suzuk Ota.  It was quiet and empty so we managed to enjoy a peaceful walk, take lots of photos & observe the lovely architecture. from here, we then headed to other monuments in Old Teshkent - Chorsu Bazaar, Kukeldash Madrasah, Dzhuma Mosque, Barak-khan Madrasa & Hazrati Imam Complex. While walking is a great option (this total route was less than 5 kms), due to the excess heat, we decided to use the (super cheap) Yandex Go taxi option. I regrated it after we realized how crazy the traffic in the city was.

Chorsu Bazaar is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Tashkent with a history dating back over a thousand years. It is a bustling and vibrant market where locals and visitors come to buy fresh produce, spices, textiles, handicrafts, and various other goods. When you enter the market, all your 5 senses will be immediately activated! The fragrance of the fresh fruits, the tasting stalls that offer free samples, the chaos and the noise of the shopkeepers calling for attention, the colorful stacks of the spices, everything comes together to form a shocking and unique experience. The centerpiece of the Chorsu Bazaar is its massive domed building, which serves as a symbol of Tashkent. The dome, along with its blue-tiled exterior, creates a visually striking landmark. Personally, I couldn’t stay inside for long, as much as I wanted to sample the local produce. To each his own, I guess!

Just a 10-min walk is this peaceful (contrast) Islamic seminary which dates to the 16th century, Kukeldash Madrasah . The traditional blue and turquoise tilework makes for a distinctive architectural style, more of which we saw further when we visited Samarkand. You can enter the madrasah for a price. While historically, it served as an educational center, providing religious and secular education to students, today, it is used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions, showcasing traditional Uzbek crafts and arts. A lot of the area is closed to tourists, but you can take a short 10 min walk inside.

Right next to the madrasah is The Dzhuma Mosque , one of the oldest mosques in the city, with its roots dating back to the 10th century. Unfortunately, I couldn’t go inside as it was prayer time when I was there, but I managed to take some lovely photos from outside.

From here, we headed to Barak-Khan Madrasah & Hazrati Imam Complex . Another architectural classic, with intricate tilework, geometric patterns, and Arabic inscriptions, the Barakhan Madrasa houses the Applied Arts Museum, which exhibits a collection of traditional Uzbek arts and crafts, including textiles, ceramics, woodwork, and jewelry. Right next to it is the Hazrati Imam Complex, a significant religious and cultural site in Tashkent, home to several important religious buildings (a mosque, a library & a mausoleum).

From here, head to the new part of the city, starting with a visit to a relatively new monument in Tashkent, Minor Mosque . Opened in 2014, the mosque’s architecture is distinct from other historical brick mosques with its white marble finishing and turquoise dome. While this isn’t exactly a historical monument with a story to tell, I quite liked it for it’s unique and stunning exteriors.

Not too far from here is the Tashkent TV tower . Another piece of modern architecture, the tower reminds you a little of the Eiffel Tower. Some people head to the Observation Deck located at 97 meters (the tower is 375 meters) to enjoy unparalleled views of the city. We just sat in the lovely park across the tower, where you will also find the Memorial to the Victims of Repression, to have a picnic and observe the locals. The sunset views from the Alleya Pamyati park next to the stream are excellent, as are the views of the TV tower sparkling when the skies turn black.

Right next to the TV Tower is one of the most popular Uzbek restaurants in Tashkent – Besh Qozon (formerly Central Asian Plov Center). We really wanted to eat here but the place was super crowded and there was huge queue outside and we were too hungry to wait. If you can, do try the plov here as it is known to be the best in the city.

Finally, head to Amir Temur Square if you wish to see the high-rise buildings, modern hotels, lively bars & pubs, and experience the nightlife in Tashkent.

Suggested hotel to stay in old town, Tashkent: Hotel Suzuk-Ota .

Day 2: Tashkent & Samarkand

We were very unfortunate that we couldn’t get the Afrosiyob High Speed Train tickets in Uzbekistan as they were sold out due to which we had to book the normal trains and lost a lot of time. We started the morning by visiting Independence Square in Tashkent before boarding our train to Samarkand.

Independence Square, also known as Mustaqillik Square, houses the independence monument which we couldn’t access due to some important political movement that was happening in the morning. So, we just spent some time walking in the park surrounding the area and enjoying a peaceful breakfast.

Our train journey took over 4.5 hours to Samarkand (would’ve been 2.5 hours by bullet train) so we arrived there early evening. Try to catch an earlier train, if possible. Our accommodation was right next to the most iconic landmark in Samarkand – Registan , so it was the obvious place to begin our exploration. Let me start by saying – I loved Samarkand! It was way more cultural than Tashkent, the architecture was so much more stunning, and the food was excellent, some of the best kebabs I’ve had in my life. If you are short on time, you may miss Tashkent but do not miss Samarkand. I was struck in awe at the grandeur of Registan, especially at night!

Surrounded by three iconic madrasas: Ulugh Beg Madrasa, Sher-Dor Madrasa, and Tilya-Kori Madrasa, Registan is known to be one of the most impressive architectural ensembles in Central Asia. There is a ticket to enter the 3 madrasas, but if you only wish to experience the place from outside, you can see it without buying a ticket. I, however, highly recommend buying the ticket to go inside. While most of these madrasahs today are just lined with several souvenir shops and handicraft sellers, I thoroughly enjoyed renting the local traditional dress (a flowing blue cape with a head tiara) and roaming the Registan Square. Several other women followed suit and soon, the entire square was full of foreign women wearing traditional Uzbek dresses and getting a photoshoot, LOL!

Registan at night

The most intriguing part of Registan, for me, was the exteriors at night. I spent almost an hour just sitting outside and staring at it, lit up, against the dark blue/ black skies of the night. We were also told that on some days, there’s a traditional music and dance performance that takes place right inside Sher-Dor Madrasah during sunset, but we waited there on both nights with no luck!

At night, we headed to the street across Registan, which was lined with several restaurants offering the traditional ‘tapchan’ (outdoor floor seating) with freshly barbecued kebabs and meats. One such restaurant - Labi G'or turned out to be my favourite. Such succulent meats, amazing collection of traditional Uzbek wines, and extensive menu for traditional foods.

Suggested local homestay in Samarkand, right next to Registan: Furkat Guest House

Day 3: Samarkand

Start your day by visiting Bibi-Khanym Mosque . A magnificent mosque originally constructed in the 15th century, it is named after Timur's favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym, in what is often referred to as Timurid-era architecture (for the historically daft, Timur was a famous Central Asian conqueror). Intended to be one of the most magnificent mosques of its time, its size and splendor were meant to symbolize the power and wealth of Timur’s empire. The mosque's entrance gate is particularly impressive, with its massive size and intricate blue tilework. As with most sites, there is an entrance fee to explore the interiors of this monument. The large courtyard and main prayer hall are surrounded by elegant iwans (vaulted halls) adorned with intricate tilework and calligraphy. The interior of the mosque is decorated with beautiful painted tiles and patterns.

Next to the Biib-Khanym Mosque is Siob Bazaar , an open-air bazaar selling fresh foods, fruits, spices, and souvenirs. Like the Chorsu Bazaar (minus the architecture), this is a good place to buy some local produce. From here, just another 10 min walk ahead, is Shah-i-Zinda. But just before we arrived at Shah-i-Zinda, we noticed another beautiful complex across the bridge where we decided to enter as the architecture looked quite interesting and found out that it is the Hazrat-Hizr Mosque. The 8th-century mosque that once stood here was burnt to the ground by Chinggis (Genghis) Khan in the 13th century and was not rebuilt until the 1990s when it was restored by a wealthy Bukharan and today it’s one of Samarkand’s most beautiful mosques, with a fine domed interior and views of Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Shah-i-Zinda and Afrosiab from the minaret. We spent about 20 minutes exploring this place before finally heading to my second favorite place in Samarkand – Shah-i-Zinda.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Shah-i-Zinda, which translates to "the Living King," is a complex of mausoleums and tombs believed to date back to the 11th to 15th centuries. It is a burial place of royalty, nobles, and other prominent figures associated with the ruling elite and religious leadership of the region. The necropolis is considered one of the holiest sites in Samarkand and an important pilgrimage destination for Muslims. The boasts a stunning array of mausoleums and tombs, each adorned with intricate tilework, colorful mosaics, and elaborate geometric patterns, typical of Timurid-era architecture. I couldn’t get enough photos here; I was totally in awe!

Quite close to Shah-i-Zinda, there’s an ancient hammam called " Hammam Dovudi ". It is not a popular place to visit in Samarkand but if you’re looking for a slightly offbeat experience in the middle of the city, and hammams or ancient baths are your thing, then this one should make it to you list. Run by a local family, the place is old and original. It is not fancy, but the experience provided is quite personal – you get to relax in the chambers before being treated to hot stone warming session followed by an (intense) massage, scrub, and skin treatment. A very authentic & historical experience but don’t expect luxury!

Finally, we headed to Gur Emir Palace, one of the most significant architectural monuments in Central Asia which serves as the final resting place for several members of the Timurid dynasty, including the famed conqueror Timur (Tamerlane) himself. To us Indians, this monument is even more significant as it is known to be the inspiration behind the construction of Taj Mahal, an iconic historical monument located in Agra, India, and one of the seven wonders of the world. Not only is the exterior of the mausoleum stunning, adorned with intricately patterned tiles in hues of blue, turquoise, and white, but the interior is no less impressive, decorated with delicate mosaics and verses from the Quran written in calligraphy.

To end the evening, we headed to yet another off-beat location (and experience) in Samarkand – Khovrenko Winery. One cannot imagine that Uzbekistan would grow their own wines because they aren’t popular, but they were quite nice! We bought a package for USD 20 that gave us access to an English-speaking guide who explained the history of winemaking in Uzbekistan, along with tasting of 10 different types of wines, brandy, and vodka. We were the only ones there, so we got a personalized experience!

Day 4: Bukhara

I was really upset about having to cut out Bukhara from our trip because of the lack of time and the inability to get bullet trains, as they were sold out. Samarkand to Bukhara by the normal train takes about 2.5 hours whereas the Afrosiyob High Speed Train takes a little over an hour. While I didn’t manage to make it there, I am dropping here what was my original plan for the day at Bukhara.

Bukhara is an even smaller, more cultural city in Uzbekistan and is known worldwide for its cuisine, with numerous Uzbek restaurants and dishes named after the city. From Tashkent to Samarkand to Bukhara, you’re going more rural, more traditional & definitely, richer culturally & historically. Start your exploration with Lyabi Khauz , a modern plaza with a pool right in the center, surrounded by different structures of cultural & historical significance which are today home to several souvenir shops. The pool was once used for swimming by the public but had to be shut down after it began to become the hotbed for spreading diseases in the city. Today, the plaza is a gathering point for the locals to enjoy some tea, food & chitchat. This is a good place for a breakfast stop!

Located in the Lyab-i Hauz complex is the Chor Minor Madrasah , a structure with four iconic towers or minarets, crowned with azure-blue domes. The building’s architecture is quite unique, even though it is itself quite small when compared to other historical monuments that you will be visiting in Bukhara. From here, on your way to Poi-Kalyan, you will the Trading Domes of Bukhara . Similar to other bazaars that you might have visited in Tashkent & Samarkand, these markets sell everything from leather goods, souvenirs, fresh foods and meats, and local handicrafts.

You’re not in what is known as the Old City of Bukhara. The Historic Centre of Bukhara is more than two thousand years old and is one of the best examples of well-preserved Islamic cities of Central Asia, from the 10th to 17th centuries. Some iconic sites in this area, totally Instagrammable and awe-inspiring because of the architecture, are: Poi-Kalyan complex (with Kalan Mosque , Kalan Minaret and Amir-Allimkhan Madrasah ). The Kalan Minaret is the #1 photographed location in Bukhara.

Poi-Kalyan Image by: Murray Foote

In the old city, you will also find the #2 most photographed location in Bukhara – Ark of Bukhara . Located in Registan, start exploring the Ark from it’s iconic main gate. The Ark has an interesting history: it had traditionally served as a slave market as well as a public execution ground. Another interesting place to explore in Registan is the Bolo Hauz Mosque . Located on the opposite site of the Ark, the complex consists of a reservoir, a Friday Mosque and minaret. Bolo Hauz translates to ‘Children's reservoir’, which is the oldest part of the complex.

Also located in Old Bukhara is another iconic historical monument – Ulug’bek Madrasah . This is the first madrasah built by Ulug’bek (Temur’s grandson), in early 15 th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today. Finally, end your day with a relaxing hammam experience at Hamman Bozori Kord , one of the oldest functioning bathhouses in the world. This leisure activity was known to be enjoyed by royalty and common folk alike and is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have in Bukhara.

Suggested accommodation in Bukhara: Imperial Palace .

Day 5: Bukhara / Return to Tashkent

Depending on your arrival time in Bukhara, you might want to cover some things on this day as it might be too much to do in 1 day. In the afternoon / evening, return to Tashkent via the Afrosiyob High Speed Train which takes a little less than 4 hours (vs the normal train, which takes about 5.5 hrs). You may also choose to fly back via a direct domestic flight to Tashkent, to save on time.

Optional, if you have more time:

• Khiva: Yet another historic city located in the southwestern part of Uzbekistan, near the border with Turkmenistan, Khiva is one of the country's most well-preserved ancient cities and is renowned for its rich history and architectural heritage. Khiva's old town, known as Ichan Kala, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction in Central Asia.
• Day trip from Tashkent to Charvak Lake & Chimgan Mountains: We went to Uzbekistan right after Kazakhstan so we decided to spend time exploring the historical sites rather than landscapes (Uzbekistan cannot surpass Kazakhstan when it comes to landscapes), but if you have some extra time and wish to get away from too much architecture & history lessons, this makes for a great day trip from Tashkent, into the mountains.

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sarfaraz akhtar

hotel recommendation in Samarkand and Bukhara.For family of three.near the city centres,.3 star functional types.

Medha Verma

Hello Sarfaraz..I’d be happy to work on a custom itinerary for you along with hotel, activities, mode of transportation recommendations (for a fee, of course). If you’re interested, please email me at [email protected]

Hi Medha! What is your recommendation to choose between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan- planning a 7-8 days trip in early April

Hi Manjusha, it really depends on what you’re looking for! These are two entirely different countries – while Kazakhstan offers you gorgeous landscapes and is perfect for nature lovers & hiking enthusiasts, Uzbekistan is more for those looking for cultural and historical experiences.

hi Medha, Thank you for the insightful blog. This is very informative. I have 2 questions. 1. How much does the Hamaam cost? 2. I am planning to travel with a 16 month old baby, about 6-7 days for tashkent, Samarkand , Bukhara and Khiva. Do you think this is rushed or we will have enough time?

Hello Prerna,

Ideally 7-8 days should be good for the above itinerary if you don’t wish to rush. Do remember to book the fast speed trains in advance, they will really ease things for you in terms of saving time. As for the cost of the hammam, it was negotiable for us. They asked for about $80 but were willing to negotiate…

Hi Medha! Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights. I’m busy doing research on Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan for my travel next year – deciding which on to visit. Or whether I should do both. 2 weeks just seem too short. I’m from Cape Town, South Africa. If you ever decide to visit you’re welcome to contact me for advice. My ig handle is @travelyourland

Hi Faatimah, I would say 2 weeks is good enough to get a flavour of both countries. You could spend a week in each! If you’re the ‘slow’ kind of traveller, who doesn’t like to pack their day with too many activities and wants to explore with ease and in a leisurely manner, then I suggest to spend the 2 weeks in Kazakhstan itself. I am visiting Cape Town in 3 weeks by the way, would love to have your recommendations as well!

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