UZBEKISTAN

Nestled in Central Asia, Uzbekistan is a land where ancient Silk Road cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva whisper tales of empires and caravans. This doubly landlocked nation boasts a rich history, stunning Islamic architecture, and a vibrant culture shaped by centuries of trade and diverse influences. Its arid landscapes meet the foothills of the Tien Shan mountains.

Region: Central Asia

Capital: Tashkent

Official Language: Uzbek

Level of Travel Safety: Generally, “Exercise a high degree of caution” due to potential terrorism threats and violent crime, especially in border regions. Petty crime can occur in tourist areas.

A map of Asia with Uzbekistan highlighted in green.

Why Visit Uzbekistan?

Historic Cities: Explore Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, key Silk Road cities with stunning architecture and history.

Registan Square: Marvel at the iconic central square of Samarkand, with its breathtaking madrassas and minarets.

UNESCO Heritage Sites: Uzbekistan boasts several UNESCO-listed sites, including the ancient city of Khiva and Bukhara’s Old Town.

An ornate, ancient madrasah (Islamic school) with intricate tilework and a large arched entrance, illuminated at dusk.

Local Culture and Traditions: Enjoy the vibrant bazaars, traditional music, and Uzbek cuisine, which includes plov (rice pilaf) and shashlik (grilled meat).

Silk Road Legacy: Experience the rich history of the Silk Road that passed through Uzbekistan, a land where cultures and ideas converged.

Natural Beauty: Visit the stunning landscapes of the Fergana Valley, the Kyzylkum Desert, and the Tien Shan mountains for outdoor adventure.

A large, ancient fortress with high, tan-colored walls under a clear blue sky.

Essential Trip Information

Visa-free for up to 30 days for citizens of 85+ countries (including EU, UK, Japan, South Korea).

E-visa required for others (US$20, processing time: 2-3 days). Apply at Uzbekistan E-Visa Portal.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

Registration required if staying over 3 days—hotels usually handle this, but keep slips.

Official Currency: Uzbek Som (UZS).

Exchange Rate: US$1 ≈ 11,000 UZS (approximate, check current rates).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange some currency at your local exchange bureau.
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (for better rates).
  • Credit Cards: International credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but cash is often preferred for small transactions.

What to Avoid: Avoid currency exchange offices at airports due to unfavorable rates.

Official Language: Uzbek.

Russian: Widely spoken, especially in urban areas.

English: Limited availability, especially outside major cities.

Helpful Phrases:

  • “Hello” – Salom
  • “Thank you” – Rahmat
  • “Where is…?” – Qayerda…?

Uzbekistan is generally safe for tourists, but like in any destination, exercise caution in crowded places.

Emergency number: 103 (ambulance), 102 (police).

Be cautious in isolated areas at night and avoid unregistered taxis.

No mandatory vaccinations are required, but routine vaccinations are recommended.

Travel insurance is recommended.

Tap water in some areas may not be safe to drink, so bottled water is advised.

Pharmacies are widely available in cities.

Taxis: Available throughout major cities and can be hailed on the street.

Public transport: Buses, metro (in Tashkent), and marshrutkas are cheap and efficient.

Trains: Fast trains (Afrosiyob) connect major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.

Car Rentals: Available but driving can be challenging for foreigners due to traffic and road conditions.

Budget-friendly compared to Western destinations.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/budget hotels (US$25–50/night).
  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$60–100/night).
  • Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$150+/night).

Food

  • Quick eats: Street food (US$2–5).
  • Casual dining: Local restaurants (US$10–20).
  • Fine dining: Upscale restaurants (US$30+/person).

Drinks

  • Beer: US$2–4 (bars), US$1–2 (supermarkets).
  • Cocktails: US$5–10.

Transportation

  • Taxi: US$3–7 for short trips.
  • Buses: US$0.30–0.50 per ride.
  • Car rental: US$30–60 per day.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local bazaars for authentic, inexpensive meals.

  • Visit historical sites like Registan Square in Samarkand (often free or low-cost entry).

  • Use public transport or shared taxis (marshrutkas) for affordable travel.

Explore Uzbekistan

The jewel of the Silk Road, renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture. Located in central Uzbekistan, it’s home to the iconic Registan Square, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, offering a glimpse into Timurid grandeur.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient city is a living museum. Situated in south-central Uzbekistan, its historic center boasts over 140 architectural monuments, including the Poi Kalyan Complex and the Samanid Mausoleum, reflecting centuries of spiritual and cultural significance.

A perfectly preserved walled city, transporting visitors back to the time of caravans and khans. Located in the far west of Uzbekistan, it’s essentially an open-air museum where you can explore its towering minarets, madrasahs, and palaces within its formidable clay walls.

The vibrant capital and largest city in Central Asia, blending modern architecture with Soviet-era design and ancient monuments. Found in eastern Uzbekistan, it offers a diverse experience from the sprawling Chorsu Bazaar to the impressive Amir Timur Museum and the beautiful Tashkent Metro.

The birthplace of Amir Timur, the great 14th-century conqueror. Located south of Samarkand in the Kashkadarya region, it features monumental ruins of Timur’s Ak-Saray Palace, the Dorut-Tilovat Complex, and the Crypt of Timur, showcasing his imperial legacy

A fertile and densely populated region known for its traditional crafts, silk production, and ceramics. Situated in eastern Uzbekistan, bordering Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, it offers insights into local life, with cities like Margilan (silk) and Rishtan (ceramics).

A region offering natural beauty, traditional homestays, and desert landscapes. Located in central Uzbekistan, north of Samarkand, it’s perfect for hiking, experiencing nomadic culture, and enjoying the tranquility of the vast, semi-artificial Aydarkul Lake.

A city with a deep archaeological history, reflecting its past as a Buddhist and Zoroastrian center on the ancient trade routes. Found in the far south of Uzbekistan, near the Afghan border, it offers sites like Fayaz-Tepe and Kara-Tepe Buddhist monasteries.

A poignant destination showcasing the devastating environmental impact of its shrinking. Located in the autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan in western Uzbekistan, the “ship graveyard” near Muynak serves as a stark reminder of the ecological crisis.

A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, skiing, and scenic beauty. Situated just a short drive from Tashkent, this mountainous region provides a refreshing escape with opportunities for various activities depending on the season.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Cozy Atmosphere
  • Potential for snowy, picturesque landscapes

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (can drop to 14ºF / -10ºC or lower, especially at night)
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures

Key Regions:

  • Tashkent: Enjoy museums and indoor attractions without the crowds.
  • Samarkand: See Registan Square with a dusting of snow for a magical view.
  • Bukhara: Wander the ancient streets in quiet contemplation.
  • Chimgan Mountains: Offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing (near Tashkent).

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (temperatures typically between 59ºF/15ºC and 86ºF/30ºC)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (e.g., Navruz in Spring, harvest festivals in Autumn)
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Spring Mud Season (especially in rural/mountainous areas)
  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn)
  • Increased Crowds (especially in May and September/October)

Key Regions:

  • Samarkand: Perfect weather for exploring its grand monuments.
  • Bukhara: Comfortable for walking its labyrinthine alleys and seeing historic sites.
  • Khiva: Enjoy the open-air museum city before the summer heat.
  • Fergana Valley: Experience vibrant local life and traditional crafts in pleasant temperatures.
  • Nurata Mountains: Ideal for hiking and experiencing rural homestays.
  • Mid-April to early June
  • Mid-September to early November
  • July-August (extremely hot, but still popular for some travelers)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid discussing politics with locals—Uzbekistan is a country with a rich political history, and conversations about politics can be sensitive.

Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated—around 10% in restaurants or US$1–2 per bag for hotel staff.

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites. In urban areas like Tashkent, casual dress is fine, but avoid overly revealing clothing.

Museum Behavior: Be respectful and quiet, especially in places like the Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand or the Ark Fortress in Bukhara.

Free Attractions: Many historical sites are free to visit, though donations are welcomed.

Accommodation: Budget (US$10–30), mid-range (US$50–100), luxury (US$150+).

Food: Street food (US$3–8), casual meals (US$10–20), fine dining (US$25–50).

Transport: Public transport (US$1–3/day), taxis (US$5–15/day).

Activities: Entrance fees to museums and historical sites (US$2–10), guided tours (US$20–50).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$40–70 (guesthouses, street food, public transport).
  • Mid-range: US$100–180 (hotels, sit-down meals, attractions).
  • Luxury: US$250+ (5-star hotels, private tours, fine dining).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, and some public places in major cities like Tashkent and Samarkand.

SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards from Ucell or Beeline (US$5–10 for 5–10GB).

eSIMs: Available through international providers (Airalo, Holafly).

Recommended for: Medical coverage, trip delays, and theft protection, especially if you plan on visiting remote regions.

Uzbekistan Healthcare: Healthcare in major cities is decent but can be lacking in rural areas. It’s recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Adventure Activities: Policies may exclude certain adventure sports like trekking in remote areas or desert tours, so confirm with your provider.

Uzbekistan offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Luxury:

  • Tashkent: The Lotte City Hotel (US$150–250/night), an upscale option with modern amenities.
  • Samarkand: The Registan Plaza Hotel (US$130–220/night), located near major landmarks.

Mid-range:

  • Bukhara: Hotel ASL (US$60–100/night), offering comfortable rooms in the city center.
  • Khiva: Orient Star Khiva (US$50–80/night), a historical hotel with traditional Uzbek charm.

Budget:

  • Tashkent: Backpackers Hostel (US$10–20/night).
  • Bukhara: Budget guesthouses (US$15–35/night).

Unique Stays:

  • Yurts: Experience a stay in a traditional yurt in the desert (US$25–50/night).
  • Traditional houses: Homestays in rural areas like Shahrisabz provide an immersive cultural experience (US$20–40/night).

Tip: Consider booking in advance for stays during peak tourist seasons (April–June and September–November).

Transport options in Uzbekistan range from shared taxis to modern trains—planning your travel between regions is essential.

Trains:

  • Fast trains: The Afrosiyob high-speed train connects Tashkent and Samarkand in about 2 hours.
  • Classes: 1st class (comfortable, with reserved seats), 2nd class (affordable, but sometimes crowded).
  • Book early for popular routes like Tashkent–Samarkand.

Buses:

  • Public buses: Inexpensive but can be slow (US$1–3 for city trips). Long-distance buses also available between major cities.
  • Private buses: Faster and more comfortable, with tickets ranging from US$10–20.

Shared Taxis (Marshrutkas):

  • Short routes: Popular for intercity travel. Prices vary depending on distance (US$5–10 per person).

Car Rentals:

  • Self-driving: Recommended if you’re comfortable with local driving conditions. Rental cars generally cost around US$40–70/day.
  • Driver-guides: Available for long trips or for more comfort, at around US$60–100/day.

Domestic Flights:

  • Domestic flights: Available between major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, generally costing US$50–150 depending on the season.

Bold Recommendation: Use the high-speed trains for intercity travel and consider hiring a driver-guide for long trips or remote areas.

Handy Tips

Uzbekistan uses the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). Banknotes come in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000, and 100,000 UZS. Coins are rarely used.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange counters (poor rates). Use official banks or trusted exchange offices (called “exchange booths” or “obmen valyuta”). ATMs are available in major cities, though often limited to local currency.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in international hotels, upscale restaurants, and some supermarkets, but carry cash for taxis, bazaars, and rural areas.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: 5–10% if not already included.

    • Taxis: No tip required, but rounding up is appreciated.

    • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–3 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for full-day tours.

Uzbek is the official language; Russian is widely spoken, especially in Tashkent. English is limited outside tourist hubs.

Common phrases:

  • “Salom!” = Hello!
  • “Qancha turadi?” = How much does it cost?
  • “Metro qayerda?” = Where is the metro?
  • “Hisobni olsam bo’ladimi?” = Can I get the bill?

Pro Tip: Learn numbers in Uzbek—it helps in markets and taxis.

Uzbekistan is one of Central Asia’s safest countries for travelers, but caution is advised in remote areas and during late-night travel.

Avoid dark alleyways at night and keep valuables close in crowded markets like Chorsu Bazaar.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 101: Fire
  • 102: Police
  • 103: Ambulance

Your Embassy: Most are located in Tashkent—carry printed or digital copies of key contact info.

Uzbekistan uses 220V/50Hz with Type C and F plugs (two round pins). Bring a universal adapter. Converters may be necessary for U.S. appliances with voltage sensitivity.

Tap water is not safe for drinking. Always drink bottled or filtered water, available cheaply everywhere. Avoid ice in rural areas.

Use bottled water even for brushing teeth outside major cities.

Banks, government offices, and some museums may close on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 8 Mar: International Women’s Day

  • 21 Mar: Navruz (Persian New Year) – Huge celebrations across the country

  • 9 May: Day of Remembrance and Honour (WWII Victory Day)

  • 1 Sep: Independence Day

  • 1 Oct: Teachers’ Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas (for Christian minority)

  • Islamic holidays: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (dates vary based on lunar calendar)

Note: During Navruz, cities like Samarkand and Bukhara host spectacular festivals.

Shops/Bazaars: Usually 09:00–20:00 (bazaars open early, close around sunset)

Supermarkets: Open daily, often until 22:00

Pharmacies: 08:00–21:00; limited 24/7 options in major cities

Markets to Visit:

  • Chorsu Bazaar (Tashkent)
  • Siyob Bazaar (Samarkand)
  • Bukhara Silk and Spice Market

Plov: Uzbekistan’s national dish—fried rice with meat, carrots, and spices, often served at festive gatherings.

Shashlik: Skewered and grilled lamb or beef, typically served with fresh bread.

Manti: Dumplings filled with meat, onions, and pumpkin, steamed to perfection.

Lagman: Noodle soup with a hearty mix of vegetables and meat, flavored with garlic and chili.

Samsa: Flaky pastry filled with seasoned meat, often enjoyed as a snack.

Chuchvara: Uzbek-style dumplings filled with minced meat, served in a savory broth.

Kebabs: Grilled skewers of seasoned meat, a popular street food in Uzbekistan.

Halva: A sweet dessert made from flour, butter, and sugar, often topped with nuts.

Pakhlava: A rich pastry with layers of nuts and honey syrup, similar to baklava.

Nishalda: A traditional meringue-like dessert made with sugar, eggs, and starch.

Uzbek Kompot: A sweet, fruity beverage made by boiling dried fruits.

Alcoholic:

  • Uzbek Wine: Local wines, including red, white, and dessert varieties, made from indigenous grape varieties.

  • Shubat: Fermented camel’s milk, often enjoyed as a traditional drink.

  • Kumiss: Fermented mare’s milk, considered a refreshing and traditional drink in Central Asia.

  • Beer: Local beers such as Uzbekistan and Samarqand offer light, crisp options.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Chai: Traditional green or black tea, a symbol of hospitality in Uzbekistan.

  • Uzbek Lemonade: A sweet, citrus-based soft drink.

  • Fruit Juices: Freshly squeezed juices from fruits like pomegranate, melon, and apricot.

  • Ayran: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, perfect for hot weather.

  • Saffron Water: Infused water with a hint of saffron, often served with meals.

Islamic Architecture: Visit the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis and Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Silk and Ceramics: Watch artisans in Rishtan or Margilan at work

Suzani Embroidery: Rich, colorful traditional textile art

Khiva’s Old Town (Ichan Kala): Feels like a living museum

Zoroastrian Roots: Check out the ancient fire temples in Sogdiana

Sufi Sites: Bukhara is home to revered shrines like that of Baha-ud-Din Naqshband

Traditional Dance and Costume: Catch performances at cultural centers

Hospitality: Uzbek culture emphasizes generous hosting—expect tea, bread, and a warm welcome

UNESCO Heritage: Uzbekistan has 5 sites on the World Heritage List

Language Heritage: Uzbek is written in Latin, Cyrillic, and even Arabic script in different regions

Silk Road Cities: Explore UNESCO-listed Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva

Registan Square (Samarkand): Marvel at intricate tilework and Islamic architecture

Nightlife: Tashkent offers bars and clubs like Opera Night Club and CMI

Chorsu Bazaar: For a sensory overload of spices, produce, and textiles

Bukhara Hammams: Try a traditional steam bath experience

Tashkent TV Tower: Enjoy panoramic views or dinner in the revolving restaurant

Uzbekistan State Museum of History: Great overview of the region’s past

Folk Music Shows: Especially during summer festivals in Bukhara

Desert Camping: Yurt stays in Kyzylkum Desert with camel rides and stargazing

Metro Art Tour: Tashkent Metro is both a transport and art experience—each station is unique

Chillout Lounge: Located in Tashkent, offering a stylish atmosphere and cocktails.

Registan Bar: A popular spot in Samarkand for enjoying local drinks.

Shahriyor Cocktail Bar: Trendy venue in Tashkent offering unique cocktails.

Bukhara’s Caravanserai: A historic building turned restaurant offering live music and drinks.

Nurata’s Tea House: Relax with a traditional cup of tea in a rustic setting.

Samarkand’s Blue Pearl: A chic cocktail bar with a beautiful view of the city.

Kyzylkum Desert Campfire: Enjoy cocktails under the stars after a desert tour.

Alley Bar: Located in Tashkent, this bar is known for its international cocktails.

Jazz Nights in Samarkand: Experience live jazz performances in an intimate setting.

Uzbekistan’s Teahouses: Explore the traditional teahouses in Bukhara and Samarkand for a more relaxed atmosphere.