The Ultimate Uzbekistan Travel Guide For 2026
Uzbekistan quickly became one of my favourite countries. After spending 29 days visiting Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, I have compiled a useful Uzbekistan Travel Guide for anybody wanting to plan a trip.
Uzbekistan, situated in Central Asia, boasts a fascinating history, breathtaking architecture, a vibrant cultural heritage and hospitable people.
With a history dating back thousands of years, Uzbekistan has served as a crucial trade hub along the famous Silk Road.
Over the centuries, numerous powerful empires have flourished and declined in this region, each imparting its distinct influence on the art, architecture, and culture of the land.
Uzbekistan currently presents a captivating fusion of ancient and modern, with lively urban centres, secluded desert havens, and majestic mountain ranges, all waiting to be discovered by you!
Containing 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is plenty to keep you occupied whether you are doing a short or longer visit.
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Watch – Tashkent Travel Vlog
Uzbekistan Map
The blue points on the map above are the main cities which most travellers visit. The yellow points are other unique places worth visiting if you have the time.
Things To Know Before Visiting Uzbekistan
First of all, there are some things to know before you go.
This Uzbekistan travel guide covers the best time to visit, the culture, history and much more.
So let’s start with Geography.
Uzbekistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Kyrgyzstan to the northeast, Tajikistan to the southeast, Afghanistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest.
I only know one person who has ever visited Uzbekistan, and that person has made the journey much more exciting!
The terrain of Uzbekistan is diverse, with the vast Kyzylkum Desert covering much of the country’s central region and the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges dominating the south and southeast.
The Amu Darya, aka the Oxus, and the Syr Darya are the two main rivers in Uzbekistan, flowing from the mountains in the east to the Aral Sea in the west.
The Aral Sea, once one of the world’s largest lakes, has since shrunk significantly due to human activities such as irrigation and dam construction.
Moving south from Tashkent to Samarkand, to Bukhara and finally to Khiva showed me how diverse each city is whether it is related to food, landscape or history.
Check out the ancient fortresses of Khorezm to see how such settlements were created in the vast flatlands near the Oxus River.
Best Time To Visit Uzbekistan
We visited Uzbekistan from August 11th until September 8th, and it was very hot for most of August (high 30s° C) and certainly cooled off as September started (mid 20s°C).
Uzbekistan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when temperatures are mild, and the weather is dry. The best month to visit Uzbekistan is September, when the crowds have vanished, and you can still enjoy the good weather.
Summer (June to August) can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in some regions. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.
The mountainous regions of Uzbekistan experience cooler temperatures year-round, with summer temperatures averaging around 20°C and winter temperatures dropping below freezing.
The country receives little rainfall, with most of it occurring in the mountainous regions in the east and southeast.
Brief History And Culture
Uzbekistan has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, spanning from the ancient Silk Road trade routes to Soviet-era communism.
Some of the key figures and empires that have shaped Uzbekistan’s history and culture include:
- Alexander the Great: In 329 BC, Alexander the Great conquered the region that is now Uzbekistan, paving the way for Greek cultural influence.
- Timur: Also known as Tamerlane, Timur was a powerful 14th-century ruler who established the Timurid Empire, which spanned much of Central Asia and Persia. Timur’s reign is often considered a golden age of Uzbekistan’s history, marked by flourishing art, architecture, and trade.
- Babur: Born in Uzbekistan in 1483, Babur was a Mughal emperor who founded the Mughal Empire in India. He is also known for his literary works, including the memoir “Baburnama.”
- Soviet Union: Uzbekistan was part of the Soviet Union from 1924 until its collapse in 1991. During this time, the Soviet government imposed strict control over Uzbekistan’s economy and society, leading to widespread poverty and political repression.
Uzbekistan’s culture is a blend of various influences, including Persian, Turkish, and Russian.
The country is known for its intricate handicrafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, and carpet weaving. Uzbek cuisine is also a significant part of the culture, featuring dishes such as plov (rice pilaf with meat and vegetables) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
Religion also plays a significant role in Uzbekistan, with the majority of the population adhering to Islam.
The Uzbek language is a Turkic language and is Uzbekistan’s official language, although many people also speak Russian.
Interesting Facts About Uzbekistan
- Uzbekistan is home to some of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, including Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
- The country is the world’s largest producer of silk and one of the largest exporters of cotton.
- Uzbekistan is home to the world’s largest open-pit gold mine, the Muruntau Gold Mine.
- The Uzbek Som is the country’s official currency.
- The Aral Sea, once one of the world’s largest lakes, has since shrunk significantly due to human activities such as irrigation and dam construction.
- The national dish of Uzbekistan is plov, a rice pilaf dish typically made with lamb, carrots, onions, and spices.
- The country has a rich tradition of music and dance, with many folk songs and dances dating back centuries.
- Uzbekistan is known for its intricate handicrafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, and carpet weaving.
- The country is home to many unique and endangered species of plants and animals, including the Bukhara deer, the Central Asian lynx, and the desert catfish.
- Uzbekistan is located at the crossroads of many different cultures, including Persian, Turkish, and Russian, leading to a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Planning Your Trip
Festivals And Events In Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan has numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
When we were leaving Khiva on September 7th, the city was thriving.
The International Ethnosport Festival was just beginning, and people from all over the region had come to participate in the exciting event. We were devastated as we could only enjoy a half-day spectacle of the horsemen’s traditional sport of Kopkari.
This competition consisted of 2 teams of 4 horsemen, all vying for a goat (our event had a fake goat), who had to place the goat in a circle at each end of the rectangular field.
It was a rough competition and physical, but the crowd were enjoying themselves as we looked on.
Make sure you research what is happening in each city before you book any hotels or flights, if you want to plan around these cultural events.
Other events include:
- Navruz (March 21)
- Celebrates the start of the new year and the arrival of spring
- Features traditional Uzbek music, dance, and food
- Celebrated throughout Uzbekistan
- Silk and Spices Festival (May)
- Celebrates Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage and history as a centre for the silk and spice trade
- Features a colourful parade, traditional dancing, and a food fair
- Takes place in Bukhara
- Sharq Taronalari (August)
- International music festival featuring musicians and performers from Uzbekistan and around the world
- Takes place in Samarkand
- Independence Day (September 1)
- Celebrates Uzbekistan’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
- Features parades, fireworks, and cultural events
- Celebrated throughout Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan Visa Requirements
EU members can enter Uzbekistan without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days.
If you are unsure about the entry requirements for Uzbekistan, including visa and other immigration information, ask your travel agent or contact the Embassy of Uzbekistan.
United States citizens, along with Chinese citizens and Indian citizens, can attain an e-visa for a maximum of 30 days.
You can apply here.
While I never crossed the land border during my research, it seems to be the case that, if you leave Uzbekistan for a neighbouring country, you can get another stamp on your passport for an additional 30 days, which makes life easier.
However, it is not totally obvious how many times you can do this within a 12-month period.
If you happen not be from the EU, America, China or India, you should contact your nearest Uzbek Embassy, and they should assist you.
Uzbekistan Vaccinations
The Tropical Medical Bureau suggest you get:
- Tetanus
- Hep A
- Typhoid
While other optional jabs include:
- Poliomyelitis
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
- Meningococcal Meningitis
Make sure you do in-depth research on vaccinations and get a second opinion, as some medical bureaus are trying to sell these vaccines.
I am not saying don’t get any vaccinations, but be wary of getting several, even if a doctor tells you to.
How To Get There
- Flights to Uzbekistan
There are 6 international airports in Uzbekistan:
- Tashkent
- Samarkand
- Bukhara
- Urgench
- Termez
- Navoi
We flew from Indira Gandhi International Airport to Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport with Uzbekistan Airways.
We had never flown with them before, but all went smoothly.
The customer service was excellent.
Indigo, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Uzbekistan Airways fly from London as well as other major European cities.
Once we landed in Tashkent, all the essential protocols were easy.
The airport is small. Once you pass through immigration, you can get Uzbek Som at one of the several ATMs, buy your sim card for 100,000 Som (50GB – there are packages for more data), exchange your foreign currency and order your taxi to the city centre. All within a 20-metre radius of one another.
But be careful – our experience showed us not to pre-arrange your taxi online, as our hotel wanted to charge us 250,000 Som, but we arranged it at the desk in the centre of the airport for 70,000 Som. We couldn’t understand this difference!
You will be issued a ticket and simply walk out to the queue of taxi drivers, hand them your ticket, and away you go!
Transportation Within Uzbekistan
Train
Uzbekistan has a wonderful train system in my view.
The train makes travelling to all major cities a breeze. Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva all have stops.
There are two main trains to consider when travelling in Uzbekistan by rail.
- Sharq Train
- Afrosiyob Train
We used the Sharq Train. Afrosiyob is more modern and can get up to speeds of 250 km/hr, which will save you time.
However, I cannot speak of Afrosiyob as we went on the slower, older soviet style train, but found it to be relatively comfortable even when sleeping overnight.
You will have to climb to the top bunk if that’s the ticket you booked, so be aware of this if you have an injured back, as I had.
Still, sleeping overnight on the train was much more comfortable than on any night bus in Southeast Asia.
I would recommend this train if time isn’t an issue for you.
We had a small table with USB charging capabilities, and we stored our bags under the seats, so it was a comfortable way to travel.
Locals sitting beside us brought plenty of food with them onto the train, such as bread and watermelons, and we were kindly invited to join them! The Uzbek families were so much fun, and we had limited conversations with our weak Uzbek and Russian as we made our way to the next city.
You can also buy snacks such as fruit, bread and soft drinks on the train, but we bought more substantial food with us on the longer journeys.
You can buy your tickets online here.
Sharq Train Details
| Journey | Duration | Cost Per Person |
| Tashkent to Samarkand | 3 Hours 15 Minutes | 89,000 Som |
| Samarkand to Bukhara | 2 Hours 24 Minutes | 40,000 Som |
| Bukhara to Khiva | 6 Hours 33 Minutes | 60,000 Som |
| Khiva to Tashkent | 14 Hours 26 Minutes | 89,000 Som |
Taxi
There are plenty of taxis available in the main cities. Be prepared at the exit of the train stations, the drivers will be waiting for you and will be battling for your attention.
But one great and affordable way to travel in most of Uzbekistan is an app called Yandex.
Although it doesn’t work in Khiva, Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, it was a lifesaver.
You agree on a price before you order the taxi, and you won’t pay more than that amount. You can choose different options such as comfort, economy, and bigger or smaller cars. You can tip the driver and rate them similar to other taxi apps, such as Uber.
We never had a problem with this app, and most of the drivers were friendly and helped us with our bags.
The most we paid for a trip in any city was €1.50. Yes, you read that correctly!
Trust me, this app is worth downloading, and it’s free.
Bus
In Tashkent, we used the bus only once, and when we did, it ran smoothly.
I even gave the driver too much money by mistake, and when getting off, he handed me back the money, which was decent of him.
Once we discovered Yandex, we ditched public buses because the app was faster, more comfortable and more affordable.
Accommodation Options
Hotels and Resorts
Uzbekistan has some fine hotels and guesthouses which generally include private bathrooms, breakfast and free wifi at affordable prices.
We always book our hotels through booking.com, and the more you use them, the more discounts you get over time. You can also get free airport pickups, which we used when we arrived in Delhi, which was so handy.
In Tashkent, we stayed in Orient Palace, which is located in a safe and nice area, but the downside was that it was an hour’s walk to the city centre. (So we used Yandex, of course!)
An amazing buffet breakfast kept us full right up until lunch, and the staff were extremely competent and friendly. We even got 3 free lunches when we had to do some work in the restaurant!
In Samarkand, we stayed at Lion B&B, an old-style Russian building which had a great breakfast too and a wonderful location.
In Bukhara, we stayed at Hotel Uncle Kolya, which was 5 minutes walk to the ancient centre. Uncle Kolya was a cosy family-run guesthouse, and they were very friendly and helpful whenever we had questions.
In Khiva, we stayed at another family-run Guest House called Naqqosh with a really nice balcony and filling breakfast.
You can also check out traditional yurts, which are common in Central Asia, if you want to experience an authentic nomadic Uzbek lifestyle overnight.
However, while the experience is said to be fun, it can be much more costly than a regular hotel or guesthouse.
Please note – any hotel you stay in must register you in the country. They do this for you. They will give you a printed registration form at the time of checkout.
Carry this with you, as you may be asked for it by authorities, although we were never once asked for this.
Best Sites In Uzbekistan
I will compile a new blog post for each major city of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva and include what the must-see attractions are for each city in the near future.
So watch this space!
But a quick list of some of the best sites in Uzbekistan includes Amir Timur Museum & Square, Registan Square, Tashkent TV Tower, Tashkent Metro Stations, Bukhara Arc, Kalon Minaret, Ulugh Beg Observatory, Shah-i-Zinda, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and Itchan Kala.
Uzbekistan Tours
A great way to spend a day in Uzbekistan is with a prepackaged tour.
TripAdvisor and Viator always have good tours to avail of, including in Uzbekistan. You can check out some nice walking tours as well. This is a great way to get to know a new city, and you can also meet people along the way.
We had a wonderful experience in Khiva when we arranged a visit to 5 of the Khorezm Fortress through Islambek Travel.
Offering private and group tours all over the country, including to the Aral Sea, we had a great day. The driver picked us up at the hotel and brought us to each fortress, allowing us to spend as much time as we wanted at each.
We were picked up at 08.30 AM and scheduled to come back at 04.30 PM, but it was 07.00 PM by the time we were back. Our driver never mentioned the time, so he really went above and beyond for us to enjoy the full experience.
Needless to say, we gave him a tip for his excellent service.
Explore Uzbekistan In Two Weeks With This Itinerary
Internet and Connectivity in Uzbekistan
For the most part, all major cities have very good internet connections.
I can’t remember wifi being an issue whenever we were in a cafe or restaurant. Make sure you get a SIM card which includes a good package of data. Most of them last for two weeks or a month, so choose whichever suits your stay.
The Apps You Need For Uzbekistan
Yandex/Yango
This app is key in Uzbekistan.
As mentioned already, Yandex is a quick and affordable way of travelling through most of the major cities in Uzbekistan. A number of regular taxi drivers approached us, and when we told them we were waiting for a Yandex driver, they were visibly annoyed, assuming that it was because Yandex was taking business from them.
One regular driver quoted us 80,000 Som for the same trip; a Yandex driver would charge us 20,000 Som.
I understand the frustration.
Revolut
If you do not have Revolut, I suggest you download it for free.
Most people can get between €20-60 euro if they sign up through a referral from a friend, and you can send money for free between your friends and use their card as a backup or primary card to your existing bank card.
Currency Converter
A quick and easy way to convert money into 4 other currencies.
Leave it on your home screen for the duration of your trip, and you can quickly convert Som and see what you will be paying in your home currency.
Google Translate
Of course, the go-to for translation is in a country where you cannot speak the language.
You can quickly communicate with locals. I recommend spending some time learning a few keywords and phrases when you spend time in another country, such as hello, thank you, where is the bus stop, how much does this cost, the bill please, and so on.
Duolingo
A good way to practice some basic-level languages is on the Duolingo App.
You won’t be fluent, but after a few lessons, you can have a few phrases in store for day-to-day interactions.
Maps.Me and/or Google Maps
You can download cities or entire countries with these apps, so in case you do not have an internet connection and are offline, you can easily open the maps app and see the best route to your destination.
Travel Insurance in Uzbekistan
I have been using Safety Wing since we started our long trip, and while so far we haven’t had to use it, I can say the customer service has been rapid in response time.
More and more people are using Safety Wing, especially because you can pay a monthly subscription fee and cancel at any time.
Click one of the images below for more details.
Other insurance companies to consider are World Nomads, Genki or IATI Insurance.
Money In Uzbekistan
The official currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbek Som (UZS).
It is recommended to have physical local currency for most transactions to buy all your favourite Uzbekistan souvenirs, but some places do accept USD.
While a debit/credit card is accepted in many institutions like hotels and more expensive restaurants, I have experienced that several places don’t accept these cards, especially the smaller family-run restaurants and guesthouses, for example.
Make sure you have a few days’ worth of Som in your wallet so you do not have to scramble for an ATM after eating a meal, especially when you are in smaller towns or villages.
When exchanging money, it is advisable to do so at official exchange offices or banks to ensure fair rates and avoid counterfeit currency.
It is worth noting that foreign currencies, such as US dollars and euros, can be exchanged for Uzbekistani Som at authorised exchange offices or banks.
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, where you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards. However, it is recommended to check with your bank regarding any fees or limitations associated with international withdrawals.
When we withdrew 3,000,000 Som, we were charged a withdrawal fee of 60,000.
Is Uzbekistan Safe?
According to the UK government, violent attacks on foreign tourists are rare.
Travellers should be more wary when in large bazaars where crowds gather, rather than randomly on the street.
You’re more likely to have an item stolen than be attacked. For example, the theft of a bag or phone.
The Uzbek people are warm, and we were invited into a random home for tea and chat. In my experience, we never felt unsafe.
Religion and Spirituality
The majority of the population in Uzbekistan practises Islam, with Sunni Islam being the predominant branch.
Islam was introduced to the region in the 8th century and has since become an integral part of Uzbek culture and identity.
Mosques are prominent religious and architectural landmarks throughout the country.
They serve as places of worship and centres for community gatherings.
Aside from Islam, Uzbekistan is also home to other religious communities, including small Christian and Jewish populations. The country has a rich history of religious diversity and tolerance, with various religious and cultural groups coexisting peacefully.
Religious festivals are an important part of Uzbek culture.
One such festival is Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and social gatherings.
Another significant religious event is Navruz, which celebrates the arrival of spring and the new year. It is a time of big celebrations, including traditional music, dance performances, and the preparation of special dishes.
It is important to note that Uzbekistan, like many other countries, practices secular governance.
The government respects and protects religious freedom, and individuals are free to practise their faith without interference.
Recommendations for Experiencing Local Uzbek Cuisine
Uzbek food is amazing and in ways similar to European food with meat, potato and vegetables being common.
However, Uzbek cuisine is also known for its rich flavours, hearty dishes, and unique combinations of ingredients.
Influenced by its location along the ancient Silk Road and the nomadic lifestyle of its people, Uzbek food reflects a fusion of Persian, Turkish, and Central Asian culinary traditions.
Plov
My favourite Uzbek food is Plov.
Plov, also known as pilaf, is the national dish of Uzbekistan and a staple in Uzbek cuisine.
It is a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and a variety of spices including cumin, coriander, and garlic.
Plov is traditionally cooked in a large cauldron called a Kazan, which imparts a distinct smoky flavour. It is often served with a side of salad or pickles.
Shashlik
The best BBQ meat, aka Shashlik, which I can remember eating, is in Uzbekistan.
Shashlik is a popular dish in Uzbekistan, consisting of skewered and grilled meat. The meat, usually lamb or beef, is marinated in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and onions to enhance its flavour.
The skewers are then grilled over an open fire, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Shashlik is often served with fresh bread, onions, and a side of yoghurt sauce.
Manti
Manti is steamed dumplings filled with a mixture of ground meat (typically lamb or beef), onions, and spices.
The dumplings are usually large and have a distinctive shape, resembling folded envelopes. Manti is often served with a dollop of sour cream or yoghurt and a sprinkling of paprika or sumac.
Lagman
Lagman is a hearty noodle dish that originated in Central Asia and is popular in Uzbek cuisine.
It consists of hand-pulled noodles cooked with a variety of vegetables, meat (such as beef or lamb), and a flavorful broth. Lagman is often seasoned with herbs and spices, such as cumin, chilli flakes, and black pepper.
Samsa
Samsa is a type of baked pastry filled with meat, typically lamb or beef, and onions.
The pastry is usually triangular or rectangular and has a flaky crust. Samsa is often enjoyed as a snack or appetiser and is commonly served with tea.
Uzbek Green Tea
Tea is an integral part of Uzbek culture and hospitality.
Uzbek green tea, often referred to as “choy,” is a popular beverage enjoyed throughout the country. It is typically served in small teacups with sugar cubes or jam on the side.
Drinking tea is a social activity in Uzbekistan, and it is customary to offer tea to guests as a sign of welcome and hospitality.
Non
Non is a traditional Uzbek bread that is a staple in the Uzbek diet.
It is a round, flatbread with a golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior. Non is often baked in a tandoor, a clay oven, which gives it a distinct taste and texture. It is served with almost every meal in Uzbekistan and is perfect for scooping up dishes like plov or dipping into soups and stews.
These are just a few examples of the delicious food and drink that you can experience in Uzbekistan. The country’s cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Conclusion
I’ve got to be honest with you – there’s this odd perception out there that Central Asia, and Uzbekistan in particular, is a bit daunting or even unsafe.
It’s probably because it’s a bit off the beaten path, not as familiar to many as more popular tourist hotspots around the globe.
But here’s the thing – and this is coming from my firsthand experience – it’s nothing like that at all! Quite the contrary, Uzbekistan is a totally safe country with what feels like an unlimited number of places to visit.
It’s packed with fascinating history, jaw-dropping architecture and a culture that’s just bursting with life.
The best part? The people. They’re just so warm and welcoming. We were randomly invited into countless homes for tea and food in Central Asia. And even a wedding where I danced and met many people. It was memories to last a lifetime.
So, if you’ve been on the fence about it because you’re unsure or unfamiliar, I say go for it! Step out of your comfort zone. Trust me, you’ll love Uzbekistan. It is just waiting to be discovered. And I promise, it’s going to be one hell of an unforgettable trip.
Check out my Samarkand post for some more Uzbek places to visit!
Thanks for reading,
James
Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to Uzbekistan
How Many Days Are Enough for Uzbekistan?
We spent 29 days visiting Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, which gave us time to see most major attractions along the historic Silk Route. For most travellers, 5-10 days works best to cover the main cities. Many travellers complete a faster route depending on budget and time constraints. The depth of exploration depends on your available time and interests. Plan to return as there’s extensive history to discover. 5-10 days covers major highlights; 29 days allows thorough exploration.
Do I Need a Guide in Uzbekistan?
A guide isn’t necessary for major city attractions, which we explored independently without issues. Guides become more valuable for countryside exploration, where they handle logistics and transportation, saving considerable hassle. The decision depends on your travel style and comfort level. Tip: Consider guides for rural areas outside main cities. City travel is manageable without guides; countryside trips benefit from guided support.
Are Americans Welcome In Uzbekistan?
Americans receive warm welcomes in Uzbekistan, as locals are hospitable and curious about Western visitors. I was frequently mistaken for American, and people showed genuine excitement about learning about America and life abroad. The country maintains a safe, welcoming environment for Western tourists. Uzbeks are exceptionally hospitable and genuinely interested in American visitors.
Is it Safe To Travel To Uzbekistan Right Now?
Uzbekistan proved very safe during my August-September 2023 visit, with no political tensions or anti-tourist sentiment in major cities. Locals warmly welcomed foreigners and showed interest in their backgrounds and home countries. My safety experience was entirely positive throughout the journey. Tip: Check current travel advisories before departure. Uzbekistan offers a safe, welcoming environment for tourists.
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I hadn’t considered Uzbekistan as a destination so I really appreciate this overview and look forward to your future posts. I am really intrigued.
The food sounds delicious, the people welcoming, and with stunning architecture and rich history, it sounds like a bit of everything I love.
Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com
OMG what is the temple in your cover photo?! That’s stunning. I tried to get my husband on board with visiting Uzbekistan, so definitely sending him your post. I didn’t know that Uzbekistan is home to some of the world’s oldest inhabited cities – that’s so cool!
They is Registan square! An amazing place I have to say. I will have a video on it in the coming weeks I hope so you can come along for the journey there too!
I was so happy we decided to visit Uzbekistan. Probably less well known but offers so much. 🇺🇿😊
I was really intrigued to read this post. We tried to visit Uzbekistan many years ago but the horrible consul refused us visas (no idea why) and kept our passports until our planned flights had left. So, we’re a little bitter about the whole experience. We’ve recently found out that you no longer need a visa to visit for a short duration, so are reviewing the possibility of trying again. Your post has certainly encouraged us to explore the possibilities. It’s always been an ambition to explore as much of the Silk Road as possible. The architecture looks stunning and the people hugely welcoming. And we’ve always wanted to try plov!
Such an in depth and well researched post that it captured my imagination.
Loved all the precise info about travel and hints and tips – and even a railway map to make it easier to imagine the routes.
Uzbektistan has been on the list for a while as a tour combined with the other “Stans” of the region. Nearly went this year but Turkmenistan is still a hard one to crack.
I’ll defo be bookmarking this and returns to it for invaluable advice when I get the chance to go there.
Thanks Barry! Highly recommend Uzbekistan. Beautiful place.
I had been dreaming of visiting Uzbekistan for a while now. This enchanting region where cultures collide and co-mingle in an orderly chaos. Tashkent and Samarkand call out to me and it would be exciting to step into the frame on the history of Silkroad and the commercial trade.
It’s nice of you James to mention about the visa requirements. I always had to consider this step before traveling anywhere since it can be a hassle and pain in the you know where. Thanks for sharing this guide and I look forward to reading more personal tales on Uzbekistan #flyingbaguette
Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/
What a wonderful experience and so fantastic you were able to spend a decent amount of time in what appears to be a beautiful and welcoming country. I have heard great things about Uzbekistan but will admit my knowledge about it was rather lacking so I appreciated this really in depth guide. For example, I had no idea that Uzbekistan was part of the Soviet Union. It sounds like an easy country to travel in, and with such varied food and activity options. I’ve considered Uzbekistan before so you’re making me want to look into it more
Uzbekistan has been on my list of destinations to visit soon for a few years now. I have a huge fascination with the Silk Road and the country’s architectural wealth. Culturally, it must be an incredible country. I hope your adventure was a memorable one!
Congratulations on a well-structured post with all the necessary information for anyone considering Uzbekistan as a destination in the near future!
Uzbekistan is one of the countries you rarely hear anyone talking about. I’m intrigued by Samarkand and Tashkent, probably because they are the most known ones. I appreciate you’ve also visited Bukhara and Khiva, two places that are new to me and that I’m looking forward to hearing more about when you publish your guides. The information on safety was vital for me and it’s great that hotels register you at local authorities. Even though we enjoy mostly free movement in most parts of the world, I can understand when countries want to make sure who they let into their countries and keep a record of their whereabouts (or maybe there is also the issue with local tax ect).
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
I’m very interested in visiting Uzbekistan one day and this is a very helpful overview of the country. The architecture is so pretty! I’ll definitely be taking the train! The recommended apps is a such a great tip, thanks!