Uzbekistan travel guide
Uzbekistan Tourism | Uzbekistan Guide
You're Going to Love Uzbekistan
As soon as you step foot in Uzbekistan, you will be welcome with stunning architecture and a fascinating history. Get ready to feel the magic.
What to do in Uzbekistan
1. Follow the Old Silk Road in Samarkand
Not only is Samarkand fascinating to visit, it is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities and used to be one of the main stops on the silk road linking China to Europe. While here, make sure to visit the Registan plaza and the 3 Madrasah structures surrounding it.
2. Amaze at the Grandeur of Bukhara
This city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a must see with its grand architecture and well-preserved buildings. Make sure to visit the Kalyan Minaret and the Ark of Bukhara, and for a bit of souvenir shopping, head to the Trading Domes.
3. Find the Desert Fortresses in Elliq-Qala
Khwarazm is a large oasis surrounded by deserts and is characterized by fortresses that were built to guard it back in the days. Twenty fortresses have been found so far.
4. Explore Ugam-Chatkal National Park
Uzbekistan is not all desert. In fact, tucked away in the east of the country is the biggest national park, a lush green area that is home to over 280 animal species.
5. Visit a City in the Desert
Located in the heart of the Kyzylkum desert, this walled city gives the impression of walking into an architecture museum with its small alleyways and buildings decorated with blue mosaic.
When to visit Uzbekistan
Spring and autumn months are the best time for a visit to Uzbekistan, as they offer dry weather and mild temperature that make exploring a lot more pleasant.
How to Get to Uzbekistan
Entry requirements
Citizens of over 50 countries, including EU countries, Australia and Canada, can enter Uzbekistan for 30 days without a visa. Citizens of most other country can apply for a visa online prior to departure.
Plane
Flying is the most common way of entering Uzbekistan, and the local carrier Uzbekistan Airways offers nonstop flights to over 50 destinations.
Train
Travel by train to Uzbekistan is only available from Kazakhstan, with some of these trains originating in Russia. Connections to Moscow, Ufa and Saratov are available 3 or 4 times per week, while trains from Celjabinsk and Almaty run once a week. All trains go to and from the capital Tashkent.
Bus
A regular bus runs from Tashkent in Uzbekistan to Shymkent in Kazakhstan, with services available every hour on a daily basis.
Popular airports in Uzbekistan
Popular airlines serving Uzbekistan
Where to stay in Uzbekistan
Hotels are available throughout the country and cater for a variety of budgets. For a local experience, look for accommodation in a Yurt, a traditional nomadic round tent using wood or bamboo in its structure.
Where to stay in popular areas of Uzbekistan
Most booked hotels in Uzbekistan
How to Get Around Uzbekistan
Public Transportation
Tashkent is well serviced by public transport and has a subway system with 29 stations. Outside the capital, buses and shared taxis are the most common option for short distance travel.
Trains
Uzbekistan has 4 train lines that travel throughout the country. Trains are comfortable and there are 3 types of trains to choose from: express, high speed and passenger trains.
Bus
Long distance buses are available from Tashkent and travel to 8 different directions, including Bukhara, Samarkand and Karakul. Both privately owned and public buses are available, and they all leave from the Abu Sahiy bus station.
Plane
Local flights are available with Uzbekistan Airways and are a great option when traveling long distances. There are 11 airports in the country and most flights operate to and from Tashkent; however, not all routes are available daily.
The Cost of Living in Uzbekistan
Eating an inexpensive meal in Uzbekistan will cost around 38,000 UZS (4 USD) per person, while a mid-range meal will cost around 75,000 UZS (8 USD) per person. Credit and debit cards are typically accepted in the major hotels and establishments, however, smaller shops and restaurants usually deal in cash.