Planning a trip to Uzbekistan? This guide covers everything you need to know — from must-see historical cities and Silk Road architecture to traditional Uzbek dishes, best travel seasons, and how to get there. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Uzbekistan has something for you.
Where is Uzbekistan Located?
Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by: Kazakhstan to the north and northwest; Kyrgyzstan to the northeast; Tajikistan to the southeast; Afghanistan to the south; Turkmenistan to the southwest.
Uzbekistan lies in the heart of the ancient Silk Road and was home to powerful empires and majestic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. It is one of only two double-landlocked countries in the world, meaning it’s surrounded entirely by landlocked countries.
Key Facts of Uzbekistan
Capital: Tashkent
Official Language: Uzbek
Currency: Uzbekistani Som(UZS)
Time Zone: GMT +5
Religion: Majority Muslim
Population: About 36 Million
Major Tourist Cities: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz
Must-see Attractions in Uzbekistan
Explore Samarkand | Jewel of the Silk Road
Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Don’t miss:
Registan Square – a breathtaking complex of madrasahs with intricate tilework.
Shah-i-Zinda – a stunning necropolis of blue-domed mausoleums.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – resting place of Tamerlane.
Walk Through History in Bukhara
This UNESCO-listed city has over 2,000 years of history:
Po-i-Kalyan Complex – iconic minaret and mosque.
Ark Fortress – a royal residence for centuries.
Lyabi-Hauz – a peaceful square near ancient caravanserais.
Visit the Walled City of Khiva
Khiva is like an open-air museum. Key sights include:
Itchan Kala – the inner city with mudbrick walls.
Kalta Minor Minaret – a short, unfinished minaret with vibrant colors.
Kunya-Ark Fortress – former residence of Khivan rulers.
Discover Modern Life in Tashkent
Chorsu Bazaar – for local food and souvenirs.
Tashkent Metro – one of the most beautiful in the world.
Independence Square – main public square of the capital.
13 Days Central Asia Tour : Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Tajikistan
When is the Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan?
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and cultural exploration. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Season | Temperature Range | Travel Tips |
Spring | 15°C to 30°C (59°F–86°F) | Best for city tours and cultural travel |
Summer | 30°C to 40°C (86°F–104°F) | Hot and dry, best for desert adventures |
Autumn | 10°C to 25°C (50°F–77°F) | Great for festivals and nature trips |
Winter | -5°C to 10°C (23°F–50°F) | Cold and snowy in some regions |
How to Travel Around Uzbekistan
By Train
Uzbekistan has an extensive railway network, including high-speed trains like the Afrosiyob, connecting major cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. You can also take slower classic trains to enjoy the scenery.
Major Routes: Tashkent to Samarkand (2 hours), Samarkand to Bukhara (1.5 hours), Bukhara to Khiva (6 hours).
Ticket Booking: Book the tickets on the official website (https://eticket.railway.uz/en/home). You can pay with Visa or Mastercard. Book 45 days in advance (tickets released at 10:00 Uzbek time)
Train Stations: Tashkent has two main train stations, with the central station (Stantsiya Tashkent Pass Tsentr) being the most convenient for tourists.
By Flights
Short-Cut Option: Fly from Tashkent to Urgench (near Khiva) if 14-hour train is too long. This saves time but skips the overnight journey experience.
Long-Distance Bus
There are long-distance buses available for many routes within Uzbekistan. Shared taxis are more common, and you can usually find them at designated pickup points or arrange them through your guesthouse.
City Transportation Taxis
Avoid hailing taxis on the street as they are more expensive.
Public Transportation
Buses and trams are available in major cities, with low fares.
Where to Stay in Uzbekistan?
Here’s a quick guide to the best areas for travelers:
Stay in Tashkent
Stay in the Downtown (City Center) near Independence Square and Amir Timur Square for easy access to shops, restaurants, and museums.
Stay in Samarkand
The Old City area near Registan is the best base for sightseeing.
Nearby attractions: Registan Square; Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum; Bibi-Khanym Mosque; Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
Stay in Bukhara
Stay in or near the Historic Center (Old Town) to enjoy the charm of ancient architecture.
Stay in Khiva
Choose accommodation inside or just outside Itchan Kala, the walled city, for a magical atmosphere.
