Things To Do
in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan sits at the crossroads of the Silk Road, where ancient cities rise from the desert with marble minarets and turquoise domes. Its capital, Tashkent, blends Soviet-era avenues with modern cafes, while historic towns along the routes of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva reveal some of Central Asia's most iconic architecture. The country is renowned for its warm hospitality, vibrant bazaars, and a cuisine that centers on pilaf, soups, and grilled meats.
Across deserts and mountains, you’ll find a landscape of contrasts—from moonlit ruins to green oases.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tashkent International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a traditional Uzbek breakfast at a local cafe, featuring dishes like non and jam. Spend your morning exploring the nearby Major Attractions such as the Khast Imam Complex, where you can admire the stunning architecture and rich history.
Visit the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, where vibrant stalls overflow with spices, fresh produce, and unique handicrafts. Engage with local vendors and soak in the lively atmosphere as you sample some street food delights. Don't forget to check out the nearby Tashkent Metro stations, known for their intricate designs and artistic features.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Uzbek restaurant where you can savor plov, the country’s signature dish. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks adorned with fountains, or visit the Alisher Navoi Opera Theatre if there's a performance scheduled. Wind down your day sipping tea in a local tea house, experiencing the warmth of Uzbek hospitality.
Take an early train to Samarkand, a city with a rich tapestry of history. Upon arrival, head directly to the Registan Square, the heart of the city, to marvel at its majestic madrasahs. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby cafe, where the aroma of fresh pastries fills the air.
Visit the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, an extraordinary complex of mausoleums that showcase stunning tile work and artistry. Explore the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and marvel at its grandeur, followed by a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant renowned for its flavorful kebabs. Spend the afternoon wandering through the ancient Silk Road markets to shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
As dusk settles in, dine in a restaurant with panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Engage in friendly conversations with locals and learn more about the vibrant culture. Finish your evening with a walk along the Silk Road avenue, surrounded by majestic illuminated buildings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-70 |
| 🗺️Museum entry | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road heritage and UNESCO-listed sites
- Warm hospitality and flavorful, approachable cuisine
- Low-cost travel with active transport links between major cities
- Vibrant markets and opportunities for memorable photography
- Tourist infrastructure can vary outside major cities
- Extreme summer heat in desert regions; winter can be cold in the mountains
- Some long-distance travel between cities can be time-consuming
- Out-of-season services may be limited in smaller towns
- "Salom" - Hello
- "Raxmat" - Thank you
- "Iltimos" - Please
- "Kechirasiz" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Bu nechaga?" - How much is this?
- "Bu yo‘lni ko‘rsatsangiz" - Please show me the way
- "Nima tavsiya qilasiz?" - What do you recommend?
- "Xayr" - Goodbye
- "Men tushunmadim" - I don't understand
- "Men tilo tilayman" - I would like to order
Places to Visit in Uzbekistan
Visit one of these nice places.
A jewel of Central Asian architecture with three grand madrasas framing the square; best at dawn or dusk when tiles glow.
A labyrinth of tiled courtyards and tombs set against blue-and-turquoise mosaics; magical in morning light.
Impressive vaulted porticoes and colossal arches provide dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Walled fortress with narrow alleys, famous minarets, and a sense of timeless desert ancient city life.
A tranquil pond surrounded by old mosques and caravanserais, ideal for reflections and street photography.
Food in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of rice cooked with meat, carrots, onions, and spices; best enjoyed in a family-run chaikhana or market stall.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings often filled with lamb or beef and onions; common as a hearty lunch or snack.
A rich meat-and-vegetable soup simmered for hours; served steaming hot with fresh bread.
Savory pastries baked in clay ovens, with fillings like meat and onions or pumpkin and herbs.
A round, thick flatbread baked in tandoor ovens; a daily staple found at every meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling central market where you can sample fresh fruit, spices, dried fruits, samsa, and shashlik from street vendors.
Historic market known for fresh produce, nuts, dried fruit, and quick bites of fried bread and kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women.
A handshake is common; address elders with respect and a warm, polite tone. Public displays of affection are discouraged in rural areas.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals; some markets or religious sites may restrict photography.
Safety
Tipping in Uzbekistan
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is common; in smaller tea houses, tipping is optional but appreciated.
Cash (UZS) is widely used; many urban establishments accept cards, but ATMs are more common in larger cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; a comfortable time for walking and outdoor photography.
Very hot, especially in desert regions; start early, hydrate often, and plan indoor museum visits for midday.
Pleasant weather with cooler nights; great for exploring cities and bazaars without peak heat.
Cool to cold, with occasional snowfall in higher elevations; some remote sites may have limited access.
Uzbekistan at Night
Hiking in Uzbekistan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes through cedar forests and dramatic ridges near Kazakh or Samarkand regions.
Steep canyons, alpine meadows, and scenic overlooks in a protected area to the south of Tashkent.
Popular weekend escape from Tashkent with well-marked trails and panoramic views over the Charvak Reservoir.
Airports
How to reach Uzbekistan by plane.
Main international hub, connecting Uzbekistan with Asia, Europe, and the Middle East; good for arrivals and departures within the region.
Gateway to Samarkand; popular for regional flights and domestic connections.
Smaller international airport serving Bukhara and surrounding regions; useful for quick access to western Uzbekistan.
Serves the Khiva area and nearby sites; provides access to western routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with a rich cultural heritage expressed through language, music, and traditional crafts.
Historically present; many residents are bilingual in Uzbek and Russian.
Smaller communities contributing to regional diversity and intercultural exchange.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played across cities; local leagues and casual matches are common in parks and squares.
A traditional sport with deep roots in Uzbek culture; occasional competitions attract crowds in town squares.
Popular recreational activities in schools, parks, and guesthouses.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature vegetables, grains, and dairy. Look for pilaf variants with no meat, and tell cooks about dairy or egg restrictions when ordering.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uzbekistan.