For centuries, Uzbekistan was the beating heart of the Silk Road. Cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva were not only key points of trade between East and West, but also true cultural centers, where knowledge, religions, and arts converged. Today, traveling through Uzbekistan is like opening a living history book: turquoise-domed mosques, imposing madrasas, bazaars redolent of spices, and streets where the past seems to still beat.
What's most striking about Uzbekistan is the contrast between the ancient and the everyday. As you walk through cities thousands of years old, you come across hospitable people (though not as much as in other neighboring countries), stunning architecture, and a calm pace that invites you to take a leisurely look at every corner. This guide is based on my time in the country, traveling on my own for two weeks, trying to understand its history and culture, and enjoying the journey with my eyes wide open.
Table of Contents
What to know before traveling to Uzbekistan
| Language 🗣️ |
| The official language is Uzbek, although some Russian is still spoken in many urban areas, especially among older generations. In tourist destinations, you may find some English, but it's not as common. |
| Currency 💵 |
| The local currency is the Uzbekistani som (UZS). Credit card use is limited, so it's advisable to carry cash (preferably dollars or euros for exchange). |
| Religión ☪️ |
| The majority of the population is Sunni Islam, although Uzbekistan is a secular country with a very tolerant tradition. Religious observance is not strict, and the atmosphere is relaxed for travelers. |
| Ubicación 📍 |
| Uzbekistan is located in Central Asia, bordering Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan. It is landlocked, but is an ideal starting point or connecting point for exploring the entire region. |
| Capital 🏙️ |
| Tashkent is the country's capital. It's a modern city with good infrastructure, and most international flights depart from there. |
| Visa 🛂 |
| Citizens of many Latin American and European countries do not require a visa for tourist entry (up to 30 days). It's always a good idea to check the official government website before traveling, as policies can change. |
Map of Uzbekistan
📖 A look at the history of Uzbekistan
As I mentioned in the introduction, traveling through Uzbekistan is like walking through the pages of an ancient book. For centuries, this country was the heart of the mythical Silk Road, that great commercial corridor that connected China with Europe and that turned cities like Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva into epicenters of Islamic culture, science and architecture. Caravans passed through here, laden with spices, textiles, manuscripts... and also ideas, religions, and knowledge.
You might be interested in reading about what it's like to travel the Silk Road today, and what path I followed
Over time, Uzbekistan witnessed the passage of great empires:
🏛 Persian and Achaemenid period (6th – 4th centuries BC)
Before being called Uzbekistan, this region was part of the vast Persian Empire, especially under the Achaemenids. The cities were key agricultural and commercial centers in Central Asia, already connected by trade routes.
⚔️ Conquest of Alexander the Great (4th century BC)
On his way to India, Alexander the Great conquered this region and founded several cities, including Alexandria Eskate (today Juyand, in Tajikistan). His Hellenistic influence left its mark on local art and architecture.
🕌 Arab rule and expansion of Islam (7th – 10th centuries)
With the arrival of Muslim Arabs, the region adopted Islam and science, philosophy, and architecture flourished. Cities such as Bukhara and Samarkand became intellectual and religious centers of the Islamic world.
🏹 Samanid Empire (9th – 10th centuries)
The Samanids, a Muslim Persian dynasty, made Bukhara their capital. It was a golden age for the region, with tremendous advances in science, literature, and Persian-Islamic culture.
🏇 Mongol invasions (13th century)
In the 13th century, Genghis Khan devastated much of Central Asia. Although destructive, the Mongol invasions also integrated the region into a new pan-Asian trade network under the Mongol Empire.
🏰 Timurid Empire (14th – 15th centuries)
Perhaps the most glorious period in Uzbekistan's history. Tamerlane (Timur), born near Samarkand, created a vast empire and turned that city into an architectural and cultural jewel of the Islamic world. Many of the madrasas and mosques seen today date from that period.
🇷🇺 Russian and Soviet rule (19th century – 1991)
In the 19th century, Uzbekistan was annexed by the Russian Empire, and later became a republic within the USSR. Russian was imposed, society was secularized, and the country was industrialized, but local traditions were also repressed.
🗓 Independence (1991 – present)
With the fall of the Soviet Union, Uzbekistan declared its independence. Since then, it has been revaluing its heritage, opening its borders to tourism, and regaining its place as a fascinating destination in Central Asia.
Today, Uzbekistan is a blend of past and present. It preserves its Islamic heritage and spectacular architecture, but also bears the mark of the Soviet period and a modern identity under construction. Walking through its streets connects with centuries of history that live on in its buildings.
The rise of mass tourism and its impact on Uzbekistan
In recent years, Uzbekistan has experienced an unprecedented tourism boom. Political reforms, visa simplification, and increasing air connectivity have opened the country's doors to the world. Cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, once hidden treasures, now welcome hundreds of organized groups daily, especially from Europe and China, profoundly transforming the travel experience.
This phenomenon brings benefits, of course: the monuments are better maintained, there's more infrastructure, and many locals make a living from tourism. But it also has side effects. The alleys are filled with guides and groups, the squares are filled with flashbulbs and cameras, and many locals seem to view visitors more as walking wallets than as people interested in their culture. That mystique of "traveling back in time," of losing oneself in time and in the soul of the Silk Road, is interrupted by the logic of mass tourism.
Still, with a little patience and dedication, you can find moments of calm. Getting up early to explore the sites before the groups arrive, taking detours down lesser-known streets, or simply staying longer in a city helps restore some authenticity. Uzbekistan remains fascinating, but like so many places in the world, its popularity comes with consequences worth considering.
🚆 How to get around cities in Uzbekistan
In general, getting around Uzbekistan is easy, cheap, and safe. If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, conventional trains and shared taxis are excellent options for getting around on a budget.
🚆 Train
Uzbekistan has a fairly efficient and economical transportation system for traveling around the country. The most comfortable and fastest option is the train, especially the Afrosiyob, a high-speed train that connects Tashkent with Samarkand and Bukhara in just a few hours. It's modern, punctual, and tickets can be purchased online or at the stations (it's a good idea to do so in advance, especially during peak season).
There are also slower, cheaper trains, ideal if you're not in a hurry and want to save money.
- Uzbekistan Railways: You can check schedules and prices, although online purchases sometimes do not work for foreign cards.
- ETicket.uz: It is a reliable platform for buying train tickets, including the Afrosiyob. It is in English and accepts international cards.
🚌 Buses and shared taxis
Another alternative is shared taxis, which are very common throughout the country. They leave when they are full (for four people) and are a good way to meet locals. Long-distance buses also operate between cities, although they are usually less comfortable and slower than the train.
From the website https://avtoticket.uz/ you can view prices, schedules, and even purchase tickets for long-distance buses. You can also purchase tickets directly at local terminals or stations.
For shared taxis, you can hire them on the street or at stations (for example, near train stations). You can also use apps like Yandex Go for transportation within cities, although not as much for intercity transportation.
What to see in Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan is full of cities that seem like something out of a Arabian Nights story. Each has its own personality, history, and architectural style, and exploring them is an experience that combines culture, landscapes, and hospitality.
In this post I'll tell you what the 2-week itinerary I followed to travel around Uzbekistan on my own was.
📍 Taskent
The country's capital and the gateway for most travelers. It's a modern city with a Soviet feel, but it also has vibrant bazaars like Chorsu, mosques, museums, and a metro with artistic stations worth exploring.
🕌 Samarcanda
A historic gem on the Silk Road. Its Registan, with three monumental madrasas, is one of the most impressive architectural complexes in the Islamic world. You can also visit the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Mausoleum of Tamerlane (Gur-e-Amir).
🧱 Bujará
A city that seems frozen in time. Its adobe alleys, minarets, madrasahs, and caravanserais are very well preserved. It's an excellent place to wander aimlessly and soak up the Uzbek atmosphere. Don't miss the Kalon Minaret and the Lyabi Hauz Complex.
I recommend reading the article about my visit to Bukhara, another of Uzbekistan's gems.
🧿 Khiva
A walled city in the middle of the desert, resembling an open-air museum. Its old town, Itchan Kala, is a World Heritage Site and has a special charm at dusk. Climbing one of its minarets or enjoying the café terraces offers unforgettable views.
🌊 Aral Sea and Moynaq
In the west of the country, you can visit Moynaq, a ghost town that was once a fishing port on the Aral Sea. Today, seeing the ships stranded on the sand is a striking image of the effects of the ecological disaster.
🌄 Fergana Valley
A less touristy region, ideal if you're looking to get off the beaten path. It's fertile, green, and has a more rural and traditional feel. Perfect for discovering local life, visiting silk and pottery workshops, and enjoying the mountain and countryside.
🍽 Typical foods in Uzbekistan
Uzbek cuisine, like that of Central Asia in general, didn't strike me as the most varied or tasty. But like any country, you can find typical and tasty dishes influenced by the Silk Road.
One of the most iconic dishes is plov, a rice dish sautéed with carrots, onions, spices, and meat (usually lamb or beef). Each region has its own version, and it's a dish you'll see at any social or family event.
Other must-haves include manti (steamed dumplings filled with meat or pumpkin), lagman (a soup or dry dish of homemade noodles with horse meat and vegetables), and shashliks (grilled skewers popular at street stalls). The round, decorated Uzbek bread is sacred and never missing from the table.
To drink, they usually offer hot green tea, even in summer, and if you're looking for something fresh, you can find natural juices or kefir (liquid yogurt). The desserts are more modest but tasty, with nuts, honey, and fried pastries.
🌍 How to cross from Uzbekistan to neighboring countries?
Uzbekistan is very well connected to its neighboring countries, and if you're traveling through Central Asia or following the Silk Road, you'll probably be coming from or want to continue on to one of them. Here's how to get from Uzbekistan to each of its neighboring countries:
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan
You can cross through several land crossings, the most common being Tashkent–Shymkent, which has good connections by shared taxi or bus. There are also comfortable and affordable trains and flights between Tashkent and Almaty or Astana. From the website https://avtoticket.uz/ you can see the price and schedule of long-distance buses.
🇹🇲 Turkmenistan
This is the most complicated crossing. You can't travel independently: you need a visa with an organized tour through a local agency. The most commonly used crossing is Farab–Alat, near Bukhara. It's a good idea to coordinate everything with the agency before arriving.
🇹🇯 Tajikistan
From Samarkand, you can easily reach Panjakent by crossing overland (Jartepa Pass) in one of the shared taxis, one of the simplest and quickest crossings. There are also crossings from the Fergana Valley to Khojand. Shared taxis or private cars are the most commonly used.
🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan
You can cross from the Fergana Valley to Osh, which is very close to the border. This is a common route for travelers, accessible and straightforward. There are also buses and shared taxis that make the daily trip.
Another very common option is to do the section Tashkent–Bishket by bus, crossing Kazakhstan. There are usually two buses daily, one at 6:00 PM and the other at 8:00 PM. The trip takes approximately 13 hours. From the site https://avtoticket.uz/ you can see the price and schedule of the buses.
🇦🇫 Afganistan
Although there are technically border crossings, I don't know if it's common to cross from Uzbekistan. The border is militarized and usually closed to tourists. If you're planning to travel to Afghanistan, it's best to check with embassies and official agencies before attempting this.
Yes, I know that crossing into the Taliban's country from Tajikistan is more common. There are a couple of open borders, and they are frequently used by foreign travelers.
Best time to go to Uzbekistan
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is mild, with sunny days, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures—ideal for exploring historic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva without melting or freezing.
In summer (July and August), temperatures can exceed 40°C, especially in desert areas and southern cities. Travel is possible, but be prepared for intense heat, constant hydration, and more leisurely activities during the midday.
In winter (December to February), the weather is cold, with possible snowfall in some regions. Although it's low season and there are fewer tourists, many attractions are still open, and seeing the snow-covered monuments has a special charm if you don't mind the cold.
Is Uzbekistan safe? 🛡️
Yes, Uzbekistan is considered one of the safest countries in Central Asia for travelers. The local people are friendly, hospitable (although, as I said, less so than in other "stans"), and respectful. Crime rates are low, especially against tourists. As in any country, it's advisable to exercise caution in large crowds or markets to avoid petty theft, but it's not common. Furthermore, tourist police are usually present in key areas and are quite cooperative.
Can you travel alone in Uzbekistan?
Absolutely! Uzbekistan is an ideal destination for solo travelers, whether male or female. The cities are well-connected, transportation is accessible, and locals are generally willing to help. Solo female travelers generally feel comfortable, although it's best to dress respectfully, especially in more traditional villages. While English isn't very common, a smile, a few gestures, and a few words in Russian or Uzbek can open many doors.
Is it expensive to travel in Uzbekistan? 💵
No, traveling in Uzbekistan is quite affordable! It's one of the most budget-friendly countries for travelers, especially if you're backpacking. Hostels or guesthouses usually cost between 10 and 20 USD per night, often with breakfast included. Local meals cost between 1 and 4 USD, and you can travel between cities by train or shared taxi for very affordable prices.
Admission to historic sites is very cheap compared to other parts of the world, and there are generally plenty of free options if you simply want to walk through the old town, visit markets, or admire the spectacular facades. If you're on a budget, there are also comfortable, mid-range options that won't break the bank.
Which SIM card should I use in Uzbekistan?
Connecting to the internet in Uzbekistan is fairly easy and inexpensive. The main mobile phone companies are UzMobile, Beeline and Ucell. You can purchase a SIM card upon arrival at the airport or in any major city; you just need to present your passport. Data plans are inexpensive and generally have good coverage in major cities and on major routes. If you plan to travel through small towns or remote areas, UzMobile often has better coverage. For convenience, download translation apps and offline maps like Google Translate and Maps.me beforehand.
How many days do I recommend staying in Uzbekistan?
The recommended number of days to travel through Uzbekistan depends on the type of trip you're looking for, but a good classic itinerary requires between 10 and 14 days. With that time, you can explore the main historical cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva at a good pace, with transfers by train or public transport.
If you have less time, one week can do a shorter version by visiting 2 or 3 of those major cities, especially if you use internal flights or fast trains.
Now, if you are one of those who travel without rushing and you like to get off the beaten track, you can stay 3 weeks or more, and add places like the Fergana Valley, the Aral Sea, and calmly explore the bazaars, alleys and daily life of each city.
