Travel Tips
Uzbekistan
The turquoise domes of the Silk Road cities make Uzbekistan one of the most beautiful countries to explore in Central Asia.
- Capital
- Tashkent
- Currency
- Uzbekistani som (UZS)
- Language
- Uzbek, Russian
- Best overall
- April to May and September to October
- Emergency
- Police 102, fire 101, ambulance 103
- Electricity
- 220V, plug types C and F
Many nationalities can visit visa-free or with an e-visa. Check the rule for your passport. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Spring and autumn are ideal. Summers are extremely hot, and winters can be very cold.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Samarkand
The Registan square and blue-tiled monuments.
Bukhara
An ancient, walkable city of mosques and madrasas.
Khiva
A walled desert town that feels like an open-air museum.
Tashkent
The modern capital with beautiful metro stations.
Nukus
Home to the remarkable Savitsky art museum.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 2 Tashkent
- Days 3 to 5 Samarkand, by fast train
- Days 6 to 8 Bukhara
- Days 9 to 10 Khiva
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Book Afrosiyob fast trains early, as they can sell out.
- Shared taxis and domestic flights fill gaps.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Carry som, and bring some clean US dollars or euros to exchange. Cards work mostly in larger hotels and shops.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Plov: rice with lamb and carrots, the national dish.
- Samsa: baked meat pastries.
- Fresh bread (non) from a clay oven.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Carry proof of hotel registration, which may be requested on departure.
- Dress modestly at religious sites.
Planning a trip to Uzbekistan?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.