Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan: general info for travelers

Uzbekistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Turkmenistan to the southwest, Tajikistan to the southeast, and Afghanistan to the south. It has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its location on the ancient Silk Road trading route. The capital of Uzbekistan is Tashkent, which is a bustling city with a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern buildings. Other major cities in Uzbekistan include Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, all of which are known for their well-preserved historic sites and traditional arts and crafts.
Uzbekistan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The country's main languages are Uzbek and Russian, and the majority of the population follows Sunni Islam.
Tourists come to Uzbekistan to experience its rich history and culture, which is reflected in the stunning architecture of its cities, ancient monuments, colorful markets, traditional music and dance, and traditional cuisine. The country also offers outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding, and camping in its beautiful mountains and deserts.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Uzbekistan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Uzbekistan: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Uzbekistan: 1) Samarkand - Known as the "Crossroad of Cultures," Samarkand is one of the oldest and most famous cities in Central Asia, renowned for its Islamic architecture and historical significance. It was an important center on the Silk Road, a trading route that linked China to the Mediterranean.
2) Bukhara - Located in the western part of Uzbekistan, Bukhara is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, known for its stunning Islamic architecture. Some of the most famous sites include the Kalon Minaret, the Ark Citadel, and the Labi Hauz complex.
3) Khiva - This ancient city, located in the western part of Uzbekistan, is a true open-air museum, with well-preserved mud-brick structures and ornate mosques. The inner walls of this city are still visible with all their gates and the old city walls are still standing.
4) Tashkent - The capital city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent is a thriving metropolis that mixes the modern and the traditional. Some of the top attractions include the Chorsu Bazaar, the Kukeldash Madrasah, and Independence Square.
5) Fergana Valley - Located in the eastern part of Uzbekistan, the Fergana Valley is a region known for its cultural and natural diversity, with pristine lakes, breathtaking mountain ranges, and vibrant local communities. Some popular destinations include the Margilan Silk Factory and Ceramic Studio, the Kokand Palace, and the beautiful town of Rishton, home to legendary ceramic workshops.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Uzbekistan. Each city and region has its unique charm and history, and is definitely worth exploring.
There is more to see and do in Uzbekistan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Uzbekistan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Uzbekistan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Uzbekistan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during the spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to early November) when temperatures are moderate and the weather is generally pleasant.
In spring, the temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the weather is generally sunny with occasional rainfalls. It's also an excellent time to see the flowers in bloom.
During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), making it extremely hot and dry. It's not the best time to visit if you're not used to such high temperatures.
In autumn, the temperature ranges between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and the weather is generally clear and pleasant. It's also the time for the grape harvest, so it's a great time to sample Uzbek wine.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, and temperatures can drop below freezing. However, it's a great time to visit if you want to experience skiing in Chimgan.

Uzbekistan: activities and what to do

Uzbekistan is a country rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes, offering a variety of activities and sports for visitors to enjoy. Here are some options: 1. Trekking and Hiking: There are many trails in the mountains of Uzbekistan that provide stunning views of the landscape and give visitors a chance to experience nature. There are also many protected national parks such as the Chatkal and Zaamin National Parks where hiking is allowed.
2. Wildlife Safari: Uzbekistan is home to some rare and unique wildlife such as the snow leopard, markhor, and Marco Polo sheep. Visitors can take wildlife safaris to see these animals in their natural habitats.
3. Camel Trekking: The deserts of Uzbekistan make for a unique and unforgettable experience, with the possibility to explore the desert and ride camels.
4. Water Sports: There are opportunities to go white-water rafting, kayaking and canoeing on the many rivers and rapids that flow through the country. Also, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing or relaxing on a boat cruise.
5. Horse riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Uzbekistan, due to its long-standing history as a country of equestrian culture.
6. Historical and Cultural Tours: Uzbekistan has an abundance of history, culture, and landmarks for tourists to explore. Visitors can spend days exploring the many palaces, fortresses, and historic monuments that are scattered throughout the country.
These are just a few examples of the activities and sports that visitors can enjoy while visiting Uzbekistan. There is definitely something for everyone to enjoy!

Uzbekistan: few words on history and culture

Uzbekistan is a country with a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. The region that is now Uzbekistan was once home to ancient civilizations like the Samanids, Bukharan Emirate, and Timurids. These civilizations left behind a legacy of magnificent architecture, music, poetry, art, and cuisine. The country is known for its impressive Islamic architecture, which can be seen in the form of mosques, palaces, and madrassas (schools). Some of the most famous examples of Islamic architecture in Uzbekistan include the Registan in Samarkand, the Ark Citadel in Bukhara, and the Kalon Minaret in Khiva.
Uzbekistan is also known for its unique and delicious cuisine, which is a mix of Turkish, Persian, and Russian influences. Traditional Uzbek food includes dishes like plov (rice pilaf), shashlik (grilled skewers of meat), lagman (noodle soup), and various types of bread.
Overall, Uzbekistan has a rich and diverse history and culture that is worth exploring and experiencing for oneself.

Uzbekistan: how to move around on holiday

There are several ways to reach and visit Uzbekistan: 1. By Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Uzbekistan is by air. The country's main airport is Tashkent International Airport, which is well-connected to other major cities around the world.
2. By Train: If you are coming from neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Russia, or Turkmenistan, then taking a train is a good option. The country is connected to these countries by the rail network.
3. By Road: Uzbekistan has several border crossings with neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan. So, if you are traveling from these countries, you can enter Uzbekistan by road.
4. By Bus: Uzbekistan has a well-developed bus network that connects different parts of the country. You can easily travel from one city to another by bus.
Once you are inside the country, you can use taxis or public transport like buses, trams, and metros to move around. Hiring a car or motorcycle is also possible, but you need an international driving license and should be aware of local traffic rules and regulations. To hire a car to visit Uzbekistan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Uzbekistan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Uzbekistan with a full stomach:D
Certainly, here are some of the main typical foods of Uzbekistan along with their descriptions: 1. Plov: This is considered the national dish of Uzbekistan and is made with rice, meat, carrots, onions, and spices like cumin and coriander. It is slow-cooked in a large pot called a kazan and is typically served with salad or pickled vegetables.
2. Lagman: This is a hearty soup with long noodles and a savory broth. It can be made with meat or vegetables and is often flavored with cumin and chili peppers.
3. Shashlik: This is a skewered meat dish that is grilled over an open flame. The meat can be lamb, beef, or chicken, and is usually seasoned with salt and pepper before being cooked. It is often served with bread and vegetables.
4. Manty: These are steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions. They are typically served with sour cream or yogurt and can be enjoyed as a snack or a main dish.
5. Samsa: This is a baked pastry filled with meat, onions, and spices. It is similar to a small meat pie and is often served as an appetizer or snack.
6. Osh: This is another rice-based dish that is similar to plov, but is typically made with lamb or beef. It is often served with a spicy tomato-based sauce and pickled vegetables.
7. Chuchvara: These are small meat-filled dumplings that are boiled and served in a clear broth. They are typically served with garlic sauce and can be enjoyed as a comfort food or a light meal.

Uzbekistan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Uzbekistan is generally an affordable country for tourists. The cost of traveling to Uzbekistan depends on the type of accommodations, transportation, food, and activities you choose. Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva, which are popular tourist destinations in Uzbekistan, have many affordable options for accommodations and food. Local transportation such as buses and shared taxis are also cheap and readily available. However, if you want to travel in luxury or stay in upscale hotels, the costs can be higher. Overall, Uzbekistan is quite affordable for tourists, with the added advantage of being a country with a rich cultural and historical heritage.

Uzbekistan: where to find accodation

There are several popular websites and resources to find accommodation in Uzbekistan: 1. Booking.com - This is a popular website where you can find a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and apartments.
2. Airbnb - Another popular option for finding accommodations in Uzbekistan is Airbnb. With Airbnb, you can find unique and affordable lodging options, such as private rooms in apartments or traditional Uzbek houses.
3. Agoda - Agoda is another popular website that offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and apartments.
4. Uzbekistan national tourism website - Uzbekistan has a national tourism website that offers information about accommodation options throughout the country. You can find information about hotels, guesthouses, and other lodging options on this website. 5. TripAdvisor - TripAdvisor offers reviews and ratings of accommodations in Uzbekistan, as well as information about local attractions, restaurants, and more.
You can check hotel prices in Uzbekistan here:
Booking.com

Uzbekistan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Uzbekistan received approximately 6 million tourists in 2019, according to the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Tourism Development. As for crowded periods, the peak period for tourists is between March and May, as well as September to November. During these times, there may be more tourists at popular attractions and prices for accommodation and transportation may be higher. However, Uzbekistan is a relatively undiscovered destination, so even during peak season, crowds are not typically as overwhelming as in other popular tourist destinations.
Yes, Uzbekistan is generally a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the locals are friendly and hospitable towards visitors. However, like in any other country, there are a few places tourists should avoid in Uzbekistan. It is recommended that tourists avoid the border regions with Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan due to the risk of cross-border conflicts and terrorism. The Fergana Valley is also considered a politically sensitive area, and it is better to stay away from demonstrations or political rallies. Additionally, it is advisable to be vigilant in crowded areas such as markets, train stations, and bazaars, as pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. Overall, as long as you take precautions, Uzbekistan is a safe and enjoyable country to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Uzbekistan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Uzbekistan: events for tourists

Uzbekistan hosts various interesting events that attract visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the most popular events for tourists: 1) Navruz - This is the Persian New Year celebration that usually falls on March 21st. During Navruz festivities take place throughout the country and people celebrate by feasting, dancing, and attending cultural events.
2) Sharq Taronalari - This biennial Music Festival brings together traditional musicians from around the world in Samarkand. The next festival is scheduled to take place in 2021.
3) Silk and Spices Festival - This is an annual event that takes place in Bukhara and celebrates the city's rich history as a center of the silk and spice trade. The festival is usually held in late May or early June.
4) Central Asian Bazaar - This is an annual trade fair in Tashkent that takes place during the first week of November. Visitors can explore market halls and buy unique souvenirs.
5) International Jazz Festival - This annual event brings together jazz musicians from around the world and is held in Tashkent during November. These are just a few examples of interesting events for tourists in Uzbekistan. Depending on your interests and preferences, there are many other events throughout the year that may be of interest to you.

Uzbekistan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Uzbekistan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a recommended two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Uzbekistan: Day 1: Arrive in Tashkent and transfer to the hotel.
Days 2-3: Explore Tashkent, including must-see sights such as Chorsu Bazaar, Amir Timur Museum, and Kukeldash Madrasah.
Day 4: Take a morning train or flight to Bukhara. Spend the afternoon exploring Bukhara's UNESCO-listed old town and visiting landmarks like the Ark Fortress, Kalon Mosque, and Lyab-i Hauz complex.
Days 5-6: Continue exploring Bukhara, with visits to the Poi-Kalon complex, Chor Minor, and the Summer Palace of the Emir of Bukhara.
Day 7: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Shakhrisabz, which is home to the stunning Ak-Saray Palace and the Kuk Gumbaz mosque.
Day 8: Travel to Samarkand, stopping at Gijduvan on the way to see its famous ceramics.
Days 9-11: Explore Samarkand, including sights such as Registan Square, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and Gur-e-Amir mausoleum.
Day 12: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Shahrisabz, which is home to the stunning Ak-Saray Palace and the Kuk Gumbaz mosque.
Days 13-14: Return to Tashkent and spend the last two days of the trip shopping, eating, and exploring the city in more depth.
This itinerary can be adjusted based on your personal preferences and the length of your trip. Note that there are many more things to explore in Uzbekistan, such as the Aral Sea, Khiva, and the Nuratau Mountains.

Uzbekistan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Uzbekistan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Andijan is a city located in eastern Uzbekistan, in the Fergana Valley. It is the fourth largest city in Uzbekistan with a population of around 400,000 people. Andijan is an ancient city with a rich h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Andijan
- Bukhara is a city located in Uzbekistan, Central Asia. It is known as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and has a rich history and culture. Bukhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and fa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bukhara
- Chimgan is a popular mountain resort located in the Ugam-Chatkal National Park in Uzbekistan. It is situated in the Tian Shan mountain range and is known for its beautiful scenery, fresh air, and recr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chimgan
- Chirchiq is a city located in the Tashkent Region of Uzbekistan, situated about 32 kilometers northeast of Tashkent. It has a population of around 167,000 people and is an important industrial center.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chirchiq
- Denov is a city located in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan. It is situated in the south-eastern part of the country, close to the border with Tajikistan. Denov has a rich history, having been fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Denov
- Fergana is a city in eastern Uzbekistan, and also the capital of Fergana Region. It is located in a fertile valley surrounded by the Tien Shan Mountains, and serves as a transport hub connecting Uzbek... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fergana
- Guliston is a city located in the southeastern part of Uzbekistan, with a population of approximately 55,000 people. It is situated in the heart of the Fergana Valley, surrounded by mountains and rive... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guliston
- Jizzakh is a city located in the eastern part of Uzbekistan. It is the administrative center of Jizzakh Region and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The city is situated in a fertile v... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jizzakh
- Karshi is a city located in the southern part of Uzbekistan, situated in the Kashkadarya Province. It is an ancient city with a rich history spanning over 2,500 years, with its origins dating back to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karshi
- Khiva is a city located in the western part of Uzbekistan, near the border with Turkmenistan. It used to be an important stop on the ancient Silk Road and today it is considered as one of the most pre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khiva
- Khodjeyli or Khodjeyli District is a district in the Andijan Region of Uzbekistan. It is located in the eastern part of the country, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. The district covers an area of 464... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khodjeyli
- Khorezm is a historical region in the northwest of Uzbekistan, bordering Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The region is known for its ancient cities, dotted with impressive architectural monuments and rui... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khorezm
- Kokand is a city located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It is the third largest city in the country and has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The city was a major center of trade and comm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kokand
- Kuyluk is a small village located in the Bukhara region of Uzbekistan. It is situated in the Kogon district and is home to a population of just under 5,000 people. The village is known for its natural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kuyluk
- Margilan is an ancient city located in the eastern part of Uzbekistan. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage dating back to the Silk Road period. The city is famous for its traditiona... CONTINUE here for a trip to Margilan
- Muynak is a small town located in the Autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan, in northwestern Uzbekistan. It is situated in the heart of the Kyzyl Kum desert, on the shores of the Aral Sea, which used ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muynak
- Navoi is a city located in the central region of Uzbekistan, with a population of approximately 130,000 people. It is also the capital city of Navoi Region. The city was founded in the 1950s as a mini... CONTINUE here for a trip to Navoi
- Nukus is a city located in the northwestern part of Uzbekistan. It is the capital of the Karakalpakstan Republic and the fifth-largest city in the country. The city has a population of around 350,000 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nukus
- Nurobod is a district located in the southeast of Tashkent region in Uzbekistan. It covers an area of 603 square kilometers and has a population of around 92,000 people. The district is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nurobod
- Paxtakor is a small town located in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan. It is known for its industrial importance as it is home to the Paxtakor Cement Plant, which is one of the largest cement-producin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paxtakor
- Qarshi is a city located in southern Uzbekistan, in the province of Kashkadarya. It has a population of approximately 300,000 people and is considered one of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan, with a hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qarshi
- Qo‘qon, also known as Kokand, is a city located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It is the capital of the Qo‘qon District and is the third-largest city in the Fergana Valley after Fergana and Andi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qo‘qon
- Qo‘rg‘ontepa is a small town located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It is situated in the Namangan region, which is known for its beautiful nature, history, and culture. Qo‘rg‘ontepa has a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qo‘rg‘ontepa
- Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, located in northeastern Uzbekistan. The city has a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC and was a major cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samarkand
- Shakhrisabz is a city in southern Uzbekistan known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is located approximately 80 kilometers south of Samarkand and is considered one of the oldest citi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shakhrisabz
- Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan, located in the eastern part of Central Asia. It is the largest city in Central Asia and has a population of around 2.5 million people. Tashkent is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tashkent
- Termez is a city in southern Uzbekistan, located just across the border from Afghanistan. It has a rich history, having been a major center of Buddhism in ancient times, as well as a hub of Islamic cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Termez
- Urgench is a city in Uzbekistan, located in the Khorezm Region in the northwestern part of the country. It has a population of around 150,000 people and is an important cultural and economic center in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Urgench
- Yangikazgan is a small town located in the Navoiy Region of Uzbekistan. It is situated in the Kyzylkum Desert, about 170 km northwest of the regional capital Navoi. The town is known for its mining in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yangikazgan


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