Index:
Map of places to visit in Uzbekistan
Is a visa needed to enter Uzbekistan?
Country facts: Uzbekistan
| Country | Republic of Uzbekistan |
| Region | Central Asia |
| Capital city | Tashkent |
| Area | 447,400 km² |
| Language | Uzbek (official), Russian (widely spoken) |
| Climate | Continental; arid with little precipitation in the summer, cold in the winter |
| Vegetation | Steppe/desert vegetation, Kyzylkum Desert |
| GMT | GMT+5 (2 hours ahead of Türkiye’s time) |
| Phone code | +998 |
| Currency | Uzbekistani Som (UZS) |
Uzbekistan plug type
Two types of plugs are used in Uzbekistan: Type C and Type F. Both have two round pins. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you are visiting Uzbekistan, you may need a plug adapter, as voltage varies from country to country.
Where is Uzbekistan located?
An inland country, Uzbekistan is located in the heart of Central Asia, with neighbors Kazakhstan in the north and west, Turkmenistan in the southwest, Tajikistan in the southeast, and Kyrgyzstan in the east. With the Kyzylkum Desert lying in its center, this country contrarily has fertile lands of the Fergana Valley and green areas at the foothills of the Tian Shan Mountains as you move towards the east.
The historical geography of Eurasia is divided into three main zones: the northern forested taiga, the steppe—which served as the primary stage for nomadic history—and the southern desert-oasis belt. Uzbekistan lies at the very heart of this third zone. For the Khorezm region in the west of the country, the Amu Darya river has the same meaning as the Nile for Egypt. On the other hand, Samarkand and Bukhara thrive in the oases watered by the Zarafshon river. That’s why we can call Uzbekistan’s geographical history a perfect balance between desert and water.
Thanks to its geographical location, Uzbekistan is located in the heart of the ancient Silk Road, which makes its cities like Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva commercial hubs frequented by merchants traveling between the East and West. Today, its location still marks a starting point for a travel route in the region: From Tashkent, it just takes a short flight to reach Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, or to Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
Map of places to visit in Uzbekistan
How to go to Uzbekistan?
The fastest and most convenient way to go to Uzbekistan is to take a flight. Turkish Airlines flies to Urgench, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Fergana, in addition to Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan. Flights from Istanbul Airport usually take about 4.5 hours to arrive in Uzbekistan. Check our Istanbul-Uzbekistan flights page to start planning your trip.
If you plan to travel there by road, you can enter Uzbekistan through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Travelers who want to go on a Central Asia trip typically prefer this itinerary. Within the country, the high-speed train, Afrosiyob offers both a fast and scenic alternative on the Tashkent–Samarkand–Bukhara route.
Is a visa needed to enter Uzbekistan?
Whether you need a visa to enter Uzbekistan may vary depending on your citizenship and your travel purpose. Before planning your trip, please check visa requirements from Uzbekistan’s official information sources.
How to go to the city center from Tashkent International Airport
Tashkent’s main entry gate, Tashkent International Airport is 9 to 10 kilometers from the city center. You have a couple of options to go to the city center from the airport:
- Taxi: The most convenient option. You can request a taxi from the taxi stand or apps like Yandex Go. It is recommended to use an app to have price transparency and avoid bargaining. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to get to the city center.
- Bus: You can go to the city center using bus numbers 11, 67, and 94, which pass near the airport.
- Hotel transfer: Requesting a transfer in advance from your hotel is the most hassle-free option, especially for passengers arriving late.
The airports in Samarkand and Bukhara are far smaller and closer to the city center, and for these cities, the most common transportation from the airport is by taxi.
When to go to Uzbekistan?
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is the spring season from mid-March till June when nature awakens and the fall season from September till mid-November when market stalls are full of produce. Due to the country’s continental climate, summers are very hot. During the 40-day period, locally known as “Chilla”, temperatures exceed 40°C in July and August, even above 45°C in desert cities. And winters are cold and frosty.
Spending time in the cities with a hot desert climate such as Bukhara and Khiva in the summer months can be tiring. It may still be okay for those who go around in the early morning and rest in the afternoon. On the other hand, in the winter months (December-February), temperatures sometimes go below zero. This period remains a feasible option for those who seek a calm, far-from-the-tourist-crowds experience.
For those who plan their trip around the festival calendar: Nowruz is celebrated with street performances and traditional dishes across the country in March. Meanwhile, the Silk and Spice Festival, held in Bukhara in May or June, stands out as an event that brings Silk Road culture to life.
Where to go in Uzbekistan?
Samarkand
Samarkand is most likely the number one place to visit in Uzbekistan. Timur brought the best architects and artisans to the capital city with the aim “my city must have the best”, and we can still see the traces of this aim in the city. Once the capital city of the Timurid Empire, Samarkand is considered to be the most majestic city in Uzbekistan. Founded as ancient Afrasiyab in the 7th century BC, the city experienced its most significant development during the Timurid era, between the 14th and 15th centuries. Key attractions include Registan and its madrasas, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Gur-e-Amir, and Ulugh Beg Observatory.
The Registan Square is a dazzling area with blue-turquoise tilework and three magnificent madrasas. Literally meaning “a place of sand”, Registan had been a river bed before the waters ran out and the place became one of the biggest markets of Central Asia. Carved at the 15th-century Ulugh Beg Madrasa’s entrance gate is a Hadith “The pursuit of knowledge is the duty of every Muslim man and woman”. Right across it, there stands the Sherdar Madrasa drawing attention with its lion and sun figures which are rare in Islamic architecture. The ceiling of the Tilakari (Gold-Plated) Madrasa, situated between the other two madrasas, creates the illusion of a dome on a flat surface using gold leaf applied via the “kundal” technique. Watching the square lighted up at dusk is one of the top things in the Samarkand to-do list.
Gur-e-Amir is where Timur and his successors are buried. At the center of the mausoleum complex, there is a dark green jade block that represents Timur’s tomb. It is also said that Timur requested in his will to be buried at the feet of his teacher, Sayyid Baraka, and his will shaped the layout of the tombs in the complex. There is another great construction in this square: the Ulugh Beg Observatory built by famous astronomer and sultan Ulugh Beg in the 1420s. You can see the underground section of the observatory’s massive marble sextant here. Ulugh Beg and his team used this tool to map the locations of over one thousand stars and calculate the length of the solar year just one minute different from the modern calculations. Don’t forget to visit another must-see place: Shah-i-Zinda necropolis known for its turquoise and cobalt blue underglaze decoration.
Ruins of Afrasiyab: This large mound in the north of the city contains the ruins of a Samarkand that existed before the Mongol invasion. It was the center of the Sogdians who are considered to be among the most skilled merchants of the ancient world. The Sogdian alphabet later served as the basis for the Uyghur and Mongol scripts. According to Chinese sources, the Sogdians would put honey in the mouths of newborn babies so they would become sweet talkers, and they would put some adhesive substance in the palm of their hands so they would hold money more strongly. To learn more about this culture, you can also visit the museum and watch the famous Afrasiyab frescoes from the 7th century.
Konigil village and Samarkand paper: In Konigil, a few kilometers from the city, the production of paper (in the same way as it was learned from the Chinese artisans after the Battle of Talas) has been revived. Obtained by pounding mulberry tree bark in water mills, this smooth paper is said to last for centuries without being affected by insects or moisture, thanks to its natural structure. You can visit the workshop, see the production process yourself and buy paper souvenirs. Enjoy a half-day break from the city.
Bukhara
A city located on the Silk Road, Bukhara’s history dates back more than 2,000 years. All of the city center is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. That’s one of the reasons why it ranks high in the list of places to go in Uzbekistan. Even the name of the city is very old: It’s believed it comes from the Sanskrit word “vihara” that refers to a “Buddhist temple”. This origin is the first tip signaling Bukhara’s pre-Islamic layers.
The Lyabi-Hauz square is the city’s social meeting point with its madrasas and tea gardens around the pond. The nearby Magok-i-Attari Mosque (Mosque in the Pit) stands as the most tangible example of the city’s layered history: In the excavations, a Buddhist temple was discovered at the bottom, a Zoroastrian fire temple above it, and Islamic architecture at the top. It is said that it was covered with soil by the Bukhara people to protect it from the Mongol invasion. And the Ark of Bukhara is a fortress within the city that was used as the residence of local rulers for years.
The Kalyan Minaret, located within the Poi Kalyan Complex, is the city’s most prominent landmark. Built during the Karakhanid period in the first half of the 12th century, it was one of the tallest structures in the world at the time of its construction and has been withstanding earthquakes and wars for nine centuries. It’s said that when Genghis Khan entered the city in 1220 and looked up at the minaret, his helmet fell to the ground; compelled to bow before the tower’s majesty, he ordered, “Do not destroy this place.” The Kalyan is one of the rare structures that survived the Mongol destruction.
When you wander around the domed bazaars (toqs), observe Toqi Sarrofon where money changers worked: This dome under which Indian rupees were exchanged for Byzantine gold or Chinese silver during the Silk Road times provides cooling by circulating the air inside even on the hottest day, thanks to its wonderful architecture. Being a central point for merchants also meant it was a hub for intercontinental news. In these bazaars, you can now see traditional handmade silk products and textiles with gold embroidery work.
There are two other notable structures representing Bukhara’s multicultural history: Four-towered Chor Minor Madrasa’s gate and the centuries-old synagogue of the Bukharan Jews (Bukharim)—whose roots date back to the Babylonian Exile and who speak Tajik in their daily lives—located in the old town.
In the Islamic world, the Samanid Mausoleum is considered to be the best-preserved example of 10th century architecture. No tilework, no paint. Fired clay bricks were arranged to create a basket-weave effect through the interplay of light and shadow. It is said that it was saved from the Mongol destruction because it was completely buried underground by a sandstorm and that it wasn’t uncovered until the 20th century. Bukhara is one of the well-preserved Central Asian Islamic cities from the 10th to 17th centuries, and its urban texture has mostly made it to today intact.
Khiva
In the northwest of the country, in Khorezm region, Khiva is almost like an open-air museum for both travelers and history lovers as a city whose roots stretch deep into history. Legend has it that this city was built around a well that Prophet Noah’s son Shem dreamed of. This well, known as “Kheyvak”, is still shown today within Itchan Kala. About three thousand people still live behind the walls of Khiva—declared a “museum city” in 1967—making it a living old city rather than a dead stage set. The turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret, along with the palaces and madrasas you encounter while walking its narrow streets, make Khiva one of Uzbekistan’s most photogenic destinations.
Khiva has a particular importance for maths history: Al-Khwarizmi, who lived in the 9th century—and from whose name the word “algorithm” is derived—was born in this region. He was the founder of algebra and the scholar who introduced Indian numerals (including zero) to the Islamic world and, from there, to Europe. His statue in front of the city’s western gate is the first stop before entering Itchan Kala.
The center of Khiva and surrounded by walls, Itchan Kala (Inner Castle) is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and contains structures mostly from the 18th or 19th centuries. The most striking structure is Kalta Minor Minaret: Reputedly, Khan wanted a minaret from the top of which “he can see the whole Bukhara” but the construction was left unfinished after Khan’s death in 1855. It was already 29 meters tall. Short but huge, this outstanding structure is unique as it is completely covered with tilework on the outside. Meanwhile, khans’ residence Kuhna Ark (Old Citadel) manifests an architectural genius with its high-rising iwans that provide natural cooling against the desert heat. You can watch the most beautiful sunsets in Itchan Kala from the bastion of the citadel. Juma Mosque with wooden columns, Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, and Tash Hauli Palace with its harem section are among the places to visit.
The camel caravan sculptures in the city square honor the true heroes of this region: the two-humped Central Asian camels. Those who look closely at the base of the walls can see traces of the region’s pre-Islamic faith before the Arab conquest in the 8th century: According to Zoroastrian beliefs, soil, fire and water are sacred so the dead are not buried. But their bones are put in bone-containers called “astodan”.
Desert castles of Khorezm: On the way connecting Khiva to Bukhara, mud-brick castles rising by the Kyzylkum Desert silently tell the power of Khorezm over the Silk Road. It is believed that Khorezm means “land where the sun rises” or “low wetland” since the fertility of the region was completely dependent on the Amu Derya river. Ayaz-Kala, founded in the 4th century BC, served as a garrison protecting the oasis from the Saka (Scythian) nomads of the north. Toprak-Kala, which was the center of the region in the 2nd-3rd centuries, was a big city built completely with mud-brick. When the river bed changed and consequently the city no longer had access to water, it was abandoned and became soil (toprak) again just like its name. Kyzyl-Kala, equipped with underground cisterns to withstand sieges, is one of the finest examples of this defensive architecture. You can see the castles in a half-day tour from Khiva or by making a stopover on the way between Bukhara and Khiva.
Tashkent
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, has a much more modern face compared to other cities in the country. With a population of approximately 2.6 million, Tashkent is Uzbekistan’s most cosmopolitan city, home to diverse ethnic groups—mostly Uzbeks. Most of Tashkent’s tourist attractions are located in the Old City, an area that has managed to preserve its traditional culture.
In the capital, you encounter Soviet-era architecture, wide boulevards, and metro stations that are almost like art galleries. Rising behind the statue of Timur on his horse in Amir Timur Square (a square considered the city’s zero point) is Hotel Uzbekistan, one of the most renowned examples of Soviet Brutalism: The massive concrete lattice screen (mashrabiya) covering the façade of the 1974 building was designed to mitigate Tashkent’s scorching summer heat. Another interesting structure is the Hazrati Imam Complex known for housing one of the oldest Quran copies in the world (the Uthman Quran). Meanwhile, you can experience the city at its liveliest in the Chorsu Bazaar that lies under seven domes. Butcher stalls, women selling balls of dried yogurt known as “kurt”, and the smells of naryn (a dish) and Tashkent-style plov (pilaf)… You can also learn about the city history from the museums around the square.
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is also the country’s cultural center. It has numerous fascinating museums featuring diverse collections and exhibitions: the State Museum of History traces Uzbekistan’s past from the early Paleolithic era to the present day. The State Museum of Applied Arts was originally built in the late 19th century as the residence of a Russian diplomat, and the building itself is an exhibit, with its incredibly intricate “ganch” (carved plaster) work and painted ceilings. Inside, the museum displays blue ceramics from Rishton, wall-sized “suzani” embroideries, “ikat” textiles, and carpets—making it the best place to see Uzbek handcrafts all under one roof.
Shahrisabz
The city of Shahrisabz where Timur was born is 1.5 to 2 hours away from Samarkand and is usually visited for one day. With its old center on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, it is one of the oldest and most colorful cities of Uzbekistan. Formerly known as “Kesh” (heart-pleasing), this city is called Shahrisabz, which means “green city” in Persian as it is surrounded by fertile lands.
The city regained importance in the 16th century because Timur was born and raised in the village of Khoja Ilgar, near Kesh. The most remarkable of the structures built there is the Ak-Saray Palace, dating from 1380. Of this monument, located a few kilometers outside the city, only the 56-meter high monumental portal has survived to the present day.
Fergana Valley
Formed millions of years ago, the Fergana Valley is an extremely productive and densely populated area situated between Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. It is also a very important center for the production of cotton, fruit, and raw silk.
Uzbekistan’s most productive and most populated area, the Fergana Valley is famous for its traditional handcrafts. Unique blue ceramics made in ceramics workshops in Rishton and its colorful bazaars make this valley less touristic but culturally richer. You can go to Fergana from Tashkent by train or car.
Turkish Airlines’ special itinerary
Turkish Airlines’ direct flights from Istanbul to Tashkent are the most convenient option for those who start their Uzbekistan trip from Türkiye. Thanks to Turkish Airlines’ direct flights to Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench (Khiva) and Fergana, it is also possible to plan the outbound and return journeys from different cities. For example, fly to Tashkent directly, and when you finish your itinerary, return from Urgench to Istanbul—no need to go back to Tashkent. Depending on your time and resources, you can arrange Uzbekistan as a standalone itinerary or plan a trip that combines it with neighboring central cities such as Almaty (Kazakhstan) or Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan).
The classic itinerary usually recommended is like this: Fly from Istanbul to Tashkent, then take the high-speed train Afrosiyob to arrive in Samarkand in 2 hours, then again take Afrosiyob to go to Bukhara in about 1.5 hours, travel from Bukhara to Khiva across the Kyzylkum Desert, and finally take a 1-hour-and-40-minute domestic flight from Urgench to Tashkent or directly to Istanbul. The overland distance between Bukhara and Khiva is approximately 450 kilometers (6-7 hours by private car or shared taxi). Plan a full day for this leg of the journey and stop to visit ancient Khorezmian desert castles along the way, such as Ayaz Kala and Toprak Kala. The Tashkent-Khiva high-speed train—which launched in May 2026 and also stops in Samarkand and Bukhara—operates on specific days of the week. Please check the schedule before your trip. This itinerary makes it easy to visit the country’s four most iconic cities in a single trip without unnecessary backtracking.
How many days to spend in Uzbekistan?
A period of 10 to 12 days to visit the four big cities of Uzbekistan (Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva) without rushing is ideal. If you have limited time, a 6-7-day itinerary focusing on Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara is also sufficient to see the important part of the cultural heritage of the country. For those who want to see Samarkand and Bukhara only, 3 to 4 days will do, but we recommend you include Khiva in your itinerary not to miss the unique experience it offers. And please note travel between Bukhara and Khiva takes almost a day. If you wish to see the Fergana Valley and Shahrisabz, add 2 or 3 days to your trip.
Urban transport in Uzbekistan
The Tashkent metro, the first metro system in Central Asia, opened in 1977, and each of its stations is designed like an art gallery with marble, mosaics, and chandeliers. It serves not just as a means of transport but as a destination itself while exploring the city. The ban on taking photos in the stations was lifted in 2018 after many years. The fare is fixed—regardless of distance—and very affordable. The old token system was replaced in 2020. Now, you can pay at the turnstiles using the ATTO transit card, a contactless bank card (including Visa and Mastercard), or your mobile phone. If you want to pay in cash, you can buy a paper ticket that contains a QR code for a bit higher price, from the ticket office. On the other hand, you can use an ATTO card on buses as well.
For traveling between the cities, the Afrosiyob high-speed train is the most comfortable option on the Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara route, reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h. The journey takes approximately 2 hours to Samarkand and about 3.5 hours to Bukhara. Tickets are made available for sale approximately 45-60 days in advance via the Uzbekistan Railways official website and mobile app. However, during peak seasons (April-May and September-October), tickets for popular departure times may sell out within days or even hours. Don’t forget to have your passport with you when you enter the station as tickets are issued for passports. The Tashkent-Khiva high-speed train (with stops in Samarkand and Bukhara, approximately 7.5 hours), which began service in May 2026, operates on certain days of the week. Alternatively, there are multiple daily domestic flights and overnight trains to Urgench. To travel to the Fergana Valley from Tashkent, a daily train crosses the Kamchik Pass, taking about 4 hours to reach Kokand and around 5 hours to reach Margilan. Within the cities, taxis and apps like Yandex Go are the most common modes of transport. While the app works smoothly in Tashkent and Samarkand, it may take some time for it to find a car in Bukhara. And it’s not available in Khiva yet. The old city centers of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are compact enough to be explored on foot.
Where to eat in Uzbekistan?
Uzbek cuisine has been shaped by the country’s location at the crossroads of the Silk Road. Plov (also known as “palov”), considered the national dish, is a filling meal prepared with rice, carrots, meat, and chickpeas, and every region has its own recipe for it. Even Samarkand plov and Tashkent plov are different from each other. Bukhara plov is cooked in layers within giant copper cauldrons using a straining method and is garnished with yellow carrots, lamb, and black raisins. Khiva’s famous dish is shivit oshi. These homemade noodles, infused with fresh dill to achieve a vibrant green hue, are served topped with a meat and vegetable sauce and accompanied by strained yogurt—a refreshing lunch option amidst the desert heat. Must-try delicacies include shashlik (grilled meat skewers), laghman (a soup or dish made with handmade noodles), manti (dumplings), somsa (oven-baked pastries filled with meat or pumpkin), and non (traditional Uzbek bread), which you can find at every table. The most famous type of non is Samarkand bread. The star of the Siyob Bazaar, this bread is kneaded with milk and kaymak (milk cream) instead of water. The stamped patterns on the bread prevent it from puffing up and bursting in the tandir oven and ensure it stays preserved for months once dried. For this reason, Samarkand bread is traditionally taken along as a gift when traveling out of the city. Plov is traditionally a lunch dish; it is cooked in large cauldrons in the morning and sells out by the afternoon. Served from giant cauldrons at the Central Asian Plov Center (Besh Qozon) in Tashkent, the plov experience is a city favorite. Bread is considered sacred at the table: Non is never turned upside down, placed on the ground, or thrown in the trash.
The traditional teahouses (chaykhana) in Samarkand and Bukhara are ideal spots for both tasting local cuisine and observing local life. Meals are typically enjoyed while seated on wooden platforms within a courtyard. However, Tashkent offers a mix of both traditional and modern restaurant options. Tasting fresh fruits, nuts, and local sweets at the bazaars—particularly the Siyob Bazaar in Samarkand—is also an essential part of the trip. Green tea (Koʻk choy), served alongside meals and at every opportunity, is one of the hallmarks of Uzbek hospitality.
What to buy from Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan is incredibly rich in handicrafts, making shopping a delightful part of the trip:
- Suzani embroidery: Textiles adorned with hand-stitched traditional motifs; you can use them as wall hangings, cushion covers, or tablecloths.
- Ikat textiles: Produced especially in Margilan, fabrics with vibrant colors and geometric patterns.
- Ceramics: Rishton is famous for its traditional ceramics featuring blue and turquoise colors, including plates and vases.
- Carpets and rugs: Hand-woven carpets produced in Bukhara and the surrounding areas.
- Knives: Hand-crafted, ornate knives from the town of Chust in the Fergana Valley are highly sought after by collectors.
- Spices and dried fruits/nuts: Items such as cumin, sumac, spice blends, dried apricots, raisins, almonds, and walnuts—purchased from local markets—make for both lightweight and practical gift options. The Siyob Bazaar in Samarkand and the Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent are the most vibrant spots for this kind of shopping.
Bargaining in bazaars is a common practice. Note that, especially in shops in tourist areas, there is room for flexibility for the initial price.
Notes about customs: In Uzbekistan, items older than 50 years (such as antique carpets, suzanis, ceramics, manuscripts, etc.) are classified as cultural assets, and taking them out of the country requires an expert report and a permit. Items attempted to be taken out without authorization are confiscated at customs. There is no such issue with newly produced handcrafts, but it is advisable to request from the seller a document proving the product is new or an invoice when you purchase high value carpets or textiles. As for the Chust knives, you can carry them only in checked baggage.
Where to stay in Uzbekistan?
Tashkent offers a wide range of accommodation, from international hotel chains to boutique ones. Preferring areas near the city center provides convenient access to the metro and taxis. In Samarkand and Bukhara, accommodation options converted from traditional mansions (now boutique hotels) within the old city offer an authentic experience while allowing you to stay within walking distance of historic squares. In Khiva, small boutique hotels located within the walls of Itchan Kala are highly recommended for those wishing to soak up the old city’s atmosphere at night.
Accommodation prices are generally quite reasonable by European standards; however, it would be wise to book early during the peak seasons of spring and autumn. Hotels and licensed guesthouses automatically handle the mandatory residence registration upon your arrival. Make sure to keep the registration slips (whether paper or digital) until you leave the country, as you may be asked to show them when you leave. If you plan to stay in Airbnb-style rentals, check whether the host is able to facilitate this registration.
Why visit Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan functions as almost an open-air museum for history lovers. The tiled madrasa at the Registan square, the thousand-year-old streets of Bukhara, and the old town of Khiva… They all feel like the golden age of the Silk Road. In addition to all these beauties, you find very affordable prices compared to those in Europe, very hospitable local people and a rich cuisine. Along with linguistic (Uzbek being a language related to Turkish) and cultural affinity, no visa requirements for Turkish citizens make Uzbekistan especially appealing for travelers from Türkiye. Not yet overrun by crowded tourist circuits, this region offers a unique experience for both photography enthusiasts and lovers of slow travel.
Tips for your Uzbekistan trip
Currency: The country’s official currency is the Uzbek Som (UZS); as of 2026, 1 US dollar is worth approximately 12,000 som (exchange rates fluctuate), so get used to carrying thick stacks of banknotes. Use banks and official exchange offices to exchange currency. It is illegal to exchange currency on the streets and unnecessary since the adoption of the free floating market system In 2017. Bring clean, undamaged US dollars or euros with you. Turkish Lira cannot be exchanged everywhere. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities. You can also withdraw som from ATMs, but transaction limits are low, and machines can sometimes run out of cash. Cash is the primary method of payment in bazaars, taxis, small businesses, and museums. Tipping is not mandatory. Upscale restaurants may add a service charge of around 10% to the bill, so always check it. Cash amounts exceeding 100 million som (approximately 8,000 dollars) must be declared upon entry through customs.
Plug and socket type: Socket types C and F are used in Uzbekistan, and the voltage is 220V. As they are compatible with standard Turkish plugs, you generally do not need an adapter.
Etiquette: When visiting mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums, wear clothes that cover at least up to your shoulders and knees. While covering the head is not mandatory for women, head coverings are recommended, and headscarves are provided at the entrances of major complexes like the Hazrati Imam complex. Do not enter the praying areas with your shoes on. Do not take pictures of people who are praying or performing ablution. The local people are extremely hospitable toward guests, and the ancient “bread and salt” tradition of this region remains alive in its purest form. Don’t be surprised if you get invited for tea while you’re walking down the street. Accepting such an invitation is considered a polite gesture. Similarly, bringing a small gift when invited to someone’s home is a sign of courtesy. Asking for permission before taking photos of locals is a standard rule of cultural etiquette, whereas photographing military installations, border crossings, airports, and certain public buildings is prohibited.
Communication: The country code is +998. Your passport is needed to purchase a local SIM card (Beeline, Ucell, Mobiuz, or Uzmobile). Since operator kiosks at the airport may not always be open, stores in the city center are more reliable. Foreign phones can be used with a local SIM for 30 days without additional registration, but IMEI registration is required for a longer stay. Travel eSIMs offer a convenient option for staying connected while abroad. In Uzbekistan, Telegram is the dominant messaging platform, and you will likely use it to stay in touch with hotels, tour guides, and drivers. For getting around, Yandex Go is particularly helpful for booking taxis, while Yandex Translate can assist with Russian and Uzbek. For directions and route planning, Yandex Maps and Google Maps are both useful tools to have on your phone.
Health and Security: No mandatory vaccinations are required, but travel health insurance is recommended. Drink bottled water, and note that city pharmacies (dorixona) are widely available. In summer, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential. Uzbekistan is generally safe for tourists, with Tourist Police in major cities. For emergencies, call 112 (general), 102 (police), 103 (ambulance), 101 (fire), or 1173 (Safe Tourism).
Drone and medications: Unauthorized drones are prohibited in Uzbekistan and may be confiscated at customs, with fines imposed. Drone permits are generally limited to professional teams applying months in advance, so leave your drone at home. Medications containing controlled substances, such as codeine, tramadol, or benzodiazepines, require a prescription and doctor’s report. Keep your regular medications in their original packaging and within personal-use limits.
Places to go nearby Uzbekistan
If your Central Asian journey includes Uzbekistan, you can easily expand your trip by visiting nearby countries. Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural hub, combines impressive mountain landscapes with a lively modern city; Kyrgyzstan’s capital Bishkek and the Issyk-Kul area are excellent choices for trekking and outdoor activities, while Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe, and the Pamir Mountains are better suited to travelers seeking a more adventurous experience. You can reach these destinations from Uzbekistan by road or regional flights. Turkish passport holders can travel to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan without a visa, whereas Tajikistan requires a visa for standard Turkish passports, although you can get an e-visa online. Since entry rules can change, we recommend checking the current requirements before departure. You can also go to Turkmenistan through the Dashoguz border crossing, around 60 km from Khiva, but Turkish citizens must obtain a visa in advance.
A brief overview of Uzbekistan’s history
The lands that make up Uzbekistan today have been shaped by many civilizations since the 6th century BC, including the Persian Empire, Alexander the Great’s conquests, Arab expansion, and the Mongol invasion. But the country lived its golden age in the 14th century under the Timurid Empire. Timur made then-capital city Samarkand one of the most magnificent cities of that time. During the reign of his grandson Ulugh Beg, the city also became a major center for science and astronomy. A part of the Russian Empire in the late 19th century and then a part of the Soviet Union, Uzbekistan declared its independence in 1991 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Today, it welcomes visitors as a country that combines both deep-rooted Silk Road heritage and the traces of the post-independence modernization process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a visa needed to enter Uzbekistan?
It depends on your citizenship and your travel purpose. Before planning your trip, please check visa requirements from Uzbekistan’s official information sources.
What is the best time to go to Uzbekistan?
Not too hot, not too cold—the best time for Uzbekistan is spring (April-May) or fall (September-October).
What currency is used in Uzbekistan?
The country’s official currency is Uzbek Som (UZS). It is recommended to carry cash with you although you can pay with a credit card in the big cities.
How long does the flight take from Istanbul to Tashkent?
On Turkish Airlines’ direct flights between Istanbul and Tashkent, the flight time is approximately 4.5 hours for the outbound leg, while the return flight can reach 5 hours due to the winds. Don’t forget the two-hour time difference between the two countries.
What are the must-see cities in Uzbekistan?
Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Tashkent are the four important destinations of the country. Those who have more time may want to add the Fergana Valley and Shahrisabz to their itinerary.
How do I travel between cities in Uzbekistan?
The Afrosiyob high-speed train operating on the Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara route is the fastest and most convenient means of transport. Make sure you purchase your tickets as early as possible. You can reach Khiva from Bukhara by road (6-7 hours), via the Tashkent-Khiva high-speed train that operates on specific days of the week, or by flying from Tashkent to Urgench.
Is there a language barrier in Uzbekistan?
Although the country’s official language is Uzbek, Russian is widely spoken across the country. Since Uzbek and Turkish languages are related, Turkish travelers may find some basic expressions more easily.
Is Uzbekistan safe?
Yes. Uzbekistan is a country where the crime rates are low and tourists travel safely. In tourist cities, there are tourist police working, and you can call 112 for emergencies. Primary things to watch out for are not bringing drones without permission, not exchanging currency on the street, and not taking antique items older than 50 years out of the country without permission.
