best time to visit samarkand uzbekistan

The Best Time to Visit Samarkand, Uzbekistan for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Samarkand for ideal weather are

April 9th to June 17th

August 27th to october 28th.

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Samarkand Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Samarkand Travel Info

Weather in samarkand.

Average temperatures in Samarkand vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel nice most of the year, excluding some cold weeks in the winter, with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 41st percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Samarkand, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid July where highs are regularly around 95.9°F (35.5°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 64.8°F (18.2°C) at night.

Samarkand Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Samarkand temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Samarkand Perceived Temperature (F)

Samarkand perceived temperature (c), average samarkand temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Samarkand are July, August, and then September. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early July. For example, on the week of July 2nd there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid February with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of February 19th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Samarkand.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Samarkand (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Samarkand has some humid months, and dry months in the opposite season. The least humid month is July (22.6% relative humidity), and the most humid month is February (64.4%).

Wind in Samarkand is usually calm . The windiest month is April, followed by June and March. April’s average wind speed of around 6.3 knots (7.3 MPH or 11.7 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid April where average top sustained speeds reach 14.7 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Samarkand.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to samarkand.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe, except in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are regional travel advisories for Uzbekistan; exercise normal security precautions and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 20, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Samarkand, Uzbekistan is April, followed by July and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Samarkand in September. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall samarkand travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range from 88.3°F (31.3°C) and 52.2°F (11.2°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 3 to 7 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the least precipitation with 0 to 1 days of precipitation per month. June – August is fairly slow season for tourism in Samarkand, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 87.2°F (30.7°C) and 53.8°F (12.1°C), which will feel comfortable given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 1 to 5 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is too cold this time of year in Samarkand to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 52.2°F (11.2°C) and 42.4°F (5.8°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 4 to 7 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Uzbekistan › Samarkand, Uzbekistan

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When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is from March to mid-June and September to October. Most of Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate with sweltering summers and freezing winters, so you’ll avoid extreme weather by visiting during these periods. The desert is also in bloom briefly during spring, while the harvest season in autumn means the markets are full of fresh produce. However, spring and autumn are also the peak seasons, so you may want to visit outside of these months if you prefer smaller crowds. Check out our seasonal guide below to help you plan your  Uzbekistan trip .

Best for: minimal crowds and great photography conditions

January is the coldest month. Freezing temperatures take hold of most of the country, with temperatures dipping as low as -5°C in the northernmost areas. It generally gets colder the further north you go. Although January is super quiet and isn’t considered a great month to visit, if you don't mind rugging up with appropriate winter gear, you’ll have the country’s historic sites almost all to yourself. Clear, crisp winter days also make for perfect photography conditions.

Best for: exploring famous sites in solitude

Cold temperatures continue into February. However, crowds are almost non-existent, so there’ll be no queues and crowds at famous sites like the Registan in Samarkand and the Ark of Bukharayou. You may be able to negotiate lower hotel rates. The cold weather is also a good excuse to explore the bazaars.

Best for: warmer temperatures, exploring ancient sites, and Navruz festival

Spring arrives in March, bringing warmer, wetter weather. However, spring rains bring the landscapes to life and flowers carpet mountain pastures and the plains of the Kyzylkum Desert from the end of the month.

The highlight of March is Navruz festival (21 March), which celebrates the spring equinox and the Persian New Year. Locals visit family and friends, fruit trees are planted in orchards and people take to the streets to enjoy delicious festive dishes and folk music. It’s a brilliant opportunity to experience Uzbekistani culture and hospitality. Be sure to book transport and accommodation in advance as it’s a busy time for domestic travel.

Best for: pleasant weather, mountain homestays, and exploring the desert

Spring is in full swing in April. With comfortable temperatures and clearer skies, it’s one of the best months to explore the stunning mosques and mausoleums in the ancient Silk Road cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. You can also experience sleeping in a yurt under the stars in the gorgeous Kysylkum Desert without it being uncomfortably hot. April is one of the busiest months, particularly around the Easter holidays, so try to book flights and accommodation in advance.

Best for: the Silk and Spices Festival, Boysun Bahori, wildflowers, and desert camping

Temperatures continue to climb in May, particularly in southern border towns where the days can already be quite hot. May is a busy month for Uzbekistan’s events calendar with the Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara and the Boysun Bahori Festival, both of which are fantastic opportunities to learn about Uzbekistani art, culture and traditions.

With pleasant temperatures, May is an excellent time to go desert trekking or  experience rural life at a homestay in the Nuratau Mountains . The Tien Shan Mountains also offer an extra backdrop for hiking in May as poppies and tulips dot the pastures.

Best for: mountain homestays, markets along the Silk Road, and dry weather

June marks the start of the summer, with markedly warmer temperatures than May. It can be particularly hot in the desert plains and central border towns, so head out early to beat the midday sun. However, with little to no rain, your sightseeing should be uninterrupted.

June is a great month to take refuge in the cooler Nuratau Mountains where you can experience daily life at a homestay and cool down by waterfalls. June is a fairly busy month in Uzbekistan before things come to a halt in July when it's too hot, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet locals and shop at pop-up stalls along the famous Silk Road.

Best for: low season crowds and prices

July is a scorcher or a month. The heat is particularly strong in southern cities like Bukhara and desert areas where the thermostat often soars past 40°C. The heat is too intense for desert camping and extended periods outdoors, so you may want to wait until late August when temperatures drop.

Best for: low season crowds and prices, cooler temps (in late August), and Stihia festival

The weather is still extremely hot and dry from early to mid-August. However, if you can cope with the heat, you may be able to score low season flight and accommodation prices. Ensure you go sightseeing in the morning or evening to avoid being scorched by the sun.

Things gradually start to cool down towards the end of the month, making it possible to camp in the desert comfortably again. If you like electronic music, you may also be interested in Stihia, a unique festival of dance music and art in the heart of the Kyzylkum Desert.

Best for: pleasant weather, harvest season, and Sharq Taronalari festival

Autumn arrives in September, bringing much-welcomed cooler temperatures which are ideal for hiking, desert camping and sightseeing along the Silk Road. September is also the harvest season, so markets are packed with fresh fruits and vegetables. Vendors are proud of their produce and are usually more than happy to let you try before you buy.

Another highlight of September is Sharq Taronalari festival, a bi-annual event that showcases the best of Uzbek and Central Asian folk music. Open-air concerts take place across Samarkand and Shakhrisabz, including Samarkand’s iconic Registan Square.

With pleasant weather and lots going on, September is one of the busiest months, so book flights and accommodation in advance and set off early to beat the crowds.

Best for: harvest season, good weather, and desert camping

Harvest season continues into October so it's a great opportunity to sample the country's abundant produce. While daytime temperatures are mild, mornings and evenings can be fresh – particularly in the desert and the mountains – so ensure you bring warmer gear. However, colder desert nights are perfect for listening to traditional music around a campfire and getting cosy in a yurt. October is the last month to travel along the Silk Road before wintry conditions set in.

Best for: minimal crowds and exploring ancient sites in solitude

The cold arrives in November, bringing plummeting temperatures to the far north. Things start to quieten down as the low season kicks in, so you might want to avoid November if you want to enjoy everything Uzbekistan has to offer – particularly outside of the main cities. However, as long as you dress up warmly, you'll get to soak up the beauty of Uzbekistan's enchanting landmarks with little to no crowds.

Best for: low season prices and crowds, and winter sports

Winter is well underway in December. Most of the country sees sub-zero lows, and rain and snowfall are abundant throughout the country. Visiting Uzbekistan in December isn't recommended as it's a quiet month and many cultural experiences aren't available due to the weather. However, it's a different story if you're a snow hound — Uzbekistan's new Amirsoy Mountain Resort is tipped to be one of the most up-and-coming winter sports destinations.

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The Top 14 Things to do in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

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Samarkand is one of the highlights of Uzbekistan and one of the cities that you must visit during your trip. This small town is packed with strikingly beautiful architecture and so much history. Add in delicious cuisine and cute shops, all in close proximity so it’s easy to walk everywhere. It’s impossible not to fall in love with Samarkand!

Federico Mayor, the former Director-General of UNESCO accurately described Samarkand in his touching quote – “There are such names in the world, which unwillingly lead people to the world of dreams. The magic and fame of these words immediately impact your mind when you hear or read about them. There is such a name among them that attracts our imagination to itself, it is Samarkand. It seems that this name emerged from the whirlpool of clear and diverse colours, the scent of perfume, fabulous palaces, bells of caravans, pure melodies and yet misunderstood feelings.”

So if you’re wondering what to do in Samarkand, then you have come to the right place! Read on for our list of the best things to do in Samarkand!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Samarkand, Uzbekistan Travel Basics

Know before you go.

• The currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Soʻm (UZS). At the time of writing, the conversion was 8,450 UZS to $1 USD. In this post, we’ll be referring to prices in Uzbekistan currency.
• Many people in Samarkand, and Uzbekistan overall, do not speak English. Ask your hotel to write down the names of the places you want to go by taxi as taxi drivers are often the most difficult to communicate with.
• Google Maps isn’t entirely accurate in Samarkand. Restaurants that appear to be in one location aren’t actually there and some addresses are simply listed as “Samarkand”.

Getting to Samarkand

There are several trains each day from Tashkent to Samarkand. They are fast, comfortable, and generally run on schedule. The trip from Tashkent to Samarkand takes less than three hours and you’ll pay 105,000 UZS for the fast train, and 70,000 UZS for the regular train.

You can book your train tickets online but the station names are all in Uzbek which can be confusing. Plus, they’ll add a processing fee to the price of the ticket. You can save yourself some cash and confusion by buying your tickets directly at the station.

A taxi from the train station to downtown Samarkand or the historic area around Registan should cost you 20,000 UZS.

Getting Around Samarkand

Unfortunately, the Yanix.Taxi app does not work in Samarkand and none of the taxis in Uzbekistan use a meter. So you’ll have to attempt to communicate your destination with taxi drivers and negotiate the price.

The yellow taxis operate on a shared taxi system meaning they will continue to pick up additional people as long as there are extra seats. There is a flat rate of 4,000 UZS for most trips around downtown and Registan.

If you want to take a taxi further than a few kilometers, you’ll need to negotiate a taxi fare. Shoot for 2,000 UZS per kilometer as it seems to be the going rate, even though they’ll always start with a price about twice that. Never get into a taxi before first agreeing to the cost.

Where to Stay in Samarkand

L’Argamak Hotel

The L’Argamak Hotel is ideally located right near the main tourist sites in Samarkand. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed with views of the beautiful garden below. Guests love the delicious breakfast spread and the super friendly and helpful staff!

Check Prices on Booking.com

Sultan Hotel Boutique

The Sultan Hotel Boutique is located right in the heart of Samarkand and offers stunning views from the rooftop terrace. You’ll be within walking distance of all of the most popular sites in the city. Rooms are comfortable with all of the amenities that you’ll need during your stay.

Platan Hotel

The Platan Hotel is a bit further from the tourist sites of Samarkand, but closer to restaurants (including their own restaurant which is one of the top-rated in town!). Rooms are clean and spacious and the bathrooms are updated, a rare luxury in Uzbekistan.

Where to Eat in Samarkand

Our favorite place for lunch was Cafe Magistr , a small cafe that serves both Western and traditional Uzbek food . Plus, they had the best Wi-Fi that we found in the city. It’s a great place to chill, drink a coffee, and catch up on emails. Be sure to try the Magistr Pizza and the Chuchvara Soup! And if you are in the market for a manicure/pedicure or a haircut, the barbershop right next door has the best prices around and super friendly staff.

The Bibikhanum Teahouse is a cute outdoor restaurant near the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. It’s a bit touristy in that the servers are all dressed in traditional clothing but prices are reasonable and the food is delicious. Be sure to try the “Mantu” and the stuffed peppers!

We’ve included several other favorite restaurants below!

The Top 14 Things to Do in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

1. visit the registan.

Of course, one of the top things to do in Samarkand is to visit Registan . This iconic landmark of Uzbekistan is a central courtyard surrounded on three sides by impossibly beautiful madrasahs.

When you enter the courtyard, Tillya-Kori is directly in front of you. It has the most striking interior area with a small mosque. The walls of the mosque are covered in intricate gold details and the ceiling is spectacular. If you walk around here, you’ll see photos on the walls of the Registan before it was restored to its current glory.

Facing the Tillya-Kori, the Sherdor Madrasa is on the right, and the Ulu Bey Medresesi is on the left. Both have beautiful courtyards in the back as well as small shops with traditional Uzbekistan souvenirs. Be sure to stop by the shop at the Sherdor Madrasa where you can dress up in traditional clothes for the small fee of 5,000 UZS per person. It’s super entertaining and the guy running the place will take as many photos of you as you want!

Around sunset, the lights come on and illuminate all three of the gorgeous buildings. Crowds dwindle and it’s a great time to enjoy the inner courtyard.

Entrance Fees: 40,000 UZS per person

Hours: Open daily from 8 am until 7 pm. From our observation, as long as you’re at the gate by 7 pm, you are allowed to stay until 8:30 or 9 pm.

2. See the Nighttime Show at the Registan

If you take our advice and stay inside the Registan courtyard for sunset, you’ll be in for another treat. At 7 pm every evening (except, apparently, when they don’t feel like doing it), there is traditional music and dance show in the courtyard of the Sherdor Madrasa.

A small group of five men plays instruments while several others sing and dance. It’s a 50-minute show and you’ll certainly be entertained the entire time. The backdrop of the performance is the beautiful interior walls of the courtyard, lit up with colorful lights.

Entrance Fees: 60,000 UZS per person to see the 50-minute show

Hours: The 50-minute show begins at 7 pm

3. Check out the Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Another one of the best places to visit in Samarkand, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque is directly in front of the Siab Bazaar. It’s a striking mosque with a lovely interior courtyard. Areas of the courtyard and the interior are under reconstruction so a few areas are off-limits. There are so many opportunities for beautiful photos here and it’s generally not that crowded so spend some time here enjoying the peaceful garden.

Entrance Fees: 25,000 UZS for adults, 10,000 for children. The sign says you’ll need to purchase a camera permit but it does not appear to be enforced.

4. Shop at the Siab Bazaar

The Siab Bazaar is mainly a food market meant for locals, but there are a few things here to satisfy tourists as well. If you enjoy wandering through markets and enjoying the people watching, you’ll definitely get your fill of that here. And if you’re searching for the perfect Uzbekistan souvenir to take home with you, there are several small shops off to the side of the covered market.

The candy, fruit, and nut vendors will call out to you from their stalls, offering you small tastes of their goods. Be sure to try the pistachio halva, it’s a sweet, chewy nougat that is absolutely delicious. It’s easy to get ripped off here so be sure to bargain. A bar of halva should cost no more than 5,000 UZS.

5. Appreciate the Beauty of the Gur-e Amir Complex

The Gur-e Amir Complex is a striking madrasah that houses the tombs of Amir Temur and his beloved descendants. The building was originally meant to be an Islamic school at the direction of Temur’s grandson, Muhammad Sultan. But after he died suddenly in 1403, Temur ordered that the complex be changed to a mausoleum.

Temur was originally meant to be buried in his hometown of Shakhrisabz, but his body was laid to rest at the Gur-e Amir, as well as his other infamous grandson Ulugbek. Amir Temur’s jade stone grave is in the center of the grandiose room that houses all of the tombs. Outside is a lovely courtyard and garden, with a spectacular arched gate at the entryway.

Entrance Fees: 25,000 UZS per person. Keep your ticket as it’s good for reentry for three days.

Hours: Open daily from 8 am until 7 pm

6. Admire the Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum

The Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum is a magnificent work of art and a must-see during your trip to Samarkand! Once inside it feels as though you’re walking down the main avenue of a city comprised of the most beautiful mausoleums. The vibrant blue tilework is prevalent throughout the complex, making it a photographer’s dream!

The name Shah-i-Zinda translates to “Tomb of the Living King” which refers to the holiest of the shrines, what is likely the grave of Qusam ibn-Abbas. He is famed for bringing Islam to this region in the 7th century. The mausoleums here were built over the periods of the 11th to the 19th centuries as Timur and Ulugbek buried their families and closest confidants here at later dates.

If you want to snap photos here without loads of people in the background, come in the early morning.

There are several rules that visitors are asked to follow during a visit to the Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum, namely to dress modestly with respect to the deceased. It is also forbidden to take photos next to the tombstones, sit on them, speak loudly, behave badly, put money on graves, or sacrifice animals on the graves.

Entrance Fees: 15,000 per person

Hours: Open daily from 7 am until 7 pm

7. Sample the Goods at the Museum of Wine-Making

At this point, you’re probably wondering what to do in Samarkand besides looking at Islamic architecture. How about sampling some Uzbekistan wine?

The Museum of Wine-Making is less of an actual museum and more of a tasting room. There is a large room with some old winemaking tools on display that you can wander around before heading into a room with a large central dining table. Here you’ll get to try 10 different alcoholic beverages for 50,000 UZS per person. There are three dry wines, four dessert wines, two brandys, and one medicinal liquor similar to Jagermeister. You’ll get some information on the varietals while you sample.

8. Take a Day Trip to Shakhrisabz

Shakhrisabz is a small town located about 55 miles south of Samarkand. You’ll need to hire a driver for the day, the going rate is generally $40 for two people and the drive takes about an hour and 40 minutes each way. You’ll want about two hours to explore the city and your driver will drop you off on one end of the complex and pick you up at the parking lot on the other side.

Shakhrisabz is an important city in the history of Uzbekistan as Amir Temur was born in the neighboring village of Hodja-Ilgar and made Shakhrisabz his residence. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has several interesting architectural sites to explore. Your tour will start at the Ak Saray Palace where you’ll pay 7,000 UZS per person to visit. A large statue of Amir Temur stands proudly in front.

The next stop along your tour of Shakhrisabz is the Medrese Chubin if you choose to visit. It’s 16,000 UZS per person and the museum is poorly signed with some “artifacts” that are just paper-mâché copies of the originals. It is definitely skippable, especially if you are short on time. The Caravanserai Koba has been converted into a very fancy-looking restaurant, and the Medieval Bath is now a cafe.

You’ll wander through the central park before coming to the highlight of the city, the Dorut Tilovat Complex (entrance fee of 7,000 per person). Here, you’ll be able to see the Kok Gumbaz Mosque and two mausoleums. And directly across the park pathway is the Dor-Us Siyadat Complex (entrance fee of 10,000 per person) which houses the tomb that was meant for Amir Temur before it was decided that he would be buried at the Gur-e Amir Complex in Samarkand.

9. Visit the Mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari

The Mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari is about 30 minutes north of the central area of Samarkand, so you’ll need to catch a taxi to get there. The architecture of the complex is similar in architectural style to most of the buildings listed above and it is a revered pilgrimage site in Uzbekistan for the devout. Imam al-Bukhari was a theologian and authored the second most important book for Muslims after the Quran.

The complex houses a mausoleum, mosque, library and museum, and several souvenir stalls.

10. Eat Plov

No trip to Uzbekistan is complete without trying their beloved national cuisine – plov. This hearty rice dish is cooked in a cast-iron pot and topped with chunks of lamb and an assortment of veggies. And the most popular place to eat plov in Samarkand is at Osh Markazi Filial 1 . It’s a bit outside of town, but conveniently located just a few blocks from the Ulugh Beg Observatory.

11. Dress Up to Dine Out

A popular nighttime activity for locals in Samarkand is to get dressed up and go out for dinner and dancing. Restaurants serve classic Uzbekistan dishes while blasting club music and the patrons move from their tables to the dance floor throughout the night. There is a strict dress code for locals, but tourists aren’t held to the same standards. But if you show up in workout clothes, you’ll probably feel out of place.

Karimbek is a lively restaurant where you’ll find locals dressed to the nines rocking out to music in the room right off the entrance. If the music downstairs is too loud for your taste, you can grab a private room upstairs. There are no prices on the English menu which can be scary, but everything is quite reasonable. Their local red wine is only 8,000 UZS per glass. Be sure to try the kabobs!

Samarkand Restaurant is perfect if you’re looking to be entertained while enjoying your dinner. As you enter you’ll immediately see the dance floor where locals are dancing to the loud club music. The food is great, the alcohol is cheap, and you really can’t beat the people watching! The menu is quite similar to Karimbek and you’ll have to ask for the Uzbek menu to see the prices.

Oasis Garden is similar to Karimbek and Samarkand Restaurant in that there is a room dedicated to dancing and loud music. But there are also several quieter areas of the restaurant if you’re not in the mood to party. The staff members are super friendly and attentive and the decor is cute and comfortable.

12. Get a History Lesson at the Ulugh Beg Observatory

In full disclosure, our visit to the Ulugh Beg Observatory (also called Observatory of Ulugbek Samarkand) wasn’t our favorite activity in Samarkand. But if you have some extra time in Samarkand, or if you are particularly interested in astronomy, it’s worth a visit.

The Ulugh Beg Observatory was originally constructed in 1428-1429 by astronomer Ulugh Beg and at the time it was one of the finest in the Islamic world. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in 1449 by religious fanatics and was lost for many years before being discovered in 1908.

Some truly magnificent discoveries were made in this observatory. Ulugh calculated that the length of a star year was equal to 365 days, 6 hours, 10 minutes, and 8 seconds which is only off by less than a minute to our current calculations.

The only thing that remains of the observatory today is the sextant, which was an instrument that was used to determine midday. It is covered by a roof but you can peer down into the large hole and see a large section of it below. There is also a very small museum that gives some history of Ulugh and of the work that was done in the observatory in the 1400s.

Entrance Fees: 25,000 per person

Hours: Open daily from 9 am until 7 pm

13. Stop at the Saint Daniel Mausoleum

If you do choose to visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, it’s a fairly easy walk back to the main touristy area of Samarkand. There are a few optional stops along the way. The Saint Daniel Mausoleum supposedly houses at least part of the remains of Saint Daniel, a biblical prophet from the Old Testament. It is a religious pilgrimage site for religious people wishing to worship him.

There is also a natural spring that is considered good luck so you’ll see people drinking from it or splashing water over their faces. You’ll need to pay a small fee to enter the mausoleum and an additional 20,000 if you’d like a tour guide to explain the significance of the area.

It is a peaceful place, and it’s a nice break from your walk to sit and enjoy if your legs are tired. But it’s probably not worth going out of your way to visit unless you have a particular interest in Saint Daniel.

Entrance Fees: 15,000 UZS per person to enter. 20,000 UZS if you want a tour guide.

14. Visit the President’s Tomb

The President’s Tomb is another easy stop on your walk back from the Ulugh Beg Observatory. But unlike Saint Daniel’s Mausoleum, I would recommend going out of your way to visit this spot. You’ll be able to see both the Hazrati Khizr Mosque and the tomb of the former president.

The former Uzbekistan president, Islam Karimov, ruled Uzbek SSR in 1990 before declaring Uzbekistan’s independence on September 1, 1991. The first general election took place in December of that year which he won by a landslide. He continued to win re-elections with over 90% of the vote until his death in 2016.

As with many of the other religious and historical sites in Samarkand, the mosque and enclosed tomb are absolutely stunning. You may be able to climb the minaret after paying your entrance fee which offers views of the courtyard below. You can take photos here, just not of the actual president’s tomb.

We hope that’s enough things to do to keep you busy in Samarkand, Uzbekistan!

Want more help planning your trip to Uzbekistan? Check out our favorite travel guides!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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2 thoughts on “the top 14 things to do in samarkand, uzbekistan”.

Amazing travel blog! I am going to Uzbekistan next May. In your opinion, how much time to spend in Samarkanda, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent? We have few days and wonder which cities need more time to seet it.

Oh yeah, you’ll LOVE it! Khiva is quite small and Tashkent is more of a metropolitan city so I’d recommend less time in both of those and more time in Samarkand and Bukhara!

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The Best Uzbekistan Itinerary ideas: What to Visit in one week in Uzbekistan up to 4 weeks?

Are you wondering how to see the best places in Uzbekistan in 5 days, 7 days, 10 days, 14 days or more? Here are 3 best Uzbekistan itinerary suggestions to visit the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan. 

Uzbekistan is a country in Central Asia famous for its stunning mosques, mausoleums, madrasahs, and other sites linked to the Silk Road, the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean. If you love historical sites and beautiful Islamic architecture, you’ll certainly love traveling to Uzbekistan!

All the main Silk Road cities and places of interest in Uzbekistan are connected by train or bus so it’s very easy to travel independently around the country.

I’ve already visited Uzbekistan four times: in 2017, in 2019, in 2022, and just recently in 2023, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed all of my trips!

As I know the country very well by now, I can help you plan your trip to Uzbekistan and will share more about the Uzbekistan points of interest, the best things to do, and the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan.

In this guide, you’ll find various Uzbekistan travel itinerary suggestions from one week in Uzbekistan, a 10-day trip to Uzbekistan, a 14-day Uzbekistan itinerary, to an additional list of Uzbekistan tourist places and off-the-beaten-path destinations if you’d have 3 to 4 weeks to travel around the country.

Tip: See my  Uzbekistan Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Uzbekistan!

Discover the mystical Silk Road cities and travel along the ancient caravan trails in the mountains and desert of Uzbekistan during the 14-day H i g h l i g h t s o f Uzbekistan Adventure Tour !

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Uzbekistan

• 18 important things to prepare your trip to Uzbekistan
• 26 beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan
• How to travel aroun d Uzbekistan by train
• What to pack for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Safety Guide
• Uzbekistan Money Guide
• Tours & Experiences: Guided City Tours in Uzbekistan, Adventure Tours in Uzbekistan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to get to Uzbekistan

Tashkent and Samarkand both have international airports.  Tashkent International Airport  is the most popular arrival destination into Uzbekistan. It’s a 30-minute drive to get from the airport to the city center of Tashkent by taxi.

You can also travel overland to Uzbekistan from one of its neighboring countries. The easiest and most common routes are:

• from Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• from Shymkent (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• from Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus, shared taxi and train
• f rom Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus
• f rom Penjikent (Tajikistan) to Samarkand by shared taxi
• from Khudjand (Tajikistan) to Tashkent by bus

Citizens of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and many more countries can  travel to Uzbekistan visa-free for a period of 30 days .

Citizens of 76 countries including the United States, China, and India have been granted the right to receive an  electronic entry visa  for a period of 30 days.

I have so much more info to share from how to travel to Uzbekistan, how to apply for a visa and what to wear to how much money to bring and how to prepare yourself for the trip. You can read everything in the Complete Travel Guide to Uzbekistan .

Uzbekistan Travel Guide: 18 useful things you need to know before you go

What is the perfect time to visit Uzbekistan

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is spring (mid-April –  beginning of June) or autumn (mid-September – beginning of November). The temperatures during these seasons are very pleasant and it shouldn’t be too hot to walk around during the day. However, these are the busiest times in the country.

If you want to avoid the crowds in the Silk Road cities, you should travel to Uzbekistan in summer (June – September) or winter (November – March). Just be aware that summers can be soaring hot, with temperatures up to 40°C during the day.

Winter in Uzbekistan isn’t too cold, with average temperatures around 5°C, and it’s most of the time sunny so this season is a great time to visit Uzbekistan for anyone who wants to avoid crowds.

How many days are enough for Uzbekistan

It’s possible to visit the main tourist attractions in Uzbekistan within one week but I’d recommend at least 10 days to fully absorb everything this country has on offer.

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

How to travel around Uzbekistan

The quickest way to travel around Uzbekistan is by train . The modern high-speed train, called the Afrosiyab , is a bit more expensive than the old-fashioned Sharq  train but you’ll get faster to your destinations.

I highly recommend booking your train tickets in advance ! Some trains are quickly sold out, especially in during the high season (May – September). It would just really suck if you have to wait an extra day to catch the train to the next city, especially when you’re on a tight schedule, and therefore have to skip a destination.

You can nowadays book your train tickets online on the official Uzbekistan Railways website . Read my Uzbekistan Railways Guide – How to take trains in Uzbekistan in which I explain the online booking process.

If you prefer to buy your tickets on the spot, you can go to one of the train stations in Uzbekistan upon your arrival and buy all the train tickets you need in one go.

Another thing I like to recommend is installing the Yandex Taxi app on your phone. This app allows you to easily order a taxi without having to bargain for the price or get scammed. Like most taxi drivers around the world, Uzbek taxi drivers love tripling the standard rate for unwary tourists.

The Complete Guide to Train Travel in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Itinerary 7 days: How to spend one week in Uzbekistan

This itinerary includes the 4 most beautiful and interesting destinations in Uzbekistan. The only thing though is that Khiva lies at a big distance from the other cities (see map below).

If you really want to visit these 4 stunning Silk Road cities in 7 days, you’ll have to be willing to rush a bit and not spend more than one full day in each place.

In case you’d only have 5 days in Uzbekistan: follow this itinerary but skip Khiva: travel instead from Tashkent to Bukhara on day 2.

Need Travel Insurance for Central Asia ? I use and highly recommend HeyMondo Travel Insurance . As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

• Day 1: Arrive in Tashkent in the morning, visit Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent ot night train to Khiva
• Day 2: Arrival in Khiva in the morning, visit Khiva, overnight in Khiva
• Day 3: Visit Khiva in morning, travel to Bukhara by train, overnight in Bukhara
• Day 4: Full day in Bukhara , overnight in Bukhara
• Day 5: Travel to Samarkand in morning, visit Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand
• Day 6: Visit Samarkand or day trip to Shahrisabz , overnight in Samarkand
• Day 7: Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent in late afternoon

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent or Night train to Khiva

The first thing I recommend you to do when you’re in Tashkent – in case you haven’t pre-booked any of your train tickets yet – is to go to the Northern Railway Station (Tashkent Vokzal) and buy your train tickets for the duration of your trip to Uzbekistan.

Look on the map below to see where you can find Tashkent Vokzal. The easiest way to get there is by taking the metro and getting off at Tashkent Metro Station . The ticket office is on the left-hand side of the train station.

Try to go as early as possible (the Tashkent train station should be open from 8:00 am) to avoid waiting in line for hours. Most of the clerks speak English.

Don’t forget to bring your passport and cash money!  When I was there in the summer of 2019, I wasn’t able yet to pay for my tickets by VISA or Master Card.

As soon as you’ve got the transport for your Uzbekistan trip covered, you can start with the fun part – exploring Tashkent!

Now how to spend a fun day in Uzbekistan’s capital city?

Things to do in Tashkent

There are many fun things to do and attractions to visit in Tashkent. Even if you wouldn’t have much time, here are my personal top 5 places and activities to do in Tashkent:

• Admire the Islamic architecture of the Hazrat Imam Complex and see the oldest Koran in the world
• Go shopping or watch people at the Chorsu Bazaar
• Have lunch at the Central Asian Plov Center
• Ride the Tashkent metro and photograph some of the world’s most beautiful metro stations
• Go for a stroll around  Amir Timur Square where you’ll also be able to visit Hotel Uzbekistan   and the Amir Timur Museum   nearby

For a complete one-day Tashkent itinerary, that also includes these top 5 places, check out my Complete City Guide to Tashkent .  This guide tells you everything you need to know about visiting Tashkent, including how to get around Tashkent easily, the top 15 things to do in the city and how to get to every place of interest by public transport.

Top Things to do in Tashkent – Tashkent City Guide

City Tours in Tashkent

There are several guided city (walking) tours you can do in Tashkent. I often like taking a guided tour around a city as it allows me to learn more about the local culture and the history of a destination.

Here are a couple of city tours in Tashkent I recommend:

Taking the overnight train to Khiva

To save yourself time, take the night train from Tashkent to Khiva. Departure is at 21h from Tashkent train station (to get there, take the metro to Tashkent metro ) and you’ll arrive at Khiva train station at 10h55 the morning after. You can book train tickets here . Note: you should be at the train station 45 minutes before departure as you have to go through luggage and passport control. 

Alternative option: Take a flight from Tashkent to urgench

A flight from Tashkent to Urgench (Khiva’s nearest airport) takes around 1.5 hours and costs around €60 one way. You can book your flight through  Uzbekistan Airways and leave in the early morning of day 2.

Where to stay in Tashkent

• Budget: Light Hostel is conveniently located in Tashkent. It’s about 40-minutes walking from the train station and a 20-minute walk from Oybek metro station, from where you can easily travel to Tashkent’s city center. Check out rates and availability for “Light Hostel”
• Mid-range: Hotel Suzuk-Ota offers clean and nice rooms, a shared lounge and a garden and is located in a park next to the Suzuk Ota Mosque and at walking distance from a mall and many restaurants. The closest metro stations are Chorsu and Bunyodkor. Check out rates and availability for “Hotel Suzuk-Ota”
• High-end: The Ichan Q’ala Hotel is the best-rated hotel in Tashkent. It has beautifully decorated rooms, an indoor fitness center and a swimming pool. Check out rates and availability for “Ichan Qal’a Hotel”

Day 2: Khiva, overnight in Khiva

If you’re taking the night train, you’ll arrive in Khiva around 10h55 in the morning. It’s a 20-minute walk from the train station to the center of Khiva. I always walk it but you can also ask your hotel for a taxi.

If you decided to take an early morning flight from Tashkent to Urgench, you’ll have to take or arrange a taxi from the airport in Urgench to Khiva. The ride takes around 30 minutes and costs around €25.

Itchan Kala, Khiva’s old city center, has over 50 historical sites. As you’re a bit short in time, you won’t be able to visit them all but you’ll have enough time to see Khiva’s main attractions as it’s a very small city.

Top things to see in Khiva:

Here are the top 4 places in Khiva you should definitely see:

• The Kalta Minor minaret
• The Islam Khodja minaret – definitely climb to the top for a panoramic view over Khiva!
• The Juma mosque
• The Kuhna Ark Fortress – climb the watchtower to see the sunset over Khiva!

For a detailed list of things to do, I highly recommend – of course – my very own  City Guide to Khiva. This guide covers all the main sites in Khiva, some history, great tips concerning entrance fees and museum tickets (and how to save money) and practical travel info concerning this open-air museum of Uzbekistan. It’s a must-read!

Top things to do in Khiva – The Complete Guide to Uzbekistan’s Open-Air Museum

City Tours in Khiva

I highly recommend taking   a guided city tour in Khiva . There’s just so much history in this ancient Silk Road City that you won’t learn if you visit the city by yourself.

I’m talking out of experience as during my latest visit to Khiva, I hired a guide and discovered the city in a completely different way. I usually like to explore places by myself but having a guide to show me around and sharing stories about the history and her daily life in Khiva definitely added value to my experience!

You can find guides at the western gate entrance of Itchan Kala. An English-speaking guide costs around $30 to $40 for a 3-hour tour. I recommend my guide Anna Pasha (she speaks English and French). You can contact her via Whatsapp +998914363780.

You can also book a Khiva city tour online in advance. During this tour, you’ll visit every major site in Khiva while a guide gives you background info and tells stories of this mystical city.

Where to stay in Khiva

There are plenty of great hotels and guesthouses in Khiva . The best place to stay is in Ichan Qala near all the popular attractions and sights.

• Budget: Khiva Mirza Bobur Guest House is a family-owned guest house in the center of the old city, next to Terrassa Cafe and Kuhna Ark . It’s a great option if you’re traveling solo. The rooms all have air-conditioning so they’re very comfortable even in the harsh summer heat. Check rates and availability for “Khiva Mirza Bobur Guest House”
• Mid-range: Islam Khoja is a lovely family-owned guesthouse located in the heart of Khiva. The family that owns the place is incredibly friendly and caring, going the extra mile to make sure that their guests are comfortable. The guesthouse has a stunning courtyard where you can enjoy your breakfast while having a view on the Islam Khoja Minaret. Check rates and availability for “Islam Khoja”
• High-end: Khiva Siyovush Hotel : This family-run hotel offers another unique stay in Khiva. All rooms have an authentic style and don’t forget to admire the woodcarving work, done by the family’s woodcarving masters. The guesthouse is centrally located and easy to walk to all the main sites in Khiva. Check rates and availability for “Khiva Siyovush Hotel”

Day 3: Travel to Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

There are daily two trains going from Khiva to Bukhara; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This leaves you 2 options:

• Spend the morning in Khiva and take the train at 16h22. Arrival in Bukhara at 00.18
• Take the morning train in Khiva at 8h28. Arrival in Bukhara at 16h17.

The train station of Bukhara is located at a 30-minutes ride from the old city center so you’ll have to take a taxi from the train station to your hotel (30 minutes ride) . A taxi costs 25.000 som, you will have to bargain but don’t pay more than 30.000 som! You can also ask at your hotel for transfer from the train station to your hotel. 

Note: I often receive messages from people who are a little worried about arriving at the train station past midnight. As I’ve done this a few times myself as a solo female traveler, I can tell you that it’s safe. There will also be taxi drivers. However, as it’s late at night, they’ll try to charge you 50.000 som. Stick to the 30.000 som and you’ll get a ride!

Where to stay in Bukhara

There are plenty of very good hostels and guesthouses in Bukhara. The best place to stay is in the old town near all the popular attractions and sights.

• Budget: Dervish Hostel is the best hostel to stay in Bukhara if you’re on a budget. The dorm rooms are exceptionally clean, there’s a large cosy courtyard and the breakfast included in the price is delicious. The hostel is centrally located in a quiet neighborhood, just 5 minutes away from the Liaby Khaus ensemble, so getting there is quite easy and convenient. Check out rates and availability for “Dervish Hostel”
• Mid-range: Old Gate Hotel is a beautiful hotel I recommend for those with a mid-range budget. The hotel is located in the heart of Bukhara, near the Ulugbek Madrassah. Old Gate Hotel is a former family home and Nurbek, the kind and hospitable owner of this family-run hotel, will be happy to tell you about its fascinating history. Check out rates and availability for “Old Gate Hotel”
• High-end: For those who’re looking for a high-end stay in Bukhara, I highly recommend Shohnishin Boutique . This brand new hotel (opened in 2022) is located 50 meters from Lyab-i-Hauz. The beautifully ornated rooms have large windows facing the quiet inner courtyard and offer all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Check out rates and availability for “ Shohnishin Boutique ”

Day 4: Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

The historic town of Bukhara isn’t very big and all the main sights are so close to each other that you can visit them all on foot.

Top things to do in Bukhara:

Here are 5 top places to visit in the old city of Bukhara:

• Ark Fortress
• Poi Kalon Ensemble
• Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble
• Chor Minor Madrasah
• Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah

There are of course many more places to see and fun things to do in Bukhara. Check out my  Complete City Guide to Bukhara   with everything you need to know about this city, including all the main attractions, cool activities and best places to eat!

Top Things to do in Bukhara – Bukhara City Guide

City Tours in Bukhara

I recommend taking  a guided city tour in Bukhara . There’s so much history and stories to be told from this ancient Silk Road City. Visiting Bukhara with a guide will make your trip even more interesting!

You can get an English-speaking guide at the tourist information center in the center of the old town. You’ll pay $50 for a 3-hour guided tour and $80 for a 5-hour tour.

You can also book the guided city tour below.

Day 5: Travel to Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand

The train journey between Bukhara and Samarkand isn’t very long – 1,5 hours with the Afrosiyob train and little bit less than 2,5 hours with the Sharq train – and there are trains leaving from Bukhara in the morning, afternoon and evening.

Note: the train station is a 30-minute drive from the old city of Bukhara. You should be at the train station 45 minutes before departure as you have to go through luggage and passport control. So you need to depart from Bukhara city at the latest 75 minutes before your train departure.

Getting a taxi to Bukhara train station: ask your hotel to arrange a taxi or find them at the taxi stands near this mosque . A taxi costs around 25.000 som, at night they might charge 30.000 som. You can also arrange a taxi beforehand at one of the taxi companies located near Bukhara Old City . 

I suggest taking the train in the morning so you have nearly a full day to spend in Samarkand. Once you arrive at the train station in Samarkand , you can take a taxi to your hotel/hostel. The historic center of Samarkand is about 5 km from the train station.

The standard rate to get from the train station to the historic center of Samarkand by taxi is 5000 UZS . Never get into a taxi before agreeing on the price!

The main attractions of Samarkand are located within walking distance of each other. In case you still want/need to take a taxi to get around the city, know that the standard rate for taking a taxi in Samarkand is 4000 UZS. 

Top Places to visit in Samarkand:

Here are the top 3 places in Samarkand you definitely should visit:

• Registan Square
• Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
• Shah-i-Zinda Complex

For a complete itinerary with all the places to visit in Samarkand, and suggestions on where to eat, read my  Samarkand City Guide !

Top Things to do in Samarkand – Samarkand City Guide

City Tours in Samarkand

I recommend taking a guided city tour in Samarkand . There’s just so much history in this ancient Silk Road City that you won’t learn if you visit the city by yourself.

Where to stay in Samarkand

• Budget: I stayed in Amir Hostel during my first visit to Samarkand and felt very good here! The owners were very welcoming and the location of the hostel is located within a 20-minute walking distance from Registan. Check out the rates and availability for “Amir Hostel”
• Mid-range: UYUT is a family-owned business, run by very warm and helpful people. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the breakfast is very tasty and there’s even an inner yard where you can relax. The hotel is right in the center of Samarkand and is located within walking distance of all the main sites. Check out the rates and availability for “UYUT”
• High-end: Sangzor Boutique Hotel is a beautiful small boutique hotel is located on the pedestrianized street within walking distance to all the main sights of Samarkand. The hotel also has a garden where you can relax after a day of sightseeing. Check out the rates and availability for “Sangzor Boutique Hotel”

Day 6: Visit Samarkand or day trip to Shahrisabz, overnight in Samarkand

Today you can go either take a full day to visit Samarkand or go on a (half) day trip to Shahrisabz , a city located 88 km south of Samarkand.

Shahrisabz, also written Shakhrisabz and formerly known as Kesh, is one of the most ancient cities along the Silk Road. It was the birthplace of Amir Timur, founder of the Timurid dynasty and one of the most important historical figures of Uzbekistan and Central Asia.

If you’ve spent the previous days in Tashkent and Samarkand, you’ll definitely have seen his statue everywhere, along with his stunning architectural projects.

Things to do in Shahrisabz

Shahrisabz has some impressive monuments that are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The most famous place in Shahrisabz are the gate arches of the Ak-Saray Palace , the only remains of the palace that was built for Amir Timur.

Other places of interest in Shahrisabz are the Dorut Tilovat Complex with the Kok Gumbaz mosque and the Dorus Siyadat Complex which contains the tomb of Timur’s eldest son.

Shahrisabz is a small city so you can easily see all the main attractions in 2 hours. You could leave in the early morning and be back in Samarkand in the late afternoon to spend more time visiting places around the city.

Travel Guide to Sharisabz and 6 more great day trips from Samarkand

How to get from Samarkand to Shahrisabz and back:

It’s about 1,5 hours driving from Samarkand to Shahrisabz. The best way to get there is to hire a taxi driver who’ll drive you there, wait for a few hours and take you back to Samarkand.

This 2-way trip with the driver waiting costs about $45 USD. You can always ask around in your hostel or hotel if someone wants to join you and share the costs.

If you don’t want the driver to wait or want to keep the costs lower, you can also go by shared taxi. You can find a shared taxi from Samarkand to Shahrisabz at Suzangaran, which is about 100m south of the Registan mashrutka stop.  You shouldn’t pay more than 5000 UZS for a seat in the shared taxi.

It might happen that the taxi only goes to Kitab, a town located at 10 km from Shahrisabz. From there you can take a mashrutka (minibus) or another shared taxi to Shahrisabz, which shouldn’t be more than 2000 UZS. To get back from Shahrisabz to Samarkand, you can look for a taxi in the surrounding area but be aware that the taxi drivers might ask for a lot more money.

You could also take a mashrutka (minibus) from Shahrisabz to Kitab, visit the bazaar there and go to the taxi stand near the junction at the bazaar. Ask the locals for directions if needed.

Tours to Shahrisabz :

In my opinion, the most beneficial way to see Shahrisabz would be by booking a guided day tour to Shahrisabz .

You’ll learn far more about the history from a local guide, have no hassle with transport and have your day taken care of. If you choose this, you can get picked up in Samarkand, listen and learn.

You can organize this with your guesthouse or hotel or book online . It should cost around $75.

Day 7: Return to Tashkent

There are daily several trains from Samarkand to Tashkent. It takes a bit more than 2 hours by highspeed train (Afrosiyob) and around 4 hours with the Sharq train to travel between the 2 cities.

Depending on your departure flight from Tashkent; you can spend the morning in Samarkand to (re)visit some more places and/or buy souvenirs at the market or shops. You can then take the train in the afternoon to arrive in Tashkent in the evening.

If you have an early morning flight, you can either travel straight from the train station in Tashkent to the international airport or you can spend the evening in a hotel to freshen up and take a taxi from the hotel to the international airport.

Uzbekistan Itinerary 10 days

I think having at least 10 days in Uzbekistan is ideal to visit all the Silk Road cities and main attractions in Uzbekistan without being in a rush. Below is a detailed 10-day Uzbekistan itinerary suggestion.

• Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent , visit Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent or night train to Khiva
• Day 3: Visit Khiva or day trip to Khorezm Fortresses , overnight in Khiva
• Day 4: Travel from Khiva to Bukhara , overnight in Bukhara
• Day 5: Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara
• Day 6 – 7 : Visit to Nuratau Mountains , overnight in Nuratau Mountains
• Day 8: Travel to Samarkand in morning, visit Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand
• Day 9: Visit Samarkand or day trip to Shahrisabz , overnight in Samarkand
• Day 10: Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

Day 1 : Arrival in Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent or night train to Khiva

See day 1 of the 7-day itinerary above

Day 2 : Khiva, overnight in Khiva

See day 2 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 3: Visit Khiva or day trip to Khorezm Fortresses, overnight in Khiva

You can either spend a full day in Khiva or go on a (half) day trip to the Khorzem Fortresses .

The Khorezm Fortresses, also called Ellik Kala in Uzbek, are a series of  50 ancient fortress ruins in the middle of the Karakalpak Desert. They are listed as the Desert Castles of Ancient Khorezm on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Some of the fortresses are more than 2000 years old.

Nowadays, only around 20 of these fortresses remain as some were destroyed during agricultural developments. Some of these Kala’s aren’t more than remaining foundations while others will still give you an idea of how impressive they must have been.

Some of these fortresses ( Toprak Kala, Kizil Kala, Ayaz Kala and Jonobs Kala ) can be visited as a day trip from Khiva. You can check with your hotel if they can arrange a driver + private transport for you. Prices start from 40 USD.

I would highly recommend arranging a guided tour to those fortresses if you want to learn more about its interesting and rich history. You can book a guided tour via a local agency or you can book this trip online (when available):

Day 4 : Travel from Khiva to Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 5 : Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 4 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 6 – 7 : Visit to Nuratau Mountains, overnight in Nuratau Mountains

If you prefer to spend more time in the cities, you can stay an extra day in Khiva and/ or Bukhara and you can always go on a day trip from Bukhara ( see day 8 of the 14-day Uzbekistan itinerary below) . However, if you’re craving some nature during your trip to Uzbekistan, then you should definitely take these 2 days to visit the Nuratau Mountains. I would also recommend spending 2 nights in one or two villages before continuing your trip to Samarkand on day 8.

The Nuratau range is located in the west of Uzbekistan, parallel with the road from Bukhara to Samarkand. The mountains extend between the Kyzylkum Desert on the west and the eastern Barren Steppe. Depending on the season, the area bustles in agricultural activity: mulberries, walnuts and pistachio trees all flourish here.

Hundreds of tiny villages are nestled in the valleys of the Nuratau Mountains. The rolling hills provide thousands of possible trails if you’re into hiking or horse riding . You can also just stay in cozy guest house in one of the villages and go on a wander around the area. You won’t come across many tourists here. You’ll be at total peace (aside from the donkeys, cockerels and goats that were my morning alarm during my time there).

There are many villages where you can spend some time in the mountains and experience the rural village life in Uzbekistan. It will definitely give you a totally different experience from the Silk Road cities!

One of the more popular villages is called Sentob (or Sentyab). The road into Sentob is winding and takes you into the cool shade of walnut trees which run along the banks of the stream that gives life to this small village.

The inhabitants of Sentyab are mostly Tajik  who fled the armies of Alexander the Great in Tajikistan . This little oasis is a great place to relax and get your fix of nature, especially after spending days checking out the impressive caravanserais, mosques, and madrasahs of Uzbekistan’s cities. There are a couple of homestays but you can’t book them online, due to limited Wi-Fi in the mountains.

Other villages in the Nuratau Mountains where you can spend some time are Asraf , Hayat and Majerum . You can find more information about these villages in my Uzbekistan Hiking Guide .

Hiking in Uzbekistan: 6 best hiking trails in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains

How to visit the villages in the Nuratau Mountains

Because the Nuratau mountain villages are relatively new to tourism, it’s pretty challenging to get there independently.

The easiest would be to get a shared taxi to the closest city, Jizzakh. From there you can get a shared or private taxi to f.eg. Sentob. This might be a little expensive because of the lack of clients and the fact that the drivers might have to drive back without any customers. It is also possible to hitchhike this route with a bit of patience and willingness to explain what hitchhiking is!

The easiest way would be to book an organized tour to the mountains with a local guide. You can always  contact me  as I have some local partners who can help and I’ll put you in touch with them. There are currently a select amount of tours to the Nuratau Mountains that you can book online . Here are the two experiences I would recommend:

Day 8 : Travel to Samarkand, visit Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand

You can arrange with your tour guide – or hitchhike or take a private taxi – to travel from the Nuratau Mountains to Samarkand in the morning. You’ll be in Samarkand around noon. See day 5 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 9 : Visit Samarkand or day trip to SHahrisabz, overnight in Samarkand

See day 6 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 10 : Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Are you looking for a customized guided tour in Uzbekistan and/or other countries in Central Asia ? Do you need help planning your itinerary ?

Have a look at my C e n t r a l A s i a tour and itinerary planning services !

Uzbekistan Itinerary 14 days: How to spend 2 weeks in Uzbekistan

Here’s a suggestion for a 2 week Uzbekistan itinerary. You can also look at my 14-day Highlights of Uzbekistan Adventure Tour for inspiration – or just join the tour ;).

• Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent , visit Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent
• Day 2: Visit Margilan & Rishtan ( Fergana Valley ), overnight in Kokand
• Day 3: Visit Kokand, night train to Khiva
• Day 4: Arrival in Khiva in the morning, visit Khiva, overnight in Khiva
• Day 5: Visit Khiva or day trip to Khorezm Fortresses , overnight in Khiva
• Day 6: Travel from Khiva to Bukhara , overnight in Bukhara
• Day 7: Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara
• Day 8: Day trip from Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara
• Day 9 : Visit to Kyzyl Kum desert and Aydarkul Lake, overnight in Kyzyl Kum desert
• Day 10 – 11 : Visit to Nuratau Mountains , overnight in Nuratau Mountains
• Day 12: Travel to Samarkand in morning, visit Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand
• Day 13: Visit Samarkand or day trip to Shahrisabz , overnight in Samarkand
• Day 14: Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

Day 1 : Arrival in Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent

See day 1 of the 7-day itinerary   above

Day 2 : Travel to margalan (Fergana Valley), visit MarGalan & Rishtan, overnight in Kokand

The  Fergana Valley  has always been an important place as it used to be the main Silk Route between Samarkand and Kashgar (China). It’s said people in the Fergana Valley have produced silk for around 1,000 years, while its bazaars continue to entice people in with beautiful stalls. It’s also the most fertile region of Uzbekistan, making it Uzbekistan’s agricultural heartland and the most industrious province.

The valley’s towns are predominantly of Uzbek heritage (the most densely populated part of Uzbekistan) so if you really want to get to know its beautiful people and authentic traditions, the Fergana Valley is the place to learn.

Take the train from Tashkent to Margilan in the early morning. The train journey takes around 5 hours so you’ll arrive in Margilan in the early afternoon.

THINGS TO DO IN MARGILAN

• Yodgorlik Silk Factory : see the whole silk manufacturing process – from how the silk is made, the traditional silk-weaving techniques to the final product.
• The colorful  Kumtepa bazaar  (only on Thursdays and Sundays)
• Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah

After your visit to Margilan, take a (shared) taxi to Rishtan . The journey takes around 1 hour.

Rishtan is known for its fine pottery and you can visit the International Ceramic Center , which is like an art space for pottery masters.  Workshops and stalls  are located on the first floor, while the potters and their families live on the second floor.

You’re also always welcome to visit the  Ceramic Workshop of Rustam Usmanov , one of Rishtan’s local ceramic masters.

After your visit in Rishtan, take a (shared) taxi to Kokand, which is a 35-minute drive. You can spend the night in Kokand.

Tours to Fergana Valley

As it might be hard to get around the Fergana Valley by public transport, you can always opt to book a guided tour from Tashkent . Here are a few tours I recommend:

Where to stay in Kokand

• Budget: Rohat Hotel  is currently the only budget-hostel in Kokand that is cheaper than $20 per person per night. Check out the rates and availability for Rohat Hostel here. 
• Mid-range: Silk Road Kokand Hotel  is a really beautiful hotel offering bike hire, wifi, a range of amenities and a garden! Check out the rates and availability for Silk Road Kokand Hotel here.

6 Best Places to visit in the Fergana Valley – The Complete Travel Guide

Day 3 : Visit Kokand, night train to Khiva

Kokand is usually overlooked by travelers in favor of the more famous cities of Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva. It does, however, boast some interesting history and did play an important part during the Silk Road, linking South Asia and East Asia and acting as a crossroads between these routes.

Things to do in Kokand

Visit the following highlights of Kokand in the morning:

• The Palace of Khudayar Khan
•   Kamol Kazy Madrasah
•   Jome Mosque

Take the overnight Train to Khiva

There’s a daily train going from Kokand to Khiva. It’s a long journey, 19 hours, and you’ll cross almost the whole of Uzbekistan. The train leaves at 11h42 in the morning in Kokand and arrives in Khiva at 7.10 am in the morning.

Alternatively, you can take the train from Kokand to Tashkent at 17h30, spend the night in Tashkent and take an early morning flight to Urgench ( see day 1 of the 7-day itinerary above).

Day 4 : visit Khiva, overnight in Khiva

See day 2 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 5 : Visit Khiva or day trip to Khorzem Fortresses, overnight in Khiva

See day 3 of the 10-day itinerary   above .

Day 6 : Travel from Khiva to Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 7 : Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 4 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 8 : Day trip from Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

Today you can choose to spend an extra full day in Bukhara or go on a  guided tour to see all the historical sites in the countryside near Bukhara : the Sitorai-Mokhi-Khosa Palace (Palace of Moon-like Stars), Bakhautdin Naqsband Mausoleum and the Chor Bakr Necropolis.

I also recommend visiting Uba , a village famous for making traditional clay ovens. Almost everyone in the village of Uba makes a living crafting clay ovens. These are made with the vast supplies of clay that are found in the rivers near the town.

If you happen to be in Bukhara on a Sunday or Tuesday, you can also visit the animal market , another very interesting local experience! Read The Complete Bukhara City Guide for a detailed overview of all the places to visit in and around Bukhara.

Day 9 : Visit to Kyzyl Kum desert and Aydar Lake, overnight in Kyzyl Kum desert

If you’re craving some nature during your trip to Uzbekistan, then you should definitely visit Aydar Lake in the south-eastern Kyzyl Kum desert. Aydar Lake is part of the man-made Aydar-Arnasay system of lakes, which covers an area of 4,000 km2.

The lake is particularly beautiful during spring and summer when it’s surrounded in colorful alpine grasslands. You’ll also spot birds like pelicans and herons here.

There are also a lot of fun things you can do at Aydar Lake. You can go for walks or explore the area by horse or camel. The water is warm enough from June until August to swim in the lake and you’re also allowed to do some fishing between the months of September and April.

How to get to Aydar Lake

Aydar Lake is quite remote and you can only get there by driving there yourself, taking a shared taxi or by booking a tour (more info below). Just know that taking a taxi there can be on the expensive side. It’s also possible to hitchhike there.

If you visit Aydarkul coming from Bukhara , you first have to take a marshrutka (minibus) or shared taxi to the city of Navoi  (you can also do this coming from Samarkand). From there you can take a shared or private taxi to “Aydar” or try to hitchhike there.

Go on a tour to Aydar Lake

The easiest way to visit Aydarkul is by booking a tour there. This 2-day tour to Aydarkul and the Nuratau Mountains offers a very unique experience. This trip combines a visit to Aydar lake with exploring historical sites in the Kyzylkum desert and a night at a yurt camp!

Day 10 – 11 : Visit to Nuratau Mountains, overnight in Nuratau Mountains

See day 6 & 7 of the 10-day itinerary   above .

Day 12 : Travel to Samarkand, visit Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand

See day 8 of the 10-day itinerary   above .

Day 13 : Visit Samarkand or day trip to Shahrisabz, overnight in Samarkand

See day 6 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 14 : Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Uzbekistan Itinerary 3 weeks or longer

Below is my Uzbekistan travel itinerary suggestion if you’d have 3 weeks in the country. In case you would like to travel 4 weeks in Uzbekistan, you can spend extra days in the various places mentioned below (this is how I ended up spending a whole week in Bukhara because I liked it there so much…).

• Day 1: Tashkent
• Day 2-3: Fergana Valley
• Day 4-5: Chimgan Mountains
• Day 6: Tashkent to Nukus
• Day 7-9: Karakalpakstan
• Day 10-11: Khiva
• Day 12: Khiva to Bukhara
• Day 13-14: Bukhara
• Day 15-18: Nuratau Mountains

Day 19-20 : Samarkand

• Day 21: Return to Tashkent

Day 1 : Tashkent

Spend 1 day and 1 night in Uzbekistan’s capital city. Find my Tashkent itinerary suggestions here.

Day 2-3 : Fergana Valley

Travel in the morning of day 3 to the Fergana Valley by train (Margilan, Kokand or Andijan). Overnight in one of the Fergana Valley cities on day 3 (read my Fergana Valley suggestions ). Return to Tashkent in the evening of day 4, overnight in Tashkent on day 4.

Day 4-5 : Chimgan Mountains

The Chimgan mountains sit tall in the  Ugam-Chatkal National Park , which is about 80km east of Tashkent. One of the park’s most mighty attractions is the Greater Chimgan mountain, which is Uzbekistan’s largest peak at 3,309m.

Travel to Chimgan from Tashkent in the morning of day 4, spend the night at Chimgan and return to Tashkent in the evening of day 5.

You can reach the city of Gazalkent which is close to the Chimgan mountains by public bus. There are both electric trains and buses leaving Tashkent to Gazalkent. From Gazalkent, there are two daily buses Gazalkent-Chimgan (10:30 and 14:30) Chimgan-Gazalkent (06:30 and 13:30) which take around 50 minutes. The road is accessible any time of the year, but in spring there can be limitations because of landslides and mudflows. 

You can also opt to get there with a private driver and/or by tour. Contact me if you want a local guide and/or local transport or book one of the tours below.

Things to do in Chimgan

If you’re an outdoor lover, you’ll enjoy spending time in Uzbekistan’s highest mountain range. There are many hiking trails leading to mountain peaks or alpine lakes. You can also just relax and enjoy nature to its fullest at one of the many chalets in Chimgan.

3 great day hikes in the Ugam Chatkal National Park in Uzbekistan

Tours to Chimgan

I offer a 2-day hike in the Chimgan Mountains on my Highlights of Uzbekistan Adventure Tour . I can also bring you in touch with my local guides or you can book one of the tours below:

Where to stay in Chimgan

Chimgan is also Uzbekistan’s ski base so there are plenty of chalets where you can stay in summer and winter. Here are a few of my suggestions:

• Chimgan Apple Garden
• Gostevoi Dom Apachi
• Amirsoy Apple Dacha

Day 6: Travel from Tashkent to Nukus (Karakalpakstan)

Nukus is located all the way on the other side of Uzbekistan. You can either take the train and travel for 19 hours across the country or choose the fastest option, which is flying from Tashkent to Nukus with Uzbekistan Airways (around €80 one way). There’s daily an early flight in the morning or one in the evening.

The train from Tashkent to Nukus is a sleeper train and leaves every day, except on Mondays, at 14h in Tashkent. You’ll arrive the day after around 7am in Nukus.

Day 7-9 : Karakalpakstan

Whether you’re arriving by train or by domestic flight, you’ll very likely arrive in Nukus in the morning of day 7.

Nukus is the capital of the autonomous republic of Karakalpakstan. Karakalpakstan, which translates to ‘ land of the black-hatted people ’ is a self-governing republic within Uzbekistan.

With the arrival of the Soviet Union in Central Asia in the 1920s, various groups were designated and given territory. Karakalpakstan was one of them and it became a self-governing province within the Republic of Kazakhstan. It was given autonomous Soviet socialist republic status in 1932. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Karakalpakstan became the only autonomous republic allowed to retain its position within the then-new Republic of Uzbekistan. 

If you’re fascinated about Uzbekistan’s ancient history and its ties with the Aral Sea, then I would definitely explore Karakalpakstan for at least three days.

Things to do in Karakalpakstan

Here are some highlights to visit in the region of Karakalpakstan:

• The Savitsky Museum in Nukus
• The ancient Khorezm Fortresses
• The ship graveyard in Moynaq
• The South Shore of the Aral Sea

How to visit the ship graveyard in Moynaq and the Aral Sea Disaster in Uzbekistan

For a detailed 3-day itinerary suggestion for Karakalpakstan, I’m going to refer you to my Karakalpakstan Travel Guide with all the info on where to go, where to stay and how to get to all the different places.

7 Best Places to visit in Karakalpakstan – The Complete Travel Guide

Day 10-11 : Khiva

My suggestion for day 10 would be to book a driver or a guided tour from Nukus to Khiva while visiting the Khorezm Fortresses along the way.

You’ll arrive in Khiva in the afternoon of day 10, leaving you 1.5 days in this tiny Silk Road City. This is in my opinion plenty of time to visit all the highlights in Khiva . See day 4 & 5 of the 14-day itinerary above.

Top Things to do in Khiva – The Complete Guide to Uzbekistan’s Open-Air Museum

Day 12: Travel from Khiva to Bukhara

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary above

Day 13-14 : Bukhara

See day 7 & 8 of the 14-day itinerary above

Day 15-18 : Nuratau Mountains

In the 10-day and 14-day itinerary above, I’m giving suggestions on how to spend 2 or 3 days in the Nuratau Mountains and Kyzyl Kum dessert. As you have more time during your 3 weeks in Uzbekistan, I’d recommend spending at least 4 days in this part of Uzbekistan or even go on a 4-day tour in the Nuratau Mountains .

Travel to Samarkand in the morning of day 19. This leaves you plenty of time to visit all the highlights of Samarkand and even go on a half-day trip to Shahrisabz .

Day 21 : Return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary above

I hope this guide was useful and has given you lots of ideas for your upcoming trip to Uzbekistan. I wish you a fantastic time in this stunning Silk Road country!

Have you recently been on a trip to Uzbekistan or are you going soon? What were the highlights of your visit? Do you know more places I should add to these itineraries or do you need help with planning a customized itinerary ? Please let me know in the comments below!

• Tashkent City Guide
• Samarkand City Guide
• Shahrisabz City Guide
• Bukhara City Guide
• Khiva City Guide
• Fergana Valley Guide
• Karakalpakstan Guide

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4 thoughts on “the best uzbekistan itinerary ideas: what to visit in one week in uzbekistan up to 4 weeks”.

This post is AMAZING. great job! I have been in Uzbekistan but only for week and I will be coming there this year cause there is soo much to see! Thank you for all your tips!

Thank you Natalia! Wishing you a great second trip in Uzbekistan!

Hi Cynthia, thank you for all the excellent information about Uzbekistan travel. I am planning to take the sleeper train from Khiva to Tashkent. Do you know if this train has a dinning car?

the sleeper train has a dining car but don’t expect too much from it (+ it’s quite expensive). I recommend bringing your own snacks. Have a great trip!

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Best time to visit Samarkand , Uzbekistan

Our verdict

The best time to visit Samarkand is March

In the height of summer, temperatures in Samarkand can reach a maximum of 34℃ (93℉). In the winter, temperatures can get down to -10℃ (15℉) around January.

If you’re keen to work on your tan in Samarkand, you’re most likely get the longest days between sun-up and sun-down around August. You don’t want to get wet on your holiday, do you? Well if you’re trying to avoid the rain, then steer clear of Samarkand in April. Head over there in August instead if you want to increase your chances of not being rained on.

Continue reading to find out more about when to visit Samarkand, including the climate, seasonal info, what to pack, FAQs, and the best tools to help you plan and book your next vacation.

Quick links: Fast facts / Seasons / Average temperatures / Monthly climate / FAQs / Map

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Samarkand seasons

Before you continue, it’s important to know when the seasons are in Samarkand as they might be different to yours depending on where in the world you’re travelling from. Samarkand is in the Northern Hemisphere, so the seasons fall during these months:

Average temperatures in Samarkand

If the temperature is a big factor for you to help you decide when to visit, the chart below shows the average minimum and maximum temperatures in Samarkand for each month side-by-side so you can easily see the difference in weather throughout the year. To see the temperatures in both Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F), hover or tap the shaded boxes on the graph.

Samarkand climate by month

If you already have a rough idea about which months you might want to travel, the section below shows a detailed breakdown of the climate in Samarkand for each month so you can see if it all suits your wants and needs. Scroll down, or use the quick menu below to jump to your preferred month.

Samarkand in January

• Average temperature: -1℃ (30℉)
• Average high temperature: 3℃ (38℉)
• Average low temperature: -5℃ (23℉)
• Average humidity: 64%
• Average sunny days: 22 days
• Average rainfall: 16mm (1") over 6 days
• Average snow days: 4 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in January, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Add visitor or local insider tips >

Samarkand in February

• Average temperature: -0℃ (32℉)
• Average high temperature: 4℃ (39℉)
• Average low temperature: -4℃ (24℉)
• Average humidity: 68%
• Average sunny days: 17 days
• Average rainfall: 20mm (1") over 7 days
• Average snow days: 5 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in February, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Samarkand in March

• Average temperature: 6℃ (43℉)
• Average high temperature: 10℃ (50℉)
• Average low temperature: 2℃ (35℉)
• Average humidity: 61%
• Average sunny days: 16 days
• Average rainfall: 31mm (1") over 12 days
• Average snow days: 2 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in March, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Samarkand in April

• Average temperature: 11℃ (52℉)
• Average high temperature: 15℃ (60℉)
• Average low temperature: 6℃ (42℉)
• Average humidity: 56%
• Average sunny days: 13 days
• Average rainfall: 53mm (2") over 14 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in April, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Samarkand in May

• Average temperature: 17℃ (62℉)
• Average high temperature: 21℃ (70℉)
• Average low temperature: 11℃ (51℉)
• Average humidity: 45%
• Average sunny days: 15 days
• Average rainfall: 30mm (1") over 10 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in May, make sure you pack a coat or jumper for the evenings and some light clothes for the daytime.

Samarkand in June

• Average temperature: 21℃ (69℉)
• Average high temperature: 26℃ (78℉)
• Average low temperature: 14℃ (58℉)
• Average humidity: 34%
• Average rainfall: 9mm (0") over 4 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in June, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Samarkand in July

• Average temperature: 23℃ (74℉)
• Average high temperature: 28℃ (83℉)
• Average low temperature: 17℃ (62℉)
• Average humidity: 28%
• Average sunny days: 26 days
• Average rainfall: 2mm (0") over 1 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in July, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Samarkand in August

• Average temperature: 22℃ (71℉)
• Average high temperature: 27℃ (81℉)
• Average low temperature: 15℃ (60℉)
• Average sunny days: 27 days
• Average rainfall: 1mm (0") over 1 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in August, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Samarkand in September

• Average temperature: 17℃ (63℉)
• Average high temperature: 23℃ (73℉)
• Average low temperature: 11℃ (53℉)
• Average humidity: 31%
• Average rainfall: 2mm (0") over 2 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in September, make sure you pack a coat or jumper for the evenings and some light clothes for the daytime.

Samarkand in October

• Average temperature: 11℃ (53℉)
• Average high temperature: 16℃ (61℉)
• Average low temperature: 7℃ (44℉)
• Average humidity: 41%
• Average sunny days: 23 days
• Average rainfall: 14mm (1") over 6 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in October, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Samarkand in November

• Average temperature: 5℃ (40℉)
• Average high temperature: 9℃ (48℉)
• Average low temperature: 1℃ (34℉)
• Average humidity: 54%
• Average sunny days: 19 days
• Average rainfall: 17mm (1") over 7 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in November, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Samarkand in December

• Average temperature: 0℃ (32℉)
• Average high temperature: 5℃ (40℉)
• Average low temperature: -4℃ (26℉)
• Average humidity: 58%
• Average sunny days: 21 days
• Average rainfall: 11mm (0") over 7 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Samarkand in December, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

😎 When should I go to Samarkand for the hottest weather?

☀ when does it rain the least in samarkand, ☔ when does it rain the most in samarkand, 🌤 when should i go to samarkand if i want the most daylight, samarkand map.

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Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

• Jan Avg Daily: 3 ° C Avg Nightly: -6 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 7 ° C Avg Nightly: -3 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 12 ° C Avg Nightly: 3 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 18 ° C Avg Nightly: 8 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 26 ° C Avg Nightly: 13 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 17 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 18 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 16 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 27 ° C Avg Nightly: 11 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 18 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 12 ° C Avg Nightly: 2 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 7 ° C Avg Nightly: -2 ° C
• 2.18K views
• ~ mins read

Central Asia still remains a mystery to travelers. Uzbekistan is one of the most enigmatic and beautiful of Central Asian countries, and an integral part of the historic silk route. Uzbekistan’s history, combined with its Soviet past results in an eclectic mixture of modernity and tradition. Explore the Silk Road beauty, and all the power of the old Soviet Union in one location. All you have to do is find out what is the best time to visit Uzbekistan and you’re good to go!

Quick Facts

• Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan: March - May, September - November
• High Tourist Season : June - August
• Low Season : December - February
• All Seasons : March - May (spring), June - August (summer), September - November (fall), December - February (winter)
• The best time to visit Uzbekistan is between March - May, during the spring, when the skies are clear, and there is enough wind to keep the weather pleasant.
• Another great time to visit Uzbekistan is September - November, when the summer heat begins to wear off, and the weather becomes cooler again!
• The high tourist season in Uzbekistan is between June - August, but this is peak of summer, when the weather is incredibly hot and sweltering, so it is not the recommended time to travel.
• Between December - February is the winter season, and is the low season in Uzbekistan, when the tourist footfall is incredibly low.

A lot of people do not realize the beauty of Uzbekistan, due to its tumultuous past as a Soviet Union territory. However, the moment you set foot into Uzbekistan, you will feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule, one that can take you into the 6th century, when the country was at the crossroads of the Silk Route trade! The country has a lot to offer - you just have to focus on when to visit Uzbekistan!

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring and fall. Between March - May, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The winter chill fades away, but the summer heat has not set in, so you will have the perfect temperature for your tourist benefit!

The weather in Uzbekistan from September - November is also pretty ideal, as it is the perfect fall weather. The oppressive heat of the summer, and the tourist crowds would have faded away, giving you the perfect opportunity for exploration!

Seasonal Overview

1. march to may — spring / good season.

Following the winter, the temperatures start rising around March, making the weather rather pleasant. The weather in Uzbekistan is warm, without being too hot, but in March, there is a high possibility of rainfall. The rainfall is not too high, so it will not hinder your plans, though. This is a shoulder season, so there won’t be too much of a footfall in the country.

• Avg. Temperature : 71 – 88° F / 22 – 31° C (in Tashkent)
• Rainfall : 40 – 90 mm
• Season : Spring
• Highlights : Since the weather is incredibly pleasant, this is a great time for you to travel through the Silk Route, and the Golden Valley. You can also spend a night at the Kyzylkum Desert, before the summer heat begins. In May, you can participate in the Silk and Spices Festival, which celebrates Uzbek arts, crafts, and traditions (and is the best place to pick up the best souvenirs).

2. June to August — Summer / Low Season

While June is still bearable, the temperatures begin climbing up by July. July and August are the hottest months in Uzbekistan, and it gets incredibly humid and balmy. This is not the ideal time to visit the country, especially since you will not be able to go on any road trips when the sun is this strong. This is high season due to school holidays, and holidays in Europe, so expect a lot more tourists during this season.

• Avg. Temperature : 99 – 103° F / 37 – 39° C (in Tashkent)
• Rainfall : 4 – 24 mm
• Season : Summer
• Highlights : In case you do have to travel to Uzbekistan during this period, you can seek some recluse in the Fergana Valley, where it will be slightly cooler than in the deserts. You can also explore Tashkent, when all the crowds are there, as it will turn into a lively city. Just remember to stick to the areas with air conditioning for you own good!

3. September to November — Fall / Good Season

By September, the summer heat starts to cool down. This period before the winter starts is one of the best times to visit Uzbekistan as the weather is stunning, and the crowds would have also dissipated. This is another shoulder season, so you won’t have to abide by a strict schedule!

• Avg. Temperature : 54 – 94° F / 12 – 34° C (in Tashkent)
• Rainfall : 9 – 58 mm
• Season : Fall
• Highlights : The fall season is the best time to explore Uzbekistan’s numerous cultural offerings - from the Minaret of Islam Hodja, to Samarkand, and the village of Konigil, or the Buddhist city of Termez. To experience a touch of Sufism, you can head to the many mausoleums across the country (especially the mausoleum of Sheykh Zayniddin-bobo). This is also when to visit Uzbekistan to experience the best of the cuisine, as this is when the country goes into harvest!

4. December to February — Winter / Low Season

Uzbekistan’s winters can be cold, but they are still mild compared to other countries in Central Asia. January and February are the coldest months, but even then, the temperatures do not drop too far below 0. Expect strong winds which will make the cold worse, though. However, this is a low season, which means you can get huge discounts!

• Avg. Temperature : 49 – 53° F / 9 – 12° C (in Tashkent)
• Rainfall : 38 – 87 mm
• Highlights : If you are a photographer, this is when to visit Uzbekistan. The skies are extremely clear, and there are little to no visitors in the country, so you will be able to take magnificent photographs! This is a great period to visit Tashkent, and explore its beautiful galleries and markets, without worrying about the tourist overflow!

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The 9 best places to visit in Uzbekistan

Sep 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Get to know Uzbekistan with this guide to the top places to visit © Ivanchik / Shutterstock

Set at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan is famed for its stunning historical architecture and beautiful mosques and madrassas, alongside Soviet modernism, a flourishing arts and crafts scene, a rich traditional culture, and the genuine hospitality of local people. 

The continental climate brings four distinct seasons, and escaping into nature and visiting off-the-beaten-track destinations are adventures that will leave lifetime memories. Here are our top recommendations of places to visit in Uzbekistan for architecture, culture, nature and immersion in the arts.

1. Registan, Samarkand

Best for dramatic architecture

The historic  Registan  Square in Samarkand impresses first-time visitors more than any other attraction in Uzbekistan. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the square consists of three striking madrassas – the Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tilla-Kori – which together served as a university for Islamic scholars. The name Registan means "a sand place." Since the Timurid period, this has been a place where people have met, important decisions were announced, and crucial events in Uzbekistan’s history occurred. 

Samarkand is blessed with many other historical attractions, including the Bibi-Khanym Mosque , the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis , the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum and Ulugbek’s Observatory – all of them well worth visiting. One day might be enough to cover most important stops, but if you want to enjoy the pace of life in Samarkand, wander around talking to local craftspeople and leave some time for tea and local cuisine, allow two days or more.

Local tip: Opened in 2022, Samarkand International Airport is the second-biggest airport in the country and a good entry point to Uzbekistan. Turkish Airlines, WizzAir, AirDubai, FlyAirstan, Jazeera Air and several Uzbek airlines operate regular flights to this modern airport, and from Samarkand, it’s easy to travel around the country by rail – to Bukhara, Khiva and Nukus and then fly back to the capital Tashkent.

Best for history 

In Samarkand, an ancient mosque might sit alongside an office tower or a modern neighborhood, but Bukhara ’s old city really makes you travel in time. Protected by UNESCO, the historical part of the city still feels completely authentic, with timeless mosques, minarets, madrassas, craft workshops, caravanserais and local eateries. Set around an artificial pool called Labi Hovuz, the central square has a unique atmosphere and is a great place to admire the architecture, enjoy local food, sip tea or slurp ice cream, bargain with souvenir sellers or just have a breather sitting on a bench in the sun.

There are many must-visit stops in Bukhara. Be sure to make time for the Ark , a former residence of Bukhara Emir, the eye-catching madrassas of Mir-i-Arab , Nadir Divanbegi and Abdul Aziz Khan , the Kalon Minaret , and the inspiring Sitorai Mohi Hosa summer palace. 

Planning tip: While the old city might seem compact on the map, Bukhara deserves at least two full days. This is one of those cities where you can discover endless new layers each time you return. Multicultural, ancient and packed with interesting experiences, Bukhara is best enjoyed in spring and autumn when the weather is not too hot or too cold.

3. The Savitski Museum in Nukus

Best stop for art lovers

Karakalpakstan, an autonomous republic in the west of Uzbekistan, lures many visitors thanks to the unusual landscapes of the Aral Sea , the Ustyurt Plateau and the ancient fortresses in the surrounding desert. But one of the most interesting destinations is the Savitsky Museum in the regional capital, Nukus. It’s often described as the “Louvre in the desert” and displays a vast collection of Russian avant-garde art, secretly preserved during Soviet times. Its founder, Igor Savitsky, was an art connoisseur who saved roughly 100,000 artworks, showcasing the rich lifestyle and heritage of people in this area. 

Planning tip: Trains from Tashkent to Nukus can take more than 20 hours; many travelers come by air to maximize time for sightseeing. 

4. Ichan Kala, Old Khiva

Best for stepping into the past

The open-air museum that is the city of Khiva used to be the capital of the Khorezm Shakhs and later the hub of the Khiva Khanate, and it still preserves its own language, traditions and culture. The fascinating Ichan Kala (which means “inner city”) is the fortress in the heart of Khiva, and most of the architectural attractions are located inside of it. Visit the atmospheric Juma mosque, the Tosh-Hovli Palace (with its harem rooms for wives of the ruler), and the Kalta Minor minaret, and you’ll feel the grandeur and tranquility of Central Asia in the Middle Ages.     

Some of the historic buildings have been transformed into boutique hotels – it’s a very unusual feeling to stay overnight in a room of medieval features, but with all the modern facilities you could want, such as air-conditioning and a hot shower. Get to know the culture of Khiva through classes, from baking bread all the way to lessons in energetic Khorezm dancing. 

Best for ceramics fans

There is probably no other city in the world with quite so many ceramic artists as Rishtan. As soon as you enter the town, you will see pottery items for sale on both sides of the highway, but don’t rush to buy here because you will find better quality and more authentic works in the studios of local craftspeople.

Rishtan was already famous for glazed ceramics 1000 years ago, thanks to the unique soil – the richest source of terracotta clay in the region. The workshops of Alister Nazirov and Rustam Usmanov are famous for preserving and popularizing the ancient techniques of Uzbek ceramics art. However, there are many skilled crafters and ceramics centers for all tastes and budgets in the city.

6. Margilan

Best for lovers of traditional art forms

Moving from historical to artistic sites, the city of Margilan in the Fergana Valley is a great place to discover the history of ikat, the weaving of textiles with designs pre-dyed into the fibers. This unique weaving technique has independently developed in many different parts of the world, including in Indonesia, Japan, India and Latin America, but the Silk Road made Uzbek ikat particularly famous, thanks to its quality and the variety of ikat fabrics produced in silk, cotton and velvet. 

Margilan is a cozy small town where you can visit long-established makers of Central Asian ikat at the Yodgorlik Factory , speak to modern weavers at local crafts centers, or just enjoy the abundance of the local farmers market and the laidback lifestyle of this mainly agricultural area.

Planning tip: Margilan has been a hub for silk production since the time of the Silk Road; get here easily by shared taxi from Fergana or train from Tashkent. Come on Thursday or Sunday for the local market. 

7. Tashkent

Best stop for city slickers

The Uzbek capital, Tashkent , is not just an entry point to the country, but a diverse and fascinating destination in its own right. Islamic architecture, vibrant avenues, art and history museums, theaters, international gastronomy and nightlife make for a modern, cosmopolitan experience. Start with a visit to central Amir Timur square, where you can drop into the Amir Timur Museum , view the Amir Timur monument and the Tashkent clock tower (which now hosts two quirky restaurants), and visit a famous piece of Soviet monumental architecture, the Hotel Uzbekistan . 

Nearby, so-called Broadway Street is especially colorful in the evening with souvenir shops, street food and amusements. A short hop west, Tashkent City Park offers plenty of ways to keep busy, with an aquarium, planetarium, dancing fountains and street shows, as well as diverse restaurants, modern hotels, shopping malls and an open-air cinema. For a shopping treasure hunt, head to the vast Chorsu Bazaar , Tashkent’s best-loved marketplace, or the Navruz Ethnopark to discover traditional clothing and accessories, local crafts and authentic Uzbek food. 

8. Konigil Village 

Best crafts stop if you’re short on time

On the outskirts of Samarkand, the village of Konigil is an atmospheric destination. This village is an amazing place to learn about the crafts of the region in one place. The Meros Paper Mill specializes in traditional silk paper, and you can also see the production of vegetable oil, ceramics, carpets and other local crafts. There are places to sample local food and even a small guest house, conveniently located in one tranquil space near the small, tree-shaded Siab River. Time slows down here, and it’s a beautiful escape for a half day or more. 

9. Zaamin National Park 

Best escape for nature lovers

Among the many picturesque mountain areas in Uzbekistan, Zaamin National Park holds a special place in the hearts of locals, thanks to its unspoiled natural scenery. Until recently, this picturesque destination east of Samarkand was off the radar of foreign tourists but well-explored by the people of the area. The air of Zaamin is considered to have healing properties, and nature here is pure and abundant – indeed, the area is often compared to Switzerland.

Many unique types of flora and fauna are found here, including black storks, black bears, lynx and snow leopards, and locals are warm and sincere. There’s a beautiful lake-like reservoir and great trails for hiking, and people come there in both summer and winter to stay in the area’s new international hotels and run in the Zaamin Ultramarathon in June. 

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When to visit Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate owing to its location at the centre of the Eurasian landmass. The hottest period, known as the chillya , is from late June to mid-August, when temperatures frequently reach 40°C or even higher (it is a dry heat, so not as unbearable as you might think). Autumn is warm and pleasant, and the bazaars are full of fruit and vegetables.

In winter (beginning in late October on the steppe and December in the south, and generally lasting into March), temperatures may fall to -15°C in the cities and as low as -30°C in the steppe and mountains, with limited precipitation. The average snowfall nationwide is 5cm, rising to 10–12cm in the foothills. Spring, from March to June, is another good time to visit – it will be warm with some rain.

Much of Uzbekistan is arid and has little rainfall. Humidity is generally low and annual rainfall is typically 100–200mm, stunting the growth of crops and other flora during the summer months. There is some regional variation, however, as the far south of the country has a more tropical climate (complete with higher levels of humidity and rainfall), and the annual rainfall in the mountains can be as much as 900mm.

Uzbekistan is a year-round tourism destination, though most people choose to visit between May and October, as the winter months can be bitingly cold both in the desert and in the mountain foothills.

Spring breaks in March and April (slightly later in the mountains) and brings with it a riot of colourful flowers in the mountain pastures. The rivers are in full spate with the glacial meltwater, and the country comes swiftly back to life. If you visit in springtime, you may also be able to join in celebrations for Navruz, the Persian New Year, celebrated in Uzbekistan on 21 March.

During this two-day festival, which is a national holiday, families feast, watch traditional sports including kopkari (horse racing) and kurash (wrestling), and there’s plenty of musical entertainment. You’ll invariably be asked to join in the fun.

The summer can be bakingly hot on the plains, particularly in July and August, but this is the best time to trek in the mountains and to try a night or two sleeping in a yurt. It’s also the time of some interesting festivals, including Samarkand’s International Music Festival. Expect plenty of pomp and circumstance on Independence Day (1 September).

When autumn comes, Uzbekistan turns terracotta red and gold almost overnight. It’s one of the most beautiful times to visit, with late September and early October being ideal for a visit to the big three: Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as temperatures are still warm but many of the crowds have gone. By early November, the warmly dressed can have Khiva in particular almost entirely to themselves, though many restaurants and shops will be closing up at the end of their season.

In the winter months few tourists come to Uzbekistan, but that means you can negotiate favourable rates for hotels and tours. It’s also the time for skiing: the resorts of Chimgan and Beldersay have excellent snow from January to March, and you can even risk your neck heli-skiing for descents up to 10km in length.

Best time to visit Uzbekistan

• Uzbekistan Holidays

Uzbekistan, like many of its Central Asian neighbours, has a continental-type climate. Winters are cold and very dry and summers are swelteringly hot, with a large variation in temperature between day and night. In other words, for nice weather the best time to go is in spring and autumn. Here's a more detailed look at the best time to visit Uzbekistan.

The coldest month of the year is January

January is one of the worst times to visit Uzbekistan, as the entire country is in the grip of freezing cold weather. In the capital, Tashkent, temperatures do not get above zero. With plenty of warm clothing, it's still possible to enjoy the beautiful sun that usually lights up the city at this time of year.

There's more to the place than meets the eye : this ancient staging post along the Silk Road is home to a few gems. Visit the Chorsu Bazaar, a treasure trove of products from all over the country, and climb its spiral staircase to take in the magnificent view of the mountains.

If visiting the Samarkand region, remember to pack a lot more layers . This region experiences heavy snowfall and it can be bitterly cold. But like Tashkent, the days are very bright.

The central areas also have fantastic sunshine and temperatures that often drop below zero; the same goes for the cities around the Amu Darya basin (Gazli, Uzunkuduk, Kochka...). But the latter see a little less sunshine.

For some warmth, head to the border towns in the south of the country, bordering Afghanistan. Temperatures are often above zero, even in the morning, and the sun often shines.

Note to hikers : the regions of Karakalpakstan and the mountainous areas of Tian Shan are very difficult to explore in January. Temperatures can drop to -40°C and the passes are often closed because they are impassable.

February : a slight increase in temperature

There is a noticeable slight thaw in February. The southern border towns are the first to feel the effect, with temperatures sometimes in the region of 10°C. The cities in the south and centre of the country also feel the benefit, with temperatures a few degrees above zero.

To warm up even more, visit Ternez, which has a microclimate because it lies in a hollow   between the Kugitang Mountains and Mount Khabatag, located to the west and east of the city, respectively. This is the region's only cave Buddhist monastery .

In the Tashkent region, while mornings are still chilly, temperatures start to climb a little during the day. It's not time to ditch the warm clothes though .

The story is more mixed in Samarkand and the surrounding region because the sun and clouds frequently trade places, often accompanied by snowfall.

The cities surrounding the Amu Darya basin don't see snowfall and maintain a similar climate in January, with sunny days and very low temperatures.

March: the first signs of spring

The weather starts to picks up again in March  Temperatures rise considerably in most parts of the country, and the sun starts to flex its muscles. Again, the towns along the southern border are the big winners.

This is then followed by central region and around the Amu Darya basin. Spring is on its way and it's ideal for exploring without worrying too much about the cold.

Temperatures in the Samarkand region also go up a few notches without winter relinquishing its grip. But there is a fair amount of sunshine though. When it does put in an appearance, be sure to visit the hill-fort settlement of Afrosyab, an ancient city dating back to the eight century BC. It has traces of successive civilisations, from the Iron Age to the Mongol Conquest.

April: peak season begins

There's no doubt about it, spring has sprung in April and with it come the visitors.  It even starts to get hot in the southern border towns. The best bet at this time of year is to focus on the country's natural wonders rather than the cities. Aral-Paygambar island is a great excursion. It's a seven-acre nature reserve covered with green vegetation and off the tourist trail.

In Tashkent and the surrounding area, there are clear skies most of the time and in the middle of day it's almost time to don the summer wardrobe. The same goes for the cities in the Amu Darya basin.

Samarkand, on the other hand, is a different story because there is still fairly regular rainfall.

Instead, head to the southern and central cities, which have fully embraced spring. Then pay a visit to the ancient city of Bukhara, described by some as the most beautiful city in the world.

May:  the continental summer is approaching

Uzbekistan's climate continues to improve in May with temperatures still quite tolerable throughout much of the country.

Only two areas buck the trend : Samarkand, which is still under a deluge, and the southern border towns, where the heat starts to become oppressive.

On the other hand, the  air in Tashkent is mild from sunrise, making it ideal for early risers.

The air warms up in the south-central part of the country and in the cities around the Amu-Darya, but without temperatures soaring. Our favourite : Khiva, the best preserved museum city on the Silk Road.

June : the really hot weather arrives

It's a fairly mixed picture across Uzbekistan in June. Some places are ideal for visiting, while others are already feeling the intense heat of the continental summer.

This is especially so in the southern and central border towns, which are already hot. Tashkent suffers the same fate with even more uncomfortable weather caused by pollution. When temperatures peak, seek refuge in the city's parks, such as Alisher Navoi National Park or Uzbekistan's National Park.

For a milder climate, opt for the Samarkand region or the cities near the Amu Darya basin.

July: the heat wave reaches its peak

The whole country is hit by drought in July. If travelling at this time, it is highly recommended to stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day, regardless of the destination.

To the east, nothing new : the mornings start off hot and temperatures continue to rise throughout the day. These conditions apply to the majority of the country, apart from Samarkand and its slightly milder neighbours. Must-see : The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis that once led to the gates of the city.

August : things gradually start to cool down

Even though it is still far from autumn weather, temperatures start to drop a few degrees in some regions.

Tashkent and the surrounding area, the southern border towns and the Samarkand region are the lucky few. At the hottest times of the day in Tashkent, why not visit some of the interesting museums the city has to offer ? The Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan, dedicated to Uzbek art, is probably the most interesting.

At the same time, the areas in the centre and around the Amu Darya basin are still experiencing oppressive weather. You'll need to be up at dawn to enjoy some cool, fresh air !

September : the tourist season returns

The country emerges from the grip of summer in September. Temperatures in the Tashkent region are quite reasonable, averaging between 23°C and 32°C.

It's the same story for Samarkand and the surrounding area, apart from a little coolness in the morning.

The rest of the country is similar, making it suitable for a whole host of tourist activities. Like the caravans travelling along the Silk Road in olden times, take the northern road from Samarkand to Bukhara. Hug the edge of Lake Aydar Kul, with countless yurts dotted along on its shores. 

October : an early taste of autumn

Uzbekistan is still a good place to visit in October. Just remember to pack some autumn gear though, especially for the mornings and evenings.

The sun continues to shine everywhere, especially in the southern part of the country and in Tashkent, where temperatures range between 15°C and 24°C. Ideal weather for walking the streets of Tashkent.

Don't be caught out in Samarkand though as the mornings are quite cold (8°C on average). Just be a little patient and wait for the temperatures to rise during the day. The same applies to the area around the Amu Darya basin.

Approaching the centre, it's time to dig out the warm clothing as it feels considerably cooler here. A little further south, explore the remote region of Khorezm. Shaded houses, rice farms, orchards and cotton fields form a picturesque scene.

November : the cold is back

Although November is still a reasonable time to visit, don't overlook the arrival of the rains and the cool climate. In some areas, such as Tashkent, the middle of the day is fairly warm but with some rainfall.

The border towns to the south experience pleasantly mild weather. If you visit Samarkand from Termez (south of the country), there are historical remains dating from, among others, the time of Alexander the Great who used this route

Arriving in Samarkand, warm clothing is needed despite the fact the sun is out, and the same goes for the Amu Darya basin.

December : winter is definitely here

December is certainly not the best time to visit Uzbekistan and should be avoided. As well as the cold, there are heavy showers and/or snowfall, and the sun rarely puts in an appearance. This applies across the country.

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When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to early November). It’s typically warm and dry during these periods, with temperatures sitting around 70°F to 86°F during spring and 57°F to 86°F during autumn.

You can enjoy the heat of this desert region without it being uncomfortably hot, as it can be during the summer months, when temperatures climb to 99°F.

It can be very cold from November to March, dropping as low as 39°F, but this time of year also brings clear, bright skies, which provide an exceptional backdrop to any photos you take during your trip. This is also the quietest time of year, so if you’re willing to dress warmly you’re likely to have the country’s exquisitely beautiful sites to yourself.

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Uzbekistan

Visiting Uzbekistan in January - February

January and February are the coldest months in Uzbekistan. Temperatures don't drop too far below freezing but chilling winds can often make it feel colder. However, it tends to be dry and bright during this time, with clean air and blue skies that provide an excellent backdrop for photographing the country’s impressive mosques and minarets. You're likely to have the various sites to yourself as the winter months don't see many visitors to the country.

Visiting Uzbekistan in March - April

Temperatures start to warm up from mid-March, but the chance of rain increases. Late March and early April are still fairly quiet times to visit, and the country’s main sites of interest will continue to be relatively uncrowded.

Visiting Uzbekistan in May - June

Mid-April through to early June is one of the most popular times to visit Uzbekistan, as temperatures are warm without being too high — typically 50 to 60 Fahrenheit. Consequently, hotels and sites will be at their busiest.

Events & Festivals

• The Silk and Spices Festival is occasionally held during May, which highlights the country’s culture and traditions, as well as its local arts and crafts.

Visiting Uzbekistan in July - August

July and August are the hottest and driest months of the year in Uzbekistan, with temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Visiting during this period can be quite uncomfortable, particularly with any long overland journeys, as the sun is extremely strong.

Visiting Uzbekistan in September - October

Temperatures start to cool down from September. You can expect mid-70s Fahrenheit, making it more enjoyable to explore the country’s intriguing old towns and Islamic architecture. The autumn months are typically drier than spring, and are also when the country goes to harvest, meaning markets are ripe with fresh fruit and vegetables.

Visiting Uzbekistan in November - December

As winter falls on Uzbekistan both its temperatures and visitor numbers drop. This can be a wonderful time to make your trip if you don’t mind dressing up warmly.

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Travel advice

Practical tips for traveling to Uzbekistan, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

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Where to go in 2024: The best places to visit

Editor’s note: Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter . Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay.

So many places to see in the world. So many people eager to see them.

International tourism reached about 90% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, and the United States issued a record number of  passports . And if you visited any popular destination over the summer, you’d probably argue it was more crowded than ever.

So maybe it’s time to look at places that are still largely undiscovered, or alluring in the offseason, or frequently overlooked for their larger first cities or neighbors. Maybe it’s time to head to places that are making it easier for tourists to visit and those that pay close attention to encouraging tourism that’s sustainable.

With those things in mind, CNN Travel chose 24 places to consider as you make your 2024 plans:

Sumba, Indonesia

For those looking for a beach destination that prioritizes community consciousness and sustainability, the Indonesian island of Sumba delivers.

With its remote villages, untouched forests, ancient rituals and world-class surf breaks, Sumba is the perfect antidote to the crowds of Bali, which is just an hour’s flight away. It might not be internationally famous yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s small. Sumba is more than 4,000 square miles in size (more than 10,000 square kilometers) – twice the size of Bali.

It was the  Nihi Sumba  resort that brought this island into luxury seekers’ sights when it first opened in 2012. More than a decade on, Sumba has welcomed several new luxury eco-resorts. These include  The Sanubari,  a series of beachfront villas that opened in 2022, and  Cap Karoso , located on the island’s southwest.  —Karla Cripps

Turkey’s Black Sea coast

Far less known than the Mediterranean yacht-magnet resorts of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the  Black Sea region, also known as Karadeniz,  offers a very different side of the country. Less touristed and with a cooler, damper climate that produces verdant scenery and  delicious black tea , the region has historic towns and villages as well as beaches and adrenaline-producing activities.

In summer, it’s a refreshing escape from Turkey’s more sweltering regions. Visitors can explore ancient streets that still echo to the clang of blacksmith hammers in Safranbolu, soak up beach life in Amasra and climb to where one of the world’s oldest monasteries clings to a cliff at Sumela.

For thrill-seekers, there’s white water rafting, and when winter brings heavy snowfalls, the region’s eastern Kaçkar Mountains transform into a  heli-skiing paradise .  —Barry Neild

Tartu, Estonia

Pucker up. Tartu, in southern Estonia, has been named a European Capital of Culture for 2024 — with  special attention paid to kissing . One of this university city’s most celebrated sights is its statue of two students locked in a passionate embrace, but here in the “City of Good Thoughts,” the love-in is more high-minded than carnal.

Tartu is renowned as Estonia’s intellectual center, home to its oldest university as well as the must-visit Estonian National Museum and the impressive Science Centre AHHAA, the largest science museum in the Baltics.

The Old Town is the perfect place to base yourself, but just north of the city center on the banks of the Emajõgi River, Supilinn (“Soup Town”) is also worth a visit. This historic neighborhood filled with pretty, wooden houses was formerly a slum but is now becoming one of the city’s most desirable addresses.  —Maureen O’Hare

Tainan, Taiwan

Celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2024, Tainan has become a Taiwan hotspot on the international stage. This southern city has surpassed the capital, Taipei, to boast the highest overall hotel occupancy rate in Taiwan in the past two years.

What makes it so special? Tainan is considered the street food capital of Taiwan and is loved for its beef soups and oyster omelets, otherworldly natural landscapes (check out Tsao Shan Moon World), scenic sunsets over salt farms, colorful old temples and cool new museums.

It was also listed among Booking.com’s top 10 sustainable tourism destinations in 2023.  —Maggie Hiufu Wong

Northwest Michigan

Refreshing, unsalty Lake Michigan lures boatloads of tourists in summer, but the shoreline, quaint towns and rolling countryside of Northwest Michigan have plenty to offer year-round.

On Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City makes a great home base for exploring wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas or picking cherries or apples in season. Then fall’s foliage is ripe for peeping, followed by winter’s inviting blankets of snow.

From Traverse City, the scenic M-22 highway winds up the Leelanau Peninsula and hooks back down through Leland, home to a  historic fishing village  and a collection of interesting  shops and galleries .

Glen Arbor is another town worth perusing on the way to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , where off M-109 an all-sand, 3.5-mile hike over massive dunes to the Great Lake and back preps hardy hikers for a delicious dinner.

Farm Club , a farm-restaurant hybrid seven miles from downtown Traverse City, serves beautifully prepared dishes showcasing the region’s ingredients — many grown on site — in a minimalist, barnlike space that spills outdoors.  —Marnie Hunter

Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, Balkans

Launching in 2024, the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route will be the first and only bike route to link all eight countries of the Western Balkans. The 100-stage trail is designed for cyclists of all abilities and its 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) is made up of quiet asphalt roads, forest trails and bike paths.

Riders can enjoy Albania and Croatia’s spectacular coastlines, Kosovo’s national parks, Montenegro’s rugged mountains and lush woodland and sparkling rivers throughout Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Riders can get more information and sign up for news of route updates, maps, accommodation and services at  transdinarica.com .   —MO

Culebra, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is large and makes for a great island escape. But what if you want an escape from your great island escape? That’s where little Culebra comes in. It’s about 20 miles (32 kilometers) off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico and world away from  San Juan’s noisy, rum-soaked nightlife .

The emphasis here is on outdoor activities and unwinding. Be sure to check out  Flamenco Beach , curving for about a mile around a sheltered bay. It has little in the way of waves, making it a superb spot for snorkeling and swimming. And a graffitied tank — a US military relic — offers a striking photo op.

Much of the island is  a natural refuge , and you can also go hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and fishing. Take  a day trip  or  stay over  and make it your main destination.  —Forrest Brown

This southern African nation is trying hard to make a break on the tourism scene, having recently introduced a  quick-approval tourism e-visa . While major tourism infrastructure might not be up to speed yet, it’s a chance to explore a country still off the travel radar.

The capital of Luanda has a reputation as a pricey party city, but out in the wide-open spaces beyond, Angola has some jaw-droppingly spectacular scenery and cultural treats. Second city  Lubango  offers Portuguese colonial architecture, an impressive Rio-style Christ the King hilltop statue and access to the Tundavala Gap, a giddying plunge from cool tablelands into shimmering dusty plains.

Also worth a look: the dramatic 1,300-foot-wide (396 meters) Calendula Falls and Atlantic coastline surfing paradises such as Barra do Kwanza and Cabo Ledo.  —BN

Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Not to be confused with St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, Saint John is located in New Brunswick — also on Canada’s east coast. This charming little city is an excellent base from which to enjoy the nearby  Bay of Fundy , famed for having the world’s highest tides.

The city itself is filled with historic architecture, including the  Saint John City Market , a National Historic Site of Canada. Built from 1874 to 1876, it’s filled with shops and food venues. A five-minute walk away is the  Saint John Arts Centre . Set in the city’s historic Carnegie Building, it’s the only former Carnegie Library in eastern Canada.

In terms of accommodation, there are seaside cottages, hotels, motels, campgrounds, historic inns and B&Bs. Food here is as excellent as you’d expect from a maritime city in Canada, with a broad range from cheap eats to fine dining.  —KC

South Korea

With word that “Squid Game” — still the most-watched show on Netflix — is set to return with a new season in 2024, it’s time once again to embrace the K-wave.

Thankfully, travel to the country is easier than ever before. The government is waiving its K-ETA requirement — the electronic travel visa for South Korea — for travelers from  22 countries  till the end of 2024 as part of its Visit Korea Year campaign.

This is a country that truly has it all. After exploring futuristic cities such as Seoul and Busan, the cultural and historic side of old Korea awaits at Andong, dubbed the “Spirit of South Korea,” or the seven cemeteries of the ancient  Gaya Tumuli , newly inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023.  —MHW

Sandwiched on the Adriatic coast between Greece and Montenegro, it’s astonishing that Albania wasn’t more popular as a beach destination before. But its wallet-friendly prices have seen tourism boom here over the past few years — so much so that in 2023, record numbers of Italians flocked across the Adriatic for their bargain summer breaks.

2024 sees the opening of a new airport at Vlorë, on the coast, which will make those beach trips easier. But there’s far more to Albania than its coast. The country has a rich culture, including Christian and Muslim history, with historical centers in towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër, as well as jaw-dropping mountain landscapes (Theth is the most popular).

In 2023, Albania got Europe’s first wild river national park, around the 168-mile (270-kilometer)  Vjosa River  — or to go really off the beaten track book a self-drive tour with  Drive Albania .  —Julia Buckley

Stretching about 2,700 miles from top to toe, long and slim Chile offers a little something for everyone.  In the north, spectacular landscapes simulate  Mars on Earth  in the Atacama Desert, where the 51-room  Our Habitas Atacama  emphasizes sustainability.  The new hotel is a good fit for the “world’s leading green destination,” a title Chile just picked up at the World Travel Awards for the second year in a row.

The natural world puts its best foot forward all over the country: Thousands of miles of Pacific coastline to the west, the towering Andes in the east and lakes, volcanoes and wild Patagonia in the south.

World-class skiing in July and August — a welcome break from the sweltering Northern Hemisphere — is two hours or less from the capital, Santiago. And the new high-altitude Parque Nacional Glaciares near the city protects land in the country’s most populous and  historically little-protected  area.  —MH

Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia

Every year there’s another installment in the soap opera surrounding the Great Barrier Reef — will it be de-listed by UNESCO? Has the coral regrowth gone well this season?

For tourists who’d rather not wade into the situation, there’s another way to experience some of Australia’s gorgeous underwater bounty. About 37 miles (60 kilometers) off the coast of Western Australia, the lesser-known  Abrolhos Islands  are home to some of the most beautiful scenery of the country’s Coral Coast, above and below the water.

Humpback whales pass through in the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, and lucky travelers may catch a glimpse of Australian Sea Lions. There are no hotels on the islands, so intrepid visitors can either overnight in the town of Geraldton or splash out for a liveaboard boat, which provides opportunities to watch brilliant sunsets over the Indian Ocean and scuba dive in the early hours when the fish are at their most active.  —Lilit Marcus

Macedonia, Greece

Athens and the islands get more crowded every year, but in northern Greece, the region of Macedonia is relatively free from overtourism. Yet it has everything visitors flock elsewhere in Greece to see: archaeological sites, history-rich towns and beaches galore.

This was the land of Alexander the Great. His father, Philip II of Macedon, is buried at Vergina, where his tomb has been turned into a world-class  subterranean museum  displaying the finds. Nearby, there are Byzantine remains in the hilltop city Veria, and superb wineries such as  Kir-Yianni  in the rolling hills around Naousa.

Thessaloniki — the region’s capital and Greece’s second city — is a gastro hub as well as a mishmash of architectural and archaeological eras. Near the city are the sandy beaches of Halkidiki; toward the border with Thrace are archaeological spots like ancient Philippi, and the city of Kavala, whose Ottoman past shows in every building . —JB

It may be most famous for the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal, but this Central American country is so much more than a transit destination.

Not only does Panama have a vibrant capital city with a historic old quarter that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the country also holds over a dozen national parks, including Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama.

Panama City is also the only world capital with a tropical rainforest within its city limits. Visitors keen to delve further into Panama’s cultural landscape in a sustainable way can book community-based tourist adventures through a digital portal called  SOSTUR Network , which connects travelers with rural communities and tourism businesses.  —Tamara Hardingham-Gill

Galicia, Spain

Empty beaches bordered by the wild Atlantic Ocean and framed by the rugged landscape of the  Islas Atlánticas National Park . Mouth-watering seafood. And a historic city forever entwined with the famed  Camino de Santiago.  Welcome to Galicia, an autonomous region in the northwest tip of Spain.

Galicia’s regional capital city,  Santiago de Compostela , has long been on the tourist map thanks to its striking 12 th -century cathedral, which is the endpoint for the hundreds of thousands of walkers who  embark on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage  each year. But even if you weren’t planning on packing your walking boots, bustling Santiago should be on your radar.

And for spectacular views, head to  Cabo Fisterra , a rocky peninsula home to the picturesque Finisterre lighthouse. The former lighthouse residence is the  Hotel O Semáforo de Fisterra . Lighthouses are a bit of a theme in Galicia — there are 19 in total, including the UNESCO-protected 1st-century  Tower of Hercules , believed to be the world’s oldest surviving Roman lighthouse.  —Francesca Street

Singapore’s offshore islands

The city-state of Singapore shows urbanism at its finest: biophilic skyscrapers, neon-lit supertrees and six-star hotels all outdoing each other to redefine “luxury.” But venturing off the peninsula is quickly becoming a more interesting option.

Singapore is developing some of its smaller, uninhabited islands by, well, not developing them. Just a ferry ride away from the mainland, Lazarus Island is now home to a few rentable tiny houses made with reconstituted wood and powered by solar energy. Nearby, Sisters’ Island will open the country’s first marine park — including a sea turtle hatchery and coral protection area — in 2024.

Already open for exploring is St. John’s Island, where a 1.7-mile trail highlights native plants and flowers while shining a light on the island’s colorful history, which included a period as a quarantine center during a cholera outbreak. It’s a fitting place to think about life after a pandemic.  —LM

Mérida, Mexico

The Yucatán Peninsula is best known for its tropical beaches, but venture inland, and you’re in for an unexpected urban treat.

“Mérida’s uniqueness comes from a blend of Mayan and colonial heritage,” said David Casanova, who has a  real estate YouTube channel  on Yucatán state’s capital city with his wife, Megan Sequeira Casanova. “The city’s excitement starts with its diverse cuisine and friendly locals and expands to its year-long favorable weather.”

In town, Paseo de Montejo is lined with historic mansions, museums, art galleries and local vendors. The Casanovas tout the city’s boutique hotels, including  Kuka y Naranjo . For nearby getaways, there’s Progreso Beach (less than an hour away), fascinating Mayan ruins and underground water caves called cenotes.

If you’re concerned about personal safety in Mexico, the  US State Department  rates Yucatán and Campache states as the two safest as of December.  —FB

A longtime travel favorite thanks to its diverse landscape and spectacular architecture, Morocco has bounced back determinedly after a devastating earthquake this past September.

While visitors tend to congregate in popular cities such as Marrakech, Rabat and Fes, the country certainly isn’t short of less crowded spots that are arguably just as alluring. Standouts include Tétouan, the city near the first  Regis Hotels and Resorts Morocco property , and the historic Meknes, which is among the country’s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Morocco is proving to be a world leader when it comes to sustainable tourism, with the launch of various initiatives to boost its renewable energy generation. The country is also home to a number of significant eco-friendly hotels, including the Berber-run  Kasbah du Toubkal , located at the base of the spectacular High Atlas Mountains.  —THG

Florida’s freshwater springs

How would you like to immerse in water clear as gin any day of the year? You can do that in some of the 1,000 or more recognized  fresh-water springs  scattered around northern and central Florida.

These  pristine natural pools  provide stable temps and visibility for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, diving, wildlife viewing and more. Here are a few of the best:

Wakulla Springs  has a swimming area in 70 F (21 C) degree water, and the state park offers a boat ride tour. The  depth at the vent  is about 185 feet (56 meters).  Rainbow Springs  is considered one of the most beautiful in the state.  Ginnie Springs , a privately owned site, is renowned for its diving and cavern.  —FB

Texas Hill Country

In the heart of Texas, Hill Country boasts its own natural springs. One prime spot,  Krause Springs  in Spicewood, lures visitors with more than its spring-fed pool and natural swimming hole — there’s also a butterfly garden full of magical wind chimes. And the  Blue Bonnet Cafe  — home to some of the world’s most divine cream pies — is just a short drive away in Marble Falls .

Meanderers will also find rolling hills and hiking trails, winding rivers,  wineries , barbecue, music and dance halls, plus an explosion of wildflowers in March and April. And in 2024, April also brings a celestial spectacle to Hill Country — the total solar eclipse on April 8.

Gruene Hall  in New Braunfels is legendary among Texas’  historic dance halls , and Luckenbach, a tiny hamlet outside the larger German-influenced town of Fredericksburg, has a dance hall and regular pickers’ circles under the oak trees.  —MH

One of the smaller and lesser-known emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is as mellow as it is beautiful. Filled with spectacular mountain ranges and pristine beaches, it’s significantly less developed than the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering an authentic and tranquil vibe that’s hard to beat.

Fujairah has a cooler climate compared with the other emirates because of its mountainous setting, but the winter months are definitely the most pleasant time to visit.

Snoopy Island, a snorkeling spot that looks like the famous cartoon dog lying on his back, is a top draw thanks to its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, while the cascading waterfalls of the Wadi Wurayah National Park are another must-see.  —THG

The jaw-dropping landscapes of Greenland — an autonomous territory of Denmark situated northeast of Canada — are set to get a little more accessible for international travelers this year.

New international airports are opening in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, and the coastal city of Ilulissat. These aviation hubs promise longer runways that will be able to handle larger commercial aircraft. The climate crisis is a visible, real threat in Greenland, and investment in the tourism sphere is increasing as changing climates  pose roadblocks to traditional industries.

Learn more about how Greeenland is adapting, and the stories of the Inuit people who’ve lived in the region for thousands of years at the  Icefjord Centre  in Ilulissat on the West Coast. Colorful Ilulissat is also home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, which offers the staggering sight of a bay filled with floating icebergs. In general, nature is the main event in Greenland, with other highlights including whale watching, dog sledding and Aurora Borealis sightings.   —FS

Before the pandemic, Uzbekistan was poised to be the  next big thing  in travel thanks to a series of ambitious reforms to transform the country into a world-class destination.

Now, its time has finally come.

Offering visa-free access to citizens of 86 countries, Uzbekistan’s untouched landscapes and well-preserved architecture are ready and waiting to awe visitors.

For greater insights into Uzbekistan’s position at the heart of the fabled Silk Road, a historic trade route that ran from China and India to the Mediterranean, the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva await. Meanwhile, the mountainous Uzbek village of Sentob — about 3.5 hours from Samarkand — was added to UNESCO’s list of “ Best Tourism Villages ” in 2023. It’s been cited for its commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on nature, organic food and eco and mountain tourism.

Getting around the country is easy thanks to the high-speed Afrosiyob Express train, connecting capital Tashkent with Samarkand and Bukhara.  —KC

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