uzbekistan main tourist attractions

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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Places to Visit in Uzbekistan

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Uzbekistan

Here is the list of best places to visit in uzbekistan:.

Shahrisabz happens to be a city in Qashqadaryo in southern Uzbekistan about 80 km to the south of Samarkand. As per history, the city is known as Kesh or Kish and it was one of the major cities of Central Asia as well as the urban centre of Sogdiana which was the province of Achaemenid Empire of Persia. The city is very much famous for being the birthplace of Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur. Shahrisabz happens to be one of the beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan that is adorned with pristine landscapes and age old architectural marvels with beautiful intricate designs. You will surely fall in love with the heritage sites. Shahrisabz is home to some of the architectural marvels and tourist places like the famous Palace Complex of Ak-Saray, Dorut Tilovat, statue of Amir Timur, crypt of Tamerlan, and Dor Us-Siyodat. While on a trip to Shahrisabz, you can capture the glimpse of the beautiful construction  of Ak-Saray Palace, explore the relics of the past era at Amir Timur Museum, enjoy your time at the peaceful courtyard shaded by trees of Dor-Us Siyadat Complex. The summer season of Shahrisabz is hot, arid and clear however the winters are very cold, dry, and partly cloudy. The average temperature of these places remains in the range of 32 - 95 degree celsius.

Karakalpakstan

Karakalpakstan which is also known as the Republic of Karakalpakstan happens to be an autonomous republic that is located to the northwestern end of Uzbekistan. The capital city of this region is Nukus. The territory of this region covers the land of Khwarezm. Karakalpakstan is one of the enchanting cities of Uzbekistan that is packed with pristine landscapes and enthralling architectural marvels that display the intricate artworks of the bygone era. During your trip to Karakalpakstan, you will be marvelling at Savitsky Museum which is known for its remarkable art collections, unexpectedly modern and hip place Cinnamon Cafe, ruins of the beached ships close to the  Aral Sea memorial, Karakalpak State Museum of Regional Studies which is home to some of the ethnographic and jewellery displays, and Moynaq Museum which stores  interesting photos and paintings of the area. Explore the remarkable art collections in the former Soviet Union at Savitsky Museum, sip some real coffee and a tempting array of cakes and home-made gelato at Cinnamon Cafe, and explore the underground vault of the Mausoleum of Mazlum Khan Slu at Mizdakhan Necropolis. Karakalpakstan happens to be one of the coldest regions in Uzbekistan that has an average daily high temperature of 20 degree celsius. The climate of this place is basically cold and wet and it corresponds to most Central European Weather.

Khiva which is also known as Kheeva, Khwarizm, Khoresm, Khorasam, Khwarzam, and Chorezm in the past is a city in the Xorazm region. The city is believed to have been established about 1500 years in the past. The city has served as the capital of Khwarezmia. Khiva was the very first place in Uzbekistan to be included in the world heritage site by UNESCO because of its architectural beauty and rich heritage. The city flaunts some of its heritage constructions that are fashioned with the best ever artworks. The popular attractions of Khiva are Itchan Kala GatesKhiva Gates in Uzbekistan known for its oriental atmosphere, Kunya Ark which is home to mosque, Arsenal, harem along with a royal residence, and Blue Minaret which is known for its colorful tiles. During your stay in Khiva, you can walk on top of the Northwestern Wall, capture the beautiful view over Khiva from the watchtower, witness the blue and green tile decorations  of Kalta Minor Minaret, and appreciate the beauty of Juma mosque. Khiva happens to be located at an elevation of 98 meters above the sea level. It has got a desert type climate with no rainfall during the year. The climatic condition of Khiva is classified at BWk by the Kopper Geiger classification system. The average annual temperature is recorded to be 14.9 degree celsius and the annual rainfall is about 103 mm.

Kokand happens to be a city in the Fergana Region that is located in Eastern Uzbekistan. The city is situated about 228 km southeast of Tashkent, 88 km west from Fergana, and 115 km west of Andijan. The name of the city derives from the well known tribal family group of Kokan which belong to the Kongrat tribe of Uzbeks. Popularly known as the city of winds, Kokand is a beautiful place that is popular for its colorful architectural marvels. Tourists love to capture the scenic moments in their cameras so that they can cherish all through their life. The popular tourist attractions of Kokand are Chimgan popular for its ecotourism, Alisher Navoi Grand Theatre which is popular for its operas and ballet theatres, The State Museum of the Timurids History which stores a wide range of relics of the past, and The Ak-Saray Palace in Shakhrisabz which happens to be a grandiose monument of the Medieval era. While heading out on a trip to Kokand, you can think of spending time exploring some of the age old museums and boutiques, relishing a delicious meal, hangouting in cafes, taking in a show at a theatres, walking hand in hand with your partner along the streets. You can also choose to visit some of the art galleries to capture the beautiful portraits made by local artists. The climate of Kokand is hot and humid. It is one such city of Uzbekistan which experience all the climate changes ie. monsoon, winter, and summer. The average annual rainfall is recorded at 300 mm - 900 mm and the average temperatures remain in the range of 40 - 22 degree celsius.

Best of Russia

Bukhara is the 5th largest city in Uzbekistan and the capital of the Bukhara Region. This place has been inhabited for more than five millenium and the city has been existing for more than half of it. It has served as a centre of trade, religion, culture and scholarships in the bygone era. It has also served as the capital of the Samanid Empire. Bukhara City is one of the most beautiful cities in Uzbekistan because of its arches and cupolas that take you back in the timeline to witness age old art and architecture. Bukhara can be considered as an architectural mirror of the past. Some of the popular places in Burkha are Ark Fortress which was a military fort and the symbol of the state’s power, Poi Kalon Ensemble which is famed for its blue cupola of the Madrasah, and Ismail Samani Mausoleum which is one of the few marvels left out of the rich Persian Samanid dynasty. You can stroll around the city and marvel at its architectural legacy of the city which is home to more than 140 beautiful monuments. Tourists can marvel at the architectural complex in Bukhara, Khoja Gaukushan Complex, explore the beautiful and reflect daily scenes of Uzbek life at Bukhara photo gallery, and shop souvenirs at the covered bazaars. The city of Bukhara can be considered as an epitome of beautiful architectural marvels. It is home to more than 140 architectural marvels which stand tall as the testimony for the intricate design styles. UNESCO has also listed the city as a world heritage site because of its beautiful mosques. Bukhara has a Central Asian Coll Arid type climate. As per the Koppen Geiger classification, the climate of Bukhara is classified into BWk. The maximum average temperature is 37.2b degree celsius in the month of July and 6.6 degree celsius in the month of January. The annual precipitation is recorded at 135 millimeters.

Best of Moscow

Termez happens to be a city in the southernmost part of Uzbekistan that is located close to the Hairatan Border crossing of Afghanistan. It is the capital of Surxondaryo Region. It is believed to be founded more than 2500 years in the past. Termez is very much popular for its amazing brick works and pristine Buddhist monasteries adorned with colorful deities and prayer flags. The most sought after attractions in Termez are Al Hakim At-Termizi Mausoleum, Fayaz-Tepa, Fortress Kirk Kiz, Friendship Bridge, Jarkurgan Minaret, Karatepa, Kokildor-Ota Khanaka, Stupa Zurmala, and Sultan Saodat Ensemble. During your stay in Termez, you can Visit Fayaz-Tepe Buddhist Monastery, Dine at Rich Restaurant, Visit Sultan Saodat Complex, Eat at Restaurant Dubai, Go on a Samosas Tour, Visit Surxon Ipagi Silk Factory, See the Silk Road Gate, and Enjoy a Soviet Breakfast at Café Bistro. Termez is located at an elevation of 302 m above the sea level. It has got a cold desert type climate that is very hot, long summer and short, cool winters. As per the Koppen Geiger classification, the climate of the city is classified as BWk.

Best of Egypt

Andijan happens to be a city in Uzbekistan that serves as the administrative, cultural and economic centre of the region. Located in the south eastern edge of Fergana Valley close to the border with Kyrgyzstan. It is one of the oldest cities in the Fergana Valley and it dates back to almost the 7th and 8th centuries. It is widely famous for being the birthplace of Babur, a mighty Mughal Emperor. Andijan is very much famous for its beautiful architectural marvels that are adorned with intricate design elements of the bygone era. You will also get to witness some wonderful scenic beauty as well. Some of the popular attractions of Andijan are Jami Madrasa which is a popular religious school and Ruins of the fortress Ershi which housed the capital of the ancient state of Davan. During your stay at Andijan, you can think of exploring the Garden of Winds, go spices and the souvenir shopping at the Local Bazaar, learn more about the Andijan local culture at Juma Mosque, stroll along the collection of art and history at Babur Museum, and witness the work of art and splash of colors at Babur Memorial Park. The city has got a cold semi arid type climate. It experiences cold winters and hot summers and midler winters. The precipitation in this area is a bit light and erratic.

Best of Georgia

Tashkent is one of the largest cities as well as the capital of Uzbekistan. It is also one of the most populous cities of Uzbekistan. It is located in Northeastern Uzbekistan close to the border with Kazakhstan. The city has got a islamic influence and you will find prevailing Sogdian and Turkic cultures. It has been one of the important parts of the famous silk route and has witnessed a major growth. Tashkent is a beautiful city with a decorative heritage. It is home to extremely wide avenues and the centre of cultural tradition. You will come across beautiful architectural marvels that not only have great heritages but also have got beautiful designs. Some of the must visit tourist places of Tashkent are Chorsu Bazaar which is well known for handicraft shopping, massive, old-fashioned Hotel Uzbekistan, and Central Asian Plov Center which offers delicious meals. During your stopover at Tashkent, you can eat at Minor Somsa, visit the Khazrati Imam Complex, tour Chorsu Bazaar to purchase souvenirs for your loved ones. If you wish to explore the history of Tashkent, you can visit Amir Timur Square and admire the Hotel Uzbekistan. Tourists can also visit Minor Mosque to capture the glimpses of the scenic mosaic works, and dine at Lagman House which is popular for its wide range of cuisines. Tashkent has got a mediterranean climate with a humid continental climate. The city experiences cold and snowy winters and hot and dry summers. It receives a peak of precipitation in the early winters as well as in the spring season. The climate of the city remains hot for most of the time of the year and receives very little precipitation in the form of snow.

Best of Kazakhstan

Samarkand is located in Southeastern Uzbekistan. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia that was inhabited. As per the records, human activities have been found in these places from the late Paleolithic Era. The city is believed to be founded in between 7th and 8th century BC. It lies on the ancient silk road that connects China and Mediterranean sea and was one of the largest settlements of Central Asia. Samarkand happens to be the home of contemporary Uzbek culture. With beautiful historical monuments and holy places, the city is very much popular among the pilgrims and architecture lovers. You will get to enjoy some of the best architectural marvels here.Samarkand is home to some of the beautiful tourist attractions like Registan which is popular for its beautiful madrassah that dates back to the 15th and 17th century and Gur-e-amir Mausoleum which is considered to be the architectural model of Taj Mahal in India. While visitng Hovrenko’s wine factory lets you taste some exotic spirits, the Tomb Of The Prophet Daniel is famous for its impressive 18 meter long sarcophagus. While on a trip to Samarkand, you can explore the masterpieces of ancient architecture, impeccably glittering minarets, sparkling turquoise domes and hypnotic mosaic. You can stroll along the narrow avenues witnessing blue tombs and various spectacular mausoleums. Samarkand has got a Mediterranean Climate which means you will find hot, dry summers and wet, variable winters. The hottest months of the year are July and August whereas the coldest month is January. The average summer temperature is recorded at 40 degree celsius while the winter temperature can drop till -22 degree celsius.

Best of Azerbaijan

Urgench is a city located in western Uzbekistan and is the capital of Khorezm Regions. The city is about 45 km west of Bukhara which is across the Kyzylkum Desert. Urgench is famous for its orchards and serene landscapes. During your visit, you will not only be able to witness the architectural marvels and age old heritage sites, but you will also be able to take a tour of the agricultural lands of cotton and rice. Some of the popular tourist places of Urgench are Statue of Muhammed al-Khwarizmi who was a mathematician known especially in Algebra, Itchan Kala a World Heritage site by UNESCO, and Of Note which was constructed in remembrance of the twenty Komsomol members. While on a tour of Urgench, you can offer prayers at the Bibi Khanym Mosque, explore the heritage monument of Statue of Amir Timur, marvel at the beautiful Shah-i-Zinda, and head out on beautiful countryside tours with your loved ones. Located at an elevation of about 101 meters above the sea level, it has a desert type climate. There is absolutely no rainfall in this place all through the year. As per the Koppen Geiger classification, the climate of the city is classified as BWk. The average annual temperature of this place is recorded to be 14.5 degree celsius and the rainfall recorded is about 103 mm.

Nukus is the 6th largest city in Uzbekistan and the capital city of the Republic of Karakalpakstan which is an autonomous city. The city of Nukus is very much popular for being the centre of the world class Nukus museum of Art. Nukus is very famed for its countryside environment and old fortresses. During your visit to the city, you will be heading out on various exploration tours to witness the intricate art of the artisans of the bygone era. Some of the popular tourist places to visit in Nukus are Qaur Qala Fortress which is popular for its beautiful location on top of the hill, Moynaq & Aral Sea which is a popular ship cemetery, Karakalpak Homestay known for its traditional Karakalpak culture, and Mizda Khan Necropolis which happens to be an  active place of worship. Capture the glimpse of some Russian avant garde paintings at Savitsky Art Museum, try local delicacies like samsa, kymyz and kurut at the bazaars, walk along the amu darya river, explore the ultimate collection on traditional Karakalpak culture at Karakalpak Homestay, and find some architectural marvels that date back to the soviet era. Nukus has a cold desert climate which is BWk as per the Koppen Geiger classification. The summer season in this place is experienced for a long period of time and the atmosphere remains dry and hot. The winters are very short, cold and snowy. The city overall experiences a dry continental type climate.

Other Attractions

Aydarkul lake.

Nurota Mountains

Greater Chimgan

Fergana Valley

Lake Charvak

Ugam Chatkal National Park

Amir Timur Museum

Chorsu Bazaar

Palace Of Khudayar Khan

Lyab I Hauz

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The 25 BEST Things to Do in Uzbekistan [2024 Edition]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From visiting the shrinking Aral Sea to exploring the architecture of the Registan in Samarkand, here’s our list of the absolute best things to do in Uzbekistan.

For millennia the cities of modern-day Uzbekistan were some of the most important along the ancient silk road.

Traders and merchants would gather in Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to buy, sell and trade their goods. 

The borders of modern-day Uzbekistan were created by a certain Josef Stalin, and bear little resemblance to the cultural and linguistic divisions that already existed in the region.

Although the national language is Uzbek, you will be able to get around with Russian, as in all former Soviet nations.

English is usually spoken in hotels and guesthouses although this is certainly not a given. Outside of that environment, English is rarely spoken.

Uzbekistan ranges from the mountainous Fergana Valley and the Tajik border in the east, to sprawling deserts of the west.

This mix of climates and landscapes is one of the things that makes Uzbekistan particularly unique.

Uzbekistan is also home to some of the worlds most spectacular Islamic architecture, history at almost every turn, plenty of Soviet memorabilia, and the best plov in Asia. 

READ MORE: Be sure to use this guide to plan your trip to Uzbekistan !

Table of Contents

1) See a Play at the Navoi Theatre

2) chow down at the chorsu bazaar, 3) take a wander down the kolkouz canal, 4) enjoy islamic architecture and a slice of history at khast imam, 5) check out the spectacular art on the tashkent metro, 6) hike in the ugam-chatkal national park, 7) watch the sunset over the aral sea, 8) visit the ship graveyard in moynaq, 9) see some banned soviet art at the savitsky museum, 10) enjoy a beer whilst watching the sunset in khiva, 11) climb the islam khodja minaret, 12) explore the elliq-qala fortresses, 13) take an early morning walk around the city walls, 14) visit the ark, 15) explore the deserted madrasa kosh, 16) check out the bug pit in zindan prison, 17) visit the spectacular kaylan mosque, 18) explore bukhara’s backstreets, 19) marvel at the registan, 20) check out gur-e-amir at night, 21) explore shah-i-zinda, 22) find the gumbaz synagogue, 23) be amazed by the aksaray palace ruins in sharisbaz, 24) visit the khan’s palance in kokand, 25) learn about traditional silk making at the yogorlik silk factory in margilon, the best things to do in uzbekistan.

If you’re not sure what to do in Uzbekistan then check out this article for our rundown of the best things to do in this rarely visited nation.

Tashkent and Around

Tashkent does get overlooked at times, with many preferring to focus on the counties other big hitters, however, the largest city in Central Asia is home to some pretty awesome things to do .

So make sure you give yourself a few days here to explore!

This gorgeous Soviet era theatre is a great place to catch a ballet show. Don’t expect anyone at the ticket office to speak English, so you’ll need a mixture of google translate and some Russian.

We bought tickets to a ballet show, and then on the night, it had changed to a performance of classic Russian dance.

Nonetheless, it was a fantastic show.

The Chorsu Bazaar’s blue dome is one of Tashkent’s, and indeed Uzbekistan’s most iconic sights. The bazaar spills out of Chorsu and onto the surrounding streets and is always buzzing with life.

Inside the main building itself expect to find meat, mounds of spices, fruit and vegetables, of both the fresh and pickled varieties. 

There is a great eating area just outside with numerous vendors offering plenty of Central Asian classics including plov, shashlik, manti, Samsa and beshbermak. The shashlik and plov, in particular, are excellent.

Starting from close to Tinchlik subway station the Kolkouz Canal winds its way through sleepy old Tashkent to Khast Imam and beyond. 

Gated houses, precariously parked Lada’s and invites in for tea are commonplace in this hospitable and fascinating area of Tashkent. It’s a part of Tashkent that doesn’t reflect the cities’ recent modern developments or tip a hat to its Soviet past.

Very close to the starting point of the canal is Chitagay Mosque and bazaar which are well worth checking it. 

This is probably the most well known and spectacular piece of Islamic architecture in Tashkent.

If you wander along the Kolkouz Canal there is a point where you can leave the trail and in a few minutes you will be in the centre of Khast Imam complex.

The three main buildings are the Hazroti Imom Friday mosque built-in 2007 under the orders of President Islam Karimov, the 16th century Barak Khan Madrasa and the Moyie Mubarek Library Museum . 

The latter is said to hold one of the world’s oldest copies of the Quran, written in the 8th or 9th century. It also contains a number of rare books, so it’s definitely worth a visit. 

Just to the northwest is the small, but beautiful, Kaffal Shoshi Mausoleum that is also well worth checking out. 

If you can find a spot in the shade, take a seat and just simply enjoy. 

There is certainly a bit of Soviet influence here with some amazing designs that are quite breathtaking. 

Until recently there was a ban on taking photos of the subway. However, you are welcome to take photos now and enjoy the art whether you take a picture or not!

Uzbekistan is not as well known for hiking as it’s neighbours Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, however, there is a outdoor activities are becoming more accessible and more popular.

Just two hours northeast of Tashkent you will find the Ugam-Chatkal National Park . There are plenty of hiking trails as well as kayaking and rafting in some parts. 

Chimgan will be your first port of call. You can either hike in the area of delve further into the national park. 

If you find yourself in Uzbekistan in the height of the summer then do yourself a favour and head to the Ugam-Chatkal National Park for some cool mountain air.

READ MORE: Check out these other amazing things to do in Tashkent !

Karakalpakstan Region

Uzbekistan’s desolate northeastern region is known for a handful of things: the desert, the Aral Sea and an art museum housing banned Soviet-era paintings. 

Welcome to one of mankind’s most spectacular environmental disasters. The Aral Sea was once the world’s fourth-largest lake. However, now it’s 20% of its original size and shrinking fast. 

Things started going downhill when the Soviet government began diverting tributary rivers to Uzbekistan’s thirsty cotton field. Sadly it came with some truly dire consequences, that are still not fully understood to this day.

A visit to the Aral Sea will leave you torn between the area’s beauty and the region’s tragic history.

With breathtaking views from the Ustyurt Plateau , the gargantuan military-grade runway at South Ustyurt and the abandoned fishing village of Urga , a visit to the Aral Sea is a once in a lifetime experience that will take you on an emotional journey. 

Sunset over the Aral Sea is nothing short of spectacular – a perfect time to reflect on everything you have seen.

This is probably more famous than the Aral Sea itself is the ship graveyard in the town of Moynaq. 

Back when the Aral Sea was still the world’s 4th largest lake, Moynaq was home to a thriving fishing industry. 

Now the ships that were at the heart of that industry lie rusting on the former seabed with the Aral 100 or so kilometres away.  

It’s a surreal experience, but absolutely one of the best things to do in Uzbekistan.

This museum holds a rather lovely collection of artwork that was once banned by the Soviet authorities and is certainly worth checking out if you’re in Nukus. 

Khiva and Khorezm  

Khiva is one of Uzbekistan’s most well known ancient towns. However, unlike Samarkand and Bukhara, Khiva is still surrounded by its old city walls.

Many travellers skip over Khiva. However, this would definitely be a mistake.

READ MORE: Definitely check out our guide to the best places to visit in Uzkebkistan to finalise your trip!

When people think of Khiva, Itchan Kala , the walled city is what often springs to mind. Filled with gorgeous mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, and a rather odd museum in praise of Islam Karimov it’s one of Uzbekistan’s most evocative sites. 

The west gate is the main entrance, with the gateway flanked by the walls that encircle the city’s interior.

Grab a beer at one of the many guesthouses opposite the western walls and watch as the walls change from yellow to a deep orange as the sunsets.

In the southeastern corner of Khiva’s Itchan Kala, you will find Islam Khodja Minaret. It certainly does not have the same outward visual appeal as the Kalta Minor Minaret, but the views from it are pretty spectacular. 

Try and time it so that you get here early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the light is better for photographs.

A short drive from Khiva are the Elliq-Qala fortresses, a collection of 50 of so ancient desert fortresses. The majority have sadly been lost to time and erosion.

However, there are a number of them that rise proudly from the desert landscape.

Your guesthouse should be able to arrange a private taxi for you. Alternatively, you can head out to the north gate and arrange one with the taxi and marshrutka drivers that congregate there.

Expect to pay around $20-40 for a four-person car for the day. 

Make sure you bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a good hat as the heat can be brutal.  

When visiting Khiva you should buy a ticket at the entrance that is valid for two days and allows entry to a number of sights with Itchan Kala.

One freebie and one that is rarely taken advantage of by visitors is walking around the northern section of the city wall. 

Unsurprisingly there are plenty of excellent viewing spots. But if you really want to enjoy this walk then get out early to get the best light, and avoid the searing daytime heat. 

READ MORE: Add these great things to do in Khiva to your itinerary!

Bukhara and Around

Bukhara sits between Khiva and Samarkand and is a city shrouded in history.

For many years the Khanate of Bukhara was one of the most powerful in Uzbekistan. 

Make sure you spend time wandering the back streets, especially first thing in the morning and watch the sunset from the Chashrai Mirob, a great cafe with spectacular views over the heart of Bukhara. 

This imposing fortress on the western side of Bukhara has welcomed numerous merchants and dignitaries throughout history.

There’s an interesting museum that provides a great insight into the ark and its history. 

Built in the 5th century AD, this earthen fort was historically the seat of power in the Bukhara.

It was the residence of the Emir of Bukhara. And it came to the attention of the British Empire when two army officers Charles Stoddart and Arthur Conolly were beheaded after being charged with spying for the British Empire in 1842. 

To the west of The Ark, you will find a large market and the beautiful Madras Kosh. There are some buildings that are starting to crumble, but the vast majority are in great condition.

Amazingly this madrasa is often deserted as the majority of travellers stay within the old town. 

The market next door sells plenty of fresh fruit and Uzbek street snacks including some incredible samsa.

Prior to their beheading in front of The Ark, Charles Stoddart and Arthur Conolly languished in the bug pit at Zindan prison at the behest of the Emir of Bukhara, Nasrullah Khan. 

The bug pit was by far the worst of the cells in the prison. On a daily basis, scorpions, bugs and rodents would be poured onto the prisoners who waited at the bottom of the 4-meter deep pit. 

Whilst the dummies in the prison are certainly not convincing, it’s an interesting museum that sheds some light on a rather gruesome period in Uzbekistan’s history.

At the heart of Bukhara is the Kaylan Mosque. Alongside the Mir-i-Arab and the Kaylan Minaret, it forms a central square the city’s winding roads feed into.

Visiting first thing in the morning is a great time to visit as the city begins to awaken.

Then head to Chashmai Mirob at sunset for some spectacular views over the Kaylan Mosque and surrounding buildings. 

Bukhara’s backstreets offer numerous hidden gems and gorgeous old crumbling buildings. 

The area to the west of Lyabi Hauz is a great place to explore first thing in the morning as the city is waking. 

To the south of the city, you will find a number of crumbling old mosques as well as a Jewish cemetery and 2 synagogues.

This area of Bukhara is very much off the tourist trail.

READ MORE: Check out all these great things to do in Bukhara !

Samarkand and Around

For many, Samarkand is the most beautiful city in Uzbekistan. It doesn’t have the backstreets like Bukhara or the old city walls of Khiva.

But in Samarkand, the city’s modernity has grown around its ancient wonders accentuating its splendour and elegance. 

This is what Samarkand is most well known for . The spectacular collection of 3 buildings lies at the heart of the city.

The oldest is is the Ulugh Beg Madrasa which was built in 1417. The Tilya-Kori and Sher-Dor madrasas were both built in the 17th century. 

Ancient travellers from China, North Africa and Europe have written about the Registan, with George Curzon, a future Viceroy of India, claiming it to be the noblest public square in the world.

It’s a spectacular combination of opulent architecture and dazzling tile work. As you stroll through the 3 madrasa’s it’s hard not to have your breath taken away. 

A mausoleum to the most well known Central Asian leader in history, Timur (or Timurlane, as he is occasionally known). It is believed that his conquests of the region lead to the death of 5% of the world’s population. 

In spite of his brutality, Timur is revered in Uzbekistan with numerous statues and museums dedicated to him all over the country. The most famous being Amir Timur Square in Tashkent. 

This gorgeous blue-domed mausoleum lies away from the throngs visiting the Registan. Being tucked away in a quiet corner of the city gives it an almost magical feel. 

As beautiful as it is during the day, come back at night to be truly amazed.

Shah-i-Zinda’s rather unassuming exterior is a contrast with its stunning interior. The narrow alleyways and winding corridors contrast grandeur of the Registan, Gur-e-Amir and Bibi Khanym Mosque. Shah-i-Zinda’s spectacular tile work sets it apart from many other sights in Uzbekistan. 

The mausoleum was built over 8 centuries and now contains 20 different mausoleums squeezed together with breathtaking tile work throughout.  

If you count the 40 steps when entering and descending it is believed you will have a pure soul and thoughts. 

This is absolutely one of the best things to do in Uzbekistan.

Hidden amongst a maze of streets close to Shah-i-Zinda is the Gumbaz Synagogue. Built in 1891 it was the centre of Samarkand’s Jewish community. 

It is definitely worth visiting. However, you will need to call ahead to check if someone’s there as it’s not manned 24-7.

About an hour from Samarkand is the city of Sharisabz. 

It is one of Central Asia oldest cities, being founded 2700 years ago. Formerly known as Kish or Kesh, it was the birthplace of Central Asia’s greatest conqueror Amir Timur.

There is a mausoleum to Timur here, although he is actually buried at Gur-e-Amir in Samarkand. 

At the heart of the city is the ruins of the Aksaray Palace as a summer residence for the great conqueror himself.

Commissioned by Amir Timur in 1380, it took 25 years to construct. Sadly the vast majority of the palace has collapsed into the desert.

However, the pishtaqs that remain give you an idea of just how spectacular this palace was in its heyday.  

READ MORE: Here are 15 more great things to do in Samarkand !

Fergana Valley

The Fergana Valley is probably the most off-the-beaten-track region in Uzbekistan. It’s a region that has been blighted with instability and political challenges.

Built in 1873 this spectacular palace is another architectural gem. Khudayar Khan was a cruel individual who cemented his unpopularity when he took the side of Russia, who had recently conquered Central Asia.

Nestled in the heart of one of the country’s most turbulent regions this is a highly recommended spot in the Fergana Valley. 

This silk factory makes silk the traditional way. The cocoons are placed in warm water to loosen the threads. When the threads are found they are then hand-woven into the khan-atlas style for which Uzbekistan is famous.

These dense silk fabrics are absolutely spectacular, with clothes, carpets and embroidered all available to purchase. 

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The Perfect Uzbekistan Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The 14 BEST Places to Visit in Uzbekistan [2024 Guide]

19 AWESOME Things to Do in Bukhara, Uzbekistan [2024]

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• Heritage & Culture

The Top 13 Places To Visit in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan may not be at the top of most people’s travel lists. However, the fascinating Central Asian country has a lot to offer. There are many places to visit in Uzbekistan. From its Silk Road cities of Samarkand and Bukhara to the many palaces and museums, it is home to four significant UNESCO World Heritage sites you cannot miss.

With such a rich cultural heritage and so many amazing places to visit in Uzbekistan, it should definitely be on your list of potential holiday destinations. And, to make things easier, Uzbekistan also recently announced a new e-visa system which promises to make it much easier to visit.

1 Registan Square, Samarkand

Samarkand’s Registan Square was once called one of the most beautiful squares in the world, and it’s easy to see why. This public square was the heart of the ancient city of Samarkand during the Timurid dynasty. It is known for its beautiful Islamic architecture and three imposing madrassas. In Tajik, Registan translates to “sandy place”.

2 Gur-e-Amir, Samarkand

The Gūr-e Amīr is the mausoleum of the 14th-century Mongol conqueror Timur. Literally translating to “Tomb of the Commander,” it has a beautiful fluted azure dome. The mausoleum is also the resting place for two of Timur’s sons and grandsons. The tomb also inspired Mughal architecture in India, especially Humayun’s Tomb and the Taj Mahal.

3 Amir Timur Museum, Tashkent

The Amir Timur Museum in Tashkent is dedicated to the Mongol conqueror, Timur. It was opened in the capital, Tashkent, in 1996 after the country gained independence. The museum has over 5,000 exhibits artefacts related to Timur and the dynasty that followed him, the Timurid Dynasty. The building itself is meant to resemble the Gur-e Amir mausoleum in Samarkand.

4 Chor Minor, Bukhara

This historic mosque located to the northeast of Bukhara was built in the 18th century by a rich merchant, Khalif Niyazkul. The four minarets for which the mosque is named (Chor Minor literally means “four minarets”) symbolize the four cardinal points. They each also feature unique decorations.

5 Lyab-i-Hauz, Bukhara

Built in the 1600s, the Lyab-i Hauz is a serene plaza built around one of the few remaining ponds (hauz) in Bukhara. The pond itself is fed by an ancient canal system and is surrounded by beautiful mulberry trees. To the south of the Lyab-i-Hauz lies the historic Jewish Quarter of the city.

6 Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent

This blue-domed building in the centre of Tashkent is a traditional bazaar. It is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, as here you can get everything from clothes and trinkets to delicious food. The Kukeldash Madrasah is located at one end of the bazaar.

7 The Walled City of Khiva

The ancient city of Khiva, also known as Khorasam, is over 2,000 years old. The walled inner city Itchan Kala, was the first Uzbek site added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Encircled by crenellated brick walls, it is full of fascinating places and historic monuments. Entering the walled city is like going back in time.

8 Palace of Khudayar Khan, Kokand

This is the palace of the last ruler of the Kokand Khanate, Khudayar Khan. Often called the ‘the Pearl of Kokand,’ it was built in 1871 and cover four acres of lush green land. It once had seven courtyards and 119 rooms. However, only two courtyards and 19 rooms are open to the public today.

9 Nukus Museum of Art, Nukus

Also known as the Karakalpakstan State Museum of Art, this museum in Nukus contains over 82,000 items, mostly collected by  I.V. Savitsky. Among these are antiquities from Khorezm to Karakalpak folk art, Uzbek fine art, the second largest collection of Russian  avant-garde  in the world.

10 Aidarkul Lake

This semi-artificial lake was created by the Soviets near a smaller seasonal lake. Today, it covers over 4,000 square kilometres in the middle of the Kyzylkum desert. It is also a popular place to go camping, or to spend the night in a traditional yurt.

11 State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, Tashkent

Previously known as the National Museum of Turkestan, this is one of the oldest museums in Central Asia, founded in 1876.  It has over 250,000 exhibits reflecting Uzbek history from prehistoric to modern times. Among these are: a well preserved Gandharan alabaster Buddha relief from Termez; Tamerlane calligraphy; and ethnic art and costumes.

12 Zindan of Emir, Bukhara

“Zindan” means prison in Persian, and this prison, built in the 18th century was used to house criminals and dissenters during the Bukhara Emirate. Able to house up to 40 prisoners, the brick structure also has a circular pit.  After the fall of Bukhara Emirate in 1920, the Zindan of Emir ceased to operate, and was eventually turned into a museum.

13 Muynak, Aral Sea

The Aral Sea was once a massive body of water between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. It was a major source of fish, and so many fishing towns, such as Muynak, grew along its shores. However, the Aral Sea has been shrinking since the 1960s due to poor irrigation management. Most of it has turned into a parched desert, filled with the hulls of rusting ships.

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

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Best attractions in Uzbekistan: Top 30

Uzbekistan is a bright and inspiring country of the East. Rich architectural heritage, lots of historical monuments, colorful bazaars, generous nature, which is carefully protected in the protected parks - this is all that everyone can see in Uzbekistan, even without a solid budget. It’s simply impossible to count all the interesting sights of Uzbekistan, but you should definitely visit at least the main ones, which will be discussed further in this article.

What to see first of all in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is divided into several regions, each of which holds a lot of its unique attractions. But every tourist, as a rule, is faced with the need to “fit” all the memorable places in a limited time, given for traveling and exploring the country, often even have to choose what to see in Uzbekistan for 1 day. Exactly to simplify the process of choice and competent planning of future trip this rating is compiled.

1. Tashkent

The review begins with the capital of the country - Tashkent, which is one of the five largest cities in the CIS in terms of population. Among the tall modern buildings are hidden historical buildings, ancient mosques and modern shopping centers alternate with traditional oriental bazaars and markets. It is worth noting that many of the old buildings have been restored - in 1966, a powerful earthquake partially destroyed them, and the look of the renewed city has since changed significantly.

Official site: http://tashkent.uz/

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2. tashkent tv tower.

This structure is considered the tallest in all of Central Asia - the TV Tower of Tashkent is 375 meters high, and its long spire, piercing the sky, can be seen from anywhere in the city. At the height of about a hundred meters you can visit the observation deck in the TV tower, and one level higher there are restaurant halls, where you can not only admire the panoramic views from the windows, but also have lunch. Guides in Uzbekistan eagerly cover the history of the construction of the structure, take visitors through the interior, including the museum, the exposition of which reveals the role and place of the TV tower among other similar structures in the world.

Official website: http://www.tv-tower.uz/

3. Amir Temur Square

The square, which bears the name of the famous commander, was built at the end of the 19th century. Then it was a small park in the center of Tashkent, at the intersection of two main city streets. Only in 1994 a monument to Amir Temur was installed there, and the park was cleared and turned into a square with greenery and fountains. Today the square is surrounded by such famous buildings as a hotel, a law institute, a museum in honor of Amir Temur, and the Palace of Forums, where many official ceremonies are held.

4. Chorsu Oriental Bazaar

Visitors have a lot to visit in Uzbekistan once they find themselves in Tashkent’s central square, Eski Zhuva. Despite the modern look that this market has today, the history of Chorsu market goes back centuries. About two thousand years ago, an ancient settlement was founded in this area, the center of which was traditionally a bazaar. As time passed, a fair was established where an active exchange of goods began and merchants from different parts of Central Asia streamed here. Since some time the bazaar became the center of town life, and to this day Chorsu, located at the intersection of four shopping streets, attracts visitors with its fresh fragrant fruits, oriental sweets and colorful Uzbek souvenirs.

5. Samarkand city

The city of Samarkand is famous for its amazingly long history - it is one of the oldest cities in the world, founded as far back as 8 centuries before our era. Some time ago this city was the most important point connecting the East and the West, and the Great Silk Road passed exactly through Samarkand. That’s why here, like nowhere else, a great number of cultural and historical monuments have been preserved, such as mausoleums, museums, mosques, ruins of ancient settlements and many other things.

Official website: http://www.samshahar.uz/ru

6. Registan Square in Samarkand

The best sights of Uzbekistan should certainly be complemented by another historical place - Registan Square, which has existed for more than 6 centuries. Some of the buildings on the square have been preserved here in their original form since the moment of their construction. The complex of three medieval madrasahs (schools) faced with mosaic in traditional national style deserve special attention. The square itself was paved with cobblestone and burnt brick back in the late 19th century.

Official website: http://www.centralasia-travel.

7. Bibi-Khanum Mosque in Samarkand

Another ornament of Samarkand is the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, a sacred monument of the 15th century. It is believed that the mosque was erected by order of Tamerlane Khan, who returned from India with a triumphant victory. The great commander wanted to erect a lifetime monument as a testimony of his victories. About 7 hundred people were involved in the construction, including a huge number of masters from other Asian countries. To this day, despite numerous earthquakes, the mosque was able to retain its original grandeur and beauty, it contributed to the large-scale restoration work, which was carried out here for 35 years, starting in 1968.

Official website: http://www.centralasia-travel.com/ru/

8. Rukhabad Mausoleum in Samarkand

Official website: http://www.centralasia-travel.com

9. Bukhara city

The following recommendations will touch on another ancient city founded 2.5 thousand years ago. Bukhara is a real museum city: every building there is a landmark, a real exhibit. Ancient mosques, citadels, mausoleums, madrassahs, monuments - all this you can visit, enthusiastically walking through the city, because here every corner of the land keeps its memory. Once upon a time the Great Silk Road ran through Bukhara, which is being purposefully revived these days.

10. Lyabi-Hauz in Bukhara

And, of course, when mentioning the best sights of Uzbekistan, it is impossible not to sound at least some of the sights of Bukhara. One of the main squares of the city, Lyabi-Hauz, is a real treasure of Bukhara - there is a whole architectural ensemble consisting of a mosque, madrasah and a monument in honor of Khoja Nasreddin - a favorite character in oriental folklore. The square is surrounded by a wonderful clean pond with a fountain. Lyabi-Hauz has become a favorite place for various mass festivities and official celebrations in Bukhara.

11. Samanid Mausoleum (Bukhara)

The Samanid Mausoleum, an ancient family tomb, another masterpiece of architecture created at the juncture of the 9th-10th centuries, is located in Samanid Park, on the territory of the ancient Bukhara cemetery. Despite the fact that the facade and interior decoration of the structure does not play with bright colors, amazing openwork finish, which builders managed to achieve using ordinary bricks, impresses. On the territory of the tomb there used to be an ancient Muslim cemetery, and later there was laid out a park with ponds, which became a place for mass festivals.

12. The Minaret and Mosque of Kalyan in Bukhara

Choosing where to go in Uzbekistan, traveling through Bukhara, it is definitely worth visiting Poi-Kalyan, the main architectural complex that has become a symbol of Bukhara, which includes a minaret, a mosque and a madrassah. Constructed in the 12th century of burnt brick, the minaret of Kalyan rises more than 46 meters, and its top is crowned with a conic lantern. The minaret is connected to the roof of the Kalyan Mosque by a bridge, from where, in turn, a spiral staircase leads up to the dome itself, where a spectacular panoramic view opens up. The mosque itself was built a little later than the minaret, in the 16th century, and to this day it is the main cathedral mosque of the city.

13. Khiva city

Another city, many centuries ago located on the Great Silk Road, is the ancient Khorezm, or Khiva, as it is called now. Khiva may be regarded as an open air museum, not without reason it is included in the UNESCO list, because here every building is an ancient landmark. In the old part of the city of Ichan-Kala, founded about 5 century AD, kept about 60 historical monuments, including a citadel, palaces, mosques, minarets and mausoleums. Outside the walled old city is another ancient part, Dishan-Kala, where there were residential buildings and trading rows.

14. Ichan Qala Fortress in Khiva

Now more details about the citadel of Ichan-Kala, which like nothing else preserves the image of the ancient eastern city of Khiva. The conclusions of archaeologists suggest that Old Khiva, which already existed in the 5th century, served as a stopover on the Great Silk Road. The old city within the walls of Ichan-Kala occupies about 30 hectares and is surrounded by a massive wall of 6-8 meters. Ditches were dug on the outer side of the walls and filled with water. There are also four gates in the fortress wall, reinforced with percussion towers and augmented with observation galleries.

15. Ulugbek Observatory

The background to the appearance of this landmark in Uzbekistan was the birth of the famous Tamerlane’s inquisitive grandson Ulugbek, who from an early age was reaching for knowledge. During one of his grandfather’s expeditions, the boy saw and visited an observatory for the first time, and ever since then he dreamed of building one of his own. At a fairly young age, becoming the ruler of Samarkand, Ulugbek begins to realize the dream, and by 1423 a famous observatory appears in Samarkand. Only one part of the observatory has survived to our time - a sextant with a radius of 40 meters, which was used to measure the height of the celestial bodies.

16. Shahi Zinda Architectural Monument

Not far from Bibi-Khanum mosque in Samarkand there is one of the most beautiful and picturesque memorial complexes, the street-cemetery, Shahi Zinda necropolis. The history of this ensemble begins in the 11th century, when a cousin of the prophet Muhammad - Abbas, nicknamed Shahi Zinda, which translates as the Living King, was buried on the southeastern slope of the settlement of Afrasiab. Today there are 14 mausoleums, whose facades sparkle with blossoms of blue and blue ornaments and painted domes. Here are the tombs of famous personalities, military leaders, scientists and masters who have entered the glorious history of Samarkand.

17. Ark Citadel

One of the interesting places, which can be attributed to the ancient cultural monuments of Uzbekistan, is located in Bukhara - the Ark Citadel. Archaeological research determined the age of the citadel - its foundations were laid between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC. Up to the beginning of the 20th century the citadel served as a palace for the rulers of Bukhara. During its long history many creative and scholarly minds, including Avicenna, Ferdowsi and Omar Khayyam, lived on the territory of the citadel. Nowadays the citadel has turned into a big museum, where there are several departments - for example, history, numismatics or nature department.

18. Gur-Emir (Tamerlane Mausoleum)

Like many other famous monuments of Samarkand, Gur Emir Mausoleum is associated with the name of the famous warrior Tamerlane. Many descendants and associates of Amir Timur found their last resting place here. And the beginning of the construction of the tomb was associated with the sudden death of one of Tamerlane’s grandsons - Muhammad-Sultan. The family vault of the Timurid dynasty is a large single-domed building, the expressive design of which left a mark on many of the great architects of all Central Asia. The intricate wall paintings, filigree blue and gold patterns, and the combination of precious materials are further reminders of how great personalities rest within these centuries-old walls.

Sights of Uzbekistan: what else to see in Uzbekistan

The main sights of Uzbekistan were briefly listed above, but this is only a part of the memorable places, whose glory through the centuries has reached our days. In addition to man-made monuments, there are a lot of beautiful and amazing places created by nature itself on the territory of the country. Natural attractions of Uzbekistan photo with names and descriptions are given in the continuation of the review.

19. Charvak reservoir

Charvak reservoir would be a simple artificial reservoir, if not for its emerald waters on the background of the magnificent nature, so harmoniously framing the banks. In the background are the peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, and the total length of the reservoir shoreline is almost a hundred kilometers. This contributed to the fact that with the advent of the reservoir began to actively develop and resort infrastructure: the coast is now the best hotels in Uzbekistan, summer camps, resorts and tourist centers, the entire coastal area is divided into several large recreation areas.

20. Kyzylkum desert

In the Uzbek lands between the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers lies the great desert of Asia - Kyzylkum. In addition to Uzbekistan, Kyzylkum partially extends into the lands of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, occupying a total area of 300 square kilometers. Despite the lifeless sand massifs, dry and sharply continental climate, flora and fauna is quite diverse, especially with the advent of spring when precipitation increases. Also the lands of Kyzylkum have been partially developed by man - small oases are created on the basis of artesian basins, gold ore deposits are discovered, and sheep breeding is carried out.

21. Fergana valley

Fergana Valley is a real gem of Uzbekistan with a rich and very picturesque nature. This fertile land, full of water resources, various natural resources and oasis lands, cultivated by sedentary farmers, and the perimeter of this land is surrounded by majestic Tien Shan ridges. Even in ancient times representatives of different civilizations lived in this blooming oasis, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds.

22. Chimgan mountains

Chimgan mountains are not only beautiful nature, picturesque slopes overgrown with relict bushes, valleys and gorges with the cleanest mountain rivers. It is also a popular tourist area where skiing, paragliding, hiking thrives. The reviews testify that a trip to Chimgan Mountains allows you to “reload” and recover, being nourished by the inexhaustible source of energy - nature itself. They come here not only on vacation but also on weekends and holidays, and a large number of active tourist facilities and hotels can always find a suitable place for accommodation and overnight stays.

23. Ship cemetery in Muinak

Muynak was once a real oasis city where fishing flourished and the Aral Sea was one of the world’s largest salt lakes. Beginning in the 1960s, the sea began to be regularly drained by man in order to change the direction of the rivers to irrigate the fields. As a result of these activities, the sea began to die, denuding the land of much dust and poisonous chemicals. The rusty remains of ships are a sight to see, illustrating the sad consequences of the unwise treatment of the Aral Sea. The seaport that was once there has turned into a graveyard of ships, to the ruins of which you can go down and walk along the former seabed.

24. State Museum of the History of the Timurids

In the heart of the main city of Uzbekistan, the capital city of Tashkent, the State Museum of the History of the Timurids is located - its collection contains more than 5 thousand exhibits from the era of Amir Timur and the Timurid dynasty. Opening of the museum in 1996 was timed to coincide with the 660th anniversary of Tamerlane’s birth, and the site was located next to the square of Amir Timur, surrounded by beautiful parks, public and educational institutions. The style of the building is appropriate to the epoch it is dedicated to - the round building is crowned with a huge blue dome, the walls are lined with mosaics in the national style. The interior rooms are solemnly decorated and impress with their pomp; the second and third floors are completely devoted to the history of the famous dynasty. The interior of these halls is richly decorated with gold leaf, marble, oriental paintings and miniature paintings; on the walls there are frescos depicting historical paintings. The exposition includes archeological, numismatic and ethnographic materials, military ammunition, skilful miniatures, pictures of Amir Timur performed by talented European masters.

25. History Museum of Uzbekistan

The eventful history has found its reflection in numerous museums - these national attractions of Uzbekistan can be found even in the smallest towns of the country. What to say about the capital - in Tashkent at the end of the 19th century was founded the National Museum of Turkestan, which at the beginning of the last century was transformed into the Museum of History. The vast and original cubic building houses a large scale composition describing the country’s historical development through cultural objects such as tools, crockery and household items, jewelry, mirrors and many others. On the first floor there is administration, conference hall and cinema hall. And the most interesting places are on the 3rd and 4th floors. Around ten thousand exhibits are on display here, and this is just a small part of the 250-thousand collection in the funds. Among the most famous exhibits are a huge Saka cauldron from the 4th-5th centuries BC, a Buddha figure with 2 monks called “Triad” from the 1st century AD, samples of ancient fabrics and ceramics, coins, historical photographs and documents.

Official website: http://www.history

26. Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Tashkent

Against the background of the usual Tashkent skyline of blue domes and minarets stands the gothic silhouette of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the main Catholic cathedral in Uzbekistan known to locals as the “Polish church”, which is not typical of Central Asia. It is worth saying that Christianity first began to spread in Central Asia in the first centuries AD thanks to the development of the Great Silk Road. Nevertheless, the first Catholic churches did not appear until many centuries later - for example, the construction of this cathedral started in 1912, and the process was mainly carried out by prisoners of war, among whom there were many specialists - architects, engineers, sculptors, etc. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Its odious and gloomy façade is adorned with stained-glass windows and spires, the interior is lined with granite and marble, and the furniture and doors are made of precious wood. The main hall is adorned with a 2-meter statue of Jesus Christ and a musical organ.

Official website: http://www.uzinform

27. Assumption Cathedral in Tashkent

The history of the Assumption Cathedral is unique in that it was once a small cemetery church, called the Church of St. Panteleimon. In the middle of the last century work began to expand the temple. In the 1930s and 1940s, the church was closed, and its premises were used for the needs of a hospital. After the end of the Second World War, the church was consecrated with the name of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and appointed the main Orthodox cathedral in the capital. In 50-60’s the church was almost rebuilt, the new premises could accommodate up to 4 thousand worshipers. After the collapse, the cathedral was thoroughly renovated and restored. Today you can visit the territory of the cathedral by passing through a triple arch, topped with a golden dome. The constructions in the courtyard are strikingly beautiful. They are all designed in the same style according to classicism; the white decor in combination with the blue facades give the composition an airy feeling. The 5-tier openwork belfry, reconstructed in the 20th century, deserves special attention.

Official website: http://pravoslavie

28. Bolo House Complex

For travelers to Uzbekistan, there’s a good reason to take a hot tour with a visit to Bukhara. This city is famous for its many historical buildings that testify to turbulent historical events, among them the majestic Ark fortress occupies a special place. Another striking example of the architectural traditions of the East is the Bolo-Hauz Mosque, built near a spring of water. In general, the tradition of erecting artificial reservoirs, as well as mosques near them, appeared many centuries ago - there have always been problems with water on the territory of Central Asia. The beautiful architectural ensemble Bolo-Khauz has the status of Bukhara’s historical landmark. The mosque rises on Registan square and is decorated with 20 carved wooden columns. Near the mosque you can see the minaret, erected a few years after the mosque - this elegant structure for a long time before the reconstruction was in a slightly inclined condition, but later was thoroughly strengthened and acquired an upright appearance.

29. Khoja Donier Mausoleum

The status of the most revered landmark of Samarkand has theMausoleum of Khoja Doniyer, located in the ancient settlement of Afrosiab. Today, thousands of pilgrims come to the tomb, including not only Muslims, but also Jews and Christians. All because Donier, in Orthodoxy Daniel is a prophet, significant in these three world religions. Anyway, it is worth visiting this sacred place for everyone who comes to get acquainted with Samarkand - it hides a lot of amazing beliefs and keeps a blessed spirit. Daniel was endowed by God with the ability to see and understand dreams and visions, and some of those concerning the end of the world and the second coming of Christ were recorded by the prophet and carried by peoples through the ages. One of the legends says that Amir Timur, making a pilgrimage to the place of the saint’s original burial, decided to move some of his relics to Samarkand, and now that is where the mausoleum is located. It is captivating in its peacefulness, and for many believers it is an ideal place to rest in peace and quiet, to find a state of grace.

30. Kukeldash Madrasah in Tashkent

During the Middle Ages, arid Central Asia was a true cultural oasis. Intellect, knowledge of the basics of art and theology were the most important abilities of men of that time. At that time madrasahs served as educational centers, Muslim educational centers and, at the same time, religious seminaries, and nowadays they are historical and cultural landmarks of Tashkent. Kukeldash is the largest institution of its kind and an important architectural monument in the center of the Uzbek capital. This “high school” was founded in the 16th century by one of the people close to the Tashkent khans. This man had a nickname “kukeldash”, which in Uzbek means “foster brother of khan”. During centuries of the existence Madrasah was both fortress and hotel, it survived two strong earthquakes. That’s why the building has been restored many times, and only modern restorers were able to restore its original appearance - today the architecture and size of the madrasah is fully consistent with the canons of medieval architecture. The urge to explore the world more and more attracts modern travelers to Uzbekistan. Today almost everyone can afford it, even having a relatively modest budget. Uzbekistan is one of the post-Soviet countries, where with the fall of the “Iron Curtain” began a slow but steady development of tourism. Bright sun, exotic cuisine, an abundance of fruits and vegetables, oriental flavor, an unimaginable number of historical sites - this is what gives its guests a fabulous sunny country of the East.

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Asia , BLOG , BUKHARA , Destinations , KHIVA , SAMARKAND , travel inspiration , Uzbekistan · February 3, 2022

20 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Uzbekistan

Are you looking for the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan? No need to look further, cause  this blogpost covers them all ! Including some insider tips on how to get there and when to go!

Uzbekistan is home to some of the most spectacular sights in Central Asia . Unique madrasa’s, covered in 20 shades of blue mosaics and turquoise domes, form the typical skyline for most Uzbek cities.

It’s one of those countries that actually took me by surprise cause Uzbekistan is not on many people their bucket list. It wasn’t on mine either until I saw some photos of its architecture. In an instant I knew that I had to see this place with my very own eyes.

It was a wonderful trip where I took thousands of photos and where I fell in love with the authenticity of the Uzbek culture and architecture.

There are a ton of things to do and places to visit in Uzbekistan and probably a lot more than 20 but I always like to write from personal experience. So no adding or recommending places that I haven’t visited myself.

20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Uzbekistan

Some of the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan can be found in Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand . And those are the exact cities that we visited during our trip around Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan is filled with unusual and historical places that will blow you away!

So let’s get started!

The Best Places To Visit in Khiva, Uzbekistan

When planning my trip to Uzbekistan I especially had high hopes for Bukhara and Samarkand. Little did I know that Khiva would absolutely take my breath away. To me Khiva is definitely one of those places one should see before they die . The historical town of Khiva is so tiny and small that within 10 minutes you’ll be from the East Gate to the West Gate. But it’s exactly its size that makes it so enjoyable. Below you’ll find the best photography locations in Khiva , when to visit them and the best place to stay during your visit.

💡 Good to know – At the West Gate you can purchase an Itchen Kala ticket for 150.000 SUM that will give you access to all of the attractions inside the city. Plus this ticket is valid for 2 days !

1. Kalta Minor Minaret, one of the most spectacular locations in Uzbekistan

Before you even enter the old city of Khiva you’ll see the turquoise Kalta Minor minaret shimmering in the sunlight from far away.

The Kalta Minor is an unfinished minaret located near the west entrance to the Ichan Kala (synonim for the old city). It was commissioned in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan, the ruler of Khiva, and was supposed to reach a height of 70 meters. Unfortunately he died before the minaret was finished in battle against the Persians. But even just at a height of 26 meters it’s one of the most beautiful manmade structures I have ever seen.

The Kalta Minor was built by some of the finest architects and artists in Khiva and as soon as they realized it would remain unfinished they decided to decorate it. you won’t find any other minaret in Uzbekistan that is so colorful in its decorations and details.

Fun Fact – Kalta Minor actually means ‘short minaret’.

How to get there – You pretty much can’t miss this beautiful turquoise and blue minaret. As soon as you walk through the West Gate you’ll be greeted by it.

When to go – Go in the early morning to avoid the harsh sunlight BUT make sure to come back for sunset! The sun bounces off the mosaics and gives a golden glow to the surrounding sand colored structures. You can’t visit the minaret inside.

💡 TIP – Enjoy the sunset view from the rooftop restaurant at Terrassa Cafe

2. Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa

Right next to the Kalta Minor minaret you’ll find the beautiful Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa. The Madrasa is actually connected to the minaret through a small wooden bridge.

These days however the building is no longer used as a madrasa. Instead it became one of the finest hotels in entire Uzbekistan: Orient Star Khiva Hotel .

As you can already guess from its name the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa was commissioned by the same ruler as the Kalta Minor Minaret. But due to his untimely beheading none of his architectural masterpieces were ever completely finished.

How to get there – This Madrasa is located right next to the previous Minaret and also serves as a hotel .

When to go – Go in the early morning to get the best light. There are no gates so you can admire the madrasa from the outside 24/7.

3. Kuhna Ark Fortress

The Kuhna Ark is a fortified citadel at the heart of Khiva , nestled against the western ramparts of the  Ichan Kala  immediately north of the city’s west gate. Just like the Forbidden City in Beijing it was conceived as a self-contained universe for the exclusive use of the ruler , his harem, his many advisors and servants, and members of the extended family.

There’s only one entrance and the entire complex is fenced off by stone walls. Although they didn’t proof to be too strong when it comes to Russian artillery.

Inside the Kuhna Ark Fortress is divided into different complexes all fulfilling separate functions. There’s the Summer Mosque, the Reception Courtyard, the Ak Sheikh Bobo bastion and the harem.

How to get there – This museum is located next to the Western Gate and the entrance is actually right in front of the Kalta Minor. You can see its entrance on the sunset photo above, it’s the wooden gate between the two turquoise domed pillars. The blue tiles can be found at the back!

When to go – Opening times are 9am to 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to Kuhna Ark Fortress is included in the Itchen Kala tickets that you can buy at the West Gate.

4. Juma Mosque – A unique wooden mosque in Khiva

Khiva’s Juma, also known as the Friday’s mosque is located in the heart of the Itchen Kala.

The mosque was designed to house a large number of congregants as equals before the imam and Allah, and for this reason it differs substantially from the typical open-air courtyard-centric architecture that predominates in Khiva. Most mosques in Uzbekistan have arched entrances and domes, but not this one!

Inside you’ll find some of the most beautiful wooden craftsmanship . Over 213 wooden columns support the structure and the Juma Mosque was built on the remains of a former mosque which stood in that exact same place.

There are almost no windows, only a few openings in the ceiling which create a dazzling scenery of dancing light .

How to get there – The Juma Mosque is only 5 minutes walking from the Kalta-Minor Minaret and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan .

When to go – I advise you to go as soon as it opens cause you really want to take out your wide angle lens in this place! Opening hours are from 9am until 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to Juma Mosque is included in the Itchen Kala tickets that you can buy at the West Gate.

5. Mohammed Rakhim Khan Madrasa

The madrasa of Mohammed Rakhim Khan occupies a prominent location opposite the Kuhna Ark, the fortified heart of the city. They started building the madrasa right before the Russian invasion so by the time it was finished it wasn’t just a regular islamic school. It also taught other subjects such as astronomy, geography and mathematics.

At present, the madrasa houses a museum showcasing the history of the Khivan Khanate and Mohammed Rakhim Khan in particular.

How to get there – Well since Khiva is so tiny this Madrasa can also be found right next to the Kalta-Minor Minaret.

When to go – Go a little after sunrise or sunset

6. Islam Khodja Minaret, another beautiful place to see in Khiva

With its 57 meters, the Islam Khodja Minaret is the tallest minaret in entire Uzbekistan. The site is named after Islam Khodja, the grand vizier (yes, like Jafar) of Muhammad Rahmi Bahadur II. He was a modernizer who introduced new amenities to the city including a hospital, telegraph office, and non-parochial schools.

The minaret was used as a tower to call for prayers but due to its impressive height it also led a lot of travelers to the city of Khiva. These days you can also climb up the minaret, an activity I highly recommend doing! Especially in the early hours when the morning light hits the entire old city of Khiva.

How to get there – There are two beautiful viewpoints to this Minaret. One is from the main square right in front of it, the other one is in the side street on the right.

When to go – If you want to take the best photos in front of the minaret you have to go at sunrise. A little later the vendor stalls will be out and a red chord will be places around the minaret to guide visitors to the entrance. Opening hours of the Islam Khodja Minaret are from 8am until 6pm .

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to the Islam Khodja Minaret is not included in the standard ticket, only in the VIP ticket. If you have the standard ticket er no ticket at all you’ll have to pay a fee of 20.000 SOM (€1.5).

7. Yar Mohammed Divan Mosque

How to get there – This beautiful mosque is a must visit when you’re in Khiva. It is located in the side alley near the Islam Khoja Minaret.

When to go – You can just visit this place during the middle of the day and still take beautiful photos!

8. Hidden Carpet Store & The Bazaars

How to get there – This beautiful photography spot in Uzbekistan is located between the Yar Mohammed Divan Mosque and the Islam Khoja Minaret.

When to go – We arrived in the late afternoon and it wasn’t busy at all. We asked the owner of the store if it was okay to take some photos and she was incredibly nice.

9. Tash Khauli Palace, one of those interesting places in Uzbekistan

The Tash Khauli Palace, also known as the Stone Palace, is a 19th-century palace and the former residence of the ruler of Khiva, Allah Kuli Khan.

It took 8 years to built the structure, which never pleased the khan: he wanted this big project to be completed in 2 years’ time. Many master builders lost their heads for this reason.

All the parts of Tash-Khauli are connected with a labyrinth of dim corridors . So don’t refrain from going through every single door during your visit. Some of the most beautiful courtyards of this place are hidden behind a small corner or doorway.

How to get there – The entrance to the harem part of the palace is located on the East side.

When to go – Go as soon as it opens at 9am. A little later vendors will put out their stalls throughout the entire place. The official opening hours for Tash Khauli Palace are 9am to 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to the Tash Khauli Palace is included in both the standard and VIP Itchen Kala ticket .

Where to stay in Khiva

• Orient Star Khiva Hotel – This hotel is located inside the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassah and offers a spectacular view from the balconies.
• Erkin Palace Hotel – Located right outside the old city center.
• Hotel Malika Kheivak – In the heart of Khiva and an amazing breakfast spread.

The Best Places to visit in Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is another ancient city in the center of Uzbekistan. It was a well known stop on the Silk Road and a must visit place when traveling through Uzbekistan.

The abundance of mosques, architectural marvels, blue domes and detailed mosaics have transformed Bukhara into an open air museum. One where you can stroll around at ease without any car disturbing you. It creates an authentic feeling that is truly unique in the travel industry these days. You almost feel like you’re getting transported back in time.

Below I will list all of the most beautiful places and the best photography viewpoints that you can find in Bukhara!

10. Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa

The Nadir Divan-begi Madrasa is a puzzling piece of architecture as it resembles a  caravanserai— a combination warehouse and hostel for traveling caravans. Evidence for this is that the main entrance opens directly onto the courtyard; the usual practice is to provide a screen wall to shield the interior courtyard from the public eye.

But besides all of these curiosities the main reason for walking over to this madrasa is its incredible tile work! Make sure to snap some photos during your visit and also take a peek inside cause the Nadir Divan-begi Madrasa is free to visit. Inside you’ll find a beautiful courtyard that is lined with souvenir shops.

How to get there – The outside facade of this Madrasa is incredibly stunning and is located next to a small park.

When to go – Make sure to be there at sunrise! This one doesn’t work during sunset cause the blue won’t stand out that much because of the light and during the day it will be covered in ugly shadows coming from the trees nearby.

11. Chor Minor, one of those unusual places in Uzbekistan

Chor Minor, what literally means four towers, is a little tucked away in the streets of Bukhara. The purpose of the building is not entirely clear, but it likely served as the forepart of a spacious madrasa which no longer survives.

The four towers include cryptic references to religions other than Islam including Christianity, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism. And indeed, there are certain designs that resemble a Christian upturned fish, and others that faintly resemble the Buddhist “wheel of the law”.

How to get there – Chor Minor is located on the East side of Bukhara and 15 minutes walking from the city center. I went with the idea to go up on the tower to take photos but unfortunately the woman that holds the key wasn’t there.

When to go – Go for sunrise or sunset if you can. When we were there the gate was closed unfortunately and the street vendors across the street said none of them had a key. But it is at time possible to go up the roof of Chor Minor for an additional fee of 4000 SOM.

12. Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa, one of the most beautiful places in entire Uzbekistan

The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa definitely is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Bukhara, maybe even in entire Uzbekistan! The colorful tile work in the arch dates back to the 17th century and is a perfect representation of medieval art in Central Asia.

When you’re here make sure to turn around as well cause right across from the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa you’ll find the Ulugh Beg Madrasa. It’s a lot more modest in design but its history is phenomenal as one of the best madrasa’s in entire Uzbekistan.

How to get there – This Madrassah was one of my favourite places to visit in Uzbekistan and is located in the middle of the city centre of Bukhara . The easiest way to get here is to go on foot. We also took a look inside but it’s not well preserved at all.

When to go – Go at sunrise, from 9am the entrance will be blocked by a lot of vendors and it will be impossible to take any photo without a ton of souvenir stalls in front of it.

13. Kalyan Minaret

The Kalyan Minaret is part of the the Po-i Kalyan Complex , one of the most beautiful locations in Uzbekistan. The Kalyan Minaret is one of the most prominent features of the city of Bukhara and with its 45 meters it towers high above the city.

The Kalyan Minaret is also known as the ‘Tower of Death’ because for centuries, it was used to execute criminals by throwing them off the tower.

How to get there – The Minaret is located in the middle of the city center and is best reached on foot. For a stunning sunset view have dinner at Minor Cafe House .

When to go – Go for sunrise to avoid the crowds. It’s also stunning during sunset but there will be a lot more people out and about.

14. Mir-i-Arab Madrasa

The Mir-i-Arab Madrasa is also part of the Po-i Kalyan Complex . Until this day the madrasa is still an active school and for that reason it can only be admired from the outside. Pretty impressive if you consider that this building already stand over 500 years!

How to get there – You can’t actually visit this Madrassah, at least so we were told by the people at the entrance. However the outside makes for stunning photos! It is conveniently located next to the Minaret.

When to go – Go during sunset.

15. Kalyan Mosque

The Kalyan Mosque is the third part of the Po-i Kalyan Complex and is located right in front of the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. But in contrast to the school you can actually visit this mosque. The Kalyan Mosque serves as the Friday mosque and is the largest in central Asia apart from the Bibi Khanum mosque in Samarkand and the Friday Mosque of Herat, Afghanistan.

How to get there – This mosque is located on the opposite side of the Madrasa and for 10.000 SOM you can also visit it inside.

When to go – The light is the most beautiful during sunset and the Mosque only opens at 8am and closes at 8pm.

16. The Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is the city’s oldest structure and is an absolute delight to visit in the early morning. It’s definitely one of the most special places to visit in Bukhara!

During the course of history the Ark of Bukhara has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. And by the start of the 20th century the Ark was inhabited by nearly 3000 people, making it a city within a city.

How to get there – This fortress is 10 minutes walking from the Po-i Kalyan Complex

When to go – The official opening hours for the Ark of Bukhara are from 8am until 8pm.

17. Chor Bakr Memorial Complex

The Chor Bakr Necropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located about 20 minutes driving from the centre of Bukhara.

Chor Bakr is also known as the ‘Town of the Dead’ but when you walk around the complex you’ll see a lot of mausoleums, a beautiful garden with peacocks running around, a minaret, a mosque and a madrasa.

How to get there – This location is a 20 minute drive from Bukhara but in my honest opinion totally worth the visit. A taxi ride there and back to the city centre (including a 20 minute wait) should be around 60.000 SUM. Chor Bakr is one of those hidden gems in Uzbekistan that not many people know of and therefore one of the more unique places to visit in Uzbekistan.

This photo was taken on top of the roof. The entrance fee is 15.000 SUM and an extra 5000 SUM to take photos. To get to the roof simply ask one of the guys there and for 10 000 SUM/per person they will take you up.

When to go – 8am to 5.30pm from Monday to Friday and 8am until 6pm during the weekend.

Where to stay in Bukhara

• Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel – An incredible boutique hotel in the heart of Bukhara. The rooms are decorated in true Uzbek style and the breakfast is amazing!

The Best Places to visit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand is the highlight for almost everyone when visiting Uzbekistan. It does however have a completely different feel than Khiva and Bukhara. The city itself is more modern and the monuments are spread out over the city.

So unlike in Khiva and Bukhara you can’t just stroll around without bumping into a car. Then again the top sights in Samarkand are pretty much open air museums in their very own right!

18. Registan

Registan is an enormous complex that consists of 3 beautiful Madrassah’s. Make sure to visit every single one of them and that you spend at least half a day here!

The entrance fee is 40.000 SUM/per person and the ticket is valid all day long.

Opening hours : 8am – 7pm

How to get there – When staying at B&B Antica Registan is only 15 minutes walking.

When to go – Make sure to be there at opening time. It is possible to go inside a little earlier. But you will have to pay one of the guards to be let in (100.000 SUM). Important to know is that during this time you can’t take photos on the courtyard cause there are camera’s. You can however go inside one of the Madrassah’s and go on the balconies!

💡 TIP – Come back in the evening to see the domes and the madrasa’s lit up!

19. Shah-i-Zinda

If I have to chose one favorite place in Uzbekistan is is definitely Shah-i-Zinda! This sacred necropolis is one of the best places to visit in Uzbekistan and will blow you away as soon as you set foot inside.

How to get there – If you go on a sunrise mission to take photos I advise you to take a taxi. Shah-i-Zinda is absolutely magical early in the morning and one of the most incredible places to visit in Uzbekistan!

Entrance fee – 25.000 SUM/per person

When to go – The complex opens at 7am and I strongly advise you to be there on time. This will give you plenty of time to take stunning photos before the crowds arrive.

💡 TIP – Shah-i-Zinda is a sacred place so make sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting.

20. Gur-e-Amir

The enormous Gur-e-Amir is one of the most impressive mausoleums in Uzbekistan and a spectacular place to visit in Samarkand.

Fun Fact – The architecture of Gur-e-Amir inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal in India .

How to get there – Gur-e Amir is located around the corner of Antica B & B Samarkand .

When to go – Go during sunset

💡 TIP – Gur-e-Amir is a sacred place so make sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting.

Where to stay in Samarkand

• Antica B & B Samarkand – A cute local B & B with a main garden. Not to mention, the breakfast is absolutely amazing and freshly made every single day.
• Bibikhanum Hotel – A cute hotel that offers rooms with a balcony and a stunning view over the Bibi-Khanym Mosque.

I hope you enjoyed this article on the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan! If you have any more questions feel free to drop them in the comment section below!

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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November 16, 2019 at 11:28 am

Charlotte, your photos! STUNNING. I used to work with a girl from Uzbekistan and its been on my bucket list ever since. This post bumped it up a few spots for sure.

Charlotte says

November 16, 2019 at 11:35 am

Thank you so much Tina!! That really means a lot to me! 🙂

Nicola Lavin says

November 16, 2019 at 3:26 pm

Uzbekistan has been on my list for a really long time. Your photos make me want to go even more.

Leslie says

November 16, 2019 at 4:01 pm

omg! The colors. Everything looks amazing. It’s now on my bucket list.

Joanna says

November 16, 2019 at 5:46 pm

These photos are amazing! I am actually planning on going to Uzbekistan next summer, so thank you for these suggestions on where to take the best photos.

November 16, 2019 at 11:22 pm

Absolutely gorgeous photos, Uzbekistan looks like such a dreamy place to visit! Also loving the cute dress flips for the photos, I can never seem to get that shot down no matter how hard I try lol!

Vanessa Shields says

November 17, 2019 at 12:25 am

Absolutely love all of your photos! Uzbekistan looks so pretty and is a country I have been wanting to visit. Thanks for all the great tips and info!

November 17, 2019 at 2:29 am

Instagrammable for sure. These photos are amazing. What a beautiful place. So colorful and such intricate detail on the buildings. Love it!

Brianna says

November 17, 2019 at 3:23 am

Love your photos here! The shades of blue and teal in the tiling look really beautiful to photograph. I hadn’t really considered traveling to Uzbekistan but these photos are making me change my mind!

November 17, 2019 at 8:45 am

Thank you so much for saying that Brianna! That really means a lot to me 🙂

Thank you so much Emma! 🙂

November 17, 2019 at 8:46 am

My absolute pleasure Vanessa! I am sure you would have a wonderful time!

thank you! Well it takes a lot of practice :p most photos the dress goes the wrong way 😉

November 17, 2019 at 8:47 am

Oh you will have a fab time in the summer! It does tend to get really hot thought so maybe consider the shoulder months?

Thank you so much Leslie 🙂

November 17, 2019 at 8:48 am

Thank you so much Nicola 🙂

Bliss Eatts says

November 17, 2019 at 1:07 pm

It’s such an undiscovered country. Your photos of it are stunning!

November 17, 2019 at 4:23 pm

Thank you so much! 🙂

Mike Berg says

January 21, 2023 at 7:54 am

Trying to see the stunning architecture but all I can see is your ridiculous dresses and poses. When is this moronic phase going to die out? Did you even notice where you are or just pose like an idiot and leave to pose at the next place.

January 21, 2023 at 10:34 am

Hi Mike, thank you for this insightful comment! I can actually pose in a dress, learn about the local culture and history and have an amazing holiday all at once! Who would have thought a woman can do more than one thing at the same time?? Shocking!

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Uzbekistan – Top 10 Places to visit

Uzbekistan – top 10 places to visit, #1 samarkand.

#4 Shahrisabz

This flourishing city of the Timurid Empire is the birthplace of the great medieval conqueror Amir Temur.  It has exceptional monuments from 14 th to 15 th centuries though its history dates back over 2000 years.  Its historic center retains the layout from the original Timurid city planning.  Amir Temur ordered the Ak Sarai – the white summer palace – to be built as well as his own grave. Tamerlane’s summer palace was one of the highlights of the Timurid architecture.  These days you can still see the remains of the palace’s 65 meter high monumental gates.

#5 Tashkent

#6 Aidarkul Lake & Nurota Mountains

#8 Ancient Fortress Ruins

#9 Fergana Valley

#10 Karakalpakstan

Keep up with our blog or travel to Uzbekistan yourself to learn more first hand about the country’s fascinating history and rich culture.

You can find all our small-group tours to Uzbekistan here . All listed departures are guaranteed. If you prefer a custom private tour, please don’t hesitate to contact us .

On Tripadvisor you can read reviews from some of our travelers about their trips to Central Asia and Uzbekistan.

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Bukhara - top places to see.

Bukhara, Uzbekistan: 18 Amazing Things to See and Do

Bukhara (also spelled Buxoro ) is the shopping mecca in Uzbekistan. You can’t enter a madrasah or walk down any of the pedestrian-friendly roads in the Old Town District without seeing the amazing hand-woven textiles that Uzbekistan is famous for. If you want to pick up a few Uzbek souvenirs during your trip, Bukhara is the place to do it!

Aside from shopping, Bukhara is also full of gorgeous mosques and madrasahs that have been expertly restored. There are 140 protected buildings to be exact. The architecture here isn’t as flashy as it is in Samarkand , but the city of Bukhara has more history. It was a prominent stop on the Silk Road trade route and a major center for Islamic theology and culture.

You’ll love getting lost in the alleyways and trading domes of the busy, bustling city of Bukhara!

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).

Bukhara 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.
• Learn a few words to get around! Most people use the standard Islamic greeting of “assalomu alaykum” (sounds like “salom allycoomb”) to say hello. It translates to “peace be with you”. And you can say either “rahmat” (Uzbek) or “spasiba” (Russian) to say “thank you”.
• The sites in Bukhara begin to run together as they all look quite similar. Pick the top things you must see but don’t burn yourself out trying to see it all.

Getting to Bukhara

There are regular trains departing to Bukhara daily from Samarkand and Tashkent . From Samarkand, it will about 2.5 hours on the regular train and the price is ~80,000 UZS per person. It’s easiest to book your tickets directly at the station and you’re better off reserving a seat a few days in advance. There is also a fast train if you want to pay a bit more.

A taxi from the train station to the central tourist area of Bukhara should cost you 30,000 UZS. However, you’ll have to do a bit of negotiating as prices generally start at 50,000 UZS. If you booked a hotel in the Old Town District, you’ll be dropped off in a parking lot and will have to walk to your hotel through the pedestrian area.

Getting Around Bukhara

Bukhara is a very small town and the things that you’ll want to see are all concentrated in one area. So as long as your hotel is centrally located, you can walk pretty much everywhere you want to go! There are also plenty of taxis waiting right outside of the Old Town District as the alleyways surrounding the lake are pedestrian-only.

Where to Stay in Bukhara

Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel

The Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel books out pretty far in advance so you have to plan early to get a room here. The rooms are decorated with darling, colorful, ornate fabrics, wall hangings, and furniture. The building itself is old and traditional and you’ll love how close you are to the Old Town District.

Check Prices on Booking.com

Amelia Boutique Hotel

Amelia Boutique Hotel also has really cute, whimsical touches in the unique rooms. The terrace is a lovely place to enjoy afternoon tea, which the helpful hotel staff is happy to bring you at any time of day. Guests love the cozy rooms, the amazing staff, and the central location of this hotel!

Amulet Hotel

The Amulet Hotel is in an old, traditional-style stone building with gorgeous wooden accents. Traditional Uzbekistan-style tapestries cover the beds and it has charming decor touches throughout. The breakfast here is superb! This is another one you should consider booking well in advance.

Where to Eat in Bukhara

Mavigri Restaurant is in a beautiful courtyard of a traditional building with tapestries hanging on the walls. We’d recommend ordering the #6 salad and the traditional beef soup with rice. The prices are super reasonable and the food is outstanding! Be sure to stop at the Bukhara Photo Gallery right nearby to see the beautiful photos of Uzbekistan people and sites.

The best restaurant in town for a delicious dinner in a beautiful setting is Ayvan Restaurant . You’ll need to walk into the lobby of the Lyabi House Hotel and your first thought will be “there’s no way a restaurant is in here.” But it is, through the courtyard that is off to the right. The interior of the restaurant is stunning, with intricate designs covering the walls. Definitely make a reservation as they fill up every night. And try the lamb ravioli!

Bolo Hauz is a little local joint near the Ark that serves up traditional Uzbek food like plov, lagmon, and beef and chicken shashlik (kabobs). They don’t have a menu in English so you’ll just have to tell them which of those you want and add a salad, some dip, and bread.

Where to Drink Tea & Coffee in Bukhara

Silk Road Tea House is a cute little spot right in the Old Town District where you can enjoy afternoon tea or coffee. For 30,000 UZS, you’ll choose your tea or coffee flavor which comes with a selection of yummy Uzbekistan sweet treats.

Cafe Ulugbek is right outside of the courtyard where the Ulugbek Madrasah and the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah face each other. The view of both buildings from the lovely rooftop seating area is spectacular. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an early morning coffee.

Minzifa Restaurant has a rooftop terrace that has a nice view of the domed buildings below. We found the food to be bland and on the pricey side so we’d recommend having just a tea to enjoy the view, but eating elsewhere.

The Wishbone Cafe is a small German-style coffee shop inside the Tim Abdulla Khan Trading Dome. They serve sandwiches, waffles, some desserts, and a selection of coffees. The space is really lovely as you’ll be inside of the large, white-washed dome.

18 Amazing Things to See and Do in Bukhara

1. admire the chor minor.

The Chor Minor is tucked back into a neighborhood, just outside of the main tourist area of town. The name “chor-minor” translates to “four minarets” in Tajik. And those four pillars topped with vibrant blue domes are what give this structure such a unique shape.

The Chor Minor was built in 1807 by Khalif Niazkul and was part of a complex with a now destroyed madrassah. Each of the four minarets has a unique shape and design, and it is believed that a different world religion is reflected in each one. One of the pillars contains a staircase to the roof that you can climb for a fee of 4,000 UZS per person. There is also a small souvenir shop in the main room.

2. Shop in Bukhara’s Trading Domes

There is no shortage of shops in Bukhara, not only on the streets but also in most of the historical sites that you’ll be visiting. The most interesting shopping areas are the large, covered trading domes that have existed since the days of the Silk Road.

Toqi Sarrofon Bazaar, Toqi Telpak Furushon Bazaar, Tim Abdulla Khan Trading Dome, and Toqi Zargaron are the four trading domes that are still standing to this day. They are conveniently located along the popular road that leads from Lyabi Khause to the Kalyan Mosque so you’ll undoubtedly pass through them while exploring the city.

Here you’ll find the traditional suzanis which are beautifully embroidered blankets, pillowcases, and jackets. Also jewelry, hand-forged knives, ceramics, handbags, and everything in-between. But get ready to bargain, prices here are more expensive than in Tashkent or Samarkand.

3. See the Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is the oldest structure in Bukhara. It is a massive fortress that was constructed during the fifth century and occupied until it fell to Russia in 1920. Most of the fortress is now in ruins, but before it was bombed it housed essentially an entire city within its walls. It was home to the emirs of Bukhara and included a jail, workshops, mosques, an armory, and more.

Today those rooms have been transformed into small museums that hold various artifacts. From atop the walls that stand between 52 and 66 feet tall, you can see nice views of the city below. There are also plenty of souvenir shops in the Ark if you aren’t already shopped out.

The outer walls of the Ark are an interesting, bulbous shape and are quite iconic in Bukhara. Be sure to snap a few photos at the base of the walls as well as from the top.

Entrance Fees: 15,000 per person

4. See the View of the Ark from the Observation Deck

If you want to get a better view of the Ark from a higher vantage point, head to the Buxoro Minorasi Majmuasi observation deck across the street! Don’t worry, you can take an elevator all the way to the top.

Entrance Fees: 40,000 per person

5. Check out the Bolo Hauz Mosque

The most impressive feature of the Bolo Hauz Mosque is the tall, intricately carved pillars that line the front entrance. The mosque was built in the 17th century and the entire complex includes a small pond that was used as a water reservoir and a short minaret.

Visitors will need to remove their shoes to enter the mosque, but ladies do not need to worry about covering their heads here.

6. Shop for Antiques in the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah

Built in 1652, the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah is directly opposite the Ulughbek Madrasah and together they form the Kosh Madrasah. The front entrance to the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah is spectacular, with an intricately carved and painted archway. Unfortunately, the inside has essentially been converted into a souvenir market. It makes it impossible to appreciate the architecture without someone asking you to come inside their shop.

Inside the front entrance is also the Museum of Wood Carving Art which houses a small collection of wood carvings. The room that houses the collection was once used as a mosque. And the Lecture Hall is now used as a shop for embroidered blankets. The courtyard is flanked on all sides by antique and souvenir shops.

Entrance Fees: 13,000 UZS per person which includes 8,000 to enter the madrasah and 5,000 for the museum. Keep your ticket, it’s good for three days.

7. Visit the Ulugbek Madrasah

The Ulugbek Madrasah is smaller than the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah and is currently under reconstruction. So the courtyard isn’t particularly picturesque at the moment.

There are a few small shops inside but the architecture here doesn’t compare to some of the amazing sites around Bukhara. The best view is out the front door of the Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah across the street.

Entrance Fees: Free!

8. Marvel at the Kalyan Mosque

The Kalyan Mosque (also spelled Kalan or Kalon) dates back to the fifteenth century and has been beautifully preserved over the years. From the moment you descend the stairs into the central courtyard, you will be in awe of the magnificent architecture and vibrant colors. There is a large central courtyard, lined on all sides by white arched galleries that are comprised of 288 domes on 208 pillars. These hallways provide lovely views of the central courtyard.

The name Kalyan Mosque translates to “the great mosque”. It is the second-largest mosque in Uzbekistan and can hold up to 12,000 worshippers at a time.

The Kalyan Mosque, Kalyan Minaret and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah all make up the Po-i-Kalyan Complex. And from the Western end of the Kalyan Mosque, you can view the inner courtyard as well as the blue domes of the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah and the Kalyan Minaret towering above.

Entrance Fees: Free! We think. There is a front desk area that is occasionally manned by someone who appears to only be selling postcards, not selling entrance tickets, but it’s hard to tell.

9. Snap a Photo of the Kalyan Minaret

The Kalyan Minaret is the central focal point of the Po-i-Kalyan Complex as it stands almost 150 feet above the ground. This is the second iteration of the minaret that is meant to summon Muslims to prayer five times a day, as the first collapsed due to the unstable ground underneath. The ground was fortified and the current minaret was completed in 1127.

The Kalyan has an interesting history as it was spared by Genghis Khan as he appreciated its beauty while he was destroying everything around it. It is also known as the “tower of death” because for several centuries criminals were executed by being tossed from the top.

Be sure to check out the Kalyan Minaret at night as well, when it is all lit up against the night sky!

10. Peek Inside the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah

The Mir-i-Arab Madrasah was constructed during the 16th century and is actually still in use to this day. Visitors can’t enter the complex as future religious leaders are receiving their education, but you can peek through the front entrance and admire the interior courtyard.

The shiny bright blue domes that sit on the roof are easy to spot from a distance and perfectly picturesque.

11. Have a Beer on the Lyab-i Hauz Lake

The Lyab-i Hauz is a small, man-made lake that sits directly in the center of the Old Town District. This area is buzzing with activity all day as it is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and madrasahs.

The best time to enjoy the lake is around sunset, at one of the outdoor tables on the edge of the water. You can order a draft beer from the Lyabi Hauz Restaurant and people watch as the sun goes down.

The lake is surrounded by beautiful buildings. The Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah is the most impressive and it’s listed below. The Kukaldosh Madrasah is across the street.

There are a few oddball shops inside but the madrasah has fallen into disrepair. However, it is one of the few in Uzbekistan that allows you to climb to the second floor. And the Museum of “Old Varakhsha and Ceramic” is inside the Nadir Divanbegi Khanaka which you can tour for 5,000 UZS per person.

12. Shop in the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah

The Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah is a large structure adorned with tiles in the shape of peacocks, right on the Lyab-i Hauz Lake. It’s free to enter and is filled with souvenir shops on all sides. The middle of the courtyard has dozens of tables that are used for the evening concert.

The concert starts at 5 pm and tickets are 35,000 UZS per person, or 85,000 UZS if you want to add dinner. Tickets are available to purchase beginning 15 minutes before the show starts.

13. Bathe in an Ancient Hammam

After a long day spent wandering around Bukhara, treat yourself to a relaxing massage and a scrub at a traditional hammam. Both men and women can visit the Hamman Bozori Kord , one of the oldest working hammams in the world. You can enjoy the steam room and the self-service bath area, and then a traditional massage. It’s a great way to warm up on cold, rainy evenings in Bukhara!

Off-The-Beaten-Path Sites in Bukhara

Looking for less touristy activities in Bukhara? The following sites aren’t necessarily “must-see”, but they are far less crowded than the ones above and are good to check out if you have some extra time.

14. Buy Fresh Fruit at the Kolkhoznyy Rynok

If you’re sick of the touristy trading domes of Bukhara and want to get a feel for the local markets, head to the Kolkhoznyy Rynok. Here you’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, meats, spices, and very few other tourists. It’s a good place to pick up some snacks for your next train ride.

15. Visit the Memorial Complex of Imam al-Bukhari

The museum isn’t nearly as interesting as the building itself but it’s worth admiring the view from the outside.

Entrance Fees : 5,000 per person

16. Check out the Museum of the History of Bukhara Water Supply

Directly across from the Memorial Complex is the Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum which now houses the Museum of the History of Bukhara Water Supply. You’ll learn about how the water supply in Bukhara has evolved over the centuries.

Entrance Fees : 10,000 per person

17. Snap a Photo of the Mavzoley Samanidov Mausoleum

Located in a park just outside of the touristy area of Bukhara, the Mavzoley Samanidov Mausoleum (also known as the Samanid Mausoleum) provides a bit of solitude from the crowds. It is said to be the tomb of Ismail Samani as well as a few other members of the Samanid dynasty.

The Samanid Mausoleum was built between 892 and 943 CE and was spared the wrath of Genghis Khan as it had been buried in mud. It was rediscovered in 1934.

There’s no real need to pay the entrance fee to go inside. It’s a very small space and it’s easy to simply peek at the entrance. The best place to admire the mausoleum is from across the pond.

Entrance Fees: 5,000 per person

18. Visit the Museum of the History of Carpet Weaving

The Museum of the History of Carpet Weaving is inside the Magoki Attori Mosque. It’s a lovely collection of old rugs with some signs explaining the history of carpet weaving. The building is small but beautiful and for the small entrance fee, it’s worth spending 10 minutes inside.

Entrance Fees: 10,000 per person to enter, 10,000 to take photos, 20,000 to take video

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

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About the Author:

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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1 thought on “bukhara, uzbekistan: 18 amazing things to see and do”.

I recently traveled to Uzbekistan and enjoyed 3 days in Bukhara, Everything in this article was exactly as the writers described…but even better. The markets, the mausoleums, the large city park…with an amusement park AND an ancient mausoleum AND a decrepit zoo tucked inside it, the mosques, the madrassahs. Bukhara is an amazing city. Easy to walk around. Friendly people. Many restaurant options…especially if you like the local cuisine. The ‘new’ city outside the old city is also worth a visit, with many new shops and restaurants that show the very modern side of Uzbekistan. While not quite easy to get to, this is a city worth the time and effort it takes to get there. Beauty at every turn!

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The Capital of Islamic Culture

Bukhara - The Capital of Islamic Culture

Sacred Bukhara is one of the tourist gems of Uzbekistan. The historic city centre is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The age of the city exceeds 2500 years.

Let us say one thing. You will lose lots, if you not visit Bukhara.

Popular landmarks

If you want to plunge into the atmosphere of an ancient oriental tale, visit the top attractions of Bukhara.

Bukhara is:

✔️Architectural Complex Poi-Kalon is recognized by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as the "Eighth Miracle"

✔️Great minarets, mosques and madrassas;

✔️ Ancient citadels, mausoleums and tombs;

✔️Centre of the Islamic East and many objects for pilgrimage;

✔️ Ancient centres of trade and crafts.

7 saints of Bukhara

Lyabi-hauz ensemble, poi-kalyan architectural ensemble, magoki attori mosque – an ancient mosque of bukhara, miri arab madrasah, tim abdullah khan trading dome, ark citadel.

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Poi-kalon ensemble.

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The climate here can be described as hot and arid in the summer, so if you want to travel to Bukhara at this time of the year, be sure to bring an umbrella and sunscreen with you. Winters in Bukhara are rather mild, but warm things should not be neglected.

Gifts and souvenirs 🛍

On Bukhara streets, you can find many different souvenir shops and workshops. Sometimes it seems that all souvenirs are the same, but this is not true! Each seller have something to surprise you! Bukhara is the weaving capital of Uzbekistan! If you want to purchase stylish and modern wardrobe elements with the national elements, you should visit Bukhara! Most of the shops are located along Lyabi-Hauz Square and in the shopping domes, which are located next to the famous Poi-Kalyan Ensemble. In addition to the clothes, you can buy ikat fabric. Armani trading house have used such this fabric in its collection. It is, of course, not cheap, but its price is fully justified. Bukhara is also famous for its carpets. The quality of the carpets is not inferior to the Indian, Pakistani and Iranian, and sometimes even surpass! For exotic lovers, Bukhara can offer musical instruments that are made on its territory with special skill or handmade knives.

The main dish of all cities of Uzbekistan is pilaf. Traveling across the regions of the country, you will be surprised how many different types of this dish is being prepared. In every city, people are convinced that pilaf of their region is the best in the country! Only having tasted it in all regions, you are able to understand which one is the best for you. Osh-Sophie is considered dietary because of the cooking method. It is being prepared in a peculiar way; it is not mixed, unlike in Andijan or Tashkent. Another feature is that it is cooked only in a copper cauldron. Bukhara dishes also include khalis or kaish. Follow the link to read more about Uzbek cuisine.

Photo zones 🙋‍♂️

An integral part of every trip is photography! In this section, we introduce you the most beautiful places in this city, where you can make the best shots.

P.S. Do not forget that during the visit the religious sights of Uzbekistan, women are advisable to cover the exposed parts of the body (shoulders, back and legs). Such attractions will be marked with ☪✝✡☦

This majestic city, according to the most conservative estimates, is more than 2500 years old and there are many ancient mosques, madrassas and tombs of the Islamic saints on its territory. Throughout the history, people have said that graceful light descends from heaven to all Muslim cities, but only above Bukhara this light will rise to heaven. Bukhara is the only city in Central Asia whose history was almost completely documented by the famous historian of the X century – Narshakhi. In his writings, he said that no city had as many names as Bukhara. In China in the V century, it was called Nyumi, during the Tang Empire, it was called An, Ansi, Buho and Buhe. However, most often in history it is mentioned as Bukhara. According to the etymologists, this name comes from the Sogdian “bukharak”, which translates as “happy place”. Now on the territory of Bukhara there are more than 140 monuments belonging to the different eras, quarters and even entire areas, erected more than one century ago, have been preserved. Bukhara is also called the city of poetry and fairy tales, as the whole old city is full of legends and stories! By the way, the historical part of the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993.

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The 15 Best Things to do in Tashkent Uzbekistan – Tashkent City Guide

Tashkent will be very likely the first city you’ll arrive in when you travel to Uzbekistan. What are the best places to see in Tashkent Uzbekistan? Read this travel guide to have a wonderful stay in Tashkent city!

Uzbekistan’s modern capital Tashkent lives a bit in the shadows of the more attractive-looking Silk Road cities Samarkand ,  Bukhara  and  Khiva . 

It’s a shame because Tashkent is a really nice destination to visit and spend some time if you know where to go.

Tashkent city can be seen as an introduction to the stunning Islamic architecture – probably the reason why you’re going to travel to Uzbekistan – as it has some beautiful historical sites.  It’s also a very modern city with many parks and fountains, beautiful statues, nice cafes, and great restaurants.

Tashkent city is a fantastic base from which to explore the rest of Uzbekistan.  It’s very easy to take buses or trains from Tashkent to all the other interesting destinations around the country.

You’ll very likely begin and end your trip to Uzbekistan here as it’s home to the country’s international airport. If you prefer to travel overland, it’s also very straightforward to travel from Almaty (Kazakhstan),   Bishkek   (Kyrgyzstan) or Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus or train. 

It’ll also be a nice place to hang out at the end of your travels in Uzbekistan because trust me, after spending days and/or weeks of staring intensely at radiant colors and interlaced patterns of architectural masterpieces, you’ll be feeling a little “ tiled-out” !

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

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

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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

Tashkent City – Things you need to know before you go

Tashkent is the economic and cultural center of Uzbekistan and one of the wealthiest cities in Central Asia. It used to be the most populated city of ex-Soviet Central Asia and the 4th largest city of the Soviet Union. 

It’s very easy and cheap to get around Tashkent by metro. It only costs $0.15, there are metro stations near all the must-see places to visit in Tashkent and one of the top things to do in Tashkent is riding its metro as the city has some of the most beautiful metro stations in the world! 

Another way to get around Tashkent is by taxi. Install the Yandex Taxi app on your phone to easily order a taxi and see the rate in advance. This saves you the hustle of bargaining or the risk of paying triple the standard rate.

Tashkent is also a very clean and green city filled with Soviet, Islamic and modern-day architecture. It’s really not as conservative as you might think and I was even surprised to see young women walking around in cute little dresses.

This doesn’t mean you can start wearing tank tops and shorts that barely cover your bum but you also don’t need to cover yourself completely. 

Tashkent has many banks where you exchange your money for Uzbekistani Som (UZS). There are also ATMs in the city where you can withdraw Uzbekistani Soms or US Dollars.

The best time to visit Tashkent (and Uzbekistan) is during spring (April – May) and fall (October – November). The weather during those seasons is very pleasant and the temperatures are usually around 20°C (68°F). 

Summers in Tashkent (July-August) are dry and hot with average temperatures of 35°C (95°F). Once the sun has set though, it’s nice to walk around the parks and boulevards as this is the time when the city and its inhabitants come to life. 

Winter in Tashkent can also be a nice time if you want to see the city covered in snow. The average temperature during the winter is usually around 5°C (41°F).

Uzbekistan Travel Guide: 18 u s e f u l t h ings you need to know before you go

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 !

Is Tashkent safe for tourists?

The capital of Uzbekistan is very safe for travelers and it has even become safer now that the government introduced a ‘tourist police’. You’ll find their boots in every tourist destination in Uzbekistan.

So in case you’d ever feel uncomfortable or in danger – which I highly doubt – just go to one of those touristic police stands and they will help you.

When I traveled for the first time to Tashkent in 2017, I was a bit worried about my safety. 

I was a woman traveling alone, I didn’t know many people who had been there before, and the country was a bit of a mystery to me.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or not, you shouldn’t worry too much about your safety in Uzbekistan and in Tashkent.

The Uzbeks are very friendly and have no bad intentions whatsoever. If they see you’re lost or you’re in need of help, they’ll kindly approach you and offer you their help.

When I traveled for the second time to Tashkent with my friend, we had a bit of an awkward situation in the metro.

A group of young guys surrounded us and our first instinct was to walk away as we thought they might want to rob us. But they were students and just wanted to have a chat so they could practice their English with us!

There might be cases of petty crime such as pickpockets, especially in crowded places and in the bazaars of Tashkent, but they don’t happen often. Just always keep your valuables in a safe place, no matter where you are in the world.

Is Uzbekistan safe? 1 4 useful safety tips

What I recommend to avoid being pickpocketed is to always keep your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag .

I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

The 3 most budget-friendly travel insurance companies compared!

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!

15 places to visit and top things to do in Tashkent in one day

While Tashkent is a nice place to relax and do some sightseeing for a couple of days, you might not have much time on your trip around the country.

That’s why I made a 1-day itinerary for Tashkent so that even if you only have one day to spare in Uzbekistan’s capital city, you won’t miss out on the highlights and main tourist attractions in Tashkent. I would also recommend going on a guided city tour in Tashkent as you’ll learn so much more about the history and importance of Uzbekistan’s capital.

If you follow the map below, you’ll have an enjoyable time and you’ll also find out what Tashkent is famous for!

Tashkent Tourist Places – Map

I marked the places and attractions on the map below. You can open this map on your phone and also quickly find your way to and from the nearest metro stations.

1. See the world’s oldest Koran at the Hazrat Imam Complex

The Hazrat Imam Complex , also known as the Hast-Imam Ensemble or Khast Imam, is the religious heart of Tashkent. It’s the perfect place to start your Tashkent sightseeing trip.

While you walk around the complex, you’ll see some beautiful architectural monuments, such as the Barak Khan Madrasah, the Tilla Sheikh Mosque and the mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi. 

They are a nice introduction to the impressive Islamic architecture that you’ll find in other Uzbek cities like Bukhara . You can freely enter the courtyard of the Barak Khan Madrasah.

Barak Khan Madrasah

Hazrat Imam is also home to the Muyi Mubarak Library, a library with oriental manuscripts and the Uthman Koran, which is claimed to be the world’s oldest Koran. The entrance fee to visit this library is  30,000 UZS (around €3/ US$3). 

How to get to Hazrat Imam Complex

Get out at the Gafur Gulom Metro Station . Follow Abdulla Qodiriy Street to the left and turn into Qorasaroy Street (see map).

The Hazrat Imam Complex is a 10-minute walk from the metro station and on your way there, you’ll get a glimpse of the old town of Tashkent. 

2. Shop at Chorsu Bazaar

The Chorsu Bazaar is Uzbekistan’s largest market where locals can buy anything from raw food products, fresh fruits and veggies, honey and spices to clothing, jewelry, beauty products and more. You can find everything here!

The central part of the bazaar is covered by an impressive blue dome but you’ll also find many outdoor food, textile and household stalls in the surrounding streets and alleys. It seems like this market just goes on forever!

Even if you don’t want to buy anything, the Chorsu Bazaar is an ideal place to do some people-watching and observe the cultural blend Tashkent is famous for. 

How to get to Chorsu Bazaar

The moment you walk out of Chorsu metro station , you’ll be in the midst of bread and cheap Chinese products stalls. You’ll also quickly see the blue dome.

If you’re coming from the Hazrat Imam Complex, walk back to Abdulla Qodiriy Street and go right at the intersection. Follow the road towards Zakaynar Street (see Tashkent Tourist Places map above).

It’s about 15 minutes walking from Hazrat Imam to the Chorsu Bazaar.

3. Visit the Kukeldash Madrasah and the Dzuma Mosque

The Kukeldash Madrasah is the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical places in Tashkent.

While Kukeldash is not as impressive as the three madrasahs surrounding Registan Square in Samarkand , the building still is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and worth a quick visit.

Kukeldash was originally an educational institution (madrasah means ‘school’ or ‘college’ for Islamic education) but over the centuries the building has been used as a caravanserai for merchants, a fortress of the Kokand rulers and even as a place of execution.

The Madrasah survived several earthquakes and has repeatedly been repaired and restored. Today Kukeldash functions again as a spiritual institution.

You can enter the courtyard of the madrasah where you’ll find a small wood carving workshop. The entrance fee to the courtyard is 10000 UZS .

The Dzuma Mosque is right next to the Kukeldash Madrasah and worth a quick stop to admire the architecture.

How to get to Kukeldash Madrasah and Dzuma Mosque

Kukeldash Madrasah and Dzuma Mosque are right outside the Chorsu Bazaar and the Chorsu Metro . Just walk between the outdoor stalls in the direction of Beruniy Street (see the Tashkent Tourist Places Map above). 

4. Admire the Minor Mosque

Minor Mosque is a striking new mosque in Tashkent. It was built in 2014 on the banks of the Ankhor Canal.

Locals call it the “Snow Mosque” because it’s completely made of white marble. It’s particularly beautiful when the sun rays hit its walls, making the mosque sparkle and shine. 

How to get to Minor Mosque

Take the metro (at Chorsu metro station if you’re following this itinerary) and get out at Bodomzor Station . Walk along Amir Temur Avenue until you reach the intersection with Kichik Halqa Ring Road.

Turn right and keep walking along Little Ring Road until you reach Minor Mosque. It’s about 15 minutes walking from Bodomzor metro station.

Top Things to do in Samarkand – Samarkand City Guide

5. Climb the Tashkent TV Tower

The Tashkent Tower is at its 375 meters, the 11th tallest tower in the world. You can take the elevator to the 6th floor and enjoy the panoramic views over the city from the observation deck.

There’s also a restaurant on the 7th floor where you can have a beer and/or enjoy a meal at a reasonable price. 

The entrance fee to go to the observation deck is  40,000 UZS . You’ll also need your passport to go up the tower. The Tashkent Tower is open daily from 10 am until 8 pm. 

It could be a nice spot to return in the evening and see how the sun sets over the city’s skyline.

How to get to Tashkent TV Tower

Get out at  Bodomzor Station   and walk along Amir Timur Avenue in the direction of “Tashkent Land”. The Tashkent TV Tower is a 5-minute walk from the metro station.

6. Visit the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and the surrounding park

  I really enjoyed spending some time near the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and the park surrounding it.

The memorial itself is a large gazebo-shaped structure with a blue dome.

The museum of the Victims of Political Repression is also a beautiful building but the story behind it is a bit sad.

The museum is dedicated to the people who fought for the independence of Uzbekistan during the Soviet Union time and who were killed by the government. Inside you can find photographs, documents and personal belongings of those killed.

If this sounds a bit too heavy, just stroll around the complex and enjoy the peace and quiet of the park near the river bank.

How to get to the Memorial to the Victims of Repression

The museum and Memorial to the Victims of Repression are across the Tashkent TV Tower. You have to cross Amir Timur Avenue to reach it.

7. Have lunch at Besh Qalan, the Central Asian Plov Center

Plov is the most famous Central Asian dish. This traditional Uzbek dish consists of rice fried with raisins, carrots, and spices with meat on top of it. It’s usually cooked in lamb fat and served with pieces of lamb meat. 

You can find this dish anywhere in Uzbekistan and Central Asia but Besh Qozon claims to have the best Plov of the whole region.

What is really cool about this Plov Center is that you can see how the plov is made in huge pots that can serve hundreds of people!

Eating plov at the Central Asian Plov Center is an activity you can’t skip while in Tashkent!

For about 25000 UZS ($2.50) you get a big bowl of plov, freshly baked bread, pickled veggies, and lemon tea. Keep in mind that the Plov center closes at 2 pm . 

How to get to the Central Asian Plov Center

The Central Asian Plov Center is located across the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and next to the Tashkent TV Tower. The nearest metro station is  Bodomzor .

8. Ride the metro

Another top thing to do in Tashkent is to ride its metro. It’s the perfect activity to do in the early afternoon during the summer when it’s scorching hot outside as the metro has air conditioning. 

Tashkent has some of the most beautiful metro stations in the world! Visiting Tashkent’s subway was one of the most memorable highlights of my time in the city!

Almost every metro station in Tashkent is fascinating. They all have their own unique architectural features and artistic elements.

The 1 3 m o s t b e a u t i f u l m e t r o s t a t i o n s i n T a s h k e n t

9. Leaf through some books at the Book Bazaar 

If you love books and old magazines, you might enjoy this small Book Bazaar. 

We stayed in an Airbnb next to the park where this bazaar is located so we stumbled upon it by chance.

The Book Bazaar has little bookstalls lined up along a pedestrian street in a nice green park.

Most books are only in Russian but it’s quite fun to leaf through the books and find some old-school English books as well.

At one side of the bookstalls, you’ll also find some souvenir stalls and people selling antique items. 

On the other side of the book bazaar, you’ll pass some ice-cream shops and little dining places selling Uzbek and western food. 

How to get to the Book Bazaar

Get out at the  Kosmonavtlar metro station . This is a metro station you really can’t miss when visiting Tashkent! 

Cross the intersection of Afrosiyob and Mirabad Street and walk towards the park. That’s where you’ll find the book bazaar. 

10. Learn about Uzbekistan’s history in the State Museum of History

If you want to learn a bit more about Uzbekistan’s history, then the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan is the place to be.

This museum has 2 floors with a range of exhibits showing the history of Uzbekistan over the past 2500 years. 

The entrance fee is  10000 UZS, 25000 UZS  if you want to take photos (not really worth it in my opinion) and you can get an English-speaking guide for  8000 UZS  (this is worth it if you want to learn more).

The museum is open daily, except on Mondays, from 10 am until 6 pm. 

If you’re not really into musea, it’s worth passing there anyways as the architecture of the museum is quite interesting to see.

It’s built in the form of a cube, blending a Soviet approach with oriental decorative patterns. This Soviet-Modernism architecture can also be found back in other places in Central Asia. 

How to get to the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

The nearest metro station is  Mustakilik Maydoni , one of the most beautiful metro stations in Tashkent!

If you’re following this itinerary, it’s a 7-minute walk from the Book Bazaar to the museum. You’ll pass the beautiful Alisher Navoi Opera on the way. 

If you want to see a performance in the opera building, you can check the program at the small ticket office outside the building. I didn’t go inside the opera building but I’ve heard it’s quite grandiose. 

Top Things to do in Bukhara – Bukhara City Guide

11. Watch the stunning fountains and monuments at Independence Square

Independence Square , also known as Memorial Square, is a popular gathering place for the residents of Tashkent. It’s located right in the center of Tashkent. 

This square used to be known as Lenin Square during the Soviet Union but upon declaration of independence in 1991, it was re-named Mustakillik Maydoni, which translates to Independence Square in English.

It’s used for large gatherings and performances on festive days, like Uzbekistan Independence Day (1st of September) and New Year (1st of January). 

Independence Square has some of the most beautiful fountains of the city and a number of significant monuments.

Among them, 16 marble columns joined by a bridge and sculptures of storks on top of it that symbolize peace, the Independence Monument itself and a statue of a woman holding a baby, the symbol of Motherland. 

How to get to Independence Square:

Mustakilik Maydoni   metro station is right at Independence Square. It’s a stunning metro you definitely have to see!

If you’re coming from the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, just keep walking down the road. Independence Square is just a 5-minute walk from the museum.

12. Go for a stroll around Amir Timur Square

Amir Temur, also known as Tamerlane, is Uzbekistan’s national hero and the most famous Central Asian conqueror.

You’ll hear his name very often in Uzbekistan, especially in  Samarkand   as this city was the center of his Temurid Empire. 

The Amir Temur Square is a little park and ideal for an afternoon stroll or to take a break from all your sightseeing in Tashkent. 

The highlight of the square is the 7-meters high statue of Amir Temur on his horse, which is a popular spot for the locals to take photos and selfies. 

How to get to Amir Timur Square:

Get out at  Amir Temur   metro station. 

If you’re following this itinerary, you can make the pleasant 7-minute walk from Independence Square to Amir Temur square along Sailkogh Street (see #15 below). 

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

13. Have a beer at Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is one of the most iconic sights of Tashkent. It’s a must-see place in Tashkent if you like Soviet architecture.

The inside of the hotel isn’t really spectacular but you can walk in and go to the bar on the 17th floor for a beer and a good view of the city.  Tip: Go there for sunset!

How to get to Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is behind the Amir Timur statue so get out at Amir Temur metro station. The hotel is so massive that you can’t miss it. 

14.  Visit Amir Temur Museum

As I’ve mentioned already above, Amir Temur is the national hero of Uzbekistan and this museum is dedicated to him.

The architecture of the building is quite photogenic. The inside of the museum is also very beautiful with its golden-domed ceiling.

The entrance fee to visit the Amir Temur Museum is 16000 UZS  ( 30000 UZS  if you want to take photos).  You’ll find some paintings and belongings of Amir Temur, as well as a copy of the Qoran and small-scale models of the most important mosques of Uzbekistan.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am until 5 pm. It’s closed on Mondays.

How to get to Amir Timur Museum

The Amir Timur Museum is located next to Amir Timur Square. Get out at  Amir Temur metro station.

15. Enjoy the evening on Broadway Boulevard (Sailkogh Street)

Sailkogh Street is a pedestrian street that unites the two most important squares of Tashkent: Amir Temur Square and Independence Square. 

The street is known as Broadway Boulevard is a very popular place for the locals to enjoy time with their friends and families.

You can find all kinds of food, souvenir, and art stalls on this boulevard, along with street artists and carnival games for kids. 

It’s particularly nice to walk there during the early evening when Broadway Boulevard is illuminated by all kinds of lights. 

How to get to Broadway Boulevard

You can get out at Amir Temur metro station   and walk from Amir Temur Square or the museum to the boulevard.

You can also get out at Mustakillik Maydoni metro station  and walk along Broadway Boulevard after you’ve visited Independence Square.

Tashkent City Tours and Experiences

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.

Tashkent is also on the itinerary of my Uzbekistan Adventure Tours .

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

Uzbekistan itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan

Where to eat in Tashkent – Tashkent Restaurants

Tashkent is a big city so the restaurant options are practically endless. There’s a wide selection of restaurants that can satisfy travelers with different budgets.

Whether you want a traditional restaurant where you can try some Uzbek Plov or you’re craving some western food, you’ll find plenty of savory options in Tashkent.

Here are the restaurants I suggest:

1.Besh Qozon

This is the place you don’t want to miss in the capital of Uzbekistan. Eating at Besh Qozon is one of the top things to do while in Tashkent (see above). 

This restaurant is a bit outside of the city center but believe me, eating there is absolutely worth it! If you arrive there a bit before noon, you’ll witness hundreds of kilograms of rice being cooked right in front of you.

The ambiance of this place is fantastic. When you’ll walk in, you’ll see men stirring the rice in a giant pot. It’s mainly locals who eat there. This is great because the best way to capture the spirit of Tashkent is to eat where the locals do.

The plov served here is delicious and it only costs 25000 UZS (around $2.50) for a big bowl of plov. You’ll find the Central Asian Plov Center in Tashkent near the metro station of  Bodomzor . 

2. National Food

National Food is one of Tashkent’s best restaurants. You’ll get a wonderful culinary experience of Uzbekistan’s cuisine and the restaurant is set in a traditional Uzbekistan decor that offers a warm and welcoming ambiance. National Food is located at walking distance from Gafur Gulom Metro Station .

Caravan is another great budget-friendly Tashkent restaurant that offers delicious traditional food, rustic decor, and live music. It’s located in a small suburb, about 30 minutes walking from Tashkent Metro (best would be to take a taxi to get there). They have great manti (Central Asian dumplings ), salads, and Uzbek wine. Caravan has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Afsona is a modern Uzbek restaurant with a terrace, located near Ming O’rik metro station . The budget-friendly menu offers traditional Uzbek dishes such as plov, somosa, manty and dolma, as well as vegetarian options. There’s often some live music so it’s a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Uzbekistan Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Uzbekistan?

Where to stay in Tashkent?

Tashkent offers a wide choice of hostels for budget travelers to top-end hotels for those who enjoy that extra bit of luxury. I also stayed a couple of times at an Airbnb in Tashkent.

1. Budget Hostels (less than $20 per person)

• Topchan Hostel

Topchan hostel’s location is ideal if you’re traveling by yourself and visiting Tashkent for the day. It’s at a 30-minutes walking distance from the railway station to start (or finish) your travels in Uzbekistan. See the rates and availability for “Topchan Hostel”

• Light Hostel

This is another hostel 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. See the rates and availability for “Light Hostel”

• Jules Verne Hostel

Jules Verne is a lovely hostel located near the Minor Mosque in Tashkent. You don’t have to go far to get to a metro station or walk to the city center of Tashkent. Click to check out rates and availability for “Jules Verne Hostel”

2. Mid-range (between $20 and $50 per night)

• Leader Hotel

I stayed at the Leader hotel while hiking in Uzbekistan and it was my base across the trip. It has beautiful rooms (one of mine had a *chandelier*), hot showers, great food, and excellent service. The rooms average around $50 per night.  Check out rates and availability for “Leader Hotel”

• Great Trip Mini-Hotel

Great Trip Mini-Hotel offers comfortable rooms with a shared lounge, free private parking and a garden. It’s located in a quiet residential area close to the Tashkent TV-Tower and Japanse Garden and other places of interest in Tashkent. See rates and availability for “Great Trip Mini-Hotel”

• Hotel Suzuk-Ota

Hotel Suzuk-Ota is a highly-rated hotel in the center of Tashkent. It offers clean and nice rooms, a shared lounge and a garden and is located in a park next to the Suzuk Ota Mosque, at walking distance from a mall and many restaurants. The closest metro stations are Chorsu and Bunyodkor. Click to check out rates and availability for “Hotel Suzuk-Ota”

3. High-end (+ $50 per night)

• Hyatt Regency Hotel

If you like to splurge a bit, you can stay at the  Hyatt Regency Hotel   with its stunning rooms, indoor swimming pool and a restaurant on the 7th floor. Check out rates and availability for “Hyatt Regency Hotel”

• Ichan Qal’a Hotel

Another stunning luxurious hotel we’d recommend is the Ichan Qal’a Hotel. This hotel doesn’t only offer beautifully decorated rooms but also an indoor fitness center and swimming pool.  See rates and availability for “Ichan Qal’a Hotel”

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

My Tashkent photography gear

This is the gear I used to capture Tashkent. You can also see my article on photography essentials and cameras for travel photographers for more information.

• Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-90
• Main lens: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6
• Wide-angle lens : Leica DG Vario-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0
• Prime lens: Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7
• Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod (Hybrid Head)

How to get to Tashkent?

Tashkent is very well connected by train with other Uzbek cities such as Bukhara , Khiva or Samarkand .

It’s a city that is also very easy to reach from Almaty in Kazakhstan or from Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan .

1. How to get from Tashkent airport to the city center

It’s a 30-minute drive to get from the airport to the city center of Tashkent by taxi.

As soon as you exit the airport, you’ll be greeted by eager taxi drivers who are happy to bring you to the city center of Tashkent for 50.000 UZS.

This is the same rate as the “official” taxi office in the airport, which doesn’t make sense as the standard price for a taxi from the airport to the city center of Tashkent is between 20.000 and 25.000 UZS (around US$2 – US$3).

This means you’ll have to negotiate the price with the driver and you might not feel like playing the bargaining game after a long flight. So here’s a good tip.

When you exit the airport, ignore the taxi drivers who are standing at the gate. Walk to the left towards the parking lot across ‘Departures’. There you’ll find taxi drivers who just drove travelers from the city center to the airport.

They’ll be happy to quickly return to the city center and therefore are a lot easier to negotiate with. Offer the driver 20.000 UZS, max 25.000 UZS.

Show him the money and tell him to take it or leave it. He’ll probably try to ask for more but as soon as you start walking towards another taxi, he’ll very likely take it…

Another way is to install the Yandex Taxi app on your phone. You can easily order a taxi through the app and it shows you how much you have to pay upfront.

2. How to get to Tashkent from Almaty by public transport

It’s possible to travel from Almaty to Tashkent by bus and by train. Although the bus and train rides can take a long time (13 and 16 hours respectively), it’s a very relaxing journey.

It’s definitely a good option to travel this way if you’re on a budget and/or if you have plenty of time to spare.

How to get from Almaty to Tashkent by bus or by train. 

3. How to get to Tashkent from Bishkek by public transport?

There is now a bus line connecting Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan with Tashkent in Uzbekistan.

Traveling between the two cities by bus takes about 8 to 13 hours depending on how long it takes to cross the borders and this bus runs at night.

How to get from Bishke k to Tashkent by bus. 

4. How to get to Tashkent from Bukhara by public transport?

Getting from Bukhara to the Uzbek capital is very easy. There is a high-speed train that connects the two cities as well as a standard train. It’s also possible to take a night train towards Tashkent. It leaves Bukhara at 10:30 PM and arrives in Tashkent around 6:30 AM.

Traveling between the two cities by bus is also super convenient.

Getting from Bukhara to Tashkent by train

Bukhara’s train station is about twenty minutes by taxi from the old town. It’s located in the newer part of Bukhara called Kogon.

You can reach it from the old city center by taxi for 20000 som. Taxi drivers tend to overcharge tourists but you shouldn’t pay more than this.

You’ll need your passport to buy a train ticket. The train station is usually very crowded with people so it’s preferable to arrive there early in the day.

You can book your tickets online on the official Uzbek Railways website . It also shows you the train schedules. Read my Uzbekistan Railways Guide with all the information on how to take trains in Uzbekistan and how to order tickets online.

In Tashkent, you will arrive at the Northern train station. It’s right next to a metro station so it’s easy to reach the city center from the station. You can also reach the city center of Tashkent from the station for 16000 som.

It’s possible to take a bus from Bukhara to Tashkent from the northern bus station on Gijduvon street, north of town.

How to get from Bukhara to Tashkent by bus?

Reaching Tashkent from Bukhara by bus takes around 8 hours and costs around 60000 som. You can buy your ticket directly at the bus station or through the official website where you can also check the bus schedules.

5. How to get to Tashkent from Khiva by public transport?

How to get from khiva to tashkent by train.

It’s possible to take trains from Khiva to Tashkent. There are currently 2 trains a day connecting Tashkent and Khiva and the journey takes around 16 hours.

I hope this guide was useful and that you’ll have a great time in Tashkent.

If you have any questions or updates about Tashkent, let me and other readers know in the comments below!

Related posts

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

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12 thoughts on “the 15 best things to do in tashkent uzbekistan – tashkent city guide”.

hello Cynthia, what an incredible journey you’re sharing with us! Your adventures in Uzbekistan are truly captivating. I’ve been planning my own trip there next month, and your vlogs have only heightened my excitement and really a great help for me. Your insights into the culture, the food, and the breathtaking landscapes are invaluable for someone like me who’s about to embark on a similar adventure. Thank you for taking us along with you on this unforgettable expedition!”

Hello Eloisa, thank you so much for your kind words, it means a lot!! Wishing you a fantastic time in Uzbekistan!

Enjoyed reading your page and learning about you, Cynthia. We are planning a 5-day trip to Tashkent and Samarkand in November. Will let you know abour our experiences there.

Have a great time Suresh and always happy to hear more about your experiences!

Is the Central Asian Plov Center will be opened during Ramadan? I will be visiting Uzbekistan next month, and my visit to Tashkent still falls during Ramadan.

The Plov Center should be open as Ramadan isn’t as strictly followed in Uzbekistan as in other countries. Have a great trip!

Very help full information, currently planning a backpacking budget tour to Kazahstan & Usbekistan. Your detail information will definitely help me a lot, thanks.

Hi Jayshree, I’m very happy to hear that my travel guides are helping you! When are you planning to travel to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan?

Dag Cynthia Vermits jij in België woont veronderstel ik dat je Nederlands spreekt…indien niet dan zal ik de mail opnieuw sturen maar dan in ‘t Engels. Ik ga op m’n eentje van 9-26 oktober naar Uzbekistan. De route ligt vast. Maar ik zou je advies knn gebruiken ivm kiezen tussen een dag meer in Tashkent (1 dag of 2 dagen) ipv Khiva (2 ipv 3 dagen) . Het verschil is een ochtendvlucht in Tashkent (7.25u dus vroeg uit de veren) of een avondvlucht om 19.00u. Super dankje voor je advies en de prachtige foto’s !!. Fijne, zonnige groetjes uit Boechout. Peggy.

Nu begrijp ik wat je in je mailtje bedoelde 😀 Ik had je reactie hier nog niet gezien! Je hebt vermeld dat je intussen al je beslissing hebt gemaakt. Eigenlijk kan je alles in Khiva in 2 dagen bezichtigen, tenzij je nog een daguitstap vanuit Khiva naar de woestijn wil maken.

Groetjes! Cynthia

It is nice journey to know about Uzbekistan

I’m happy you enjoyed the post!

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