best time to travel uzbekistan

TRAVEL to UZBEKISTAN – Ultimate Destination Guide [2024]

Everything you need to know before you travel to Uzbekistan in our comprehensive 2023 Uzbekistan travel guide.

In years gone by, Central Asia was an expanse of land that few people knew or even cared about. At the heart of Central Asia lies Uzbekistan an intoxicating mix of Soviet brutalism and Islamic wonder.

With travel to Uzbekistan getting both easier and more accessible in recent years, now is the perfect time to go!

Travelling in Uzbekistan: At a Glance

Here are the basics of travel to Uzbekistan.

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN UZBEKISTAN

With so much to see and do in Uzbekistan, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Uzbekistan you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Visit the Aral Sea 

Once the world’s fourth-largest lake, the Aral Sea has now shrunk to 20% of its original size but it still a must-see in Uzbekistan.

Explore the ship graveyard at Moynaq, climb onto Ustyurt Plateau, and watch the sunset over what’s left of the Aral Sea!

View Spectacular Islamic Architecture 

Samarkand is home to what many believe is the most stunning Islamic architecture in Uzbekistan. The Registan is the largest and most well known. However, the Gur-E-Amir Mausoleum and the Shah-i-Zinda are equally spectacular. 

Explore the Backstreets of Bukhara

Bukhara’s narrow backstreets offer a break from the searing heat and wonderful opportunity to take in the city’s gorgeous Islamic architecture. 

The photogenic Chor-Minor is an absolute must as well as the Kalon Mosque and Minaret. Head to Chasmai Mirob for some stunning sunset views over Bukhara. 

Get Lost In Old Tashkent

The area around the Chorsu Bazaar, Khast Iman and the Kolkuz Canal offer a view of old Tashkent at it’s finest. 

Head to the Amir Timur Square or the Navoi Theatre for a view of Soviet Tashkent in all it’s communist glory. 

Chow down on Plov 

This quintessential Central Asian dish can be found all over Uzbekistan, so make sure you get your fill!  

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN UZBEKISTAN

If you’re planning on travelling to Uzbekistan, don’t miss these other attractions.

Stand in awe as you wander around the Palace of Khudayar Khan – Home to the last ruler of the Kokand Khanate, this palace was known as the “Pearl of Kokand,” and for good reason!

Admire the ruins of the Aksaray Palace in Shakhrisabz – These stunning ruins are just a short drive from Samarkand and are well worth the day trip.

Visit the ship graveyard in Moynaq – Once home to the thriving fishing industry, Moynaq is now home to a collection of ships rusting away on what was the bed of the Aral Sea.

Walk around Khiva’s city walls – Get up early and take a wander around Khiva’s city walls for some spectacular views of this ancient wonder.

Visit Elliq-Qala – This translates as 50 fortresses, although the majority of that number are not in great condition. However, the ones that are, are nothing short of spectacular.

Marvel at Tashkent’s metro stations – Tashkent’s metro stations have had a reputation for great art for a while. In 2018 you were legally allowed to take photos so enjoy!

Visit the bug pit aka Zindon Prison – A gruesome part of Bukhara’s tumultuous and often violent history. This was the pit where William Stoddart and Arthur Connolly were held.

Explore the country through Train Travel – Riding the rails across Uzbekistan’s desert landscape veers between brutally hot, and truly spectacular.

Be sure to look into all of these great things to do in Uzbekistan during your visit.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN UZBEKISTAN

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Uzbekistan. Depending on your interests, trip duration, and time of year you will find lots of things to do during any length of stay. 

Make sure you read our complete guide to the best places to visit in Uzbekistan in addition to the highlights below.

A city brimming with gorgeous Islamic architecture and oodles of history.

Check out our Samarkand city guide here .

Get lost in the backstreets after chowing down on some spectacular Bukharan plov.

Check out our Bukhara city guide here .

The largest city in Central Asia has plenty to do and has a healthy tip of the hat to Tashkent’s Soviet past.

Check out our Tashkent city guide here .

This tiny little town close to the border of Turkmenistan features some wonderful views from the city walls. Head out of Khiva to check out a number of ancient fortresses with Ayaz Kala being particularly spectacular.

Check out our Khiva city guide here .

BEST UZBEKISTAN TRAVEL ITINERARY

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or have a general idea of what kind of things you would like to see and do, we’ve put together a few itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Uzbekistan that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Most travellers will want to budget at least 2-3 weeks to give you plenty of time to explore all of Uzbekistan’s most well-known sights and a few off the beaten track ones in the Fergana Valley.

However, be sure to check all travel advice before visiting this region.

For more details on planning the best Uzbekistan itinerary be sure to check out this post .

UZBEKISTAN TRIP PLANNING

Now that you have a good overview of what you want to do and how long you want to visit Uzbekistan, let’s fill you in on all the other details of your trip!

BEST TIME TO VISIT UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan bakes during the summer and gets pretty nippy in the winter. Spring and autumn bring a nice balance of the two.

However, this time is naturally the most popular with visitors. But even in the busiest times, most places in Uzbekistan are not heaving with tourists, unlike some parts of Europe. 

March to May and September to October brings the most pleasant climate. From June to August the mercury is usually hovering in the high 30’s C. 

UZBEKISTAN TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

When it comes to budgeting, Uzbekistan is slap bang in the middle of the five Central Asian countries. You’ll find that it is cheaper than Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, but more expensive than Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. 

However, in comparison to Europe, North America and even parts of South East Asia, Uzbekistan is noticeably cheaper. 

This table does not factor in trips to the Aral Sea which often costs around $240 per person.

Budgeting Tips:

Uzbekistan is generally quite affordable, so it’s already quite easy on the wallet. However, there are a few tips that will help you to save a little bit of money.

1) Utilise trains and marshrutka (van/bus)where possible when traveling between Tashkent, Nukus, Samarkand and Bukhara.

2)  Use Metered Taxies in Tashkent. 

3)  Know your Som. Occasionally people may slip 500 Som notes into replacing larger denominations. 

4) The local markets offer unbeatable value and make a great lunch option, even compared to reasonably-priced restaurants. 

5) Learn a little bit of Russian as English is very rarely spoken. This will go a long way to helping you buying tickets, arranging marshrutka’s, and negotiating.

6) Exchange money at banks not the black-market. Banks now offer the correct exchange rate between Uzbek Soms and foreign currency.

Here are a few other things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Budget Traveller ($30 Single / $55 Couples)

Uzbekistan is an extremely budget-friendly destination. Even at this end of the scale, you can expect a private room in guesthouses, although you can take advantage of hostels in Tashkent.

You will be eating at Uzbek restaurants and getting around on public transport. Being at the budget end of the scale you a trip to the Aral Sea is out of the question. However, a day trip or two is certainly possible.

Mid-Range Traveller ($60 Single / $120 Couple)

With a little more cash to spend, you can expect to stay in hotels with plenty of mod-cons and amenities.

Additionally, a trip out to the Aral Sea will be affordable so you’re probably going to want to take advantage of that.

Although you will be primarily travelling by train between cities you may be able to splurge on a private taxi from say Nukus to Khiva.

Luxury Traveller ($120+ Single / $200+ Couple)

At the upper-end scale, it’s 4 and 5-star hotels with private taxis to get you around. You can expect to eat at the best restaurants and arrange private tours everywhere you go.

Another option is to book onto a private organised tour that takes care of everything but at a more significant cost.

GETTING TO AND AROUND UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan is quite an easy country to get around and transport is certainly in the adorable bracket. Border crossings are an exception to this rule, with the costs of marshrutkas and private taxi’s being noticeably more expensive, as you would expect. 

Roads are generally in good condition, with the exception of some stretches of road in Karakalpakstan in the northeast of the country.

Guesthouses and hotels can assist you in booking private taxis, marshrutkas, and trains to wherever you need to go. 

Entry Requirements

In recent years Uzbekistan has relaxed it’s visa policy significantly with the majority of western and developed nations being able to enter visa-free or with an e-visa.

The days of jumping through hoops at an Uzbek embassy seem to have gone for now.  

For more information on Uzbekistan’s visa policy please read more on the official Uzbekistan government’s website .

Getting Around Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is blessed with a reasonably efficient transport network. That being said public transport is limited in Karakalpakstan and the Fergana Valley meaning a private taxi is your best bet here. 

Travelling by Air

You’re most likely to be travelling by air when entering the country. However, you might opt to fly between Tashkent and Nukus rather than take the 18 hour night train.

Uzbekistan Airlines , which operates the vast majority of the country’s internal flights, is a safe, modern airline.

Travelling by Private Taxi

This is a very common way to travel in Uzbekistan. Naturally, private taxi is a popular option from the airport, train and bus stations and border crossings.

However, it is also a great option when travelling between cities. 

When travelling in a private taxi between you will be paying per seat. Therefore the taxi doesn’t leave until it’s full. So you have choices to wait for that to happen or pay for the empty seats.

Very often your guesthouse will be able to arrange one. However, there is not much chance of negotiating. Whereas if you find someone on the street then you will be able to negotiate the price.

Generally, if you book a private taxi through a guesthouse it’s more expensive, but the service is more reliable. 

If you are travelling within a city, especially Tashkent, then any car is a potential private taxi. Simply stand at the side of the road with your thumb out and someone, in a taxi or regular car will pull over.

Prices can occasionally be negotiated. But very often they are small sums of money and it’s not worth negotiating.

Note that this is not perceived to be hitchhiking. Drivers who pick you up have the expectation that you will pay. 

Travelling by Marshrutky/Bus

Marshrutky is a converted transit van that can be found all of the former Soviet Union. They operate like buses in any other country and are generally cheap and reliable. 

However, there is often a certain level of flexibility to be expected with leaving times, as very often drivers want to fill up the seats. And if you have large bags that cannot fit under seats then be prepared to have to pay for an additional seat for your luggage. 

Negotiating bus stations can be a particularly challenging experience even if you know some Russian. This is a similar story across Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Also don’t expect a formal cue, very often it’s first come first served. 

This method of transport is particularly common in the Fergana Valley. 

Travelling by Train

Uzbekistan has a reliable train network that runs from Nukus in the west to the Fergana Valley in the east, stopping at most of Uzbekistan’s big hitters in between (with the exception of Khiva). 

Train journeys are generally quicker and more comfortable than private taxies and marshrutkas . This is not always the case, so make sure you do your research. 

Train tickets can be brought from travel agencies or from dedicated train ticket offices which are fairly easy to find.

However as mentioned earlier, it is likely that you will need to know some Russian to make the process more bearable for yourself and poor sod behind the desk. 

Trains are not particularly crowded and are very reliable, especially the high-speed trains. 

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

Here are a few apps that we think you should acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Uzbekistan. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• iTranslate – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Uzbekistan words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Uzbekistan.
• maps.me – This awesome offline map service is a great way to help you navigate your way around Uzbekistan.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan serves up plenty of Central Asian classics. They claim that the plov in Uzbekistan is the best in the region.

You will be able to find manti, lagman and shashlik everywhere. However, make sure you check out the country’s markets as Uzbekistan is one of the world’s most prominent producer of apricots and cherries.

They are also major producers of various types of nuts. 

PLOV – Uzbekistan’s national dish can be found all over the country at almost every restaurant. It is believed that the oil at the bottom of the pan can act as an aphrodisiac. 

SHASHLIK – As the sun begins to go down the smell of Shashlik will fill the air. Usually consisting of chunks of lamb and occasionally beef, it’s the perfect way to end a hard day of exploring. 

MANTI – Manti are boiled or steamed dumplings that are filled with spiced meat usually being lamb or ground beef. In Uzbekistan, they are often served with a healthy dollop of sour cream. 

LAGMAN – These spicy tomato noodles are very similar to noodle dishes found slightly further east in China’s Xinjiang province. The base of the dish is pulled noodles, with tomatoes, onions, garlic and peppers being the key ingredients. It’s then topped off with meat and a variety of other vegetables. 

SAMSA – This is probably the most common street food in Uzbekistan. The filling is often made from minced lamb or beef, with cheese, pumpkin and potato also being available. In Uzbekistan’s markets, these are often cheap as chips, being baked in huge batches. 

KOREAN FOOD IN TASHKENT – Uzbekistan has a surprisingly large Korean population mainly clustered in Tashkent. The prices are more expensive in comparison to a restaurant serving traditional Uzbek fare, but the food is great. 

PLACES TO STAY IN UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan is full of great accommodation options. Hostels are mainly found in Tashkent, with guesthouses and hotels common outside of the capital. 

The majority of large hotel chains can be found in Tashkent with more and more springing up in Samarkand and Bukhara. Interestingly Tashkent had the lions share of Soviet-style hotels if that’s your thing.

Generally, accommodation is much cheaper than other travel destinations, which is why dormitory-style rooms are not so common here. 

Types of Accommodations

The majority of hostels are found in Tashkent and are a mixture of dorms and private rooms. Hostels in Tashkent book out quickly so you’ll have to book in advance. Topchan and Art Hostel are the two most well known.

Hotels in Uzbekistan come in the form of small intimate guesthouses or a gigantic Soviet monstrosity. 

As tourism to Uzbekistan has increased more and more people have been extending their homes or building on plots of land creating some incredible guesthouses. 

Rooms are generally very spacious with private bathrooms being the norm. Additionally, the vast majority of hotels and guesthouses include a typical Uzbek breakfast of eggs, bread, jam and meat. 

Another good option for accommodation in Uzbekistan in recent years is AirBnB. And there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As Uzbekistan has opened up Airbnb has become more of an option for travellers. That being said you will need to check if your visa allows you to stay in private accommodation.

In some cases, individuals who are entering with an in-passport visa will need to stay at hotels or guesthouses where foreigners can be appropriately registered. 

UZBEKISTAN TRAVEL TIPS 

While there are many basic travel tips , we suggest you use when travelling to Uzbekistan, there are also plenty of Uzbekistan-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Uzbekistan: 

1. Learn Some Russian

A little bit of Russian is an absolute lifesaver. From buying train tickets to negotiating a private taxi to the border, a little bit of the lingo will make your life a whole lot easier. 

2. Get out early 

From May the temperature is consistently in the 30’s C. Avoid the sometimes brutal midday heat by getting out early and exploring before breakfast. It will be much cooler, and best of all there will be hardly any people about. 

3. Know where your local market is 

Central Asian fare tends to be heavy on the meat but rather light on the fruit and veg. And with the fact that that the vast majority of travellers will be dining out, there’s a good chance you won’t be eating a balanced diet. 

As a major fruit producer in the region, Uzbekistan’s markets are chock full of awesome produce. So get your fix there. 

4. Organise your cash

Getting your hands on some Uzbek Som outside of Uzbekistan is an absolute nightmare. So you will need to plan ahead. 

Cash points are not common in Uzbekistan, and some will not take foreign cards.

You will be fine in Tashkent, however outside of the capital, it can be a little more hit and miss.

Therefore the vast majority of travellers bring a healthy amount of US dollars with them to exchange into Uzbek Som at banks or currency exchanges, which you can find in any destination that may have foreign visitors. 

US dollars are the easiest currency to exchange. However, Euros, British pounds, Japanese yen and Chinese renminbi can also be exchanged, albeit at fewer locations.

The notes you exchange need to be in good condition – so no rips, major creases or folds.  

5. Always have a bag

Due to the amount of currency you will possess, you will not be able to carry Uzbek Soms in your wallet or purse. So be prepared to be carrying around a bag loaded with cash. 

6. Bring a scarf (women only) 

As Uzbekistan is an Islamic nation women will often needing to cover their heads when entering religious buildings. However this not regularly enforced. Please be mindful and respectful.

UZBEKISTAN PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Uzbekistan, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

STAYING SAFE IN UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan is generally a safe country. That being said you should take the same precautions you would in your home country. 

Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur at markets and other crowded areas. Due to the fact you will have to carry your Uzbek som in a bag make sure you keep an eye on it. 

There are the standard scams involving taxi drivers, such as massive surcharges at the airport. Check your bills in restaurants as occasionally items will be added that you didn’t order. However, this is rare. 

The peculiarity of almost every vehicle being a taxi is a strange thing to overcome. We never felt unsafe doing this and it is standard practice in Uzbekistan. However, make sure you have your wits about you. 

If you are visiting any sites dedicated to the country’s former president/dictator Islam Karimov, avoid photographing anything controversial and act in a respectful manner.

In spite of the positive changes made by the Uzbek government, this is still one of the most repressive political systems on the planet. 

STAYING CONNECTED IN UZBEKISTAN

The Internet in Uzbekistan is surprisingly quick and reliable. Picking up a SIM card in Tashkent is pretty quick and easy, with the main mobile provider being Ucell.

Incidentally, some of their outlets accept payment in dollars at a fixed rate, rather than the market rate so make sure you have already been to the bank or currency exchange. 

The vast majority of accommodation options have reliable wifi. However, in some cases, they will not support streaming or downloading. 

If you find yourself up in Nukus heading out towards the Aral Sea internet connections are noticeably slower.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER IN UZBEKISTAN

The best way to be a responsible traveller in Uzbekistan is to follow the rules and behave in a respectful manner.

This is a country that is just opening up to travel and tourism, so many locals are curious and will often be interested to learn about foreign cultures and practice their English. 

Additionally, you MUST always behave in a respectful manner around religious sites. 

KEY RUSSIAN TRAVEL PHRASES

Although Uzbek is the national language, Russian is widely spoken and understood by the majority of the population.

Less Russian is spoken in the countries north western region of Karakalpakstan where Uzbek and their own local dialect reign supreme. 

Very often signs are written in both Uzbek and Russian. 

You don’t have to be fluent in Russian to have a great time when you travel to Uzbekistan. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Uzbek people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT UZBEKISTAN

Maybe you already know everything about Uzbekistan. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Uzbekistan.

• Stans by Me – An travel writer’s account of his time on an organised tour in Central Asia.
• A Carpet Ride to Khiva – A fascinating account of a gentleman who spent 7 years living on the silk road spending a substantial amount of his time in the city of Khiva.
• The Great Game – The Struggle for Empire in High Asia – Certainly a heavier read, but this is an excellent book on the great game between the British and Russian Empires that shaped Central Asia.
• The Silks Roads – An New History of the World – As a central hub of the silk road Uzbekistan has long been at the crossroad of culture and history. This book is a long, but phenomenal account of the history of the silk road.

Check Out Our Uzbekistan Travel Blog Posts

The perfect uzbekistan itinerary (2024 guide), the 25 best things to do in uzbekistan [2024 edition], the 14 best places to visit in uzbekistan [2024 guide], 19 awesome things to do in bukhara, uzbekistan [2024], 14 best things to do in khiva, uzbekistan [2024], 16 epic things to do in tashkent, uzbekistan (2024 guide), 15 best things to do in samarkand, uzbekistan [2024], 40 incredible photos of uzbekistan that will blow your mind.

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

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From skiing and wine-tasting to exploring the historic cities of the Silk Road, you’ll never be short of things to do in Uzbekistan.

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Uzbekistan is now much easier to visit than in the past. We've got all the planning tips you need to make your first visit all you dreamed it would be.

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Travel the Silk Road through Uzbekistan by train, car or taxi with these essential transport tips.

Visa Requirements

It’s never been easier to travel to Uzbekistan – read on to see if you need a visa to and how to go about getting one.

Money and Costs

Experience everything the Silk Road has to offer in Uzbekistan, one of Asia’s most affordable destinations.

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Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan: A Climate and Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Uzbekistan but not sure when the best time to visit is? This complete guide covers everything you need to know about Uzbekistan's climate and the ideal times to travel. Read on for tips from specialist Audley Travel.

Uzbekistan is a beautiful country located along the legendary Silk Road in Central Asia. With historic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as well as stunning mountain scenery, Uzbekistan has so much to offer visitors. However, its extreme continental climate means the time you visit makes a big difference to your experiences.

When is the Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan? A Month-by-Month Guide

The time to visit Uzbekistan depends on what kind of trip you want. To find out the ideal times to see Uzbekistan's famous Silk Road cities and enjoy comfortable temperatures, read our month-by-month guide:

March to June

Spring in Uzbekistan brings pleasant weather, with temperatures sitting around 25°C during March and April. As the months progress temperatures continue climbing, sometimes reaching 40°C by early June.

The pleasant weather makes March to June a wonderful time to explore Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Uzbekistan’s other historic cities. March and May are especially popular with tourists. Late April brings the Silk and Spices festival celebrating the country’s cultural heritage.

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July and August

July and August are the hottest months, with extremely strong sun and temperatures over 40°C. Rainfall is low, but the heat can be uncomfortably hot for sightseeing.

However for travellers who enjoy extreme heat, this can be an ideal time to visit Uzbekistan. Spend summer days relaxing in shady hotel gardens, World Heritage site exploring at dawn and sunset or seeing Uzbek mountain areas like Fergana.

September to Early November

Autumn in Uzbekistan brings dry, sunny days perfect for travel. Temperatures start dropping from early September, sitting around a comfortable 25°C during October.

The bright, golden light is perfect for photographers. September to early November is seen by many travellers as the best time to visit Uzbekistan. You’ll avoid intense heat while sights are less crowded than spring. It's also harvest time - sample fresh fruit and see bustling village bazaars.

Early November to February

November sees temperatures start to cool further, although early winter stays mild compared to January and February which are the coldest months. Mountainous areas can be good for skiing.

While colder weather means fewer travellers, Uzbekistan’s historic cities retain their magic. Chilling winds can often make it feel much colder though. Our specialists can advise on the best places to travel in Uzbekistan during winter.

What is the cheapest month to visit Uzbekistan?

The cheapest time for travel in Uzbekistan is during the winter months from November to February. With far fewer tourists, flight and accommodation prices are lower. While temperatures can be freezing in some areas, cities like Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent still have cultural sights open and hotels operating. However, high season events won’t be running.

How many days do you need in Uzbekistan?

Most travelers spend around 10-14 days exploring Uzbekistan. This allows enough time to see the famous Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, plus other highlights like Tashkent and the Fergana Valley. With extensive distances between sights, any less than 7-10 days means very rushed sightseeing. Up to three weeks lets you delve deeper into Uzbek food, culture and nature.

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What is the hottest month in Uzbekistan?

July and August tie for the hottest months of the year in Uzbekistan. Daily highs average between 35-40°C but can exceed 45°C in desert regions. Rainfall is low as humidity climbs, making sightseeing extremely hot and best avoided by most visitors during midsummer.

How hot is Uzbekistan in the summer?

Summers in Uzbekistan bring extreme heat, with average temperatures of 35-40°C through July and August. However in desert areas like Karakalpakstan in western Uzbekistan, temperatures can top 45°C. Even during early June, the start of summer can see days above 30°C countrywide.

What is the warmest city in Uzbekistan?

The city of Termez, located in southeast Uzbekistan's Surkhandarya region, records the country’s highest average summer temperatures. July and August see typical daily highs around 42°C in Termez due to a desert climate. However, the Fergana Valley also often sees extreme summer heat topping 40 degrees Celsius.

Also read - The Best Time to Visit the Vatican Museums

Planning Your Uzbekistan Trip

Uzbekistan is a year-round destination, with the ideal time to visit depending on your interests. The south sees higher temperatures, while there is more chance of rain in Fergana Valley.

Always check the latest weather forecasts to decide the best time for your chosen activities. And contact our specialists - their first-hand knowledge of Uzbekistan through the seasons can help advise when to come.

With incredible history, culture, nature and hospitality, now is a wonderful time to plan your trip to Uzbekistan.

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When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

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

Best for: minimal crowds and great photography conditions

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

Best for: exploring famous sites in solitude

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for: low season crowds and prices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for: minimal crowds and exploring ancient sites in solitude

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

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

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

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Caravanistan

The Silk Road Travel Guide

When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan? It depends on your plans and preferences.

Table of Contents

Breakdown by season

Spring and autumn.

March-April and October-November have temperate, pleasant weather. Sweaty 40°+ afternoon temperatures are a possibility in a large part of the country from early May until late September.

Most major events take place in spring and autumn. It follows that this is peak season for Uzbekistan, especially for tour groups, and sites can feel crowded.

We recommend you book your train tickets , car rental and accommodation well in advance during this time.

Backpackers can leave it until the last minute; there’s always a bed available in a hostel and shared taxis can be arranged on the spot, plying the same routes as trains for the same money, only slower and less comfortable. But if you want a nice bed and breakfast in the historic centre and a comfortable ride in a fast train: book in advance.

High summer (July-August) brings unpleasant heat; you might find yourself wanting to escape to the mountains or to the comfort of your air conditioned room.

It’s sometimes difficult to time a multi-stan trip exactly right if you are planning a very short or a very long trip, but we advise to avoid Uzbekistan during summer. Too hot. You want to be in the high mountains of Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan when it’s hot, and in Uzbekistan a bit earlier or later.

Still, expect a good amount of people. Fewer tour groups, more backpacking students.

In the winter months, temperatures hover around freezing point in central Uzbekistan. In the western desert, the mercury can drop to -20. You have the place to yourself; there are not many tourists around in winter.

The atmosphere is more subdued. Prices drop. You can go skiing. Hawkers selling silk scarfs and ceramic dishes occupy themselves elsewhere.

Sightseeing : can be done year-round, but July and August are uncomfortably hot. Temperature-wise, the best months are April and October. To avoid the crowds, come between mid-November and early March.

Hiking : June to September is generally good for hiking in the Uzbek part of the Tien Shan mountains. July and August are preferred if you are planning to cross passes over 3000 m.

Cycling : Early spring or late autumn are ideal, tackling Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in July and August.

Skiing : December to March.

Rafting : Depends on the river, but generally August – October is best as the glacier melt is highest then.

Kok boru : November to March.

Events and festivals

Check our  calendar of notable events and festivals in Uzbekistan .

Climate charts

 Note that the bar charts above are averages. Outliers are not unusual.

Climate bar charts courtesy of World weather online .

When to travel the Silk Road

• When to visit Kazakhstan
• When to visit Kyrgyzstan
• When to visit Tajikistan
• When to visit Turkmenistan
• When to visit Uzbekistan

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ASIA , CENTRAL ASIA , UZBEKISTAN · September 10, 2018 Last Updated on March 10, 2024

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO TRAVELING IN UZBEKISTAN (AND WHY YOU SHOULD ABSOLUTELY DO IT)

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When I told people that I was going to Uzbekistan for 10 days, the reactions I got all shared a similar sentiment. “Why Uzbekistan?” “Where is that?” “I literally know nothing about that place.”

Truth is, I barely knew anything about traveling to Uzbekistan either. But having been to many “popular” destinations in the past, I was thirsty to explore somewhere less-known; somewhere relatively untouched.

As it turns out, Uzbekistan is actually not as hidden as I had thought — there were quite a lot of tourists — but it’s still one of the most underrated and breathtaking places I’ve ever visited. So here’s a guide on what to do and what to expect in Uzbekistan. I hope it will convince you to pay a visit too!

BACK STORY: UZBEKISTAN AND THE SILK ROAD

If you don’t have time to travel the entire length of the Silk Road, Uzbekistan is the perfect week-long glimpse into it. Located in the center of Eurasia, it played a key role back in the days not only in the trade of gold, silk, and spices but also of culture and religion.

Missionaries, scholars, and musicians who passed by the Silk Road hubs of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva brought Islamic art and teachings along with them. Today, you’ll see these three key cities bustling with beautifully ornate madrasas, mosques, and minarets — scenes you’d only expect to see inside a chapter of One Thousand And One Nights .

GETTING TO UZBEKISTAN — BY AIR OR BY CAR

Uzbekistan is one of only two double-landlocked countries in the world (the other one being Liechtenstein. This means that not only is it landlocked, but it’s also surrounded by other landlocked countries. So the most common ways of getting to Uzbekistan are by air or by car.

Flying is the easiest way to reach Uzbekistan. The main international airport is in Tashkent (TAS), but there’s also one in Samarkand (SKD), which is where my partner and I flew into.

Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines are the two main airlines that operate flights to Uzbekistan. You would therefore either have a layover in Moscow or in Istanbul somewhere on your journey. My partner and I took the Aeroflot route from London. The flight was around four hours to Moscow and another four hours from Moscow to Samarkand.

It is definitely possible to do a roadtrip around Central Asia, covering Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan as well. Taxis and buses are also available to help you cross the borders into Uzbekistan.

There are three main border crossings between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the cities of Gisht Kuprik, Chinaz, and Kungrad. From Kyrgyzstan, the main border crossings are at Gisht Kuprik, Khanabad, and Andijan. In Tajikistan, Dushanbe (its capital) is about 55 km from the border of Uzbekistan in Denau.

Some borders do have opening hours. For example, if you’re planning to enter through Gisht Kuprik, be sure to do so between 7am–9pm (Tashkent time).

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ABOUT THE UZBEKISTAN VISA

If you’re a citizen of the European Union or other select countries such as the USA, Canada, India, and Australia (there are many more too), you’re eligible for an e-visa. This means you simply have to fill out a standard online application (without needing a letter of invitation), and you’ll receive your visa to visit Uzbekistan via e-mail within two working days. You can find more information about the e-visas here , including whether you’re eligible for it.

If you’re not eligible for e-visas, you will need a letter of invitation, which isn’t as hard to obtain as it may sound. There are many travel agencies that can do that for you, online. The one my partner used is Global Connect and it cost around $65. He then applied for his visa in person through the embassy and received it within one week. We found the visa procedure to be fairly simple overall and did not encounter any issues at all.

WHAT TO SEE IN UZBEKISTAN — A SAMPLE ITINERARY

While it’s feasible to cover the main attractions of Uzbekistan in one week, my partner and I found that spending 10 days in this country was ideal. This gave us the perfect amount of time to really absorb everything and relax while sightseeing. Below are the main cities to visit, along with their must-see spots.

How long you should stay : 2-3 days

Founded in the 7th century B.C., Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Its geographic location in the center of major trade routes attracted a lot of travelers and invaders. It has been captured by both Alexander the Great in 329 BC and Genghis Khan in 1220. In the 14th century, it became the capital of the Timurid Empire.

Through the course of its history, it has been ruled by Persians, Greeks, Turks, Mongols, Chinese, and Russians. Half a dozen religions have found a home here. Today, it is the second largest city in Uzbekistan and part of the UNESCO World Heritage, listed as ‘Samarkand — Crossroads of Cultures.’

Must-see places in Samarkand

• Registan – the pearl of the city; a square with three of the world’s oldest madrasas, worth visiting both at day and at night.
• Gur-e-Amir – this stunning piece of architecture was the model for the Taj Mahal.
• Shah-i-Zinda – an avenue of mausoleums that showcase some of the richest tile work in the Muslim world.
• Bibi-Khanym Mosque – the jewel of the Timurid Empire, this was once one of the biggest mosques in the Islamic world.
• The Siob Bazaar – the city’s vibrant main market is a great place to get a taste of local food and treats – be sure to try halva (a sweet that resembles fudge).

Ulugh Beg Observatory – it showcases some of the world’s most advanced astronomical studies led by a Timurid ruler.

Note : The above places are all within walking distance of each other, aside from Ulugh Beg Observatory, which may require a taxi. In addition, if you have an extra day in Samarkand, a day trip to Shakhrisabz ,  one of Central Asia’s most ancient cities, is very much recommended.

Tip: When you visit Registan, make sure to watch a traditional Uzbek concert inside the Sher-Dor Madrasah. Against the backdrop of the gorgeous madrasah walls, you’ll see locals perform in their traditional clothing, showcasing not only their music but also their culture, such as scenes from a Uzbek wedding. The concert starts at 7pm daily, and it’s $5 per person. You can buy tickets right inside the square even right before the concert starts.

The city of Bukhara is more than 2,000 years old. Its historic center has been preserved very well for the last two centuries. It therefore gives a great glimpse into a medieval Central Asian Muslim city filled with ancient religious architecture.

Must-see places in Bukhara:

• Kalon Minaret – Genghis Khan was so impressed by this tower that back in the 13th century, that he ordered it to be spared while his troops destroyed the rest of the city.
• Kalon Mosque – this mosque, with a spectacular courtyard, is right next to Kalon Minaret.
• Ark Fortress – Bukhara’s oldest structure was the residence of its emirs for centuries .
• Chor Minor – the gatehouse of a long-gone madrasah built in 1807, it has four minarets that each represent a different religion.

Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah – built in 1652, its intricate, colorful tiles are truly impressive.

Bolo Hauz Mosque – known as the 40 Pillar Mosque, its ceiling is held by 20 wooden pillars that reflect elegantly in the pond in front of it.

Lyabi-Hauz Complex – a peaceful yet lively 17th century trading square with music playing in the evenings, and a pond with restaurants around it.

Taki-Telpak Furushon – a colorful domed bazaar with lots of interesting souvenir shops.

Tip: To get a taste of the “real Bukhara,” make sure to book a slot at a Hammam, a traditional steam bath. The Bozori Kord Hammam is one of the oldest in the world (built in the 14th century) and a great way to experience this exotic ancient ritual. Not only would you be discovering the secrets of the Oriental Massage, but you’ll also get a sense of the real way of life in Bukhara.

How long you should stay : 1-2 days

Out of all the Silk Road gems in Central Asia, the city of Khiva is perhaps the most intact, remote, and preserved of them all. This medieval town is essentially an open air museum. It has a fortress surrounding its inner city, which is home to dozens of ancient madrasas, mosques, minarets, and clay-colored houses.

Must-see places in Khiva :

• Itchan Kala – the inner town of Khiva, in which most of the city’s attractions reside. It gets crowded with tourists during the day, but walking around at dawn or dusk makes for a very peaceful and unique experience.
• Tash Hauli – a palace inside the Itchan Kala with extravagant interior decorations, blue ceramic tiles, more than 150 rooms, and 9 courtyards.
• Juma Mosque – this unique mosque has 218 wooden columns supporting its roof.
• Kuhna Ark – a fortress that used to be the residence of Khiva’s rulers.
• Watchtower – accessible through the Kuhna Ark, this is a really good spot to watch sunset with a gorgeous view of the city.
• Isfandiyar Palace – a 10-minute walk outside the west gate, it’s home to gold-embroidered ceilings and lavish chandeliers.
• Kalta Minor Minaret – a turquoise-tiled minaret begun in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan, who aspired for it to be 80m tall. Unfortunately, he dropped dead in 1855, leaving the structure unfinished at 29m, but still looking mesmerizing.
• Islom Hoja Minaret – standing 57m tall, it has the resemblance of a lighthouse, and you can climb it for fine views over the city.

Tip #1: Do not miss out on Khiva. Due to its remoteness and small size, Khiva is often overlooked and people tend to skip it if their schedule is tight. If your time in Uzbekistan is limited, cut your visit in Bukhara or Tashkent shorter by a day so that you’d have time to see Khiva. Because of how well it’s been preserved, this city truly stands out with its ancient and authentic vibe. Being there felt like walking inside a film set. The clay-colored architecture makes this town resemble a real life sand castle city — something truly unique and hard to find anywhere else in the world.

Tip #2: Get a personal guide inside Itchan Kala. There are many places in Khiva that are quite hard to find on your own. Lavish, colorful courtyards tend to be hidden behind small doors you’d never think to walk through because, from the outside, they don’t appear to lead to anywhere special. Getting a guide costs around $30 for a 3 hour tour (you pay a total of $30 even if you’re traveling in pairs), and you can request this service inside the ticket office right at the entrance of Itchan Kala.

Being the capital of Uzbekistan with the largest international airport in the country, you are most likely to fly into and out of Tashkent. Wandering around the city, you’ll find part of it cluttered with modern buildings; another part adorned with Soviet-style architecture, and yet another part that’s more traditionally Uzbek with mud-walled houses, crowded bazaars, and traditionally clad farmers hard at work.

Must-see places in Tashkent :

• The metro stations – if you’ve seen or heard about the very artistic and well-decorated metro stations in Moscow, you’ll find something very similar in Tashkent. The metro stations there were built in the former USSR and are among the most ornate in the world.
• Minor Mosque – built in 2013, it’s one of the newer monuments of the city and is covered in white marbles.
• Chorsu Bazaar – being the biggest farmers market in town, it’s the perfect place to find colorful mountains of spices, sweets, souvenirs, and the freshest fruits around.
• Hazrat Imam Complex – a religious center with a madrasah, mausoleum, and Islamic Institute, where future preachers are taught.
• Amir Timur Museum & Square – a museum about the Timurid empire sitting inside a square that also houses the very interesting architecture of Uzbekistan Hotel.

GETTING AROUND UZBEKISTAN

It’s very easy to navigate Uzbekistan on your own, and you can do so via trains, flights, or taxis. My partner and I used a mixture of them all.

There are multiple daily trains connecting Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent. Many of them are high-speed, meaning a journey between Samarkand and Tashkent or Samarkand and Bukhara would only take 1-2 hours.

My partner and I took the Afrosiyob high-speed rail and it was a very comfortable experience. The trains were punctual, clean, and equipped with AC — a lifesaver during the summer months. Tickets cost $7 if you buy them at the train stations and around $25 if you reserve online in advance.

Note : There are no websites from which you can directly buy these train tickets. If you’d like to reserve them in advance, the only way is to go through Uzbek travel agencies, which will buy and email them to you.

We used Global Connect to reserve ours as it was the most affordable option we found, and it was a smooth and pleasant experience. As I mentioned before though, it is much cheaper and less of a hassle to buy the tickets in person at the station.

There are airports in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Urgench (which is about a 30-minute drive from Khiva). Flights between these cities typically range from $25 – $50 one way. Because trains are much more affordable and not that different in their length of the journey, it’s almost illogical to fly between Tashkent, Bukhara, and Samarkand.

Flying does become a convenient option, however, when going to Khiva. This ancient town is quite remote and a bit harder to reach. A flight from Tashkent to Urgench is the fastest way to get there and it takes about 1.5 hours, costing $50 one way.

Taking a taxi between the main cities is not recommended unless you’re going to Khiva. Aside from flying into Urgench, a very common way of reaching this remote town is via a private or shared taxi from Bukhara.

The journey is around 7 hours (with breaks in between) and costs $50 for a private ride and $20 for a shared ride. An advantage of choosing to go to Khiva by car (rather than by air) is that you can take a little detour along the road trip to visit some ancient fortresses, such as the one in Tuprakkala. It will prolong your trip by two hours and cost an extra $10, but getting to explore exotic ruins in the middle of a desert is not an experience you get every day.

Within Uzbekistan cities, taxis are very cheap. They usually cost $1.25 for a 10-15 minute ride. With that said, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are walkable cities for the most part. So you’d only need taxis when going to the train station/airport, or when visiting a few remote attractions away from the historic centers.

ACCOMMODATION IN UZBEKISTAN

We were completely stunned by how gorgeously decorated, cozy, and homey Uzbekistan hotels were. They were also very affordable. You can find a variety of high quality boutique hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses for $20 – $30 a night on sites like Booking.com .

The hotels we stayed at were clean, well-situated, and well-renovated. The staff were also very friendly. Just don’t expect good WiFi connection — that’s a rare luxury in Uzbekistan no matter where you stay.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAMARKAND

Registan is the pearl of the city and close to many other attractions. I highly recommend staying within walking distance of it. A few suggestions:

• Antica B&B – We stayed in this family-run B&B and felt very welcomed. They also have a very stylish courtyard and garden.
• Jahongir B&B – A family-run B&B with stylishly adorned rooms.

Other Accommodation Options in Samarkand

• Platan Hotel
• L’Argamak Hotel
• DiliMah Hotel
• Hotel GalaOsiyo

WHERE TO STAY IN BUKHARA

The historic center, where you can find most of the city’s attractions, has a variety of hotels from which to choose, and it’s the best area in which to stay. Two places I’d recommend are:

• K. Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel – We’ve long heard of how gorgeous and stylish this hotel is, but were unable to stay there due to it being booked out. We did manage to tour this place despite not being guests there, as the hotel staff were super welcoming and happy to show us around. Every room is uniquely adorned with traditional art and it truly looks like a unique place to stay in — just remember to book well in advance as it’s quite popular!
• Samani Bukhara – We stayed in this cozy hotel with a stylish courtyard, where you can enjoy breakfast on a table bed.

Other Accommodation Options in Bukhara

• Amulet Hotel
• Hotel Fatima Boutique
• Emir Bed and Breakfast
• Hotel Khurjin

WHERE TO STAY IN KHIVA

I’d recommend staying inside or as close to Itchan Kala (the inner town) as possible. It’s where almost everything worth seeing is concentrated. Two hotels you might enjoy are:

• Euro-Asia – We stayed in this clean, elegant, and newly renovated hotel and the staff were amazing. The first night we arrived, a reception staff personally took us to a restaurant a little out of the way because everything around us was closed (it was very late).
• Orient Star Khiva Hotel – If you want to get the unique experience of staying inside a majestic ancient madrasah inside the historic inner town, then this hotel is the one for you. The rooms are all refurbished and said to be comfortable.

Other Accommodation Options in Khiva

• Bek Khiva Hotel
• Arkanchi Hotel
• Zukhro Boutique Hotel
• Qosha Darvoza Hotel

WHERE TO STAY IN TASHKENT

Tashkent is a big city, so staying close to a metro station makes things a lot more convenient. I’d recommend finding a hotel near the Central Square (close to Amir Temur metro station) as you can meet lots of locals there and enjoy the shopping centers and cafes nearby.

Accommodation Options in Tashkent

• Hyatt Regency Tashkent Hotel
• Ichan Qal’a Premium Class Hotel
• Aster Hotel
• Navruz Hotel

FOOD IN UZBEKISTAN

The Uzbek cuisine is one of the most exquisite and flavorful ones I’ve tried, and it’ll leave you longing for more even after leaving the country. Some must-try national dishes are: plov, shurpa, lagman, manti, somsa, naan bread, shashlik, kazan kabob, and shivit oshi.

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you unfortunately might have a hard time finding adequate options. This country loves meat to the n th degree, and most if not all of their signature dishes either include or are prepared with it. With that said, there definitely are restaurants that offer vegetarian options, and salads are available almost everywhere.

In the list of restaurants further down, I have added an asterisk next to places that offer vegetarian dishes.

A tip for vegetarians : say “bez myasa” when ordering salads. It means “without meat”. This can come in handy as some salad plates may also occasionally contain sliced meat (you can see how much Uzbeks love their meat!).

WHERE TO EAT IN SAMARKAND

• Oasis Garden * – An elegant place with friendly staff, great food and fancy decor.
• Bibikhanum Teahouse – An excellent place to experience the colourful, cozy, and traditional bed tables, and the decor here is incredible.
• Samarkand Restaurant – Gorgeous interior, amazing decor and delicious authentic food.
• Platan * – A nice place to eat outside and the food is delicious.

* Has good vegetarian options

WHERE TO EAT IN BUKHARA

• Lyabi House Bukhara – A restaurant by the water with a great atmosphere.
• Temir’s Restaurant – They have some interesting things on their menu — do try out their “mimoza” dish.
• Doston House * – Amazingly decorated restaurant with friendly service; try out their pumpkin manti.
• Restaurant Mavrigi – Another stunningly adorned place; definitely try their Uzbek spice tea!
• Chor Bakhr Restaurant – Very popular amongst locals, this is a must-go! Best tandoor & shashlik we had in Uzbekistan.
• Minzifa * – Great food paired with an awesome rooftop view.

Restaurant Bedruddin – Really good service, food, and live music.

CAFES/TEAHOUSES NOT TO MISS IN BUKHARA

• Terrace Cafe near Kalyan Square – This spot offers a magnificent view of the Kalon Minaret and Kalon Mosque. It’s a must-go if you want to stop somewhere for a tea or a drink. It’s located on top of Old Bukhara Restaurant .
• Silk Road Tea House – The owners of this place have been making tea and trading spices for 600 years; make sure to try their delicious Spices and Herbs tea as well as their Silk Road Confection sweets!

WHERE TO EAT IN KHIVA

• Xojiakbar – About a 10 min walk from Itchan Kala, this local restaurant offers delicious kazan kabob.
• Terrassa Cafe * – Delicious food paired with an epic view over part of the city; this place is a must-go. Some highlights of their menu include pumpkin manti, shivit oshi, and lamb shashlik.
• Cafe Mirza Borsh – They have exquisite plov, mastava, tuhum barak, and shivit oshi.
• Yasavul Boshi * – Some dishes to try here are mix dumplings, shivit oshi, and pakhlava.

WHERE TO EAT IN TASHKENT

• Plov Center – Hands down the best plov we had in Uzbekistan. The portions are big, the prices are affordable, and it’s very popular amongst locals so it’s a great place to meet people!
• Caravan * – You can find traditional home decor here with great food and good live music.
• The revolving restaurant inside Tashkent TV tower – If you want to enjoy a fancy meal overlooking the entire city, pay this place a visit!
• Afsona Restaurant * – A high-end restaurant with an excellent variety of local food.

WHEN TO VISIT UZBEKISTAN

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring or autumn: end of April to mid-May, or end of September to mid-October tend to offer the most pleasant temperatures (around 14 ° – 26 ° C). It doesn’t rain much during those periods either. During these times you can enjoy the heat without it being uncomfortably hot like it is in the summer, when temperatures can go up to 40 ° C. In the winter, temperatures can go as low as -10 ° C.

RELIGION & HOW TO DRESS IN UZBEKISTAN

Contrary to popular belief, Uzbekistan is actually quite liberal. Although most of its population is Muslim, this country isn’t officially a Muslim country and many cultures and religions coexist and are welcome here. Uzbek people consider their homeland to be secular and modern, and there are no strict rules here about how women should dress.

We saw schoolgirls wearing short skirts especially in large and modern cities like Tashkent. Headscarves are not required at all, even when entering many mosques. There are some mosques that require you to wear them though, such as Minor Mosque in Tashkent. That is however the only one we personally encountered that has the requirement.

You may get certain looks from the older generation if you’re seen in short dresses and tank tops, but just like in many other secular countries, that is only because of cultural and generational differences rather than religious ones. Like many other places in the world, the older generation in Uzbekistan dresses more conservatively while the younger generation is far more liberal.

My suggestion is therefore: do what’s most comfortable for you. But do keep in mind that Uzbek people don’t think of their country as Muslim and don’t expect you to dress like you’re in one. All that being said, definitely still bring some clothes that cover your knees and shoulders for mosques and mausoleums. No one will scream at you for not doing so, but it’s the respectful thing to do.

SAFETY & SOLO TRAVELING IN UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries you can visit. It boasts a very low crime rate and doesn’t have the safety concerns (such as pickpocketing) that you may find in many European cities. Never once did we feel threatened when we were there, even when walking around at night.

We also met a woman who was traveling solo in Uzbekistan, and she shared some of her experiences with us. She said that during her time there, she’s been met with nothing but kindness from the locals, who were there to help her out whenever she needed it. She said that when she first landed at the airport, she couldn’t find taxis anywhere. A local who needed a taxi too saw her struggling and hailed one for both of them. He asked the driver to drop her off at her hotel but insistently refused to let her pay her share, essentially giving her a free ride.

She also shared that one of the locals she met in Uzbekistan spent an entire day giving her a free tour of Samarkand, showing her all the hidden and local spots that she would have never discovered by herself. This was not surprising to hear, as our own encounters with Uzbek people had been nothing short of heartwarming. They are, in general, extremely friendly and welcoming, and often go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience in their country.

So if you’re thinking about traveling solo as a woman in Uzbekistan, just apply common sense like you would anywhere else, and you will have a great time.

For more information, be sure to read our Guide To Solo Female Travel In Uzbekistan !

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE

• LANGUAGE – While Uzbek and Russian are the main languages spoken in Uzbekistan, basic English is understood at most tourist attractions. You may have to rely on hand gestures (or Google Translate) in other parts of the city, but we never found the language barrier to be big enough to cause any real issues.
• Good hotels & guest houses cost around $20 – $30 a night.
• A full-course meal with several mains, appetizers, and drinks usually totals up to $6 per person (the amount of food would be enough to feed four people though).
• As I mentioned before, taxis within cities are around $1.25 for a 10-15 minute ride, and fast-speed trains connecting Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent cost $7 if you buy them at the station.
• Your flight is the only thing that may be costly. A flight from Europe to Tashkent or Samarkand is usually around $600, and that number will probably be a lot higher if you’re flying from somewhere further away. If that is the case, it may be a good idea to visit Uzbekistan as part of a bigger European or Central Asian trip.
• CASH – ATMs are everywhere, unlike a few years ago when you had to travel around the country with bags full of cash. Nowadays, you can find ATMs in many hotels and restaurants, and scattered all over the city.
• WIFI (OR LACK THEREOF) – As I mentioned briefly before, be prepared for very poor WiFi connection in hotels and guest houses. Uploading and downloading small files can take up to an hour, if it works at all. Often times, the connection would fail altogether. Expect some quality time away from technology.
• TOUR GROUP OR ON YOUR OWN? – As you can see from all the information above, Uzbekistan is incredibly easy to navigate on your own. Going with a tour agency would be a lot more expensive and in my opinion, unnecessary and not worth it. Unless you prioritize having a tour guide who can explain every attraction in each city, I’d highly recommend booking everything yourself as it’s cheap and a piece of cake to do.

If you’re still debating about whether or not you should visit Uzbekistan, I’ll end this guide by saying that out of the 50+ countries I’ve been to, Uzbekistan is one of the most breathtaking, remarkable, and underrated places I’ve ever experienced. Never in my life have I come across architecture so mesmerizing that it left me speechless every corner I turned; people so friendly that I felt genuinely welcomed into a country so foreign to me; food so delicious that I still dream about it everyday; and beauty so staggering that I still refuse to believe what I saw in this country was real at all.

Uzbekistan is an utter dream. An architecture fiend’s fantasy, a photographer’s heaven, and an intrepid traveler’s ultimate gem to uncover. If you don’t stop by, you’re truly missing out.

We hope this guide has inspired you to travel to Uzbekistan! If you have any additional tips for our readers or questions please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About Central Asia

• A Guide To Solo Female Travel In Uzbekistan
• A Girl’s Guide To Solo Travel In Tajikistan
• Solo Travel In Pakistan
• Conquering Stigmas: Travelling Solo Through The Silk Road
• Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary for Uzbekistan

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Jiayi Wang   of TheDiaryOfANomad.com Connect With Jiayi  Instagram

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September 11, 2018 at 3:14 am

What a comprehensive and beautifully written piece!

Ankur Priyadarshan says

April 18, 2023 at 10:54 pm

This is one of the best articles on Uzbekistan. Not dying without seeing this place

September 14, 2018 at 11:11 am

I’m right now in Uzbekistan and it is wonderfull!! I would recommend it to everyone! Since august this year it is possible to buy traintickets in advance at http://www.railway.uz . You need a visa card to buy the tickets. For some trains you get an e-ticket and for others a form to pick up the tickets at the trainstation. We used both of the options and it worked perfect.

Joe Keane says

August 16, 2019 at 9:33 am

Trouble is the form is in part english and part Uzbek. They need names like e.g. Tashkent in their language – which I do no know. Why do they not accept MasterCard – only Visa

shokha says

September 14, 2018 at 11:36 am

Wow, such an amazing description, thank you so much for sharing it with us, everyone should definitely visit Uzbekistan

Marielena says

October 17, 2018 at 10:15 am

Thanks for such a comprehensive guide, Jiayi. Your gorgeous imagery on Instagram has inspired me to visit next year. Since I always prefer independent travel, it’s great to know how easy it is to get around as well a the affordable pricing. Given that I’m a photographer, I plan to maximize my time in each place so that I can capture images at sunrise and sunset and will definitely plan to visit Khiva as a result of your description.

November 5, 2018 at 5:32 am

I live in Uzbekistan, although I am not Uzbek. It is a wonderful country. Your guide is pretty accurate.

I do need to say that Uzbeks do think of themselves as Muslim and are quite proud of it. However, thanks to the years of Soviet official atheism, it is more of a cultural identity for many. People believe, but not everyone practices fully. Uzbeks are moderate, not liberal. The culture is generally very conservative, even in the cities.

I would recommend conservative dress, especially when visiting mosques, madrasahs, bazaars, etc. It should be the same as if you visit churches or cathedrals in Europe. The Uzbeks are too polite to say anything negative to a guest, but they will appreciate the respect. Although your blog is geared to women, it should be noted that shorts are rarely worn by men in public. Young men are starting to wear shorts, but you won’t see anyone out of their 20s wearing them. Young women rarely wear shorts (older, never). Again, no one will say anything, but you will be very conspicuous.

Uzbekistan is being discovered. Come!

March 28, 2019 at 4:35 pm

Thanks for your insight and great comment. As a tourist, I think it’s very important to respect the local culture wherever we go.

May 30, 2019 at 5:04 am

Hi, do you know if the meat/chicken is halal in Uzbekistan?

TezWiFi says

July 25, 2019 at 12:27 am

I believe any meat (except pork :)) is halal in Uzbekistan.

January 18, 2019 at 7:22 am

I have been thinking to visit my best friend in Bukhara and this article really helped alot. It contains all the remarkable things one need to mention in a travel guide. It is just perfect.

January 18, 2019 at 1:28 pm

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful story of my home country . I’m so glad to see more and more people discovering this wonderful country which I call home. All your comments, thoughts, images about Uzbekistan is making me miss the motherland .

Lacaysse says

January 20, 2019 at 12:18 am

What should be the average budget of a single traveler when visiting Uzbekistan?

Ojas Mangaonkar says

March 7, 2019 at 8:30 am

Hi, your information is very good especially for new travellers like us…bt can you pls tell me how much did it cost you per day in Uzbekistan (total cost- food per day + rent per day(we looking for reasonable)+ traveling mentioned in your information)

Patrick Keane says

August 15, 2019 at 12:34 pm

Hello, I read your guide to Uzbekistan with great interest. By the way I am 78 and my wife and I are traveling from Ireland via Istanbul. The account of your travels is clear and concise. Because of the way that you highlight the different attractions in the main cities, I feel confident that we may get a good taste of the country, despite our limited itinerary. We are going in late September. One of your contributors gave a link, which may allow us to book trains in advance. By the way we are in the 50+ category ourselves as regards going to places less traveled. Keep up the good work.

March 28, 2019 at 4:33 pm

Wow!!! What a wonderful and comprehensive piece of writing. Thank you so much!! I came here from your amazing Instagram photos, and now Uzbekistan is definitely on top of my bucket list!! Great work!!

March 31, 2019 at 7:06 am

Such an informative article on Uzbekistan, I’m definitely going to be planning to go there soon. I love the architecture and the relaxed vibe.

Katherine says

May 17, 2019 at 11:27 am

We just got back from Uzbekistan and loved it! Had a terrible guide in Samarkand when we booked through hotel, and then found a great female private guide in Bukhara. Her knowledge of history was unstumpable. Was about $60 for a full day with great historical background. Wanted to post her info in case anyone is looking for a great experience supporting local women: Larisa Whatsapp +998 907181015 Email: [email protected]

Hussain says

May 26, 2019 at 11:27 pm

Thanks for sharing the tour guide contact!! I am planning to visit it Uzbekistan in two weeks and definitely to visit bukhara and Samarkand as well!! I saved her number in order to call her once I am there!! I seriously seek the right historical information!!

Eric Wilson says

May 21, 2019 at 4:41 am

The best thing is accommodation is very affordable here than other countries.

DSwito says

June 8, 2019 at 3:24 am

What a comprehensive blog… I Would like to visit these beautiful places. What i like the most is all your photos always like you are alone there. Im curious what time all those photos are taken…

ZOHER DAGINAWALA says

June 8, 2019 at 6:13 am

HI IAM STAYING INDIAN STAYING IN DUBAI -I AM A SOLO TRAVELER AM PLANNING TO VISIT UZBEKISTAN IN SEPTEMBER 2019 —-BUT AFTER READING YOUR ARTICLE -I AM VERY EXCITED ,IS IT POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL IN AUGUST END OR SEPTEMBER –YOU EXPLAINED EVERY THING IN A QUIET SIMPLE WAY TO THE POINT-WILL FOLLOW YOUR INTERNIARY

August 4, 2019 at 2:10 pm

I wish I’d discovered this amazing site before today. I leave for a 9 night trip to Uzbekistan in one week’s time. I am dreadfully disorganised and am now in that last minute panic stage. Thanks to your fantastically detailed account I can at least rest assured that I shall find somewhere good to eat! I look forward to a little tech free time but hope that I can locate your suggested restaurants.

August 20, 2019 at 10:06 pm

Hi! I came back from Uzbekistan yesterday. Just wanted to add a little about internet there. If you want to continue using your sim card from your home country and try to go online, it won’t work. I purchased roaming option from my provider and it gave me internet for about 10 m, and then it was gone. I purchased UzMobile sim card for 10,000 soums, and had internet non stop. Just needed to change numbers in Whatsapp, Telegram and etc apps, so, my friends knew where to contact me. It’s very cheap comparing to using your own sim card. You just need to put money in your acct from time to time, and the ATM machines are everywhere.

October 18, 2019 at 7:23 am

I AM A SOLO TRAVELLER FROM U.A.E DUBAI I JUST RETURNED FROM A WONDERFUL TRIP OF THE HEARTH OF SILK ROAD COUNTRY UZBEKISTAN -YOUR TIPS AND ARTICLE MADE BY TRIP VERY EASY AND IT HELPED ME A LOT THANKS

Keith Johnson says

January 19, 2020 at 8:40 pm

Wow! This was so well written and with so much detail! Thank you! Can I ask you, where is the restaurant (dining room) in the picture that is above ‘Where to stay in khiva’. I think it is somewhere in Bukhara but I would love to know where exactly. Thank you!

May 18, 2020 at 9:23 pm

I’m planning a trip to Uzbekistan for after travel restrictions are lifted and LOVE this post. Every time I see pictures of Uzbekistan I get excited again, but all of my friends and family are in that boat of “but why uzbekistan??”. I think I might just let them keep that illusion alive and enjoy it’s splendor myself! Thank you for all of the tips!

mehvash Khan says

February 11, 2022 at 3:53 am

Great blog. Please add the names of the places under the pictures, especially the restaurants and the cafes. They are too gorgeous to be missed out !

Wendy Light says

August 20, 2022 at 12:24 pm

We traveled to UZB in March 2022 from the USA. The food is inexpensive and so good. $8 for the best filet mignon. The patisseries are just like being in Paris. Leave room for dessert. Hotels have amazing service. Everywhere is clean and everyone is very friendly and polite. I don’t recommend renting a car. Driving would be difficult for a foreigner not used to chaotic roads. Horn honking is a national pastime. Use Yandex for taxis, it is very inexpensive. I would go back in a second.

Rebecca Carter says

October 30, 2022 at 7:25 pm

Thank you, do you need to pre-book accommodation and train travel?

Thank you in advance

August 28, 2022 at 5:49 am

Thank you for this very detailed traveling guide! It helps me a lot to organise my trip :)

Fnagdi @ Hotmail says

October 1, 2022 at 7:19 am

Thank you so much it is so well written and made it easy. Going on the 8th October. I’m well excited

carmin says

December 16, 2022 at 7:10 am

Hi, has anyone traveled in january? we’d like to go around jan 1-10th, just not sure how much will be open and available for sightseeing and eating out. Cold is not an issue, we actually want a change from the middle east.

Maryanah says

December 26, 2022 at 9:53 am

Hi Thank you for the comprehensive and informative blog on Uzbekistan. It really helps with my planning for this June trip and I hope the weather is not too hot.. I think 14 days for this trip is barely scratching the surface. We visited Iran in 2018 and I am looking forward to similar architectural wonders and amazing history from Uzbekistan. Praying that the historical sites are open for visits after pandemic.

February 12, 2023 at 1:19 pm

what a trip! this country must be truly amazing! superrandom question -where is the dress from that you are wearing in the last pis (the blue one)?

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• Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

When is the Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan?

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is in spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October), when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing ancient cities that are main tourist attractions of the country. The mountainous east tends to have a cooler, wetter climate, while the central and western region is dominated by desert.

Summer in Uzbekistan is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 40°C. Traveling long distances at this time of year can be slightly uncomfortable, especially if you are on a mode of transport without air conditioning. In the mountains of eastern Uzbekistan, the temperature is lower than in the plains and deserts, allowing for trekking and other outdoors activities. Alternatively, all the major cities can be toured in summer by exploring sights in the mornings or evenings and remaining inside air-conditioned establishments during the heat of the day.

Autumn in Uzbekistan sees green mountain foliage melt into beautiful shades of red and brown, while the markets overflow with melons, mulberries, figs and persimmons. Pleasant temperatures allow for unhindered exploration of the country, leading many to claim that autumn is truly the best time of year to visit Uzbekistan. The cool temperatures are also perfect for cross-country train travel and camel rides in the desert. Autumn is a relatively long season in Uzbekistan and can be enjoyed up until December in the plains.

Winter in Uzbekistan lasts from December through February. During this period temperatures can drop below 0°C, making traveling more challenging, particularly in the mountains where heavy snowfalls are frequent. For winter sports enthusiasts, Uzbekistan’s ever-expanding ski resorts are growing in popularity. Winter in the cities, while sometimes cold, are bearable with appropriate clothing, and with the weather generally sunny and clear, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to your photos. However, if you’re asking “When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?” and you schedule is flexible, it’s recommended to delay your travels until the springtime.

Spring in Uzbekistan starts in early March and is normally announced with rains across the region. With the rain comes a hive of activity as the country prepares for the Persian New Year (Navruz), celebrated on March 21st. During these celebrations work ceases in lieu of carnivals and parties featuring national dances and seasonal foods. The rains die down in April, and once again the country is easy to explore. Festivals and holidays such as Victory Day and the Silk and Spice Festival continue through May. Spring remains the best time to visit Uzbekistan, particularly the southern areas which tend to be far hotter than the rest of the country in summer.

When to visit Uzbekistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Uzbekistan Tours
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• When to Visit Uzbekistan

Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

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

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

Quick Facts

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

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

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

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

Seasonal Overview

1. march to may — spring / good season.

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

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

2. June to August — Summer / Low Season

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

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

3. September to November — Fall / Good Season

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

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

4. December to February — Winter / Low Season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan your trip to Uzbekistan

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to get to Uzbekistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the perfect time to visit Uzbekistan

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

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

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

How many days are enough for Uzbekistan

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

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

How to travel around Uzbekistan

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

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

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

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

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

The Complete Guide to Train Travel in Uzbekistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tashkent

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

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

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

Top Things to do in Tashkent – Tashkent City Guide

City Tours in Tashkent

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

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

Taking the overnight train to Khiva

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

Alternative option: Take a flight from Tashkent to urgench

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

Where to stay in Tashkent

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

Day 2: Khiva, overnight in Khiva

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

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

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

Top things to see in Khiva:

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

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

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

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

City Tours in Khiva

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Khiva

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

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

Day 3: Travel to Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bukhara

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

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

Day 4: Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

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

Top things to do in Bukhara:

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

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

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

Top Things to do in Bukhara – Bukhara City Guide

City Tours in Bukhara

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

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

You can also book the guided city tour below.

Day 5: Travel to Samarkand, overnight in Samarkand

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Places to visit in Samarkand:

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

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

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

Top Things to do in Samarkand – Samarkand City Guide

City Tours in Samarkand

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

Where to stay in Samarkand

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Shahrisabz

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

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

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

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

How to get from Samarkand to Shahrisabz and back:

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

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

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

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

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

Tours to Shahrisabz :

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

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

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

Day 7: Return to Tashkent

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

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

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

Uzbekistan Itinerary 10 days

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

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

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

See day 1 of the 7-day itinerary above

Day 2 : Khiva, overnight in Khiva

See day 2 of the 7-day itinerary above .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 5 : Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 4 of the 7-day itinerary above .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to visit the villages in the Nuratau Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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

See day 6 of the 7-day itinerary above .

Day 10 : Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary above .

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 : Arrival in Tashkent, overnight in Tashkent

See day 1 of the 7-day itinerary   above

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

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

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

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

THINGS TO DO IN MARGILAN

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

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

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

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

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

Tours to Fergana Valley

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

Where to stay in Kokand

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

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

Day 3 : Visit Kokand, night train to Khiva

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

Things to do in Kokand

Visit the following highlights of Kokand in the morning:

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

Take the overnight Train to Khiva

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

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

Day 4 : visit Khiva, overnight in Khiva

See day 2 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

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

See day 3 of the 10-day itinerary   above .

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

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 7 : Visit Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

See day 4 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 8 : Day trip from Bukhara, overnight in Bukhara

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Aydar Lake

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

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

Go on a tour to Aydar Lake

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

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

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

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

See day 8 of the 10-day itinerary   above .

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

See day 6 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Day 14 : Visit Samarkand, return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary   above .

Uzbekistan Itinerary 3 weeks or longer

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

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

Day 19-20 : Samarkand

• Day 21: Return to Tashkent

Day 1 : Tashkent

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

Day 2-3 : Fergana Valley

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

Day 4-5 : Chimgan Mountains

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Chimgan

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

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

Tours to Chimgan

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

Where to stay in Chimgan

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

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

Day 6: Travel from Tashkent to Nukus (Karakalpakstan)

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

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

Day 7-9 : Karakalpakstan

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Karakalpakstan

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

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

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

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

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

Day 10-11 : Khiva

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

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

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

Day 12: Travel from Khiva to Bukhara

See day 3 of the 7-day itinerary above

Day 13-14 : Bukhara

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

Day 15-18 : Nuratau Mountains

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

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

Day 21 : Return to Tashkent

See day 7 of the 7-day itinerary above

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

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

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

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3 Great Day Hikes in the Ugam Chatkal National park in Uzbekistan

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

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

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

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

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

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Best time to visit Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a country blessed with attractions and sights that can be visited year-round, but as so many of its treasures are outdoors and weather dependent it can be a good idea to plan your trip so that it coincides with a climate that is best suited to your itinerary. The best time to visit Uzbekistan really depends on what you hope to get out of your journey, so take a look below at our summary of the best months for travel in this mysterious and historic land.

Monthly Summary

January – February

January and February are the coldest months of the year, in common with much of the northern hemisphere, and are the times of year when it's not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing most days. You'll have to wrap up warm, but the cold weather does bring the benefit of the low season for tourism, so you'll often have the tourist hotspots to yourself on days like this. 

The clear, crisp air and bright sunshine also makes for excellent photography conditions without the intense heat of summer and the crowds, so it can be the best time to go if you're a budding snapper.

Events: New Year, Day of the Defenders of the Motherland, Chimgan Extreme

March - April

Visiting Uzbekistan earlier in the year is an unconventional choice, but as the year moves into March and April and temperatures increase, the possibility of tourism in the beautiful plains, deserts and mountains of the country becomes much more realistic, even though the sights will still be relatively quiet. 

While the warmer weather brings with it an increased chance of rain, particularly in the wettest month of March, this is one of the best periods to visit Uzbekistan during the year before the hot summer weather sets in. It is often when the Uzbek plant life is at its best, and the famous flower meadows will be coming into bloom.

Events: International Women's Day, Nauruz (Persian New Year), Russian Orthodox Easter

The majority of people tend to find that the Uzbek climate is at its best during May and June, when temperatures reach 30 degrees Celsius, but this also means it is the most popular time of year to visit Uzbekistan with local and international tourists, so consequently the hotels will be at their busiest and most expensive. 

This time of year competes with the Autumn for the title of the best time of year to visit Uzbekistan, and the winner is really down to personal taste. While the weather is generally warmer, it's also the busiest time of year to visit, so if fellow tourists aren't your thing, it might be a time to avoid. 

It is at this time of year that it is most common to find the country's traditional craft, antique and arts markets open, especially along the old Silk Road, while it is also still possible to comfortably take in Uzbekistan's natural wonders in the mountains and deserts.

Events: Day of Memory and Honor, Silk and Spice Festival, Chimgan's Echo Festival, Ramazan Hait

July - August

The height of summer in Uzbekistan also brings the hottest weather when temperatures typically hit highs in the mid 30 degrees Celsius, and peaks of up to 40 degrees are not uncommon in the south while the north tends to be cooler. Not only is the weather very hot and dry, but the sun is also extremely strong, making travelling in Uzbekistan at this time very uncomfortable - especially in the hot plains and deserts. 

The traditional stone materials used to build monuments and cities can make it difficult to stay in place for too long as they reflect the light and the heat, so it's not an ideal time for sight seeing in the towns either. 

The heat also does significant damage to vegetation, causing a dust bowl effect which means there's often not much to see in comparison to the verdant spring on the plains. This time of year is less popular with tourists, for good reason, so tourist sites will be more accessible and hotels will be less busy.

Events: Sharq Tarolanari

September - October

In comparison to the scorching hot summer months, the early Autumn is often a much more agreeable time to visit Uzbekistan, with temperatures falling back to the pleasantly warm days of spring but without as much rain - especially in the south. 

It is widely believed that the Autumn is the best time of year to visit Uzbekistan for a balance between the good weather and the number of fellow tourists you'll encounter. It's a good time to visit the cities or take the Silk Road before the colder temperatures of winter hit.

Not only will you have more time to linger at the country's historic cities and monuments, you'll also eat better too. The autumn is when the harvest is brought in, and when you'll find the ripest and freshest produce on sale in the country's many local and main city markets along the silk road and in urban areas.

Events: Independence Day, Kurban Hait, Teachers Day

November - December

The early winter months of November and December are also the times when the fewest tourists make the trip to Uzbekistan and footfall is at its lowest. Similar to January and February this means it can be a great time to explore the country relatively undisturbed as long as you don't mind bringing your winter clothes and wrapping up warm, but depending on where you intend to travel it can also disrupt your trip. 

While the average temperature in December is above freezing there is great variation, and in the mountainous north it can drop as low as -40 degrees, so make sure this won't harm your travel plans.

Events: Bazar Art, Uzbek Flag Day

Harry Foskett

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When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

• Month-by-month

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

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

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

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Uzbekistan

Visiting Uzbekistan in January - February

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

Visiting Uzbekistan in March - April

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

Visiting Uzbekistan in May - June

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

Events & Festivals

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

Visiting Uzbekistan in July - August

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

Visiting Uzbekistan in September - October

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

Visiting Uzbekistan in November - December

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

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

The best times to visit Uzbekistan for ideal weather are

April 2nd to June 3rd

August 27th to october 28th.

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

Uzbekistan Travel Guide

Temperature.

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

Other Uzbekistan Travel Info

Weather in uzbekistan.

Average temperatures in Uzbekistan vary an incredible amount. Considering humidity, temperatures feel very nice much of the year, but hot in the summer and cold in the winter with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 50th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Uzbekistan, the hottest months are July, June, and then August. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid July where highs are regularly around 98.4°F (36.9°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 70.1°F (21.2°C) at night.

Uzbekistan Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

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

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

Uzbekistan Perceived Temperature (F)

Uzbekistan perceived temperature (c), average uzbekistan temperatures by month.

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

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Uzbekistan are July, August, and then September. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early August. For example, on the week of July 30th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid February with an average of 1 days of significant precipitation the week of February 19th.

Chance of Precipitation

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

Snow on the Ground

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

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Uzbekistan has some humid months, and dry months in the opposite season. The least humid month is July (23.5% relative humidity), and the most humid month is January (65%).

Wind in Uzbekistan is usually calm . The windiest month is June, followed by April and March. June’s average wind speed of around 5.9 knots (6.8 MPH or 10.9 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid June where average top sustained speeds reach 11.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

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

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

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

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

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to uzbekistan.

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

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

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

Estimated Tourism by Month

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

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range from 90.8°F (32.7°C) and 49.6°F (9.8°C) with far warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 1 to 2 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

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

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 88°F (31.1°C) and 50.3°F (10.2°C), which will feel comfortable given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a barely noticeable amount: 0 to 1 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is far too cold this time of year in Uzbekistan to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 49.6°F (9.8°C) and 36.9°F (2.7°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 1 to 2 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Uzbekistan

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Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

Climate Overview

Beach Vacation in February

Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan: Overview

Best time to visit the regions, climate charts uzbekistan.

In the following, you will find climate charts for the regions.

Furthermore, there are some charts you can use for quick comparison of climate between the regions.

Day Temperatures

Night temperatures, average temperatures, precipitation, hours of sunshine per day.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Tables Uzbekistan

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in tashkent (uzbekistan), temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in termez (uzbekistan), temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in chimboy (uzbekistan), popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

Distances to Uzbekistan

Where’s uzbekistan, continent: asia, share your experience and win.

Destinations in the Vicinity …

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Termez region

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 5km of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border, except for the city of Termez and connecting roads from the North.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel

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Putin arrives in Uzbekistan on the 3rd foreign trip of his new term

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in the capital of Uzbekistan where he is to hold talks with President Shavkay Mirziyoyev. The talks are expected to focus on deepening the countries’ relations. The visit is Putin’s third foreign trip since being inaugurated for a fifth term on May.

Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument to the Independence of Uzbekistan in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Andrey Gordeev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visit Yangi O’zbekiston park during their meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin greet Russian and Uzbek diplomates during their meeting at an International airport outside Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

An Ilyushin IL-96 Russian Presidential Aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin on board taxis after landing at an International airport outside Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, top right, upon his arrival at an International airport outside Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visit Yangi O’zbekiston Park during their meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived Sunday in the capital of Uzbekistan where he is to hold talks with President Shavkay Mirziyoyev that are expected to focus on deepening the countries’ relations.

Putin laid a wreath at a momument to Uzbekistan’s independence in Tashkent and held what the Kremlin said were informal talks with Mirziyoyev. The formal meeting of the presidents is to take place Monday.

The visit is Putin’s third foreign trip since being inaugurated for a fifth term in May. He first went to China , where he expressed appreciation for China’s proposals for talks to end the Ukraine conflict, and later to Belarus where Russia has deployed tactical nuclear weapons.

Ahead of the Uzbekistan trip, Putin and Mirziyoyev discussed an array of bilateral cooperation issues, including trade and economic relations, the Kremlin said.