Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Uzbekistan: From the stunning Registan in Samarkand to the ancient walled city of Khiva

National Flag of Uzbekistan

The 15 Most Searched Questions About Uzbekistan

The capital of Uzbekistan is Tashkent, a bustling city known for its Soviet-era architecture and vibrant bazaars.

Citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, and Canada, can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days. More details in our Documents tab.

Uzbekistan uses the Uzbek Som (UZS). More details in our Currency tab.

Uzbekistan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates, though caution is advised in crowded markets. More details in our Safety tab.

The official language is Uzbek, but Russian is widely spoken, and English is increasingly common in tourist areas like Samarkand.

Uzbekistan is known for its Silk Road history, stunning Islamic architecture like the Registan in Samarkand, and vibrant bazaars. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for exploring Samarkand and Bukhara.

Uzbekistan is budget-friendly—expect to spend $30-$60 per day. A meal at a local restaurant costs $3-$8, while a mid-range hotel in Tashkent costs $25-$60 per night.

Tap water is not recommended—stick to bottled water, which is widely available and costs $0.50-$1 per liter.

Must-visits include the Registan in Samarkand, the walled city of Khiva, and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Uzbekistan has a continental climate: hot summers (25-40°C), cold winters (-5 to 5°C), and mild spring and autumn (10-20°C).

Yes, Navruz (March 21) celebrates the Persian New Year with music, dance, and traditional food, while the Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara (May) highlights local crafts.

Popular souvenirs include silk scarves, handwoven carpets, and intricately designed ceramics.

Shared taxis cost $1-$3 for local routes. High-speed trains like the Afrosiyob between Tashkent and Samarkand cost $10-$20. Car rentals are $30-$50 per day.

Try plov, samsa, and laghman. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan, located in Central Asia, spans 447,400 square kilometers. Tashkent, the capital, is home to about 2.5 million people, roughly 8% of Uzbekistan’s total population of 36 million (2023 estimate), predominantly ethnic Uzbeks with minorities like Tajiks and Russians. Uzbek is the official language, with Russian widely spoken and English increasingly common in tourist areas. Uzbekistan offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days for citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, and Canada, while others can apply for an e-Visa. In 2023, Uzbekistan welcomed 6.6 million tourists, drawn by its Silk Road heritage, Islamic architecture, and vibrant bazaars. The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and natural gas, with exports like cotton and gold. Uzbekistan’s climate is continental: hot summers (25-40°C), cold winters (-5 to 5°C), and mild spring and autumn (10-20°C). Budget travelers can expect to spend $30-$60 per day, with a local meal costing $3-$8 and a coffee $1-$2. Public transport like shared taxis costs $1-$3, while high-speed trains between Tashkent and Samarkand cost $10-$20. Cultural events include Navruz (March 21), a Persian New Year celebration, and the Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara (May). Uzbekistan’s history includes ancient empires, Soviet rule, and independence in 1991, reflected in sites like the Registan in Samarkand and the walled city of Khiva. Natural attractions include the Kyzylkum Desert and the Chimgan Mountains. With its rich history, colorful markets, and architectural wonders, Uzbekistan offers a unique travel experience.

Visa & Passport for Uzbekistan: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from Uzbekistan and have at least one blank page for stamps. Children need their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, Canada, and Australia, can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. Others, such as citizens of China or India, can apply for an e-Visa online at the official Uzbekistan e-Visa portal, costing $20-$50 depending on nationality and duration (30-90 days). Overstaying incurs fines starting at 2 million UZS ($160) and potential entry bans.
  • Other Requirements: Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested at the border. No specific vaccinations are required, though a COVID-19 vaccination certificate might be needed depending on current regulations.

Driving in Uzbekistan: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: Foreigners can drive with a valid national license for up to 30 days, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Without an IDP, you risk a fine of 500,000 UZS ($40).
  • Road Rules: Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%—fines for violations start at 1 million UZS ($80).
  • Road Conditions: Main roads in Tashkent are good, but rural roads can be uneven—use a 4x4 for desert regions like the Kyzylkum.
  • Car Rental: Available in Tashkent for $30-$50 per day. Ensure the car has a GPS, as signage may not always be in English.
  • Parking: Parking in Tashkent costs 5,000-10,000 UZS ($0.40-$0.80) per hour in central areas; many hotels offer free parking.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 102 for police or 103 for medical emergencies.

Currency in Uzbekistan: Using the Som for Your Trip

  • Uzbek Som (UZS): The official currency. Banknotes come in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000, and 100,000 UZS; coins are rarely used.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or licensed exchange offices in Tashkent for the best rates—avoid black market exchanges, as they’re illegal and risky. ATMs are available in cities but may have withdrawal limits (around 3 million UZS/$240).
  • Payment Methods: Cash is dominant, especially in rural areas—carry small denominations (5,000-10,000 UZS). Cards are accepted in Tashkent at hotels and some restaurants; mobile payments are limited.
  • Costs: A local meal costs $3-$8, a coffee $1-$2, and a mid-range hotel in Tashkent $25-$60 per night.

Legal Guide for Uzbekistan: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Public drinking is frowned upon and can lead to fines of 500,000 UZS ($40). Drug laws are strict—possession can result in up to 15 years in prison.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Islamic traditions—dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography at military sites, government buildings, or metro stations in Tashkent is prohibited—fines can reach 1 million UZS ($80). Drones require permits.
  • Public Behavior: Smoking in public places like restaurants is banned—fines start at 300,000 UZS ($24). Littering can result in a fine of 200,000 UZS ($16).
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 2 liters of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $5,000 or its equivalent in UZS.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 102 for police or 103 for medical emergencies.

Travel Safety in Uzbekistan: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: Uzbekistan is generally safe with low crime rates—petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets like Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent.
  • Road Safety: Pedestrians should use crosswalks, as drivers may not always yield. Rural roads can be poorly lit—avoid driving at night outside cities.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is not safe to drink—use bottled water. No major health risks; routine vaccinations are recommended, and consider typhoid and hepatitis A vaccines for rural travel.
  • Natural Hazards: Earthquakes are possible—familiarize yourself with safety protocols (drop, cover, hold on). Desert areas like the Kyzylkum can have extreme temperatures.
  • Scams: Be cautious of unofficial guides or taxis overcharging—negotiate fares upfront (e.g., $1-$3 for short rides in Tashkent).
  • Medical Facilities: Hospitals in Tashkent, like the Tashkent International Medical Clinic, are reliable for minor issues. Pharmacies are widespread—look for the “Apteka” sign.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 102 for police, 103 for medical emergencies. The US Embassy in Tashkent can be reached at +998 78-120-5450.

Culture & Etiquette in Uzbekistan: What to Know

  • Greetings: A handshake is common—say “Assalomu Alaikum” (Hello). Uzbeks are hospitable and may invite you for tea; it’s polite to accept.
  • Dining Customs: At a traditional meal, bread (non) is sacred—don’t place it upside down or throw it away. Meals often start with tea and end with sweets.
  • Community Respect: Dress modestly at religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home or a mosque.
  • Festivals: Navruz (March 21) celebrates the Persian New Year with music and dance. The Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara (May) showcases local crafts and traditions.
  • Language Tips: In tourist areas, you might hear “Rahmat” (Thank you). Learning basics like “Assalomu Alaikum” (Hello) shows respect.
  • Social Practices: Bargaining is expected in bazaars—start at 50% of the asking price. Public displays of affection are generally discreet.

Local Cuisine in Uzbekistan: Dishes & Drinks to Try

  • Plov: A rice dish with lamb, carrots, and spices, often considered the national dish—$3-$6 at a local eatery.
  • Samsa: A flaky pastry filled with meat or pumpkin—$0.50-$1 each, sold at street stalls.
  • Laghman: Hand-pulled noodle soup with meat and vegetables—$2-$5 per bowl.
  • Green Tea: A staple drink, often served with meals—$0.50-$1 per pot.
  • Ayran: A refreshing yogurt drink, perfect for hot days—$0.50-$1 per glass.
  • Where to Eat: In Tashkent, try plov at Osh Markazi near Chorsu Bazaar. In Samarkand, Bibikhanum Teahouse near the Registan offers authentic samsa. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Uzbekistan: Must-Visit Places

  • Registan (Samarkand): A stunning plaza with three grand madrasahs, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Itchan Kala (Khiva): A UNESCO-listed walled city with ancient mosques and minarets. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Shah-i-Zinda (Samarkand): A necropolis with intricate turquoise-tiled mausoleums. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Chorsu Bazaar (Tashkent): A bustling market under a blue dome, perfect for local goods and food. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Ark of Bukhara (Bukhara): A massive fortress with museums showcasing the city’s history. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Chimgan Mountains (Tashkent Region): A scenic area for hiking and skiing, with stunning views. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Where to Eat: In Tashkent, Osh Markazi near Chorsu Bazaar serves delicious plov. In Samarkand, Bibikhanum Teahouse near the Registan is known for its samsa.

Flights to Uzbekistan: Travel Options

Tashkent International Airport (TAS) is the main entry point, with flights from cities like Istanbul, Dubai, and Moscow. A taxi from TAS to central Tashkent costs $3-$5 and takes 20 minutes; buses cost 2,000 UZS ($0.15) and take 30 minutes.

Create Your Packing List for Uzbekistan

Travel Tips for Uzbekistan

  • Connectivity: SIM cards from Beeline or Ucell offer 5-10 GB for $3-$10, available at the airport. Pocket Wi-Fi devices cost $5-$8 per day.
  • Health Prep: No specific vaccinations are required, but typhoid and hepatitis A vaccines are recommended for rural travel. Travel insurance covering medical expenses is advised.
  • Weather Prep: Pack for the season—light clothing for summer, warm layers for winter. A scarf or hat is useful for sun protection in the desert.
  • City Navigation: Use apps like Yandex Maps for Tashkent. High-speed trains like the Afrosiyob are ideal for intercity travel ($10-$20 between Tashkent and Samarkand).
  • Peak Season: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are busy due to festivals and pleasant weather—book accommodations early.