21 Most Beautiful Places in Uzbekistan You Won’t Believe Exist

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Written by Caroline Muller

Ancient cities, dazzling mosaics, and landscapes straight from a Silk Road legend, Uzbekistan is full of surprises! Here are 21 unforgettable places to visit in Uzbekistan that will leave you spellbound.

Uzbekistan is a place that lingers with you—its Silk Road cities, golden deserts, and towering minarets filled with stories of traders, poets, and conquerors. Over 10 days, we traveled by train, watching the landscape shift from dusty steppe to turquoise-tiled masterpieces, from bustling bazaars to quiet courtyards where time seemed to stand still.

My favorite places in Uzbekistan include Registan in Samarkand, where the golden evening light makes the mosaics glow, the Bolo Khauz Mosque in Bukhara, and the Kuhna Ark Fortress in Khiva, where the view stretches across the walled city like a scene from another century. But these are just a glimpse of the beautiful places in Uzbekistan that make this country so special. Read on to find 21 spots you simply cannot miss.


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Practical Tips for Visiting Beautiful Uzbekistan

ESIM CARD: Purchase your electronic simcard before heading out to Uzbekistan

CHECK TIMES FOR TRAINS: We booked our trains directly at the train station.

MORE INSPIRATION: Find all my Uzbekistan Travel Guides

21 Pretty Places in Uzbekistan to Travel

1. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, Samarkand

READ MORE | A complete guide to visiting Samarkand

The 14th-century Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum may not be as lavish as some of Samarkand’s grander structures, but its understated elegance is exactly what attracted me here in the first place. This sacred site is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Uzbekistan, as it holds the tomb of Emir Timur, the ruthless yet visionary ruler who forged a vast empire stretching from India to Turkey.

Timur, often likened to Genghis Khan, was born in Shakhrisabz, where a more magnificent mausoleum was planned for him. But fate intervened. Struck by pneumonia while on a campaign in Kazakhstan, he died suddenly, and with winter sealing off the roads to his birthplace, his body was instead laid to rest in Samarkand—his beloved capital.

Inside, intricate tilework and shimmering gold leaf contrast with the mausoleum’s austere exterior. We arrived at dusk, when the fading daylight gave way to the soft glow of lanterns, making for the perfect conditions to snap some shots with great light and relatively few tourists. As it remains a place of worship, modest dress is required.

Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: 30,000 UZS ($2.60), valid for 3 days
Dress code: Cover knees and elbows

RECOMMENDED STAY | Best views in town can be found at the Bibikhanum Hotel
BUDGET PICK | Hotel Rahmon
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Platan Boutique Hotel
BEST LOCATION | Hotel Minor


to do in Samarkand

2. Registan Square, Samarkand

The Registan Square is the very soul of Samarkand, a place where time slows, and history hums beneath your feet. Once the heart of this Silk Road city, it was a stage for scholars, traders, and emperors. Today, it remains one of the most mesmerizing Uzbekistan tourist attractions, its three madrasahs standing in quiet grandeur, their turquoise domes catching the shifting light.

The Ulugh Beg Madrasah (15th century), built by the astronomer-king himself, was once among the finest universities in the Islamic world. Opposite it, the Sher-Dor Madrasah (17th century) defies convention with its bold lion motifs. At the center, the Tilya-Kori Madrasah glows with gold leaf, its walls whispering of a past steeped in learning and devotion. Once home to students, the tiny chambers now hold stalls selling silks and ceramics.

We spent a solid few hours roaming around both the square and the various madrasahs, snapping an inordinate amount of pictures and simply taking it all in. It was probably the single most impressive location we visited on our entire trip through Uzbekistan.

Tickets are sold at the booth near the entrance for 80,000 UZS ($7.50), cash only. If you plan to return later, ask the guard not to tear your ticket completely.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Entrance fee: 80,000 UZS ($7.50), cash only
Currency tip: Withdraw Uzbek sums locally, as foreign cards aren’t always accepted

RECOMMENDED STAY | Best views in town can be found at the Bibikhanum Hotel
BUDGET PICK | Hotel Rahmon
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Platan Boutique Hotel
BEST LOCATION | Hotel Minor


3. Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, Samarkand

Located just northeast of Registan, on the fringes of Samarkand, lies Shah-i-Zinda, an avenue of mausoleums so richly adorned it feels like stepping into a mosaic. Visiting a cemetery might not be on everyone’s Uzbekistan itinerary, but trust me when I say it comes in a close second to Registan in terms of “wow-factor”.

The oldest tombs date back to the 11th century, though most were built in the 14th and 15th centuries, during the height of the Timurid era. At its heart lies the revered shrine of Qutham ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, said to have brought Islam to the region in the 7th century. Over time, royalty, scholars, and nobles were laid to rest here, their mausoleums decorated in dazzling turquoise and cobalt tilework.

As Shah-i-Zinda remains a pilgrimage site, visitors should dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor while exploring its sacred pathways. You are allowed to take pictures. There is no informational brochure (it is a Necropolis after all), so I would advise you to do a little reading before heading out here. This will give you a better understanding of the various tombs.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Entrance fee: 45,150 UZS ($4)
Dress code: Modest attire (cover shoulders and knees)

BOOK A TOUR | Invest in a private, local, guide to take you around the highlights of Samarkand. Shah-i-Zinda will also be included in this budget-friendly tour.


4. Sher Dor Madrasah, Samarkand

On the right-hand side of Registan Square, the Sher-Dor Madrasah stands in quiet defiance of tradition. Built in the 17th century, it may lack the scholarly legacy of its older counterpart, Ulugh Beg Madrasah, but what it does have is boldness—both in design and ambition.

Before stepping inside, pause for a moment to study the facade. Spot the tigers stalking their prey beneath golden suns? In Islamic architecture, depictions of living creatures are rare, making this imagery particularly striking. Commissioned by ruler Yalangtush Bahadur, the madrasah was meant to mirror the grandiosity of its neighbor, yet its very decoration broke with convention.

Inside, a peaceful courtyard reveals intricate tilework and once-bustling student quarters. Today, these house small souvenir stalls. It’s a space that feels both lived-in and sacred—just as it was centuries ago.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm


Ulugh Beg Observatory Samarkand

5. Ulugh Beg Observatory, Samarkand

High above Samarkand, tucked away from the city’s grand mosques and madrasahs, lies one of the lesser-known places in Samarkand—the Ulugh Beg Observatory. Though only fragments remain, this 15th-century observatory was once among the most advanced in the world. It carries the name of the ruler-astronomer who charted the stars long before Galileo.

At its peak, the observatory stood three stories tall, crowned with a massive sextant. Today, only a 30-meter curved track survives, a haunting yet beautiful reminder of its former glory. A small museum nearby showcases a model of the original structure, alongside reproductions of Ulugh Beg’s intricate star charts, which mapped the heavens with astonishing accuracy.

Opening hours: Every day, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Entrance fee: 25,000 UZS ($2.35)


6. Kalan Mosque, Bukhara

READ MORE | The ultimate travel guide to Bukhara

At the heart of Bukhara’s old town, the Kalan Mosque has stood as a place of worship for over 500 years. Facing the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah and standing beside the towering Kalan Minaret, this 16th-century masterpiece is one of the most striking landmarks in Uzbekistan.

Step through its entrance, and you’ll find a vast courtyard framed by 208 pillars and crowned by 288 domes. Honestly is there anything better than symmetry and scale? It is this photographer’s happy place.

The mosque was designed to rival Samarkand’s grandeur and cement Bukhara’s status as a royal city. I mean, it’s not bad but it does not hold a candle to Samarkand. However, unlike many historic sites, this one remains an active place of worship, untouched by tourist vendors which makes it wonderfully authentic.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 15,000 UZS ($1.25), valid for 2 days
Dress code: Modest attire (cover elbows and knees)

WHERE WE STAYED | We stayed at the Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel and absolutely loved it. Locally run and very quaint!
LUXURY PICK | Boutique Hotel Minzifa
BUDGET PICK | Rizo Boutique Hotel


City of Bukhara

7. Po-i-Kalyan Square, Bukhara

At the heart of historical Bukhara, the Poi Kalon Ensemble is one of the best places to visit in Uzbekistan, a square which rivals Registan in Samarkand in terms of picture-perfect location. Towering above it all is the Kalon Minaret, an architectural masterpiece that has stood unshaken since the 12th century, even surviving Genghis Khan’s invasion. Nicknamed the “Tower of Death,” it was once used for public executions, with criminals thrown from its dizzying 45-meter height.

The Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, with its signature turquoise domes, sits opposite the abovementioned Kalon Mosque. This site has been a religious and cultural center since the 8th century, though time and war have reshaped it countless times.

TIP | For one of the best sunset views in Bukhara, head to Café Chasmai Mirob, just a short walk from the Poi Kalon Ensemble. With a charming terrace, vegetarian options, and even local wine, it’s the perfect spot to unwind as the sun sets behind the Kalon Minaret.

Opening hours: Varies by site, generally 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Entrance fee: Free to explore the square; separate tickets for individual sites


8. The Bolo Khauz Mosque, Bukhara

The Bolo Hauz Mosque is one of Bukhara’s most elegant sights, a reflection of the city’s merchant wealth and Silk Road heritage. Built in the 18th century, it once served as the city’s main congregational mosque, where worshippers gathered for Friday prayers. Once this part of the city contained many opulent houses and Caravanserai (hotels for traders), none but the mosque survived.

Its most striking feature is the wooden iwan (terrace), supported by twenty intricately carved pillars made by local artisans. Despite being a recent addition, the 20th century no less, they look like they have always been part of this mosque.

Unlike many historic sites in Bukhara, this is still an active place of worship. We were allowed to step inside to admire the delicate ceiling patterns but were kindly reminded to keep very quiet. Remember to dress modestly (covering your knees and shoulders) and to take off your shoes before entering.


Bukhara Uzbekistan

9. Ark Fortress, Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is the city’s oldest and most formidable landmark in Bukhara, a fortress that has loomed over the city for more than 1,500 years. Built in the 5th century, it was home to the emir and his court until the 1920s, serving as a stronghold of power. Though little of the original structure remains, its towering walls still hold the weight of history.

Rising above the entrance is the Juma Mosque, one of the Ark’s most striking features. Encircling the fortress are thick conical walls, designed to protect against invaders. Just beyond, the square was once a lively hub, where merchants without a spot in Bukhara’s bazaar gathered to trade.

Inside, a small museum offers a glimpse into the Ark’s past, though much of it now lies in ruins. Many visitors find the exterior far more captivating, especially in the warm glow of late afternoon.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Entrance fee: 15,000 UZS ($1.50) + 5,000 UZS ($0.50) camera fee, variable pricing reported
Location: 15-minute walk from Kalon Minaret

WHERE WE STAYED | We stayed at the Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel and absolutely loved it. Locally run and very quaint!
LUXURY PICK | Boutique Hotel Minzifa
BUDGET PICK | Rizo Boutique Hotel


Bukhara Uzbekistan

10. Chor Minor, Bukhara

Hidden in the backstreets of Bukhara, Chor Minor is a quirky architectural gem that feels worlds apart from the grand structures of the old city. Built in the 19th century by a wealthy Turkmen merchant, it once served as the gateway to a madrassah that no longer exists. Though its origins are clear, its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Despite its name, the four towers are not minarets. Instead, three were used as storage spaces, while the fourth contains a narrow staircase leading to the roof. For a small fee, visitors can still climb up, though access depends on finding the keyholder—a matter of luck.

It’s an easy 15-minute walk from the Kalon Minaret, making it a lovely detour if time allows. If you arrive and find it locked, check with the shopkeeper across the street—they might just know how to track down the key. We were not that lucky unfortunately and ended up only being able to see the outside.

Opening hours: Uncertain, varies by keyholder availability
Roof access fee: 5,000 UZS ($0.50)


Samanid Mausoleum, Bukhara

11. Samanid Mausoleum, Bukhara

Tucked away in a quiet park, the Samanid Mausoleum is one of Bukhara’s most remarkable architectural treasures. Built in the 9th century, it is the oldest surviving Islamic mausoleum in Central Asia. Unlike the grand, tile-covered structures found elsewhere in the city, its beauty lies in intricate brickwork, woven together like delicate lace. Understated, yet wildly elegant!

Commissioned as a family tomb for Ismail Samani, the founder of the Samanid Empire, it remained hidden beneath layers of mud and silt for centuries due to repeated flooding of the nearby Zarafshan River. This accidental preservation saved it from destruction during the Mongol invasion in the 13th century, allowing visitors today to admire its original design.

Set within Samani Park, the mausoleum offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Bukhara’s old city. Most visitors to Bukhara never make it to the Mausoleum, therefore the park is usually filled with locals making it the perfect spot for people-watching!

Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free


Lyabi Khauz Ensemble, Bukhara

12. Lyabi Khauz Ensemble, Bukhara

At the heart of Bukhara’s old city lies the Lyabi Khauz Ensemble. When exploring Bukhara, we would walk by this place almost daily! Built in 1620, this public square was once one of many hauz (pools) that supplied water to the city. While most were drained in the 1920s, this one remains, shaded by ancient mulberry trees and surrounded by Silk Road-era architecture.

Three striking buildings frame the square: the Kukeldash Madrasah (1568–1569), once a center for Islamic learning, the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah (1622), originally built as a caravanserai, and the Nadir Divan-Begi Khanaka (1620), a spiritual retreat for Sufi dervishes. Each time we walked by the atmosphere was lively, with locals gathering for tea and street musicians playing traditional melodies.

FOODIE TIP | For a classic Uzbek tea experience, try going to the traditional chaihonas (teahouses) that are dotted around the square. Alternatively, pop into the Labi Hovuz Restaurant for a traditional meal right by the waterfront.


13. Kalta Minor Minaret, Khiva

READ MORE | Travel guide to Khiva, Uzbekistan

Rising above Itchan Kala, the Kalta Minor Minaret is one of the most striking tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. With its deep turquoise tiles and stout form, it’s impossible to miss. Better yet, it is visible from almost anywhere inside the city walls. Which for the directionally challenged travelers like yours truly is a true blessing.

Originally, it was meant to be the tallest minaret in Central Asia, a grand statement of Khiva’s power. Construction began in 1852, but after just four years, work stopped abruptly. The ruler behind the project, Muhammad Amin Khan, died suddenly, leaving the minaret unfinished at just 29 meters. Legend says the architect had secretly promised to build an even taller tower in Bukhara, but before he could, he was pushed to his death from the top of Kalta Minor.

Though you can’t climb inside, unfortunately, honestly the real magic is in the tilework, which shimmers as the sun moves across the sky. At sunset, the surrounding buildings glow gold, and the patterns on the minaret seem to shift and dance in the fading light.

Good to know: The Orient Star Khiva Hotel is located right next to the Kalta Minor Minaret in the Madrassa of Moukhammed Admin Khan. It is the best hotel in Old Khiva to stay if you are looking for an authentic experience, next to one of the main historical monuments of Khiva


Khiva Uzbekistan

14. Kuhna Ark Fortress, Khiva

The Kuhna Ark Fortress was once the beating heart of Khiva, home to the Khan, his family, and his harem. Measuring 1.2 hectares, it is the largest structure in Itchan Kala, a maze of courtyards and corridors built for privacy and control. Walking through its fortified gates feels like stepping back into a world of royal intrigue.

Originally constructed in the 12th century, the Ark saw its most significant expansion in the 17th century, when Khiva’s rulers gave it the appearance we see today. Inside, you’ll find the Kurinish Khana (throne room), the summer mosque, and even a prison. Each space tells a story of power, faith, and daily life within the fortress walls.

For the best views, climb the watchtower, where the Khan once surveyed his city. From up here, Khiva unfolds in shades of sand and sky, its ancient skyline unchanged by time. According to the latest sources, access to the watchtower might now be restricted.

GOOD TO KNOW | We visited in October and many of the rooms were sadly closed off to the public. I tried asking the ladies at the entrance if this was standard, but alas I was met with large grins and blank stares.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: Included in the standard ticket, +$2 to climb the watchtower

WHERE TO STAY | The best location and views are definitely found in the Orient Star Khiva Hotel
BUDGET PICK | Meros B&B
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Madrasah Polvon-Qori Boutique Hotel


15. Juma Mosque, Khiva

From the outside, the Juma Mosque is an unassuming building, easy to overlook. But step inside, and you’ll find yourself in one of the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan. Originally built in the 10th century, most of what stands today is from an 18th-century renovation, though traces of the mosque’s ancient past remain.

The hall is held up by 218 wooden columns, each one unique, its surface worn smooth by time. It took a little time for my eyes to adjust to the dim interior, in fact, I almost missed the delicate carvings etched into the pillars! Some of these date back over 1,000 years, their calligraphy and floral patterns recounting stories of Khiva’s past. So make sure to give your eyes the time to adjust and then walk through the forest of magnificent columns.

Opening hours: Every day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: Included in the Itchan Kala Standard Ticket
Dress code: Modest attire (women should cover knees and elbows)

TAKE A TOUR | Short on time? Take a private walking tour of Khiva to see all the highlights.


Itchan Kala in Khiva Uzbekistan

16. Itchan Khala, Khiva

Stepping through the gates of Itchan Kala feels like entering a time capsule. Encircled by towering sand-colored walls, this UNESCO-listed old town is the heart of Khiva, where over 50 historical monuments sit within a maze of terracotta streets. Once home to the Khan, the clergy, and a notorious slave market, its walls date back to the 10th century, standing firm against centuries of raids and invasions.

The fortifications are remarkably well-preserved, and visitors can still climb the walls for sweeping views over Khiva. Inside, life hums gently through its narrow alleys, where vendors sell handwoven silk, spices, and ceramics beneath the carved wooden doors of ancient madrasahs.

Entry requires a ticket, which can be purchased at the West Gate. Since 2023, a single 150,000 UZS ($15) ticket grants access to most of Itchan Kala’s main attractions. However, some sites require additional fees:

  • Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum: 25,000 UZS
  • Islam Khoja Minaret (climb fee): 100,000 UZS

WHERE TO STAY | The best location and views are definitely found in the Orient Star Khiva Hotel
BUDGET PICK |
Meros B&B
SUSTAINABLE PICK |
Madrasah Polvon-Qori Boutique Hotel


17. Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum, Khiva

The Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum is dedicated to the patron saint of Khiva, a revered 14th-century Iranian poet, philosopher, and wrestler. Though his tomb dates back centuries, the grand mausoleum visitors see today was built in the 19th century, transforming it into one of Khiva’s most sacred sites.

Inside, deep blue tiles cover the walls from floor to ceiling, their intricate patterns illuminated by a chandelier that hangs high above. The design is reminiscent of Persian architecture, with calligraphy and motifs flowing toward the domed ceiling. Keep your voice low and dress modestly—this is more than a historical monument; it remains a place of worship.

Show your ticket at the entrance and remove your shoes before stepping inside. Don’t worry—no one will run off with them!

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: 25,000 UZS ($1.93), no longer included in the standard ticket
Dress code: Women should cover elbows and knees


Nice spots to see in Uzbekistan Fayaz Tepe Buddhist Monastery, Termez

18. Fayaz Tepe Buddhist Monastery, Termez

Hidden in the dusty landscapes near Termez, Fayaz Tepe is a rare glimpse into Uzbekistan’s Buddhist past. Dating back to the 1st century CE, this monastery once flourished under the Kushan Empire, a time when Buddhism spread along the Silk Road. Today, its ruins stand as a quiet reminder of an era long gone.

At the heart of the complex is a large stupa, surrounded by remnants of monastic cells and faded murals. Excavations uncovered a gold-leafed alabaster Buddha, now housed in Tashkent’s State Museum of History. Walking among the ruins, it’s easy to imagine monks once gathered here, their chants drifting into the desert air.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM


19. Chimgan Mountains, Tashkent Region

Just 80 km from Tashkent, the Chimgan Mountains are a breath of fresh air—quite literally. Known as the “Uzbek Switzerland”, this alpine retreat is one of the best places to visit in Uzbekistan, offering rugged peaks, rolling meadows, and the stunning Charvak Reservoir.

In winter, the slopes of Chimgan Oromgohi come alive with skiing and snowboarding, while summer transforms the region into a hiking and horseback riding paradise. Trails wind through canyons and forests, leading to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. For a slower pace, Charvak Reservoir is perfect for swimming, boat rides, or simply soaking in the views.

Reaching Chimgan is easy—taxis and tours from Tashkent take around two hours. Whether you come for adventure or relaxation, the Chimgan Mountains are a place to breathe, explore, and experience Uzbekistan’s wild beauty.

TAKE A TOUR | Book a Tashkent Mountain Tour, bringing you to the Chimgan Mountains. Visit includes the Amirsoy resort, Chimgan campsite and the Charvak reservoir. Bonus is the fact that a traditional Uzbek lunch is also provided.


Places to visit in Uzbekistan Kokand, Fergana Valley

20. Kokand, Fergana Valley

Once a powerful khanate and a major stop on the Silk Road, Kokand is a fascinating city in the Fergana Valley, perfect for those on a trip to Uzbekistan. Surrounded by mountains and fertile land, it was a center of trade, culture, and craftsmanship for centuries.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Khudayar Khan Palace, a dazzling 19th-century residence with mosaic-covered facades and intricately painted ceilings. Nearby, the Jami Mosque stands out with its 99 carved wooden columns, each one unique, making it one of the most beautiful mosques in the valley.

Kokand’s bazaars offer a chance to experience local life—pick up silk, ceramics, or fresh fruits from the valley’s orchards. The city is easily reached by train or shared taxi from Tashkent, with the journey crossing the scenic Kamchik Pass.

Getting there: Train or taxi from Tashkent (4-5 hours)

BOOK A TOUR | Alternatively, book a day tour from Tashkent to the Fergana Valley. Includes a stop to see traditional ceramics and a browse at the local market of Margilan.


Place to see in Uzbekistan Zaamin National Park, Jizzakh Region

21. Zaamin National Park, Jizzakh Region

Far from the desert landscapes often associated with Uzbekistan, Zaamin National Park is a lush escape of juniper forests, alpine meadows, and crisp mountain air. Spanning the northern slopes of the Turkestan Range, it is Uzbekistan’s oldest nature reserve and a haven for those seeking space, silence, and unspoiled nature.

Hikers can follow trails past centuries-old juniper trees, while those looking for a slower pace can simply take in the views and spot wildlife—if you’re lucky, you might even glimpse the elusive snow leopard. In spring, wildflowers bloom across the valleys, while autumn turns the landscape golden.

Getting here requires a 2.5-hour train to Jizzakh, followed by a 1.5-hour taxi ride, or a 4-5 hour drive from Tashkent. Whether you come for adventure or simply to breathe in the fresh mountain air, Zaamin offers the perfect retreat into Uzbekistan’s wilder side.

BOOK A TOUR | If you are looking for an easier way to explore the park, look into booking an Eco tour to Zaamin National Park leaving from Samarkand.

Uzbekistan Places to Visit Map

Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan are located.

Most beautiful places in Uzbekistan on a Map

Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Uzbekistan

RESPECT CULTURAL HERITAGE & NATURE: Stick to marked paths in national parks, don’t climb on ancient monuments, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show cultural respect.

RESPECT WATER AND ENERGY USE: Uzbekistan is a water-scarce country, especially in desert regions. Take short showers, reuse towels, and avoid excessive laundry requests to minimize water consumption.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES: Choose family-run guesthouses, locally owned cafés, and markets over international chains. This helps keep money in local communities and supports traditional craftsmanship.

CHOOSE LOW-IMPACT TRANSPORT: Instead of private taxis, consider trains, shared taxis (marshrutkas), or walking in cities like Khiva and Bukhara. The high-speed train between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara is a great low-impact option and super comfortable.

Practical Tips for Visiting Uzbekistan

Essential information for a trip to Uzbekistan

LANGUAGE SPOKEN: The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin. It is a South Slavic language and is very similar to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian, with all four being mutually intelligible.

OFFICIAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: New Year’s Day – January 1-2; Orthodox Christmas – January 7; Independence Day – May 21-22; Statehood Day – July 13-14

TIPPING IN MONTENEGRO: Not mandatory, appreciated but not expected.

PAYMENT BY CARD: (Credit) cards are accepted virtually everywhere around the Bay of Kotor. The further North you head the more cash is appreciated for transactions.

What is the most beautiful part of Uzbekistan

I loved the cities of Khiva and Samarkand, the former small in size but brimming with monuments, the latter a photographer’s paradise with its gargantuan tile-clad madrasahs.

How to get around Uzbekistan

Traveling between the cities of Uzbekistan can be done via the (night)train. We were 3 girls traveling solo and never felt unsafe on the trains. They are on time, clean and tickets can be purchased at the station. To get to the more remote locations you will either need to book a taxi or a tour.

Is Uzbekistan a cheap place to visit

Uzbekistan is a budget-friendly place to visit. Guesthouses range between $25 and $80, meals are budgeted around $6 and $10.

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING UZBEKISTAN

SAMARKAND: A comprehensive travel guide to Samarkand
KHIVA: Things to do in undiscovered Khiva
BUKHARA: Top things to do and see in Bukhara

Nicest Places in Uzbekistan: Pin it
Beautiful places in Uzbekistan
Prettiest places in Uzbekistan

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Caroline Muller

Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline, and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism, and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

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