I left Portugal by train for Macau, and Uzbekistan was one of the obvious, obligatory, unavoidable destinations on my long-term adventure. And I didn't regret it for a moment, so it was easy to plan the itinerary for my trip to Uzbekistan.
In seven or ten days in this country, you'll be able to savour an unforgettable experience. As well as being a country of very friendly people, it's still a destination far from international mass tourism - although it's starting to come to the fore. And, the icing on the cake, it's a cheap travel destination.
There is so much to see and appreciate in this sublime country, but don't rush your trip, as this is a country to savour and savour slowly. Even if you don't speak Russian or Tajik, you'll have the opportunity to communicate with the locals. They'll ask you to practise their or their children's English and offer you food and drink, as well as wanting to hear your stories.
On a trip to Uzbekistan, it's essential to visit the main cities such as Samarkand (the best known), Bukhara (the most vivid) or Khiva (the most distant, but most genuine) and don't leave out the orderly and surprising capital, Tashkent.
Wander the streets and alleys, appreciate the handicrafts, taste the local cuisine and try to contain your bewilderment when you see the Islamic architecture during your visit to Uzbekistan. This is a nation of human contact, where it's strange to be alone, so be prepared to make new friends almost at every turn.
Uzbekistan travel itinerary
Day 1: Tashkent
I started my Uzbekistan travel itinerary in what I would now consider my favourite city: Khiva. However, as most people who plan to travel to Uzbekistan will fly to Tashkent and start their adventure there, I decided to reverse the itinerary a little.
Many people make a habit of arriving in Tashkent and running off to another city. However, my advice to you is to take advantage of this opportunity to get into the rhythm of the country and get to know Central Asia's largest capital.
On this first day I recommend that you take a look at Amir Timur Square, the Uzbekistan Hotel, Independence Square and the Hazrat Imam Complex, the religious heart of Tashkent. You can have lunch at the Plov Centre and end the day at the Telecommunications Tower.
Day 2: Tashkent
On this second day in Tashkent, go to several of the Metro stations. I'd highlight Kosmonavtlar, Alisher Navoir, Tinchlik or Gafur Gulom stations, but there are many others.
I visited almost every Metro station in Tashkent and spent hours below ground appreciating (and photographing) the stupendous details of this work. In many cities the Metro serves as a means of transport, but in Tashkent the Metro is also an art gallery.
One of the must-see places in Tashkent and on a travel itinerary to Uzbekistan is the Chorsu Bazaar - the capital's largest market, where locals buy and sell everything from (horse) meat, fruit, vegetables, honey and spices, clothes, baskets and much more. It's a fascinating place.
Hotel in Tashkent
My advice is to choose a hotel near a Metro station. I opted for The Top Hostel, which, although not fantastic, has a good atmosphere.
Other recommendations for sleeping in Tashkent include:
- Hotel Uzbekistan - historic hotel
- Mirzo Boutique Hotel (9.5)
- Navruz Hotel (9.3)
- Alliance Hotel (9.1)
- Alpha Hostel (9.2)
- Hyatt Regency Tashkent (9.1)
- Home Hotel (9.5)
Days 3 to 5: Khiva
I prefer travelling by train, but it's also possible - if you want to save time - to fly from Tashkent to Urgench. From there it's just a 30-minute taxi ride to Khiva.
Located in the western part of the country, Khiva was the first place in Uzbekistan to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. And after spending several days in this town in the middle of the Kyzyl Kum desert, it's easy to see why it caught UNESCO's interest.
Khiva is famous for its walled city, including more than 50 historical monuments protected by a circular clay wall. Sites such as the Juma Mosque, the Kuhna Watchtower and Ark, the Kalta Minaret and the Islam Khoja Minaret will leave you in awe of their beauty.
Khiva isn't just about monuments - that would be too limiting. The small Uzbek city is where you can stroll leisurely, where fewer tourists arrive and where more locals want to approach you for a chat. In Khiva, you'll experience real, authentic Uzbek hospitality.
The city is small, but I recommend two days to breathe in the pure atmosphere of the city. If you want to rush through your Uzbekistan travel itinerary, then cut out a day here.
Hotel in Khiva
I stayed outside the walls, at the East Star Khiva. It's a basic unit, but when I return to Khiva, I'll probably choose other accommodation.
Other recommendations for sleeping in Khiva include:
- Arkanchi Hotel (9.2)
- Khiva Polvonnazir Guest House (9.8)
- Madrasah Polvon-Qori boutique (9.7)
- Khiva Siyovush Hotel (10)
- Khiva Angarik Darvoza (9.8)
- Orient Star Khiva Hotel (7.9)
Days 6 to 7: Bukhara
From Khiva, hop on a train to Bukhara, another city on your Uzbekistan travel itinerary that can't be left out. Of the three magical cities: Khiva, Samarkand and Bukhara, this was the one that actually seduced me the least. Not because it isn't attractive or beautiful, on the contrary, but I was very disappointed by the fact that many of the recovered or restored sites have been taken over by shops. I think it took the soul out of the city, rather than adding to its charisma.
However, there are still places in Bukhara where you can't find shops in the historic buildings and which almost transport you to another era. Examples of this are the Kalyan Mosque (known as Kalan or Kalon), the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah and, of course, the Kalyan Minaret, which is one of the most fantastic examples of Islamic architecture.
The climb to the top of the building is dark and steep, but the view of Bukhara justifies the effort and the square around the minaret is an excellent place to watch the sunset.
The name Bukhara evokes vivid images of the ancient Silk Road and is a well of history that includes the presence in the city of several empires, including the Persian, Mongol and Russian. The rich cultural heritage is therefore more than evident. Don't forget Chor minor, a hidden place in an urban area of Bukhara.
Hotel in Bukhara
I stayed several nights in the Parivash Guest House and I can recommend it without any problem.
Other recommendations for sleeping in Bukhara include:
- Kukaldosh Boutique Hotel (9.2)
- Hotel Malika Bukhara (9.0)
- Boutique Hotel Minzifa (9.1)
- Hotel Khurjin (9.3)
- Lyabi House Hotel (8.9)
- Usman Heritage Hotel (9.8)
- Volida Boutique Hotel (9.4)
Days 8 to 10: Samarkand
If you think you've seen it all, prepare to open your mouth in amazement when you reach the last stop on your Uzbekistan travel itinerary: Samarkand.
The city has probably one of the most beautiful squares in the world: the acclaimed Registan Square. It is indeed a stunning city and has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which has defined Samarkand as a "crossroads and a melting pot of cultures".
In addition to Registan, there are countless places you should include in your Uzbekistan travel itinerary, including the Gur-Emir's Mausoleum, Shah-i-Zinda Complex or Siyob Bazaar.
In Samarkand I visited and recommend a visit to a silk factory. You have to go to one of these places to realise the importance of silk and the work done by these women. And if you have time, take a trip to another World Heritage Site: Shahrisabz.
On the tenth day, take a train to Tashkent and then say goodbye to Uzbekistan, with a promise to return, because I have no doubt that you will love this Central Asian country at the heart of the Silk Road.
Uzbek cuisine
Uzbek cuisine is incredibly rich in flavours, and in Samarkand, Bukhara or Khiva you can sample it at any time. Some of the most popular local dishes are:
- Plov - a savoury rice dish with carrots, pieces of lamb and sultanas (it's the national dish of Uzbekistan)
- Samsa - puff pastry with a variety of fillings, from beef, lamb, potato or (my favourites) pumpkin
- Manti - steamed dumplings filled with meat, cheese or pumpkin
- Lagman - a soup with potatoes, meat and carrots
- Shashlik - meat (chicken, lamb, beef) on a spit, roasted on the grill (in a style similar to the Turkey)
- Shurpa - a hearty lamb and vegetable soup (more like a stew)
- Naan bread - a fresh, soft and fluffy flatbread made in stone ovens
Hotel in Samarkand
Samarkand has no shortage of hotels, private houses and hostels to sleep in. However, when I return to the city I'm going to stay again in a small house called Registan Centre.
Other recommendations for sleeping in Samarkand include:
- Samarkand Centre (9.2)
- Jahongir Guest House (9.1)
- House of Higos (9.0)
- Hotel Platan (9.3)
Extra information
Reasons to travel to Uzbekistan
Authenticity
Wherever we travel these days, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find genuine experiences. In Uzbekistan, I guarantee you that this will happen. The country was closed to tourism (and the world) for decades and only in recent years has it slowly begun to receive contact from the outside. As a result, in some places the exchange of experiences with tourists has been minimal.
Hospitality
Of the almost 60 countries I've visited, I've found Uzbekistan to be extremely hospitable. Although English is not widely spoken, the vast majority of people go out of their way to please you and, above all, to help you. And 99 per cent of the time without wanting anything in return.
Architecture
Uzbekistan has some of the most impressive buildings of all the Islamic countries I've visited. Yes, many have been restored, but this effort has preserved intact the design and creativity of the minds of the past. Get your camera ready to record the stunning traditional Uzbek architecture.
History
Located on the historic Silk Road, Uzbekistan is where many of the chapters of this important period of humanity took place. From Genghis Khan to Alexander the Great or Marco Polo, many adventurers have explored this area for centuries.
Visas for Uzbekistan
Portuguese and Brazilian citizens are exempt from a visa for Uzbekistan for a period of 30 days. However, it is compulsory to register in the places where you are staying. Registration is carried out by the accommodation, but keep the papers you are given, as these are required when you leave the country.
Save time (and money)
If you want to immerse yourself even more in the local culture, optimise your trip and even save money, take part in experiences and guided tours in Uzbekistan. Book the best tours and activities in advance. Skip the queues and get your entrances to monumentsYou'll have more time to enjoy your trip.
Money in Tashkent
The official currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbek Som (UZS).
ATM machines are not always easy to find in Uzbekistan. You don't need to change money before travelling. It's important to have two cards with you (debit or credit cards): one MasterCard and one Visa, as some ATM machines only accept one or the other network.
I use the Wise card and the Revolut card to avoid bank fees and commissions. I always travel with both.
Internet and Wi-Fi
The most affordable way to access the internet is to buy this eSIM (with a 15% discount). Discover the world without worrying about roaming and access high-speed internet in over 190 countries.
How to get to Uzbekistan
Aeroflot flies to Tashkent, with a stopover in Moscow, but sometimes it's cheaper to fly to Almaty with Turkish Airlines in Kazakhstan and take an overnight train to Shymkent or Tashkent. I use Skyscanner to check timetables and prices and book flights.
Travel Insurance
Never travel without travel insurance. I recommend IATI Seguros or Heymondo (if you use either of these links you get a 5% discount). They are the best travel insurance (and the cheapest) and have Covid-19 protection.
Whenever you want to book a flight, a hotel or buy travel insurance, use the platforms I recommend and trust. All you have to do is click on the links below before researching your trips.
You don't pay extra for using these links.
- Hotel in Uzbekistan at the best price
- Travel Insurance at IATI or Heymondo (5% discount with this link)
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- Rental car with reduced rates
- Bank card without commissions for travelling
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- Photography workshops — learn photography with me
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I organise and lead group trips to destinations I know well. And I only travel with small groups (maximum 12 people).
I've been to 60 countries, so if you have a trip in mind with a group of friends, family or work colleagues, contact me and I'll be happy to plan, organise and lead the trip you want. The itinerary can be customised, as can the budget and activities.
See the travel calendar and sign up or tell me where you want to travel as a group and I'll take care of everything.
Hello, great report. My fear is how to find the places with the signs and places in their language. How did you find everything? There's a hole in the desert where fire comes out. Did you find out about this place?
Hello Marília and thank you. Some people speak English, but it's a good idea to know a bit of Cyrillic, as that will help. About the fire, perhaps you're referring to the Darvaza Crater in Turkmenistan?
how did you book these travelling trains? i'd like to know, because i couldn't find them on the internet
Hello Leticia. If you check out this article, there's more information there:
https://www.lugaresincertos.com/inspiracao-viagem/visitar-fazer-khiva-cidade-magica-uzbequistao/
By the way, I also recommend reading other articles about Uzbekistan, you can read about it here.