Uzbekistan 5 Day Itinerary

July 18, 2024

Uzbekistan 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent

Arrival: Arrive at Tashkent International Airport
Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
Lunch: Try traditional Uzbek cuisine, such as plov (pilaf), shurpa (soup), or sambusa (samosas)
Afternoon:
- Visit the Tashkent Museum of History, which showcases the country’s rich history and culture
- Explore the Old Town, including the Khast Imam Complex, a historic mosque and madrasa
Evening: Enjoy traditional Uzbek music and dance at a local cultural show

Morning: Fly from Tashkent to Samarkand ( approx. 1 hour)
Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel in Samarkand
Lunch: Try some local street food, such as shawarma or kebabs
Afternoon:
- Visit the Registan, a majestic square with three beautiful madrasas (Islamic schools)
- Explore the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane)
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Uzbek dishes

Morning:
- Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world
- Explore the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning cemetery with intricately decorated mausoleums
Lunch: Try some local bread and pastries at a bakery
Afternoon:
- Visit the Afrosiyob Hill, which offers panoramic views of Samarkand
- Explore the Local Bazaar, where you can find traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening in your hotel or explore the local nightlife

Morning: Drive from Samarkand to Bukhara (approx. 4 hours)
Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel in Bukhara
Lunch: Try some traditional Bukharan dishes, such as manti (steamed dumplings) or shurpa (soup)
Afternoon:
- Visit the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Central Asia
- Explore the Kukeldash Madrasa, a historic Islamic school with stunning architecture
Evening: Enjoy traditional Bukharan music and dance at a local cultural show

Morning:
- Visit the Ark of Bukhara, a fortress that dates back to the 5th century
- Explore the Bukhara Old Town, including the Lyab-i-Hauz Ensemble and the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa
Lunch: Try some local desserts, such as shakarpara (sweet pastry) or halva (sesame seed dessert)
Afternoon:
- Visit the Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace, a stunning palace built in the 19th century
- Explore the Jewish Quarter, which features several historic synagogues and buildings
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Uzbek cuisine

Citizens of many countries can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival in Uzbekistan
Check with the Uzbekistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific requirements and regulations

Domestic flights: Uzbekistan Airways operates flights between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara
Taxi services are widely available, but be sure to negotiate prices beforehand
Private car services can also be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator

Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for recommended vaccinations before traveling to Uzbekistan
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the summer months
Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots

Local currency: Uzbek som (UZS)
Credit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is widely preferred
Exchange your money at a local bank or exchange office for the best rates

Official language: Uzbek
Many locals speak Russian, especially in tourist areas
Some English is spoken, especially among younger people and those in the tourism industry

Additional Tips

Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques and mausoleums
Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering religious sites or homes
Haggling is expected at markets and bazaars, so be prepared to negotiate prices
Try to learn some basic Uzbek phrases, such as “hello” (assalomu alaykum), “thank you” (rakhmat), and “goodbye” (xayr)