Uzbekistan 7 Day Itinerary

Uzbekistan 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent

  • Arrive at Tashkent International Airport
  • Transfer to hotel and check-in
  • Visit the Independence Square, a symbol of Uzbekistan’s independence from Soviet rule
  • Explore the Old City, including the Hast Imam Complex and Chorsu Bazaar
  • Try traditional Uzbek cuisine for dinner, such as plov and shurpa

Things to Know:

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of many countries can obtain an e-visa online or upon arrival
  • Currency: Uzbek Som (UZS), although USD is widely accepted
  • Language: Uzbek (official), Russian, and English are also spoken
  • Culture: Conservative, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and respect for elders

Day 2: Tashkent to Samarkand

  • Take the Afrosiyob High-Speed Train to Samarkand (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the Registan, a majestic square surrounded by madrasahs
  • Explore the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane)
  • Wander through the Chor Su Bazaar, a bustling marketplace

Transportation:

  • Afrosiyob High-Speed Train: A convenient and comfortable way to travel between cities
  • Taxi and bus services are also available, but less efficient

Day 3: Samarkand

  • Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world
  • Explore the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning collection of mausoleums
  • Take a stroll through the Dolon Vineyard, a scenic spot for wine enthusiasts

Things to Do:

  • Try your hand at traditional Uzbek crafts, such as ceramics or embroidery
  • Enjoy a folk show, featuring local music and dance performances

Day 4: Samarkand to Bukhara

  • Take the Afrosiyob High-Speed Train to Bukhara (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture
  • Explore the Lyab-i-Hauz Ensemble, a charming square surrounded by madrasahs and mosques

Accommodation:

  • Stay in traditional Uzbek guesthouses, known as mahallas, for an authentic experience
  • Luxury hotels are also available, offering modern amenities and comforts

Day 5: Bukhara

  • Visit the Ark of Bukhara, a fortress that has stood for over 2,000 years
  • Explore the Bukhara Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Take a stroll along the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, a picturesque canal

Food and Drink:

  • Try traditional Uzbek tea, served with sweet pastries and bread
  • Enjoy local delicacies, such as shashlik (skewers) and sambusa (samosas)

Day 6: Bukhara to Khiva

  • Take a domestic flight from Bukhara to Urgench (approx. 1 hour)
  • Transfer to Khiva (approx. 30 minutes)
  • Visit the Itchan Kala, a walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting mosques and mausoleums
  • Haggling is expected at markets and bazaars
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters

Day 7: Departure from Khiva

  • Spend the morning exploring Khiva’s Old City, including the Tash Hauli Palace and Juma Mosque
  • Transfer to Urgench Airport for departure (approx. 30 minutes)

Additional Tips:

  • Learn some basic Uzbek phrases, such as “Salam” (hello) and “Rahmat” (thank you)
  • Be prepared for limited English language skills outside of major cities
  • Respect the local environment and culture by not littering and dressing modestly