Uzbekistan travel guide: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva
Uzbekistan brings Silk Road cities, blue-domed architecture and lively bazaars into one culture-focused trip. A first route through Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva balances modern city life with historic centres.
Guide updated: 29 October 2026What to know before visiting Uzbekistan
Plan intercity distances and train links before choosing your Uzbekistan itinerary. Tashkent offers a modern capital experience, Samarkand and Bukhara are known for their historic centres, and Khiva needs time for the walled Itchan Kala. Compare rail, flight and road options using current schedules.
Places to explore
Tashkent
Chorsu Bazaar, the Hazrati Imam complex and decorated metro stations show the capital’s mix of tradition and contemporary life.
Samarkand
Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, Gur-e-Amir and Bibi-Khanym are key stops for exploring Silk Road history through architecture.
Bukhara
The historic centre around Poi Kalyan, the Ark Fortress and Lyabi-Hauz is walkable; leave time for bazaars and craft workshops.
Khiva
The walls, madrasas and minarets of Itchan Kala create an open-air museum feel. Include the Urgench connection and walking time.
Local food to try
Uzbek plov
A rice dish with carrots and meat, with recipes varying between cities and family traditions.
Samsa
A baked pastry filled with meat or vegetables, often found at local bakeries.
Lagman
A filling noodle dish with vegetables and meat; ask whether the local version is served as soup or a main course.
A route to consider
- 01
Start in Tashkent
Combine a bazaar, a historic complex and metro stations to get oriented in the capital.
- 02
Samarkand and Bukhara
Check train times and allow enough time around the main squares and old-town areas in both cities.
- 03
Extend to Khiva
For a slower visit to Itchan Kala, consider the Urgench transfer and an overnight stay.
Before you go
- Turkish citizens have a short-stay visa exemption, but should check passport validity before travel.
- Accommodation registration is required in Uzbekistan; ask your hotel or host how the registration confirmation is provided.
- Plan intercity and high-speed train tickets around the actual departure days.
Entry and visa notes
The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that Turkish citizens holding ordinary and official passports may visit Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days. It also notes a minimum six-month passport validity and accommodation registration within three days of arrival. Entry rules vary by nationality and can change; recheck official guidance before departure.
Entry rules depend on nationality, passport type and purpose of travel. Recheck official guidance before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do Turkish citizens need a visa for Uzbekistan?+
The Turkish MFA notice describes a visa exemption of up to 30 days for ordinary and official passport holders. Confirm passport validity and registration requirements before travel.
How long should I plan for Uzbekistan?+
Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva require time for intercity travel as well as sightseeing. Build the trip around current rail and flight schedules.