Steeped in history, Uzbekistan is where ancient trade routes and timeless traditions collide. From the maze-like lively streets of Bukhara to the towering madrassas of Samarkand, this is a land of storybook cities, vibrant bazaars, and warm, welcoming people.
Whether you’re a history lover, a curious wanderer, or simply chasing the magic of the Silk Road, Uzbekistan offers a journey that’s deeply enriching. I spent a couple of weeks travelling across the country and, honestly, I could’ve stayed much longer. For all the practical information, check my comprehensive travel guide on How to Backpack Uzbekistan, which contains bureaucracy rules, cultural facts and plenty of tips.
Visa
Most nationalities can get a free visa on arrival. If that’s not the case for you, you can apply here for an e-Visa.
Quick Facts
Capital: Tashkent
Population: 36 million
Language: Uzbek (Turkic language) but Russian is widely spoken
Currency: Uzbek Som
Area: 447,400 km2 (56th)
Best Time to Visit
Uzbekistan is a year-round destination but summers can get utterly hot and winters extremely cold. Therefore Spring and Autumn would be the ideal time to visit.
Highlights
Transportation
The easiest way to travel around in Uzbekistan is by train. There’s a railway that connects all the major cities. You can ride the slow old soviet trains or the more modern high-speed trains.
Budget
I solo travelled in Uzbekistan for a couple of weeks in Autumn 2022 and spent an average of $25 per day. Check the full travel guide for more information on how to travel Uzbekistan on a budget.
Safety
Uzbekistan is an incredibly safe country and I always felt safe, even as a solo female traveller. Locals are extremely friendly and hospitable and will always help you with a smile.
