Uzbekistan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Cities in Uzbekistan

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty traditional Uzbek breakfast at a local cafe. Try dishes such as Plov (rice pilaf), Shashlik (kebabs), and Lagman (noodles).

Transportation:

  • Hire a private taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Taxi.uz to travel around the city. Uzbekistan has efficient public transportation as well, but it might be more challenging for tourists.

Activity:

  • Visit Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in the world. Explore the Registan Square, a stunning example of Islamic architecture with its three magnificent madrasahs. Don’t forget to take some breathtaking photos!

Things to Know:

  • Samarkand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many other historical sites such as Shah-i-Zinda, Gur-Emir Mausoleum, and Bibi Khanum Mosque. It’s best to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at a local restaurant. Try Shashlik or Samsa (meat pasties).

Activity:

  • Continue exploring Samarkand. Visit the Afrosiab Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient city of Afrosiab that was discovered during excavations in the 1930s.

Evening:

  • Relax at a traditional teahouse and enjoy some Uzbek tea with dried fruits.

Day 2: Discovering Ancient Artisanship in Uzbekistan

Morning:

  • Head to Bukhara, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo-Hauz Mosque, and trade domes like Toki Zargaron (Jeweler’s Dom) and Toki Sarrafon (Moneychanger’s Dom).

Activity:

  • Spend some time in the bustling Lab-i Hauz (Registan Square), where you can see local artisans at work. You might even want to buy some handmade crafts as souvenirs!

Things to Know:

  • Bukhara is a pedestrian city, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be prepared for hot summers and cold winters.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Bukhara. Don’t miss out on trying Manty (dumplings) or Shurpa (lamb soup).

Activity:

  • Visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa, the summer residence of the last emir of Bukhara. It combines traditional Uzbek architecture with elements from Russian architecture.

Evening:

  • Explore the Kyzyl Kum Desert (Red Sand) on a camel ride or 4x4 tour. Witness a stunning sunset over the dunes.

Visa Requirements:

  • Uzbekistan requires all foreign visitors to have a visa. You can apply for an e-visa online at e-visa.gov.uz or through the Uzbek embassy in your home country.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights are available between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. Alternatively, you can travel by high-speed train or hire a car with a driver for more flexibility.