Uzbekistan 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Ancient Cities of Samarkand and Registan

  • Morning: Arrival at Samarkand International Airport (SKD), transfer to the hotel for check-in and freshening up.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Registan Square, a stunning example of Islamic architecture with three magnificent madrasahs: Tilla Kari, Ulugbek, and Sher Dor. Don’t forget to explore the intricate designs on the exteriors!
  • Late Afternoon: Head to the Afrosiab Museum for an insight into the rich history of Samarkand, followed by a stroll around the Siab Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional Uzbek handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Dine at a local restaurant to try dishes like plov (Uzbek pilaf), shashlik (kebabs), and samsa (meat pasties). Overnight stay in Samarkand.

Things to Know:

  1. Uzbekistan uses the UZS (Uzbek Som) as its currency. Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  2. The main languages spoken are Uzbek and Russian. English is less common, but many people working in tourism speak it.
  3. The best time to visit Samarkand is from March to October when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

Day 2: Discovering Bukhara

  • Morning: Travel by train or car to Bukhara. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and start exploring!
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lab-i Hauz Complex, a peaceful area with a pond surrounded by historic buildings. Next, head to the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the Kalyan Minaret.
  • Evening: Explore the Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, which includes the Miri-Arab Madrasah, Kalyan Mosque, and the Kalyan Minaret. Wander around the Shop-i Zinda Necropolis, a complex of interconnected mausoleums with beautiful tile work.
  • Night: Relax at a rooftop restaurant for dinner, enjoying views of Bukhara’s ancient architecture while sampling local dishes. Overnight stay in Bukhara.

Day 3: Journey to Khiva

  • Morning: Depart for Khiva, the final stop on your itinerary. The journey can be made by car or train, and it takes around 5-6 hours.
  • Afternoon: Upon arrival in Khiva, check into your hotel and start exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Ichan Kala fortress, home to the Ata-Jurbay Mausoleum, Kalta Minor Minaret, and the vibrant Khan’s Palace.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Oz Aslik Hodja Street, known for its traditional Uzbek craft shops. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night in Khiva.

Visa Requirements: Most nationalities need to apply for an e-visa for Uzbekistan, which can be done online through the official government website. The visa application process requires a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival and proof of hotel bookings or invitations.

Transportation: Domestic transportation in Uzbekistan is well-organized with regular flights, trains, and shared taxis (marshrutkas) available between major cities. It’s recommended to book transport in advance for a hassle-free travel experience.