11 Days in Uzbekistan by Train: A Journey Through Time and Encounters
Uzbekistan is a land where the Silk Road’s golden age still lingers in the air, wrapped in the scent of spices and fresh non bread. Every step feels like walking through a living museum. It’s a place where history isn’t just preserved—it’s alive...
Why Uzbekistan Captivated us from the Start
Some trips take you far, others change you forever. Uzbekistan did both. From the moment we arrived, we were swept into a world where ancient Silk Road cities whispered stories of merchants, scholars, and travelers who had walked the same streets centuries ago. But beyond its breathtaking mosques and bustling bazaars, what struck us most was the warmth of the people and the seamless way you can explore this country by train.
This is our 11-day Uzbekistan itinerary—a mix of history, local encounters, and practical tips to make your journey unforgettable
Day 1-2: Tashkent – The Unexpected Face of Central Asia
Tashkent was nothing like we expected. Instead of a dusty old Silk Road town, we found a dynamic capital blending Soviet-era grandeur, modern skyscrapers, and centuries-old traditions. It’s a city that forces you to look deeper, past the concrete boulevards, to find its true charm.
What to See & Do in Tashkent
Chorsu Bazaar – A sensory explosion of spices, fresh bread, and colorful fabrics. The blue-domed market is the perfect place for a first taste of Uzbek cuisine.
Tashkent Metro – More than just a way to get around, this subway is a Soviet-era masterpiece with chandeliers, mosaics, and marble columns.
Old City & Khast Imam Complex – A quiet pocket of history where you’ll find the world’s oldest Quran.
TV Tower – A panoramic view of the city that gives you a sense of its vastness.
Memorable Moments
We had our first plate of plov (Uzbekistan’s national dish) at a family-run eatery, where an old man proudly explained that the recipe had been passed down for generations. Moments like these reminded us that food in Uzbekistan isn’t just about taste—it’s a cultural bridge.
Day 3-4: Khiva – A Fairytale Frozen in Time
We took a night train from Tashkent to Khiva, it lasted 15 hours, it’s an old-school Soviet train, slower but authentic and most importantly it's packed with friendly Uzbek families eager to chat.
Khiva doesn’t feel real—it’s a perfectly preserved Silk Road city, where every alley and rooftop seems straight out of a historical epic. But beyond its photogenic walls, it’s also a place full of life and craftsmanship.
Samarkand best places to visit
Top places to see in Bukhara
7-must see places in Khiva
General info about Uzbekistan
What to See & Do in Khiva
Itchan Kala – The walled city where time has barely moved in centuries.
Kalta Minor Minaret – A short, unfinished minaret covered in brilliant blue tiles.
Kunya-Ark Fortress – Climbing to the top for sunset is a must!
Meeting the artisans – From tile-makers to silk weavers, Khiva’s workshops are a window into the city’s soul.
The Moment That Stuck With us : At dusk, we climbed the city walls, watching the golden light wrap around Khiva’s minarets. A musician played a haunting melody on a traditional dutar, making us feel like we had truly stepped back in time.
Day 5-7: Bukhara – The Soul of the Silk Road
We took a train early in the morning from Khiva to Bukhara, it lasted 7 hours, a long but scenic journey journey through endless desert landscapes, where time seems to slow down.
Bukhara is not just a city; it’s an open-air museum where time seems to stand still. Unlike the polished beauty of Samarkand, Bukhara feels raw and lived-in, with its sunbaked brick buildings and maze-like streets.
What to See & Do in Bukhara
Poi-Kalon Complex – The towering minaret was once the tallest in Central Asia and so impressive that even Genghis Khan spared it from destruction.
Ark of Bukhara – A fortress that once housed Bukhara’s rulers and still carries echoes of its past.
Mausoleum of the Samanids – An architectural wonder dating back over 1,000 years.
Lyabi-Hauz – A tranquil pond surrounded by ancient madrasas, perfect for an evening tea break.
Unforgettable Encounters: We met a local artisan who paints ceramics using the same techniques as his ancestors. Each piece filled with stories and passion and as we’re traveling the world with no room in our luggage, we couldn’t resist buying a small, beautifully painted blue mosque piece.
Day 8-10: Samarkand – The Jewel of the Silk Road
Samarqand’s grandeur is undeniable. The Registan is breathtaking, but beyond the postcard views, the city has a fascinating duality—splendor mixed with a raw, lived-in energy.
We took the train from Bukhara to Samarkand which lasted around 2 hours.
What to See & Do in Samarkand
Registan Square – The most famous sight in Uzbekistan, and for good reason. The three madrasas are pure architectural perfection.
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis – A hauntingly beautiful complex of turquoise tombs.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Emir Timur, and admire the stunning azure dome that inspired Mughal architecture.
Ulugh Beg’s Observatory, where Mirzo Ulugh Beg mapped the stars centuries ago, proving Samarkand’s place in scientific history.
A Deeper Discovery : We wandered into Siab Bazaar – The beating heart of local life, where we tried fresh non (Uzbek bread) straight from the tandoor.
Day 11: Tashkent & Reflections
We took a fast and smooth train ride back to where the journey began.
Back in Tashkent, we had one last stroll through its parks and old streets. we realized that this journey had been more than just an itinerary—it was an immersion into a culture that values hospitality above all.
Bonus: The Aral Sea Extension – A Journey into the Forgotten
If you have extra time, take a detour to the Aral Sea, a place of stark beauty and ecological tragedy.
Ship Cemetery in Moynaq – Rusting boats stranded in a desert that was once a thriving sea.
How to Get There – Take a train to Nukus, then a shared taxi to Moynaq.
Where to stay in Uzbekistan
We’ve carefully selected a variety of accommodations, a true budget-friendly gems and multiple approved options, so you can find the perfect place to rest during your adventure. No matter your budget, here’s where to stay in each destination, click on hotel's names to discover our selection
Tashkent
Art Plaza Hotel (Our stay, highly recommend)
Khiva
Shaherezada Boutique Hotel (Our Stay, Fabulous)
Bukhara
Bobosh Boutique (our stay, highly recommend)
Samarkand
Sangzor Boutique Hotel (Our stay, outstanding, and the breakfast OMG!)
How to get and move around in Uzbekistan ?
Traveling to and around Uzbekistan offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here's a friendly and practical guide to help you navigate your journey:
Arriving by Plane
Most international flights to Uzbekistan land at Tashkent International Airport. To reach the city center from the airport, you have several options:
Public Bus: Bus routes such as #67 connect the airport to the city center, including Amir Temur Square. The fare is approximately 2,500 UZS (around €0.20), and the journey takes about 35 minutes. However, buses can be crowded and may not be ideal if you have substantial luggage.
Yandex Go App: For a more comfortable and convenient ride, consider using the Yandex Go app, a popular ride-hailing service in Uzbekistan. It allows you to request a car, choose your preferred service class, and pay directly through the app using your credit card. Prices are reasonable, with trips from the airport to the city center starting around 25,000 UZS (approximately)
Search for your flight here, a quick tip is that cheapest flights we found are from Abudhabi with Wizzair
Arriving by Land
From Kyrgyzstan: Travelers from Bishkek can take a direct bus to Tashkent. The journey typically takes between 8 to 13 hours, depending on border crossing times, and buses usually operate overnight. Tickets cost around 2,000 KGS (approximately $25). Buses depart from the Western Bus Station in Bishkek.
From Kazakhstan: If you're coming from Almaty, buses to Tashkent are available and the journey takes approximately 14 to 15 hours. Ticket prices range from $13 to $24. Buses typically depart from the Sayran Bus Station in Almaty.
Getting Around Uzbekistan
By Train: Exploring Uzbekistan's cities by train is a comfortable, affordable, and reliable option. The Uzbekistan Railways website allows you to book tickets online. Tickets become available 45 days before the travel date and can sell out quickly, especially for popular routes. It's advisable to book at least two weeks in advance to secure your seats
By Yandex Go: Within cities, the Yandex Go app is a practical solution for quick and affordable transportation. You can select different service classes based on your needs and pay conveniently through the app.
By Bus: While buses are available for intercity travel, they are generally not recommended due to the significant distances between major attractions, which can result in long and less comfortable journeys.
By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility, especially if you plan to explore areas off the beaten path. Rental prices vary depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. For instance, small car rentals can start from $21 per day. In Uzbekistan, you must have held your driver's license for at least two years to rent a car. Additionally, if your license is not in a Roman alphabet, an International Driving Permit or an official translation in Russian or Uzbek is required.
By considering these transportation options, you can plan a trip through Uzbekistan that aligns with your preferences and ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Discover the Best restaurants in Uzbekistan
Uzbek cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, reflecting its historical position along the Silk Road. Staples include plov (a hearty rice dish with meat and vegetables), shurpa (a flavorful meat and vegetable soup), and manti (steamed dumplings). While meat features prominently, there are also vegetarian-friendly dishes like shivit oshi (dill-infused noodles) and a variety of fresh salads.
Here are some well-rated restaurants across Uzbekistan's major cities, each offering a range of dishes, including vegetarian options:
Tashkent
Afsona ($$): Afsona is renowned for its authentic Uzbek cuisine served in a contemporary setting. They offer a variety of traditional dishes, including a vegetarian-friendly fruit plov.
Caravan ($): Caravan offers delicious traditional food, rustic decor, and live music. They have great manti (Central Asian dumplings), salads, and Uzbek wine.
Sunduk ($$) VEG: A cozy eatery offering a variety of vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as vegetable soup and potato and spinach-filled ravioli. The intimate setting makes it feel like dining in someone's living room.
Khiva
Terrassa Restaurant ($): Terrassa Restaurant in Khiva is easily the best place in Khiva and they should definitely offer you something to suit.
Khiva Moon ($): Khiva Moon offers very tasty food, friendly waiters, and some vegetarian options. They can also make dishes vegetarian upon request. Prices are reasonable.
Bir Gumbaz ($): Bir Gumbaz is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Khiva.
Cafe Zarafshon ($): Cafe Zarafshon is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Khiva.
Bukhara
Chalet ($$): near the Kukaldosh Madrasah.
Labi Hovuz ($$): They have good Plov
Old Bukhara ($$): it is on Samarkand Street is also very good
Minzifa Restaurant ($$): Minzifa Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Bukhara, known for its Uzbek cuisine and vegetarian-friendly options.
Samarkand
Platan ($$): Platan offers a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, with several vegetarian options. The ambiance is cozy, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Old Town Restaurant ($$): In Samarkand we loved this restaurant called "Old Town". It is hands down the best food we had during our entire trip
Samarkand Plov Center ($): For an authentic taste of Uzbekistan's national dish, the Samarkand Plov Center is a must-visit. They specialize in various types of plov, offering an affordable and genuine local dining experience
Oasis Garden ($$): Oasis Garden offers a variety of traditional dishes in a serene garden setting. They are known for their fresh ingredients and accommodating service, including vegetarian options.
These recommendations provide a blend of traditional Uzbek flavors and vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring a delightful dining experience in each city.
