From the turquoise-domed cities of Samarkand and Khiva to its vibrant capital, Tashkent, Uzbekistan is one of Central Asia’s most impressive showstopper destinations. It’s still considered relatively off-beat for the regular tourist map but is quickly finding its spot on the curious traveler’s must-visit lists. A holiday here is one steeped in fascinating history, rich culture, and timeless traditions. So, what should you put on your itinerary? Here’s a quick guide.
Tashkent: The Gateway to Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan’s capital city, Tashkent, is proof of how cities can be rebuilt to balance old-world charm and modern flair. A large part of the city had to be rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1966.
For history buffs, the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan and the Museum of Applied Arts provide a deeper insight into the country’s past. Or, walk down the Chorsu Bazaar. While the domed Soviet structure and the stalls are new, the market has existed in other forms for over 2000 years.
On the newer side of the city is the Independence Square with beautiful gardens, fountains, and the iconic ‘Motherland’ monument. And, don’t miss a visit to the Alisher Navoi Theatre – it’s the best place to watch a ballet or opera show.
The Storybook Streets of Khiva
The walled city of Khiva in the Kyzylkum Desert is akin to a living museum. At its heart stands the Ichan Kala Fortress with its 10-meter-high brick walls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses beautifully preserved mosques, madrasas, minarets, and palaces.
Two of its most striking landmarks are the Islam Khoja Minaret, and the distinctive Kalta Minor Minaret. They’re best known for their vibrant tilework and the panoramic views available from the top. You’ll see more of this mesmerizing tile detailing as you explore the 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace, the Kuhna Ark, and the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum.
Timeless Bukhara
Bukhara invites you to slow down and wander through its cobbled streets. The city’s past comes alive in its architecture and stories shared by locals over cups of tea at traditional chaikhanas.
It houses over 140 carefully preserved monuments from different eras. The Ark, a massive 5th-century fortress, is probably the oldest amongst them. Not far from here is the iconic Poi Kalan complex, anchored by the Kalon Minaret from 1127. Other monuments in the complex, the Kalan Mosque and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, once destroyed by Genghis Khan, were later rebuilt in the 16th century.
Be sure to also include the Lab-I Hauz complex, the Bolo Hauz Mosque, Ismail Samain Mausoleum, and the Chashma-i Ayub in your itinerary. You could also plan a few day trips to places around Bukhara like the Sitorai-Mohi Hosa Palace, the Gijduvan village, famed for its ceramic markets, and the Sarmishsay petroglyphs on the Nurata Mountains.
Samarkand: A Crossroads of Civilizations
Samarkand balances its Silk Road heritage with a vibrant, modern identity. The Registan Square, framed on 3 sides by the Ulugh Beg Madrassah, the Sher-Dor Madrassah, and the Tilla-Kori Madrassah, is its crowning jewel.
From there, make your way to the mausoleums and ceremonial structures of the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis and the stately Gur Emir Mausoleum. Close by, the imposing Bibi Khanum Mosque stands as a testament to the city’s historic grandeur. And, just beyond its walls, the lively local bazaar invites you to wander, shop for fragrant spices, sample freshly baked Uzbek breads, and flavorful plov.
Timur’s Hometown, Shakhrisabz
Given Amir Timur’s influence on the country’s history and identity, your tour of Uzbekistan would be incomplete without a day at Shakhrisabz. This is where the 14th-century warrior was born, where he established his first capital, and lived in the grand Ak-Saray Palace. Today, the palace may stand in ruins, but its scale and intricate blue-and-gold mosaic tiles are enough to hint at its past magnificence.
The Dorus Saodat Memorial Complex is another popular tourist site. This complex houses several tombs for Timur’s family as well as a mosque and a prayer hall. Shakhrisabz also bears the imprint of other influential dynasties, seen in landmarks like the Dor-ut Tilavat Ensemble, home to the elegant Kok-Gumbaz Mosque.
Planning a Holiday to Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan sees sweltering summers and extremely cold winters. This makes spring and autumn the best seasons to visit. You’ll need around 10 days to cover the highlights, as long as you plan your itinerary well. This can be tricky given the distances between cities and the vast Kyzylkum desert that covers 80% of the country.
Joining a curated tour like the Odyssey Enchanting Uzbekistan tour is the best way to explore this country. This thoughtfully designed itinerary takes you across Uzbekistan’s most captivating cities, offering deep insights into its rich history and vibrant culture. When you travel with Odyssey, we take care of everything from accommodation and sightseeing to meals and opera tickets. Need help with flights, visas, or insurance? We’re here for that too, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics. Give us a call and let’s plan your holiday.