Uzbekistan
Silk Road Splendour, Timeless Cities & Desert Dreams
Where Minarets Shine and Ancient Stories Unfold
Step into a living museum of Islamic architecture, epic trade routes, and vibrant traditions. Uzbekistan is the beating heart of the Silk Road, home to fabled cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, where every street feels like a portal to the past. But beyond the turquoise domes and towering minarets lies a land of deserts, mountain ranges, and a proudly preserved culture.
Whether you're wandering ancient caravanserais, sipping green tea in a shaded courtyard, or watching the sunset over a fortress wall, Uzbekistan offers depth, beauty, and a powerful sense of place. It’s one of the most evocative and underrated destinations on Earth.
Visa Requirements
UK citizens do not need a visa to visit Uzbekistan for up to 30 days. Simply bring a passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. Registration with local authorities is usually handled by your hotel.
Key Airports
- Tashkent International Airport (TAS) – Main entry point, in the capital city.
- Samarkand International Airport (SKT) – Best for direct access to one of the Silk Road’s grandest cities.
- Urgench International Airport (UGC) – Perfect for visiting the historic walled city of Khiva.
Spoken Languages
Uzbek is the official language. Russian is also widely spoken, especially in cities. English is becoming more common in the tourism sector, but learning a few local words shows respect and earns smiles.
Useful phrases:
- Salom! – Hello
- Rahmat – Thank you
- Iltimos – Please
- Qanday siz? – How are you?
- Juda chiroyli! – Very beautiful!
Uzbek people are famously hospitable - don’t be surprised if you’re invited for tea!
Holidays to Uzbekistan
During the Summer
From June to August, expect hot, dry days, 30–40°C, especially in desert regions. Ideal for exploring early in the morning or late afternoon, with plenty of shade and hydration in between.
During the Winter
From December to February, temperatures range from -5 to 10°C. It’s quieter, atmospheric, and perfect for crowd-free sightseeing in Samarkand or Tashkent.
Top Uzbekistan Hot Spots
Marvel at the Registan in Samarkand, one of the world’s most breathtaking public squares. Wander the preserved streets of Khiva, a museum-city surrounded by desert walls. And immerse yourself in Bukhara’s old town, where centuries-old mosques and caravanserais come to life.
Samarkand – The Crown of the Silk Road
Home to the Registan, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Samarkand dazzles with Islamic architecture and ancient prestige. It's Uzbekistan’s most iconic and majestic city.
Bukhara – A Living Museum
This desert oasis boasts over 140 architectural monuments, from domed bazaars to fortress walls. Bukhara feels timeless - a place to stroll, sip tea, and soak in history.
Khiva – Desert Fairytale in Stone
Encircled by earthen walls, Khiva’s old town (Itchan Kala) is a UNESCO treasure. Explore its narrow alleys, climb minarets, and imagine life on the ancient Silk Road.
Tashkent – Modern Meets Traditional
Uzbekistan’s capital mixes leafy Soviet boulevards with bustling markets and gleaming new developments. Visit the Chorsu Bazaar, take a ride on the ornate metro, and explore Islamic art museums.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Travel the Silk Road by Train - Uzbekistan’s fast and efficient high-speed trains connect Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent with ease and comfort - perfect for seeing more while skipping long drives.
- Stay in a Traditional Guesthouse - Small, family-run boutique guesthouses often occupy restored caravanserais or merchant homes. They offer cultural charm, home-cooked meals, and a warm welcome.
- Shop for Handicrafts in the Bazaars - Uzbekistan is a paradise for crafts - silk scarves, hand-painted ceramics, embroidered suzanis, and miniature paintings. Bargaining is expected, just keep it friendly!
- Try the National Dish: Plov - Plov (a rice dish with meat, carrots, and spices) is a culinary cornerstone. Each region has its twist - try it in a traditional chaikhana (tea house) for a full local experience.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
Uzbekistan is rich, romantic, and refreshingly real. Perfect for history lovers, culture seekers, architecture fans, and intrepid travellers who want something different - but not difficult.
With Marhaban Travel, you’ll go beyond the domes and tiles. We design unforgettable itineraries that blend history with hospitality - whether it’s private tours of Silk Road treasures, guided market walks, or stays in secret desert retreats.
Golden domes, ancient streets, and open-hearted hospitality - Uzbekistan is yours to discover.
