Planning a trip to Uzbekistan? Great choice. This Central Asian gem is finally getting the attention it deserves — and trust me, it’s about time. Whether you’re into ancient cities, flavorful food, or affordable adventure, Uzbekistan has it all. But before you hop on that flight, here’s everything you actually need to know to make your trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
🌟 1. Incredible History & Architecture
Uzbekistan is a treasure trove of Silk Road cities — Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva look like open-air museums with their mosaics, minarets, and madrasahs. If you’re into cultural tourism, this is heaven.
🍽 2. Delicious & Affordable Food
Plov, somsa, lagman — the food is flavorful, rich, and incredibly affordable for travelers. Street food and chaikhanas (tea houses) offer an authentic experience.
💸 3. Budget-Friendly
Hotels, transport, food, and attractions are much cheaper compared to Europe or even other Central Asian countries. Good for backpackers, digital nomads, and luxury travelers alike.
🧑🤝🧑 4. Hospitality
Uzbek people are famously warm and hospitable. Many tourists are surprised by how kind and welcoming locals are, often inviting them for tea or helping with directions.
🚆 5. Improved Infrastructure
High-speed trains (like the Afrosiyob) now connect major cities, and tourism services have improved a lot in the past few years. English-speaking guides are easier to find too.
🌄 6. Nature and Adventure
From the Nurata Mountains and Chimgan for hiking to the Kyzylkum Desert for yurts and camel rides, Uzbekistan also offers experiences beyond historical sites.
But let’s be honest — a few downsides:
Internet can be spotty in rural areas.
Some cultural norms are conservative, especially outside major cities.
Public transport in cities isn’t always foreigner-friendly.
⚠️ What Travelers Should Know Before Visiting Uzbekistan
1. Cash Is King
Credit cards aren’t widely accepted outside of major hotels and upscale places.
Carry enough Uzbek soms (UZS), especially for bazaars, taxis, and smaller towns.
ATMs can be unreliable — bring a mix of USD/EUR just in case.
2. Conservative Dress & Behavior
Uzbekistan is a Muslim-majority country with traditional values.
No need to cover your head or wear a hijab, but modest clothing is appreciated, especially for women in rural areas.
Public displays of affection might attract unwanted attention.
In Tashkent or tourist-friendly areas, locals are used to foreigners. You’ll see crop tops, tattoos, or couples holding hands.
But in smaller towns like Kokand or Karshi, tone it down.
3. Language Barrier
English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist hotspots.
Learning a few words in Russian or Uzbek goes a long way. Even just “rahmat” (thank you) is appreciated.
4. Cultural Etiquette
Don’t enter homes or mosques with shoes on.
People don’t hug or touch casually — especially between opposite genders. A nod, a hand over the heart, or a simple handshake is enough.
In cities like Tashkent or Samarkand, you’ll see more relaxed norms, especially among the younger crowd.
Pouring tea for others (especially elders) before yourself is considered respectful.
Many households still keep a clean zone inside — remove shoes when entering homes unless told otherwise.
5. Religion: Quiet Respect, Not Fear
Uzbekistan is secular, but still traditional. Don’t assume people are conservative or religious just by appearance — many aren’t.
6. Internet & Connectivity
Wi-Fi in hotels can be patchy.
Get a local SIM card (like Ucell or Beeline) at the airport or city — it’s cheap and helpful for navigation.
7. Taxis Are Unregulated
There are no meters. Always agree on a price before the ride or use Yandex Go (like Uber).
Shared taxis between cities are common and cost-effective but can be uncomfortable.
8. Customs & Border Checks
Avoid bringing drone equipment or professional camera gear unless you have permission.
Be cautious when photographing government buildings or military areas.
Be prepared for long customs checks at land borders or rural checkpoints.
9. Seasons Matter
Summer is very hot (especially in Bukhara & Khiva), while winter can be freezing.
Spring and autumn (April–May, September–October) are ideal for travel.
10. Tap Water Isn’t Safe
Stick to bottled water or boil it.
Most hotels and cafes serve bottled water anyway.
11. Medical Access
Pharmacies are everywhere, but bring your own meds (especially for stomach, allergies, etc.).
Travel insurance is recommended.
📱 Must-Have Apps for Traveling in Uzbekistan
🚕 Transport & Navigation
Yandex Go – Local Uber-style taxi app. Super cheap, but confirm your destination. Available in English.
2GIS – Offline maps + business listings. Great for navigating cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara.
Google Maps – Still useful, but 2GIS has more local info.
💬 Translation & Communication
Google Translate – Essential for Uzbek or Russian menus, signs, and conversations. Download Uzbek/Russian offline.
💵 Money & Currency
XE Currency – For quick conversion between Uzbek som (UZS) and your currency.
Banking apps – If you have Uzbek cards (like Kapitalbank, Ipak Yuli), install the respective apps. Or the popular ones gaining attention and coverage are Uzum bank applications, which can be integrated with local bank cards offering virtual cards and can be used in local transports in Tashkent (buses, metros).
🌐 Internet & SIM
MyBeeline, Ucell, or Mobiuz – If you buy a local SIM, you’ll need the provider’s app to top up data or check balance.
🛏️ Accommodation
Booking.com – Widely used for hotels and guesthouses. Most major cities are listed.
Airbnb – Less popular but growing in big cities like Tashkent and Samarkand.
🍽️ Food & Delivery
Wolt – A popular food delivery app available in major cities like Tashkent and Samarkand. It features a wide range of local and international restaurants with reliable service and tracking.
Uzum – Originally an online marketplace, Uzum has expanded into food delivery and grocery services. It’s convenient for ordering essentials and meals, especially in urban areas.
Yandex Delivery – An option for both food delivery and small parcel delivery within the city. It’s fast, user-friendly, and can be used similarly to Yandex Go, but for items instead of rides.
📸 Tourist Guides & Culture
Visit Uzbekistan (if available in your app store) – Offers curated guides and event info.
Tripadvisor – Still helpful for user reviews on restaurants, museums, etc.
🛂 Documents & Safety
Pass4Wallet or Apple Wallet / Google Wallet – Keep a digital copy of your passport, e-visa, hotel bookings.
VPN (like ProtonVPN or NordVPN) – Just in case you want secure browsing or access to sites restricted in the region.
