Curator’s statement
Uzbekistan is a Silk Road gem, filled with history, architecture and the confluence of cultures that is distinctly Uzbek. While the tourism infrastructure there has developed significantly in the past decade, it still provides travelers the opportunity to feel off the beaten path in a country that feels simultaneously frozen in time and open to the future.
The Fora Difference
Book with Cassidy to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Cassidy to book your trip.
Day 1-2: Arrive to Tashkent
Amir Timur Square and Independence Square – Great for a walk and people-watching.
Museum of Applied Arts – An underrated gem with traditional design work.
Chorsu Bazaar – A buzzing local market under a beautiful blue dome.
Khast Imam Complex – Home to one of the oldest Qurans in the world.
Tashkent Metro – Each station is a work of art.
Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin (Russian Orthodox Church) – A striking blue-and-gold church offering a quiet, contemplative space and a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s Russian cultural layer.
Try the first of what should be many dishes of plov, the national dish!
Day 3–4: Samarkand
Take the high-speed train from Tashkent.
Registan Square – Jaw-dropping madrasas, especially magical at sunset.
Shah-i-Zinda – An avenue of stunning tile-covered mausoleums.
Gur-e-Amir – Timur’s mausoleum, rich in gold and turquoise.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Siyob Bazaar – Right next to each other for easy visiting.
Ulugh Beg Observatory – Important for history lovers
Day 5–6: Bukhara
Take the high-speed train from Samarkand.
Lyabi-Hauz – A beautiful pond surrounded by cafés and historic buildings.
Kalyan Minaret and Mosque – Iconic structures that glow at golden hour.
Ark of Bukhara – Ancient fortress with city views.
Chor Minor – Quirky and photogenic former gatehouse.
Bolo Hauz Mosque – Elegant structure with ornate wooden pillars.
Bukhara Carpet Market – A treasure trove of handwoven rugs, silk carpets and local textiles.
Day 7–8: Khiva
Take the train from Bukhara.
Itchan Kala – A walled city filled with minarets, mosques and museums.
Kalta Minor Minaret – Short but stunningly tiled.
Kuhna Ark – Panoramic views from the watchtower.
Juma Mosque – Unique wooden pillars and a serene vibe.
Watch the sunset from the city walls.
Day 9: Return to Tashkent
Either take a short domestic flight (from Urgench airport): 1.5 hours, or take an overnight train: around 15 hours.
Enjoy any final sightseeing, souvenir shopping or snacking before heading home with amazing new memories of your adventure in Central Asia!
Need to know
I absolutely adore Uzbekistan - it's my favorite of the 'stans. Please reach out if you'd like to chat further about organizing your travel there, or about hotels, transport, sightseeing or food tips for Central Asia generally.
Travel Advisor
Cassidy Hazelbaker
Get in touch with Cassidy
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Cassidy within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Asia page.