The jewel of the Silk Road — the Registan square in Samarkand is one of the world's most breathtaking architectural ensembles, and the ancient cities of Bukhara and Khiva are living medieval time capsules.
- Capital
- Tashkent
- Population
- 37,859,698
- Area
- 447,400 km²
- Languages
- Russian, Uzbek
- Currency
- Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
- GDP
- $132,484M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
O'sh
Annual visitors
6,749,000 (2019)
Safety
Low (1.4/100k)
Avg temp
13.7°C
Religion
Islam
Coast
Landlocked
☎ Police 03 · Ambulance 03 · Fire 03
Travel guide
Uzbekistan (Uzbek: Ўзбекистон Oʻzbekiston) is the most populous country in Central Asia and is rich in history, culture, and diversity. It has been a part of numerous empires and was once a key part of the Silk Road, making it an excellent destination for the history buff. Although Uzbekistan is often overlooked as a tourist destination, there is plenty to see and do in this beautiful country. Moreover, Uzbekistan is well known for heart, hospitality, and being widely regarded as the cheapest country in the world.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Uzbekistan
Best time to visit
March–May and September–November are the ideal seasons. Spring brings wildflowers to the steppe. Summer (June–August) is extremely hot in Samarkand and Bukhara (40°C+). Autumn is the best season for all cities.
Visa
Citizens of US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and 90+ other countries receive 30 days visa-free. Uzbekistan has dramatically opened its borders in recent years and is one of Central Asia's most welcoming destinations.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (7)
Book your trip to Uzbekistan
We may earn a commission when you book through these links.
Major cities
Samarkand
The jewel of the Silk Road — the Registan square, Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, and Gur-e-Amir mausoleum are among the world's most breathtaking sights.
Bukhara
Central Asia's most complete ancient city, with Ark Citadel, the Kalon Minaret, and medieval trading domes intact.
Khiva
A living open-air museum — the Itchan Kala inner city is entirely walled and virtually unchanged from the 19th century.
Tashkent
Uzbekistan's Soviet-rebuilt capital with wide boulevards, a modern metro with ornate stations, and Chorsu Bazaar.