Uzbekistan-2-day-itinerary

Uzbekistan Travel Itinerary: 2 Days

Day 1: Samarkand

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Visit the Registan: This historic site is a must-see in Uzbekistan. The Registan complex consists of three beautiful madrasahs built during the Timurid Empire.
  • Explore the Bibi-Khanym Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Central Asia, it dates back to the 15th century and offers stunning views from its courtyard.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: The final resting place of Timur himself, this mausoleum is adorned with beautiful blue tiles.
  • Explore the Siyob Bazaar: This bustling marketplace offers a chance to see local life and buy traditional crafts.

Evening (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

  • Enjoy a Traditional Uzbek Dinner: Experience the authentic flavors of Uzbek cuisine at a local restaurant.
  • Take a Sunset Stroll around the city: Enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere in this ancient city.

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia, can get an e-visa or a visa on arrival. Check the Uzbekistan government’s website for more information.
  • Currency: The Uzbekistan som is the local currency, but USD and EUR are widely accepted.
  • Language: Uzbek and Russian are official languages, but many locals speak some English.

Day 2: Bukhara

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Visit the Ark of Bukhara: This ancient fortress has served as a palace for rulers and was also used to hold prisoners.
  • Explore the Po-i-Kalan Complex: This historic site includes the Kalyan Minaret, one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Asia.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Walk through the Old City (Ichan Qala): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient walled city is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with mosques and madrasahs.
  • Visit the Chor Minor: This unique building was once used as a hostel for travelers.

Evening (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

  • Enjoy a Night at a Traditional Caravanserai: Experience the hospitality of Uzbekistan’s ancient trade routes by staying in a restored caravanserai.
  • Watch a Local Music Performance: Many local restaurants and cafes offer traditional music performances in the evenings.

Transportation:

  • The most efficient way to travel between cities is by taking the high-speed train. There are regular services from Samarkand to Bukhara, taking around 2 hours.
  • For those who prefer not to take the train or want more flexibility, private taxis and cars can be arranged for a day trip from Samarkand to Bukhara (around 3.5 hours).

Additional Tips:

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Both Samarkand and Bukhara are very crowded, especially in the tourist areas.
  • Bring Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be walking a lot throughout the day.

Budgeting:

  • Budget around $30-$50 USD per meal for high-quality local cuisine at restaurants.
  • Expect to pay between 5,000 to 15,000 UZS (around $0.50-$1.50 USD) for small snacks and drinks from vendors.

This itinerary provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Uzbekistan. Enjoy your travels!