Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is the country’s beating heart — modern, progressive, and full of life. After visiting the ancient cities of Samarkand, Khiva, and Bukhara, arriving in Tashkent felt like stepping into a different world. Here, tradition meets innovation, and every corner tells a story of growth and culture.
Why Visit Tashkent?
Tashkent is the most modern city I’ve visited in Uzbekistan.
It’s where you’ll find shopping malls, restaurants, bookstores, and parks — all reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks or sipping tea in a stylish café, Tashkent offers a refreshing contrast to the country’s ancient Silk Road cities.
Top Places to Visit in Tashkent
Chorsu Bazaar
A lively market filled with colors, scents, and sounds. Locals sell fruits, spices, nuts, and souvenirs — a must‑visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Uzbek life.
Kitoblars (Bookstores)
Perfect for book lovers. These cozy shops offer both Uzbek and international titles, making them ideal for quiet afternoons.
Tashkent City Mall
A sleek, modern shopping destination with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s a glimpse into the city’s cosmopolitan side.
Independence Park
One of Tashkent’s most iconic landmarks. Although it was closed during my visit due to a diplomatic event, it remains a symbol of Uzbekistan’s national pride and progress.
Where to Stay: Vegeat Bed & Breakfast Hotel
My five‑day, four‑night stay at Vegeat Bed & Breakfast Hotel was wonderful.
The bathroom was spotless, the ambiance calm, and the location convenient. It’s a great choice for travelers who want comfort without overspending.
Best Restaurants and Cafés in Tashkent
Tashkent’s food scene is diverse — from traditional Uzbek cafés to international favorites.
- Sim & Sim Restaurant — Elegant and grand, with traditional Uzbek dishes served in a luxurious setting. Pricey, but worth the experience.
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Chinese Restaurant — A nice change of flavor after days of local cuisine.
- KFC — Familiar comfort food for quick meals.
- Dao Tea — A peaceful tea house with a refined atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts: Modern Yet Authentic
Tashkent is a city of balance — modern yet deeply rooted in culture.
It’s the perfect finale to an Uzbekistan itinerary, offering comfort, convenience, and a glimpse of the country’s future.
If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, make sure to include Tashkent in your travel route. It’s not just the capital — it’s the soul of modern Uzbekistan.
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Samarkand Travel Guide: Why This Ancient Silk Road City Became the Best Part of My Trip
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Why Samarkand Should Be on Your Uzbekistan Itinerary
- Home to some of the most iconic Silk Road landmarks
- Perfect for travelers who love architecture, history, and photography
- Packed with tourist attractions you can explore in just 2 days
- Easy to navigate, with friendly locals and great cultural experiences
My 2‑Day Samarkand Itinerary
Where I Stayed: B & B Giza
- Free traditional Uzbek breakfast
- Kind and welcoming owners
- Quiet neighborhood
- Basic rooms
- Some language barrier (but the owners were very warm and helpful)
Final Thoughts: Samarkand Truly Is the Jewel of Uzbekistan
Bukhara Travel Guide: A Short but Memorable Stay in Uzbekistan’s Historic City
Saturday, May 23, 2026 Uzbekistan
Traveling from Khiva to Bukhara meant taking a long train ride across Uzbekistan — a journey that was slow, simple, and surprisingly peaceful. For budget‑conscious travelers, the train is the most affordable option, and although it takes time, the changing scenery makes the ride worthwhile. Some views were beautiful, others quiet and uneventful, but all were part of the experience.
Getting to Bukhara: The Train Experience
The train from Khiva to Bukhara isn’t fast, but it’s practical.
If you’re looking for a financially smart way to travel, this is it. The ride offers glimpses of desert landscapes, small towns, and wide open fields — a calm transition between two of Uzbekistan’s most historic cities.
Because my ticket was booked only two days before the trip, I had limited schedule options. That meant I could only spend one day and one night in Bukhara — and I quickly realized it wasn’t enough. Ideally, Bukhara deserves two full days to explore at a relaxed pace.
Where I Stayed: Lime Apartment Studio
One of the best surprises of this trip was my accommodation.
I stayed at Lime Apartment Studio, and it was an incredible value for the price.
Why I loved it:
- Clean and modern bathroom
- Almost complete kitchen utensils
- Refrigerator and washing machine included
- Cozy, quiet, and comfortable
Having a functional kitchen made meals cheaper and more convenient. I prepared simple dinners and breakfasts, which helped stretch my travel budget even further.
Exploring Bukhara With Limited Time
With only a day to explore, I tried to see as much as possible — but carrying my backpack everywhere made it challenging. The weight slowed me down and made walking around uncomfortable.
This trip reminded me once again of a lesson I keep learning:
Pack light. Always.
Traveling with less makes the journey easier, especially in historic cities where walking is the best way to explore.
Final Thoughts: Bukhara Deserves More Time
Even with a short stay, Bukhara left a strong impression. The city is rich in history, filled with ancient architecture, and has a peaceful, laid‑back atmosphere that invites slow exploration.
If you’re planning your Uzbekistan itinerary, give Bukhara at least two days. Wander through its old streets, enjoy the local food, and let the city’s timeless charm unfold naturally.
Previous: Khiva Travel Guide: Exploring Itchan Kala, Uzbekistan’s Ancient Desert City
Khiva Travel Guide: Exploring Itchan Kala, Uzbekistan’s Ancient Desert City
Saturday, May 16, 2026 Uzbekistan
Khiva, located in the Khorezm region of Uzbekistan, is a city that feels like stepping into a living time capsule. Known for having the coldest winters and hottest summers in the country, Khiva is extreme in weather — and extreme in beauty.
My curiosity about this ancient city began when some of my Uzbek students mentioned Itchan Kala, the old walled town at the heart of Khiva. They spoke about it with pride, and that was enough to spark my interest long before I ever set foot there.
What Makes Khiva Special?
Khiva is one of the most historically rich cities in Uzbekistan. Unlike modern cities with skyscrapers and rapid development, Khiva preserves the ancient Silk Road atmosphere.
Life in the village where I lived was simple and laid back — no tall buildings, no modern skyline. But Khiva’s old town felt like a beautifully preserved chapter of human history.
Itchan Kala: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Walking through Itchan Kala felt like traveling centuries back in time. The ancient walls, the towering minarets, the intricate tilework — everything looked like it belonged in a storybook.
Why Itchan Kala Stands Out
- It is the inner fortress of Khiva.
- It contains over 50 historic monuments.
- The architecture showcases advanced engineering far ahead of its time.
- The entire old town feels like an open‑air museum.
The elegance, symmetry, and craftsmanship of the structures were breathtaking. Even without knowing much about Uzbekistan’s history, I could feel the significance of every building.
Hotels and Restaurants That Feel Like Palaces
One of the most magical things about Khiva is how some hotels and restaurants match the ancient architectural style.
Their interiors shimmer with gold accents, patterned walls, and palace‑like designs. It reminded me of Aladdin — a desert town full of charm, color, and old‑world grandeur.
Souvenirs in Khiva: More Than Just Keychains
Khiva is filled with souvenir shops offering:
- Handcrafted items
- Traditional textiles
- Local artwork
- Paintings of Itchan Kala and other historic sites
I used to collect keychains from every place I visited, but this time something changed. I found myself drawn to the paintings — pieces that captured the soul of Khiva.
So instead of a keychain, I bought a painting. It was light, meaningful, and easy to pack (as long as I didn’t crumple it!).
Travel Lesson Learned: Pack Light
Exploring Itchan Kala while carrying my backpack and all my belongings was… challenging. Everything felt heavy and uncomfortable, and it made walking around the ancient town more difficult than it should’ve been.
Lesson learned:
Packing light is essential — especially when traveling through historic towns with uneven paths and long walking routes.
Final Thoughts: Why Khiva Is Worth Visiting
Despite the heat, the weight of my bags, and the long walks, Khiva left a lasting impression on me.
The ancient walls, the preserved architecture, the desert‑town atmosphere — everything felt magical and surreal.
Khiva isn’t just a destination.
It’s an experience, a journey into the past, a reminder of how rich and advanced ancient civilizations were.
If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, Khiva and Itchan Kala should be at the top of your list.
