The capital
Most trips begin in Tashkent, a big, green, modern city with a beautiful Soviet era metro, the vast Chorsu Bazaar, the Hazrati Imam complex and the best museums and restaurants in the country. It is also the hub for flights and high speed trains.
The Silk Road heartland
Samarkand is the showpiece: the Registan, the Shah-i-Zinda avenue of tombs and Timur's own mausoleum. Two hours further west by train, Bukhara is the most atmospheric old town in Central Asia, best explored on foot from the pool of Lyabi-Hauz. Far to the north west, Khiva is a complete walled city that glows gold at sunset.
The green valley
In the east, the Fergana Valley is Uzbekistan's fertile, crowded heartland, home to silk weavers in Margilan, potters in Rishtan and the palace of the khans in Kokand. It sees far fewer visitors and offers a warm, everyday picture of Uzbek life.
Putting it together
The classic route runs Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, then a flight back to Tashkent from Urgench. Seven to ten days is comfortable; add the Fergana Valley for a second week. Our places to visit list covers food, crafts and stays in each stop, and the free trip planner helps you set the pace.