Uzbekistan had been on my radar and all the stan countries really! Uzbekistan is a country rich in Silk Road history, blue-tiled architecture, and stories that don’t often make it to the usual travel feeds. So I finally went! In this blog post, I’ll take you through my experience visiting Tashkent and Samarkand, how I got around (including a wild ride on an old Soviet train), and tips if you’re planning your own trip to Uzbekistan.

Why Visit Uzbekistan?

If you’re into culture, history, unique architecture, and destinations that still feel raw and real — Uzbekistan is a gem. Tashkent, the capital, is surprisingly modern, organized, and clean, while Samarkand is a stunning historical city that feels like a walk through a living museum.

The people are kind and welcoming, and it’s a place where you can slow down, explore, and just absorb something truly different.

First Impressions: Tashkent 🇺🇿

Tashkent, the capital, is modern, clean, and wide. The city has this interesting blend of Soviet-era architecture with touches of Islamic design and a LOT of wide boulevards. It’s a great place to start your Uzbekistan trip — and perfect for getting used to the rhythm of the country. You’ll find parks, big avenues, and surprisingly chic cafes. I didn’t expect the coffee scene to be this good!

Don’t miss:

• Chorsu Bazaar for a local market experience

• Amir Timur Square for a walk and some history

• Tashkent Metro — yes, the metro stations are a thing here

• There are so many speciality cafes! Find a couple, and make sure you enjoy and have some good coffee along the way.

Samarkand: The Heart of the Silk Road 🕌💙

Samarkand feels like a step back in time. It’s absolutely breathtaking — full of ancient madrasahs, mosques, and tiled domes in all shades of blue. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and honestly, I felt that deeply while walking through Registan Square.

Must-sees in Samarkand:

• Registan (especially at sunrise or just before sunset)

• Shah-i-Zinda — one of the most beautiful necropolises I’ve ever seen

• Bibi-Khanym Mosque

• Local plov — don’t leave without trying it!

How I Got from Tashkent to Samarkand

Let’s talk transport — because I experienced two very different ways of getting between these cities, and I have some honest thoughts!

Option 1: The Old Soviet Train – My First Journey

I wanted to try the local experience, and took one of the older Soviet trains from Tashkent to Samarkand. It was… let’s say, rough. 😂

• Duration: Around 4.5 to 5 hours

• Cost: $9 USD (super budget-friendly)

• Experience: Not the most comfortable — sweaty, steamy, shaky, noisy, and definitely not luxurious. But if you’re adventurous and want a local feel, it could be worth it once!

Tip: If you’re looking for a more comfortable experience, check if the modern Afrosiyob high-speed train is running during your visit — it’s faster and much smoother. (I couldn’t find a seat here as it sells out very fast!)

Option 2: Hiring a Car + Driver – My Return Trip

After the train experience, I opted for a private car and driver on the way back from Samarkand to Tashkent. Game changer!

• Duration: Around 4 hours

• Cost: $80 USD for the entire car

• Experience: Way more comfortable, and totally worth it if you’re traveling with someone (or even solo and want a break from chaos).

• It was nice to sit back, enjoy the views, and stop when I wanted to.

Tip: Your hotel or a local agency can help book a driver easily. It’s more affordable than it sounds, especially if you split the cost.

Finally, Here’s a list of recommended restaurants in both Tashkent and Samarkand, focusing on luxury in Tashkent and authentic experience in Samarkand!

🍽️ Tashkent – Luxury & Fine Dining

1. O‘zbegim
   Elegant Uzbek dining with traditional decor and live music. Great for first-timers wanting a beautiful introduction to Uzbek cuisine in a polished setting.
   Tip: Try their plov and samsa, beautifully presented.

2. The Terrace by Sim-Sim
   A contemporary fine-dining spot with international cuisine and a chic rooftop view. Perfect for dinner or sunset drinks.
   Vibe: Stylish crowd, sleek design, good wine list.

3. Navvat Lounge
   A luxury restaurant and lounge with both traditional and modern dishes. The interiors are Instagram-worthy, and they do shisha too if you’re into it.
   

🍽️ Samarkand – Authentic Local Eats

1. Platan
   Cozy, local-style restaurant with hearty Uzbek food and a charming garden terrace. Loved by locals and tourists alike.
   Must-try: Their manti and fresh salads.

2. Karimbek
   One of the most popular traditional restaurants in Samarkand — big portions, bustling atmosphere, and known for their BBQ meats.
   Note: It’s not fancy, but very authentic.

3. Samarkand Restaurant
   A solid choice for traditional dishes in a local-style interior, often with live music in the evenings. Slightly more upscale than typical eateries.
   Vibe: Touristy but reliable.

Useful Travel Tips for Uzbekistan 🇺🇿

• Visas: Many nationalities can enter visa-free or get an e-visa. Super easy.

• Currency: Uzbek Som — cash is king, but some places accept cards.

• Language: Uzbek is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) — avoid peak summer heat! I visited in May and it was too hot in the morning!