Uzbekistan's classic route links four cities: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. The distances are long, but there are good ways to cover them. Here is how we explain the options to our guests.
Fast trains: Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara
The high-speed Afrosiyob trains are the quickest way between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, and they are comfortable and punctual. Tickets go on sale in advance and popular departures sell out in spring and autumn, so book early. There are also slower trains on the same lines.
Khiva: the far west
Khiva is far from the other cities. Many travellers fly Tashkent – Urgench (Urgench airport is about 30–40 minutes from Khiva by car). Khiva also has a railway station with trains from Tashkent and Bukhara; the journey is long, but some travellers enjoy the overnight train.
Private car
A car with a driver takes you door to door, lets you stop on the way and suits families and small groups with luggage. The Bukhara – Khiva road crosses the Kyzylkum desert and runs along the Amu Darya for part of the way — a long day, but a real experience. Our sister company Uzbekistan Transfers arranges private cars between all the cities.
Which one when?
- Tashkent – Samarkand: train is usually best.
- Samarkand – Bukhara: train, or a car if you want to stop on the way.
- Bukhara – Khiva: car through the desert, or train.
- Khiva – Tashkent: flight from Urgench, or the overnight train.
Where a private guide fits in
Our guides meet you in each city — at your hotel or at the station. You do not need a guide on the train; you need one where the stories are. Tell us your train times and we start the tour when you arrive.
Want the whole journey arranged — trains, hotels and guides? Our sister company Tour to Uzbekistan plans complete multi-day trips.
