Families are welcomed warmly in Uzbekistan — children are made a fuss of in teahouses, bazaars and courtyards. With a little planning, it is a rewarding country to explore together.
When to go
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the most comfortable seasons. In summer, midday heat makes long walks hard for children; if you travel then, plan early mornings and evenings with a long rest in between. See our best time to visit guide.
Pacing the day
Shorter is better. A half-day tour in the morning, a long lunch and a rest, then a gentle evening walk works well for most families. On a private tour the guide adapts the route, the stories and the breaks to your children — and you can stop whenever you like.
What children enjoy
- Khiva: walking the city walls at sunset and climbing the minaret (for older children who are happy with steep, dark steps).
- Bukhara: craftsmen at work in the trading domes, and the pool square of Lyabi-Hauz in the evening.
- Samarkand: the scale of the Registan, and watching bread or paper being made in workshops.
- Tashkent: the metro stations, the bustle of Chorsu bazaar and the city's parks.
Food
Bread, plov, samsa, noodles, fruit and yoghurt are child-friendly and easy to find. Your guide can suggest family-friendly places and help explain what is in each dish.
Getting around
Fast trains between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara are comfortable for children. For door-to-door trips with luggage, a private car is easiest; tell us if you need child seats when you book a car.
Practical tips
- Bring sun hats, sunscreen and refillable water bottles.
- Carry snacks and small change for the bazaar.
- Old-town paving can be uneven — a lightweight pushchair or a baby carrier is easier than a large stroller.
Planning a family tour
Tell us the ages of your children when you enquire, and we will suggest the right length and pace for each day.
