Uzbekistan Travel Costs: How Much Does a Trip Cost in 2025?
If you’re researching Uzbekistan travel costs, you’re likely wondering: is it affordable? The answer is a confident yes. Uzbekistan offers a rich Silk Road experience with architecture, cuisine, and culture—at a fraction of the cost you’d spend in Europe or North America.
In this complete guide, we break down average Uzbekistan travel costs by three budget types: budget/backpacker, mid-range, and luxury. Whether you’re a student traveler or planning a high-end cultural escape, you’ll know what to expect when managing your Uzbekistan travel costs in 2025.
Currency and Exchange Rates
- Local currency: Uzbek Soʻm (UZS)
- Exchange rate (early 2025): 1 USD ≈ 12,500 UZS; 1 EUR ≈ 13,200 UZS; 1 GBP ≈ 15,200 UZS
- Most transactions are in cash, but cards are increasingly accepted in cities
💡 Tip: Always carry some cash for bazaars, local cafés, or taxi rides. ATMs are common in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.
Average Daily Costs in Uzbekistan
| Travel Style | Daily Budget (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $25–$40 | Hostels, street food, shared taxis |
| Mid-range | $50–$100 | 3-star hotels, restaurants, high-speed trains |
| Luxury | $150–$300+ | Boutique hotels, private tours, fine dining |
These estimates include accommodation, food, transport, and activities and reflect typical Uzbekistan travel costs depending on your travel style.
Accommodation Costs
🛏 Budget Travelers
- Hostels: $8–$15 per night
- Guesthouses: $15–$25 per night
- Popular in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara
🏨 Mid-range Travelers
- 3-star hotels: $30–$60 per night
- Boutique guesthouses: $40–$70 per night
- Clean, comfortable, often include breakfast
🏰 Luxury Travelers
- 4–5-star hotels: $100–$300+ per night
- Historic caravanserai stays or international chains
- Examples: Hyatt Regency Tashkent, Silk Road Samarkand Hotel
Food & Drink Costs
Budget
- Street food (plov, somsa, lagman): $1–$3
- Tea house lunch: $2–$5
- Bottled water: $0.25
Mid-range
- Restaurant meals: $6–$15
- Coffee/snacks in a café: $2–$5
- Uzbek tasting menus: $15–$25
Luxury
- Fine dining or fusion restaurants: $25–$60+
- Wine or cocktails: $5–$10
- Private cooking class with dinner: $50–$100
🍽️ Eating out in Uzbekistan is deliciously affordable—don’t miss a local chaykhana!
Transportation Costs
Trains
- Afrosiyob high-speed train (Tashkent–Samarkand): $10–$20
- Slower trains or regional lines: $5–$15
Buses & Shared Taxis
- Intercity shared taxi (3–4 hours): $5–$10
- City taxi via Yandex Go app: $1–$3
Private Drivers & Transfers
- Private day trip with driver: $40–$80
- Airport transfer (TAS–city center): ~$10
Activities & Entrance Fees
- Registan Square (Samarkand): ~$5
- Ark Fortress (Bukhara): ~$3
- Khiva’s Ichan Kala complex: ~$5–$7
- Museums: $1–$4
- Guided tour (half-day): $20–$50
- Private full-day guide: $60–$120
🎟️ Many historic sites are UNESCO-listed and charge small entrance fees.
SIM Cards & Internet Costs
- Local SIM (Ucell or Beeline): ~$2–$5
- 5–10GB data: $5–$8
- Wi-Fi: Free in most hotels and cafés
Sample 10-Day Uzbekistan Travel Costs
| Expense Category | Budget ($) | Mid-range ($) | Luxury ($) |
| Flights (avg) | $600 | $800 | $1500 |
| Hotels | $150 | $500 | $2000 |
| Food | $100 | $200 | $600 |
| Transport | $80 | $150 | $300 |
| Tours/Activities | $70 | $200 | $500 |
| Total | $1000 | $1850 | $4900 |
✈️ Note: Flight prices vary widely depending on origin. Costs above are estimates.
Budget Tips to Save on Uzbekistan Travel Costs
- Travel in shoulder seasons (April–May, Sept–Oct)
- Use shared taxis between cities
- Eat local—Uzbek food is cheap and filling
- Stay in guesthouses with breakfast included
- Combine transport + tours for deals (many hotels offer packages)
💰 Uzbekistan is one of the best-value destinations for cultural travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Uzbekistan expensive to visit?
No. It’s one of the most affordable destinations in Central Asia.
How much money should I bring for a week?
For budget travelers: ~$250–$400. For mid-range: $600–$1000.
Can I use credit cards?
In cities, yes. Always carry cash for bazaars and smaller towns.
Are prices higher for foreigners?
Sometimes at bazaars or taxis. Use Yandex Go and confirm prices in advance.
Is tipping expected?
Not mandatory, but 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated.
Are Uzbekistan travel costs higher in peak season?
Slightly. Accommodation and flights may cost more in April–May and September.
✈️ Apply for Your Uzbekistan eVisa Online
Traveling from the US or other eVisa-required countries?
👉 Apply now for your Uzbekistan eVisa
Related Travel Guides
Final Thought: Whether you’re backpacking on $30 a day or indulging in silk-road luxury, Uzbekistan travel costs are manageable for all budgets. Plan ahead, budget smartly, and enjoy an unforgettable journey through ancient cities and warm hospitality.
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