Uzbekistan

Tashkent is an amazing combination of antiquity and modernity. Here you will find both the remains of the old city with oriental bazaars, mosques and madrassas, and modern avenues, skyscrapers, cafes, art spaces and museums. You should definitely see Khast-Imam Square with the rarest Osman Koran, walk through the noisy Chorsu Bazaar and go down to the Tashkent metro - one of the most beautiful in the world. The city has many parks, fountains and gastronomic locations. Tashkent is the gateway to Uzbekistan and the best place to start exploring the country. It is hospitable, dynamic, safe and convenient for tourists - with developed infrastructure, wide streets and amazingly kind people.

Samarkand is a city where history breathes at every step. It is known throughout the world thanks to the Great Silk Road and the reign of Amir Timur. Here are masterpieces of medieval architecture: the Registan ensemble, the Gur-Emir mausoleum, Shahi-Zinda, the Bibi-Khanym mosque and the Ulugbek observatory. Each of these monuments will amaze you with its scale, craftsmanship and energy. But Samarkand is not only museums. It is also green streets, delicious samsa, bazaars where you can buy spices and fabrics, and the living heart of the country, where traditions and modernity are intertwined in harmony. The city is suitable for both a rich excursion holiday and a leisurely immersion in the oriental atmosphere.

Bukhara is the city that best conveys the spirit of the Islamic East. There are more than 140 architectural monuments here: mosques, madrassas, minarets, mausoleums, caravanserais, which create a unique atmosphere. The Old City is a real labyrinth of narrow streets decorated with carvings, blue domes and sandy facades. The central square Lyabi-Khauz is a cozy place where you can drink green tea under the shade of centuries-old trees. Bukhara has a sense of unhurriedness: everything is in its place, everything lives in the rhythm of tradition. This is a city of philosophers, poets and artisans. It is a real pleasure to stay here for at least a couple of days to leisurely stroll through the bazaars, talk to locals and feel the warmth of Uzbek hospitality.

Khiva is like a miniature from an ancient book that has come to life. The fortress city of Ichan-Kala is a unique historical complex included in the UNESCO list. More than 50 architectural monuments have been preserved inside the fortress: minarets, mosques, madrassas, khan palaces and residential buildings. Here you can wander for hours along the cobbled streets, admire the carved gates and turquoise domes. Khiva is a city where time has stopped. It is especially atmospheric here at sunset, when the light falls on the clay walls, creating a sense of magic. A tourist should stay at least one night to feel the silence and grandeur of this place. Khiva is a must-see destination for those who want to touch the true history of Central Asia.

Shakhrisabz is not as famous as Samarkand or Bukhara, but its importance in the history of Uzbekistan is undeniable. It was here that Amir Temur (Tamerlane) was born, and it was here that he began building his legendary Ak-Saray palace. Today, only majestic ruins remain of the palace, but even these are awe-inspiring in their scale. Shakhrisabz is also worth visiting for its Timurid mausoleums, ancient madrassas and mosques. The city is surrounded by hills and gardens, and the atmosphere is quiet and measured. It is a great place for travelers interested in history and culture, as well as for those who want to see a less touristy side of Uzbekistan. Shakhrisabz is a living reminder of the greatness of the past and a worthy stop on any cultural itinerary.