12-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guide to Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a hidden gem for family travel, offering a magical blend of ancient history and modern comfort. This 12-day itinerary is specifically designed to balance the awe-inspiring sights of the Silk Road with relaxed pacing and child-friendly activities that will keep the little ones engaged without tiring them out.
Using the efficient Afrosiyob high-speed train system, you will travel between the major hubs of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Most major sites in these cities are pedestrian-friendly and offer plenty of open space for children to explore safely, while the local hospitality ensures families are welcomed with open arms everywhere they go.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Tashkent, Uzbekistan - Arrival & City Introduction
Arrival and Hotel Check-in
Arrive at Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport and take a short taxi ride to your hotel. The city's wide boulevards are surprisingly stroller-friendly.
Independence Square (Mustakillik Maydoni)
Explore the vast fountains and manicured gardens. It is a perfect spot for children to run around after a long flight while you admire the Soviet-era monuments.
Tashkent Metro Tour
Ride the world-famous Tashkent Metro. Each station is a work of art; kids will love the space-themed Kosmonavtlar station.
Dinner at Alisher Navoi Park
Enjoy a relaxed meal near the lake. The park features many small play areas and light shows in the evening.
Day 2: Tashkent, Uzbekistan - Modern Fun & Local Life
Chorsu Bazaar
Visit the massive blue-domed market. Kids will enjoy the sights and smells of the spice section and the energetic bread-making area.
Central Asian Plov Center
Watch masters cook giant vats of Plov (the national dish) over wood fires. It is a spectacle that doubles as a delicious, kid-approved lunch.
Magic City Park
A Disney-style theme park with a replica of the Registan and plenty of rides and games specifically for children.
Tashkent TV Tower
View the city from above. The observation deck is safe for children and offers a great perspective on the city's layout.
Day 3: Tashkent to Samarkand, Uzbekistan - The High-Speed Journey
Afrosiyob Train Transfer
Experience the high-speed train to Samarkand. It is comfortable, includes a snack, and is much easier with kids than a long car ride.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Visit the gold-encrusted tomb of Tamerlane. The courtyard is flat and easy to navigate with a stroller.
Ruhabad Mausoleum Garden
A quiet, shaded area near Gur-e-Amir, perfect for a mid-afternoon break and some local ice cream.
Dinner in the Old City
Try the local Samarkand-style kebab at one of the family-run cafes near the main square.
Day 4: Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Icons and Interactive Art
Registan Square
The crown jewel of Uzbekistan. Arrive early to avoid the heat and the crowds. The open plazas are great for photos and exploration.
Konigil Paper Mill
Located just outside the city, this eco-village shows how paper was made from mulberry trees. Kids can try making their own paper.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
One of the largest mosques in the Islamic world. The massive scale is impressive for all ages.
Siab Bazaar
Sample Samarkand's famous large bread rounds and local sweets right next to the mosque.
Day 5: Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Ancient Astronomy & Necropolis
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
The "Avenue of Mausoleums" features incredible blue tilework. Note: there are many stairs, so a baby carrier is better than a stroller here.
Ulugh Beg Observatory
Learn about medieval astronomy. The museum is small and engaging for school-aged children.
Afrasiyab Museum
See the ancient frescoes of Samarkand. The museum is air-conditioned and well-organized.
Evening Light Show at Registan
Watch the magnificent light and sound show that brings the history of the Silk Road to life.
Day 6: Samarkand to Bukhara, Uzbekistan - Arrival in the Holy City
Morning Train to Bukhara
Another smooth ride on the Afrosiyob. The transition from the grand scale of Samarkand to the intimate feel of Bukhara is striking.
Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble
A peaceful plaza centered around a centuries-old pond. It's the social heart of Bukhara and a great place for kids to watch the ducks.
Bukhara Puppet Workshop
Visit a workshop where traditional puppets are made. Kids can often see the artisans at work.
Dinner by the Pond
Eat under the mulberry trees at Lyabi-Hauz. The atmosphere is relaxed and very family-oriented.
Day 7: Bukhara, Uzbekistan - Walking Through History
Po-i-Kalyan Complex
The spiritual center of the city. The Kalyan Minaret is so impressive that even Genghis Khan spared it.
The Ark of Bukhara
A massive fortress that kids will love exploring. The thick walls offer a sense of stepping back into a desert kingdom.
Trading Domes
Walk through the ancient domed bazaars. Each dome specialized in different goods (hats, coins, silk).
Bolo Haouz Mosque
Known as the mosque of 40 columns, its reflection in the water is a beautiful sight for a late afternoon walk.
Day 8: Bukhara, Uzbekistan - Crafts and Hidden Gems
Chor Minor
A small, unique mosque with four towers. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood, offering a glimpse of local life.
Bukhara Jewish Quarter
Explore the narrow alleys and visit the ancient synagogue. The area is largely car-free and safe for walking.
Bukhara Puppet Theatre
Catch a traditional puppet performance. Even if it's in Uzbek, the storytelling and music are captivating for children.
Hammam Experience (Optional)
Parents can take turns visiting a traditional 16th-century hammam for a truly relaxing local ritual.
Day 9: Bukhara to Khiva, Uzbekistan - The Kyzylkum Desert
Transfer to Khiva
The journey across the desert takes about 6-7 hours. A private car is recommended for families to allow for bathroom and snack breaks.
Arrival in Itchan Kala
Enter the walled city of Khiva. It feels like an open-air museum and is almost entirely pedestrianized.
Kalta Minor Minaret
Admire the iconic fat, turquoise minaret. The surrounding area is flat and perfect for kids to wander.
Sunset Dinner on a Terrace
Choose a restaurant with a rooftop view to see the sunset over the desert city walls.
Day 10: Khiva, Uzbekistan - The Fortress City
Kunya-Ark Citadel
Explore the former residence of the Khiva Khans. The view from the watchtower is spectacular.
Juma Mosque
Famous for its 213 unique wooden columns. It's cool inside, providing a nice break from the sun.
Silk Carpet Workshop
Watch traditional carpet weaving. It’s a slow, fascinating process that often interests older children.
Walk the City Walls
You can walk along parts of the ancient mud-brick walls for a great view of the city and the desert beyond.
Day 11: Khiva, Uzbekistan - Palaces and Local Flavors
Tash-Hauli Palace
Explore the intricate tilework and the "harem" courtyard. The architecture is stunning and very photogenic.
Lunch: Shivit Oshi
Try Khiva's unique green dill noodles. It's a colorful dish that kids usually find fun and tasty.
Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum
The most beautiful spot in Khiva with a peaceful atmosphere and stunning turquoise tiles.
Camel Photos
You can often find camels near the city gates for a quick photo opportunity, which is always a hit with children.
Day 12: Khiva to Tashkent, Uzbekistan - Final Souvenirs & Departure
Last Minute Souvenir Shopping
Pick up some silk scarves, carved wood, or ceramics in the quiet morning hours of Khiva.
Transfer to Urgench Airport
A 30-minute drive from Khiva. Check out and head to the airport for your domestic flight back to Tashkent.
Tashkent Airport Lounge
Relax in the lounge before your international departure. Most international flights depart late in the evening.
Final Uzbek Meal
Enjoy one last round of Shashlik or Somsa at the airport or nearby restaurant before checking in.
Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan
The best time for a family trip to Uzbekistan is during the shoulder seasons: Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to early November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for walking and sightseeing with children. Summer (June-August) can be extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), while Winter can be surprisingly cold and snowy.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Uzbek Som (UZS). While credit cards are increasingly accepted in major hotels and upscale restaurants in Tashkent and Samarkand, Uzbekistan remains a largely cash-based economy. It is essential to carry a stack of local cash for markets, small cafes, and taxis. ATMs are widely available in cities, but it is wise to carry some USD as a backup for exchange. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is generous in restaurants.
Getting Around Uzbekistan
Intercity travel is best done via the Afrosiyob high-speed trains, which are modern, clean, and very fast. For shorter distances or within cities, the Yandex Go app (similar to Uber) is the most reliable and affordable way to get around with kids, as it avoids the need to haggle with street taxis and ensures you have a set price. For the long stretch between Bukhara and Khiva, a private car transfer is the most flexible option for families.
