What to do in Uzbekistan: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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Tashkent’s Independence Square

Tashkent’s Independence Square is a true jewel of the Uzbek capital. Located in the heart of the city, this vast esplanade reflects the country’s history and culture. Surrounded by majestic buildings, the square is dominated by an imposing monument, the Independence Tower, which rises proudly into the sky.

The Registan in Samarkand

The Registan in Samarkand is one of Uzbekistan’s most emblematic architectural treasures. Located in the heart of the historic city of Samarkand, this majestic square is surrounded by three magnificent madrasas, Koranic schools dating back to the 15th century.

The Registan complex is an impressive example of Islamic architecture, with its turquoise ceramic domes, elaborate mosaics and slender minarets. The madrasas of Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor and Tilya-Kori stand proudly in the square, each offering a unique design and a rich history.

The Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara

The Kalyan Mosque, located in the historic city of Bukhara, is one of Uzbekistan’s architectural treasures. This monumental mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Kalyan, was built in the 12th century and remains a symbol of the region’s Islamic art and history.

The Kalyan Mosque impresses with its large inner courtyard surrounded by elegant porticoes. Its huge iwan, a niche-shaped portal, is decorated with blue and green earthenware tiles, creating a hypnotic pattern. The twin minarets of the Kalyan Mosque stand proudly in the sky, offering a panoramic view of the city.

Itchan Kala, the old fortified city of Khiva

Itchan Kala, located in the historic city of Khiva, is an unspoilt jewel of Uzbekistan, offering a journey back in time through its ancient brick walls and cobbled streets. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortified old town is a veritable architectural treasure trove.

The mausoleum of Gour-Emir

The Gur-Emir Mausoleum, located in Samarkand, is an emblematic monument of Uzbekistan, containing the tombs of important historical figures, including Tamerlane, the famous conqueror.

This mausoleum is distinguished by its remarkable architecture, characterized by intricately patterned blue domes and richly decorated facades.

Ak-Saray Palace

The Ak-Saray Palace, also known as the “White Palace”, is an architectural treasure located in Chakhrisabz, Uzbekistan. This palace, built by the great emperor Timur in the 14th century, is a true masterpiece of medieval architecture.

The Termez Museum of Art

The Museum of Learned Art in Termez is one of Uzbekistan’s cultural nuggets. Located in the charming town of Termez, this museum houses an exceptional collection of artworks and antiques that reflect the region’s rich history and artistic tradition.

Visitors can discover fascinating exhibits highlighting traditional Termez art and crafts, including hand-woven carpets, exquisite ceramics, precious jewelry and much more.

Karakalpakstan Art Museum

The Karakalpakstan Art Museum in Nukus is a cultural wonder in the heart of Uzbekistan. This museum houses one of the most impressive collections of contemporary Russian and Uzbek art in Central Asia. Visitors can explore galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, textiles and unique works of art that bear witness to the region’s history and creativity.

The mausoleum of Sheikh Zaynudin

We’re in La Serena, a Chilean town on the Pacific coast. The town is surrounded by green hills and valleys, offering a magnificent landscape to explore. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the ocean waves. Don’t miss the historic lighthouse overlooking the town. The Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and the colonial buildings are also important cultural landmarks to visit. Museums abound with historical objects and local works of art. You can also discover the stars at the La Silla observatory.

Hey Yupers! Did you know that La Serena is Chile’s second oldest city, founded in 1544? Come and discover the history of this fascinating city and its unique Chilean culture.

Ayaz Kala fortress

Puyehue National Park, in southern Chile, is an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers. It boasts a wide variety of landscapes, from dense forests to crystal-clear lakes and active volcanoes.

The park’s main attraction is the Puyehue volcano, which rises to an altitude of over 2,200 metres. Hikers can climb the volcano and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The park also offers many other outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, camping and wildlife viewing, including wolves, pumas and condors.

Finally, the thermal baths at the Termas de Puyehue hotel are a real attraction for visitors looking to relax after a day’s hiking.

Samarkand History Museum

Samarkand’s history museum is a fascinating window on the rich and varied past of this emblematic Uzbek city. Located in the heart of Samarkand, this museum offers an immersive insight into the region’s history, from ancient times to the modern era.

The architectural complex of Shakhrisabz

The architectural complex of Chakhrisabz, located in the eponymous city in Uzbekistan, is a historical and cultural treasure of great importance. This city is the birthplace of Tamerlane, the mighty conqueror and military leader, and its complex bears witness to the grandeur of his reign.

At the heart of this complex is the mausoleum of Sheikh Zaynudin, a majestic edifice adorned with colorful mosaics and tiles. It is dedicated to a respected Sufi saint. Nearby is the mausoleum of Jekhangir, Tamerlane’s beloved son.

Bahouddin Naqshband in Bukhara

The city of Bukhara in Uzbekistan is steeped in history and spirituality, and one of the most sacred places you can visit is the Bahuddin Naqshband memorial complex. This revered Sufi saint left an indelible mark on the region’s history, and his mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage for believers from all over the world.

Tashkent History Museum

Located in the capital of Uzbekistan, the Tashkent History Museum is a cultural treasure trove that traces the city’s fascinating evolution through the ages. Founded in 1976, this museum offers visitors a captivating insight into the history, culture and diversity of Tashkent.

Tchimtchaq Palace

Tchimtchaq Palace, also known as “Tchimgan Palace,” is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of the Tchimgan mountains, in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan. This magnificent palace is surrounded by breathtaking nature, offering a peaceful, picturesque setting for visitors in search of natural beauty and history.

The town of Fergana

Fergana, located in the Fergana Valley in eastern Uzbekistan, is a unique destination that attracts travelers with its cultural diversity and picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this region is renowned for its vast mulberry plantations, essential for silk production.

Fergana’s town center has a lively atmosphere, with colorful markets, talented craftsmen and inviting cafés. Here you can enjoy delicious local dishes, including Uzbek plov, a rice and meat specialty.

Al-Bukhari

Al-Bukhari is a historic city in Uzbekistan, famous for its rich cultural heritage and its importance in the region’s history. It takes its name from the famous Muslim scholar Al-Bukhari, known for having compiled one of the most important collections of hadiths (sayings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad).

The town of Al-Boukhari is home to numerous historical and religious sites, including mausoleums, mosques and Koranic schools dating back to different eras.

Hazrati Imam

Hazrati Imam is a landmark in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Located in the historic Old Town district, this architectural complex is packed with cultural and religious treasures. The centerpiece is the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, famous for its richly decorated ceilings and peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll also find the Barak-Khan Medersa, a masterpiece of Uzbek medieval architecture.

The Kalon minaret

The Kalon Minaret, located in the heart of the old city of Bukhara in Uzbekistan, is an architectural marvel that bears witness to the region’s past grandeur. This impressive minaret, rising to a height of over 45 metres, is one of the tallest in Central Asia. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, and it has survived the centuries to become an emblematic symbol of Bukhara.

Chachma Ayub

Chachma Ayub, also known as Job’s Well, is a historic and sacred site in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. It takes its name from the biblical character Job, who is associated with a miraculous well. This place has deep religious significance for Muslims, Christians and Jews.