Start planning your summer trip to Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is an under-the-radar destination in the heart of central Asia. Home to ancient cities and the famous Silk Road, it features medieval mosques and walled cities that sit side by side with Soviet-era architecture. Summer in Uzbekistan is hot, with long hours of daylight to maximise your sightseeing time. Uzbekistan is firmly off-the-beaten-track and promises a fascinating vacation to remember.
Why should I visit Uzbekistan in summer?
The climate is the main reason for visiting Uzbekistan in summer. June to September are warm and dry, in contrast to winter which is much colder and often wet. There's lots to see in Uzbekistan, so maximise your time in central Asia's most vibrant and interesting country by booking an English-speaking guide.
Best things to do in Uzbekistan in summer
Uzbekistan is so rich in history and culture that you'll want to pack in as much as possible. With careful planning, you'll be able to see all the main sights, whether your interests are historic, cultural or artistic. Spend some time in the major cities, but leave time to see the rural landscapes too. Here are the top things to do in Uzbekistan.
See the past at Shah-i-Zinda
Cool off on hot Uzbek summer afternoons at the mausoleum complex of Shah-i-Zinda. The shaded rooms around the shrine make for a cool retreat from the sun, each tiled so delicately they are considered the best in the Islamic world. The sunsets here are spectacular, so it's worth timing your visit accordingly.
See the crossroads of culture in Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest inhabited cities in central Asia, and an important stopping point along the historic Silk Road between China and Europe. Don't miss Registan Square, packed with ornate doorways, minarets, and elaborate tiles. It’s here that the east really did meet the west, and this is evidenced in its architecture.
Explore the walls of ancient Itchan Kala
Itchan Kala is the walled center of Khiva and is home to a high concentration of historic monuments and buildings. Climb the watchtower or a minaret and peer through the doors of splendid palaces.
Escape the cities in the Fergana Valley
The Fergana Valley covers a wide area of Uzbekistan and neighbouring countries. It's a place where time seems to have barely passed, as weavers, potters, and wood carvers still work using traditional methods. The valley is the center of the Uzbek wine industry, and you can visit a vineyard for a tasting session.
Stand on the bottom of the Aral Sea
Over the last 50 years, the Aral Sea has shrunk to 10% of its original size. A sobering aspect of the lack of water is the ship graveyard at Muynak, where visitors can stroll around ships, hundreds of miles from water.
What’s the weather like in Uzbekistan in summer?
Uzbekistan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Temperatures in the summer can reach as high as over 100°F, although temperatures around the mid 80s are more typical. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed sun hat.
