Transportation in Uzbekistan

# Transportation in Uzbekistan: Essential Overview Uzbekistan's transportation network centers around its historic Silk Road cities, with domestic flights, trains, and shared taxis serving as the primary options for intercity travel. The country's rail system, operated by Uzbekistan Railways, connects major destinations like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara with both high-speed Afrosiyob trains and overnight sleeper services. Shared taxis (marshrutkas) fill gaps in the rail network and offer flexible point-to-point connections, though comfort levels vary. Within cities, ride-hailing apps have become increasingly popular alongside traditional taxis and local buses. First-time visitors should know that advance booking is essential during peak tourist seasons (April-May and September-October), particularly for popular train routes between the historic cities. While credit cards are increasingly accepted for transportation bookings, carrying cash in Uzbek som remains important for taxis and local transport. Language barriers can be significant outside major tourist areas, so having destination names written in Cyrillic or using translation apps proves helpful when negotiating with drivers or navigating stations. **Airport Transfer Tip:** Tashkent International Airport, the main gateway, is located about 12km from the city center. Pre-arranged transfers or ride-hailing apps offer the most straightforward option for arrivals, as they eliminate price negotiation and provide transparent pricing. Use the booking widgets below to compare current rates and secure your transfer in advance—particularly valuable after long international flights when you want reliable, hassle-free transportation to your accommodation.

Download Yandex Go app for reliable taxi service in major cities like Tashkent and Samarkand

Tashkent Metro requires tokens purchased at station kiosks - cards are not used

High-speed Afrosiyob train connects Tashkent to Samarkand and Bukhara - book tickets in advance

Shared taxis (marshrutkas) depart when full, not on fixed schedules - arrive early for popular routes