Autumn boom of tours to Uzbekistan: why Russians choose Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara

Growing interest in Uzbekistan this autumn

Russian tour operators are reporting a noticeable jump in bookings for autumn trips to Uzbekistan. The biggest companies say demand is up roughly 1.5 times compared with last year. One operator saw a 150 % increase, another a 68 % rise. An independent analytics centre confirmed the same pattern, noting identical growth ratios.

What travelers are choosing

Most tourists still gravitate toward the tried‑and‑true Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara circuit. Yet an increasing number are tacking on ancient Khiva, turning a short hop into a fuller itinerary. Roughly half the bookings go to each version: some prefer a compact three‑day tour, others are ready to spend a week in the country, adding the extra city.

Budget options for short getaways

For those limited by time or money, operators offer 4‑5‑day programs. The simplest is a day‑trip around Tashkent, or a combined Tashkent + Bukhara tour. Prices, not counting the flight, start at 70,000 rubles for two people. Include a Moscow‑to‑Uzbekistan flight and the cost climbs to about 1.5 million rubles for a pair. These packages let you hit the main sights without spending weeks on the road.

Beyond the classic trio

Interest is growing in regions that have long lived in the shadow of the popular cities. More travelers are eyeing a side‑trip to the Ferghana Valley, even though it remains a niche destination and isn’t yet part of the mass‑tour stream. Still, specialised operators that focus on excursion tours across Uzbekistan are already adding such areas to their programmes.

How air connections are changing

New direct flights are making Uzbekistan far more reachable for Russian tourists. From 6 November 2025, Uzbek carrier Centrum Air began regular service on the Vladivostok – Bukhara route – the first air corridor linking Russia’s Far East with Central Asia. In addition, from 20 September 2026, Uzbekistan Airways reinstated flights from Tyumen’s Roschino Airport to Tashkent, operating on Saturdays.

These routes shave travel time and open up possibilities for quick weekend trips. For travellers living in Siberia or the Far East, a direct flight to Bukhara is now a reality, while the Saturday service from Tyumen simplifies planning week‑long tours.

Outlook for tourism development

Major operators such as Coral Travel and Intourist view the outlook positively. They expect interest in Uzbekistan to keep rising through the end of the year, especially after the recently signed joint tourism development plan between Russia and Uzbekistan. The plan calls for expanded air links and joint tourist products, which should make booking easier and trips more varied.

Practical tips

• Pick your route based on time: a weekend? stick to Tashkent or a pair of cities. Have a week? add Samarkand, Bukhara and, if you wish, Khiva.
• Watch for new flights: direct services from Vladivostok and Tyumen save time and often cost less than combined connections.
• Don’t overlook regional pearls: even if the Ferghana Valley isn’t on mainstream itineraries yet, its unique culture and scenery can become a highlight of your journey.
• Budget tours: looking to save? seek 4‑5‑day programs without the flight – they usually cover the key sights and let you see the country without extra expense.

Summary

Autumn in Uzbekistan has become a real magnet for Russian tourists: demand is up 1.5 times, and a broader menu of routes plus new direct flights make the country more accessible. The classic Tashkent‑Samarkand‑Bukhara line remains the most popular, but more travellers are discovering additional regions. If you’re planning a trip, now is the best moment – prices are moderate and air connections keep expanding.

Based on materials from: trn-news.ru.