best travel destinations central asia

Travel to Central Asia – Which country should you visit?

By Joan Torres 8 Comments Last updated on April 24, 2024

I spent 5 months traveling through Central Asia and it was the trip of my lifetime.

It’s the most epic region I have ever been to, and not only because this used to be the heart of the Silk Road and has some truly legendary mountains but also because, despite being a barely visited region, it’s a very accessible, tourist-friendly destination which I would even recommend to my mom.

Central Asia, however, is pretty big, a region where you could spend months exploring and, for those who are short of time, choosing the right itinerary that fits their traveling needs can be a tough decision.

Therefore, it doesn’t surprise me at all when many readers email me asking:

I only have X weeks to travel in Central Asia, which countries would you recommend to me?

The truth is that the 5 Central Asian Republics are, on the one hand, very similar – probably because they are all former Soviet Republics, times in which Soviet leaders tried to implement homogeneity across their socialist state.

However, they are also very different, each country offering a truly unique experience.

In this blog, I wanted to give you a detailed overview of each one of the Central Asian Republics, as well as general travel tips for Central Asia.

In this Central Asia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• What is Central Asia
• Best time to visit
• How to get in
• How to get around
• Is it safe?
• Travel Insurance
• Which country you should visit

Turkmenistan

• More resources

our recommended travel insurance for Central Asia

With its backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the perfect one for countries filled with adventure.

What is Central Asia?

Note: Geographically, Central Asia is composed not only of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan but also Afghanistan , northern Pakistan, and Xinjiang province in China.

However, when you think about visiting Central Asia, most travelers refer to the 5 former Soviet Republics (also known as the Stans), which is what this travel guide is referring to as well.

If you want to know more about Pakistan, read my Pakistan archives .

⛅ Best time to travel to Central Asia

Most of Central Asia has a continental climate, with utterly hot summers and extremely cold winters but, since each country has something different to offer, each one has a specific best season to come over.

How did I organize my trip across the Stans?

As I told you in the introduction, I spent 5 months traveling in the Stans and, from a timing point of view, this is how I organized my itinerary:

• June 15th to August 15th: Kyrgyzstan
• August 15th to September 15th: Tajikistan
• September 15th to October 15th: Uzbekistan
• October 15th to November 15th: Kazakhstan

It wasn’t a coincidence, but I planned it based on the following criteria:

Visiting Central Asia in summer

Summer is the ideal season for visiting the mountain regions which, in my opinion, should be the highlight of any trip to Central Asia.

However, bear in mind that anywhere outside those areas, the weather will be very hot.

Best time for

Kyrgyzstan – Plenty of nomads and the best season for trekking.

Tajikistan – Same as Kyrgyzstan. If you only have 3 weeks in August, I actually recommend you combine Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Kazakhstan – The southeastern part of Kazakhstan is a mountainous region that belongs to the Tien Shan range. In the east, you also find Katon-Karagay, but that’s very remote.

Not a good time for

Uzbekistan – The highlight of Uzbekistan is visiting cities like Khiva or Bukhara but, in summer, temperatures may reach over 40ºC, so it’s not a good time to visit them. I haven’t been in Uzbekistan during the summer months but during my journey, I met many travelers who were complaining about this.

Turkmenistan – It’s a desert country and, as such, the weather can be extremely hot in summer.

Some parts of Kazakhstan – Kazakhstan is vast and the mountain regions are just a tiny part of it, most of the country comprises endless steppe that becomes overwhelmingly hot in summer.

Moreover, bear in mind that summer is high season, which means the most popular places will be busy.

Read: tips & packing list for trekking in Central Asia

Visiting Central Asia in spring and autumn

In my opinion, these are the best seasons to visit the Central Asian Republics: most crowds are gone, the weather is pleasant and, if you come in late spring or early autumn, the mountains are still very accessible.

Uzbekistan – The weather is pleasant and the Silk Road cities are less busy.

Turkmenistan – Turkmenistan is free of crowds all year long but, like in Uzbekistan, spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather.

Kazakhstan – Except for the mountain regions, these seasons are the best to enjoy the rest of Kazakhstan, especially the southern part, which includes the Aral Sea, Shimkyent, Turkestan, etc.

Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan – Unless you want to go trekking in very high altitudes (we got snow in the month of June), this should be the best time, as the mountains are very accessible, most backpackers are gone and nomads will still be there. By the way, the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan are best explored during this season.

If you come too early in spring or too late in autumn, you might not be able to go trekking or even camping in Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and Kazakhstan .

For example, I visited the mountainous region of Kazakhstan in November and had to skip any sort of trekking because it was already too cold.

Visiting Central Asia in winter

Most of Central Asia is covered by snow but you can still enjoy it somehow.

Uzbekistan – If you don’t mind sightseeing with freezing temperatures and gray skies, it shouldn’t be a bad time to visit Uzbekistan.

Kazakhstan – Same as Uzbekistan, but you really need to wear proper clothes.

Turkmenistan – If you don’t mind the cold, it shouldn’t be that bad!

Kyrgyzstan – In Kyrgyzstan, there is a ski resort, plus you can do some winter nomad sports in the area around Issy-Kul.

From meeting nomads to trekking and wandering around the mountains, winter is not a good time for any adventurous activity which, in my opinion, is the main highlight in Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and also Kazakhstan .

🛫 Best way to travel to Central Asia

How to travel to the stans by air.

With the region’s increase in popularity, today, traveling to the Stans is becoming easier than ever, and you can find direct flights from many cities in Europe, the Middle East , and Asia.

From Europe, the cheapest cities to travel to Central Asia is by flying to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) and Almaty (Kazakhstan), cities where you can find daily flights with Pegasus.

Dushanbe (Tajikistan) is the second easiest city to travel to. You can find budget flights too, but they don’t have as many connections.

Tashkent , in Uzbekistan, has plenty of fights as well but flights to Uzbekistan are much more expensive due to airport taxes.

The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat , is a pretty isolated city with expensive flights.

Do you know another of my favorite regions? The Horn of Africa , which includes countries like Ethiopia, Somalia or Eritrea CHECK ALL MY GUIDES HERE

How to travel to the Stans by land

You can travel to the Central Asian Republics from:

Entering Central Asia from Russia

From Russia, you can enter Kazakhstan from many different entry points, both by train, bus, or even in your own vehicle.

Entering Central Asia from China

From Xinjiang province, you can enter Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. I entered Kyrgyzstan via Irkeshtam Pass and here you can read my full report .

Entering Central Asia from Afghanistan

Afghanistan shares borders with Uzbekistan (very straightforward and easy border to use), Turkmenistan (which apparently is closed), and Tajikistan (the one that leads to the Wakhan is very safe, the other one not so much).

The security situation is changing constantly. Check my guide on how to travel safely in Afghanistan

Entering Central Asia from Iran

Iran shares a border with Turkmenistan and, assuming you have a valid visa, you can cross that border, no problem. Read my Iran travel guide .

Entering Central Asia from Azerbaijan

There is no border with this country but you can take a ferry across the Caspian Sea from Baku to the Kazakh city of Aktau. Moreover, as long as you have a valid visa, you can also take it from Baku to Turkmenbashi, in Turkmenistan. Here you can learn more about the Caspian Sea ferry .

🛺 How to travel around Central Asia

Traveling between the stans, crossing borders.

Except for a few specific borders which can only be used by nationals, today you can travel from and to any of the Stans, assuming you have a valid visa.

Transportation between the Stans

It’s pretty easy and you can cross all borders by either train, marshrutka, or local shared taxi. The only challenging border crossings (from a transportation point of view) would be between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, for the simple reason that it is a mountainous region with very limited public transportation.

For more information, I strongly recommend you check Caravanistan border crossing reports .

Transportation in Central Asia

The coolest thing about the Stans is that traveling around on a budget, by public transportation is very easy, as you can get to pretty much anywhere around the region by:

Travel by Marshrutka in Central Asia

Marshrutka means mini-bus in Russian and it is the main way of transportation across all former Soviet Union, from Belarus to Tajikistan. They go pretty much anywhere and leave once they are full.

Travel by a local shared taxi in Central Asia

Sometimes, the locals travel in shared taxis because they are faster than marshrutkas, or to reach faraway places where marshrutkas don’t go.

Travel by train in Central Asia

The train is a beautiful way to travel around Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, but in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan is not very convenient.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Central Asia?

Fact: The Central Asian Republics are one of the safest places I have ever been to, no kidding.

I know that this is a difficult thing to prove with just words but the fact is that during my 5-month trip, I never had a single issue and, other than a few drunk men bothering me, everybody was pretty cool.

Moreover, the Stans is a region where you see a lot of solo female travelers, most of them claiming had a great experience with very few incidents.

Nicole has written a guide about it .

The dangers in Central Asia, however, are more related to the adventurous stuff.

In fact, I had a pretty bad horse accident in Tash Rabat , in which I hurt my back pretty badly and had to stay in bed for 2 weeks. It’s the only serious incident I have ever had when traveling.

Therefore, you must travel in Central Asia with proper travel insurance . More on that below.

🚑 Travel insurance for Central Asia

For traveling around Central Asia, you should get travel insurance with at least the following features and benefits:

• Covers adventure activities, including trekking in high altitudes
• Covers multi-country trips for up to 3 months, good for overlanding across the Stans

And, for that, I recommend IATI Insurance . It has budget plans too and readers of this blog get a 5% discount

The best country to travel in Central Asia – Which one should you visit?

Here’s a quick, but complete, overview of all the Stans.

Central Asia travel tip Many of you have emailed me saying that you will only have 3 weeks for traveling in Central Asia, yet you plan to visit at least 3 countries in such a short period of time. While the idea of visiting many countries might sound appealing, the only thing you will achieve with this is seeing nothing. Central Asia is a region made not to rush: spending a few days with nomads or enjoying the mountains are activities one should take easy, besides that moving from one place to another takes a lot of time. If you only have 3 weeks, I recommend you visit a maximum of 2 countries, preferably 1.

Visa for Kyrgyzstan – Most nationalities can get a 2-month free visa on arrival.

In my experience, this was the best country to visit in Central Asia

Lush green meadows, 7,000m-high snow-capped peaks, remote nomadic camps, and the land of horses.

Kyrgyzstan is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers and adventurous travelers, a country composed of some of the most epic mountains I have ever seen, some of them being highly accessible, while others being only suitable for real experts.

Moreover, Kyrgyzstan is a surprisingly easy and cheap country to travel to, with great tourist infrastructure.

In my experience, this was my favorite country to visit in Central Asia.

Top 5 experiences in Kyrgyzstan

Trekking in the Tien Shan range – The main reason you come to Kyrgyzstan. Just real epicness.

Staying with real nomads in a yurt camp – Kyrgyzstan is home to the most accessible nomadic culture ever. They are everywhere and, for very little money, you can stay in their yurts.

Trekking on the back of a horse – This is the land of horses and going over a mountain pass on a horse is a must.

Hanging out in Bishkek – The capital of Kyrgyzstan is surprisingly Westernized and a great city to take a couple-of-days-break.

Going to the Alay Valley and Lenin Peak base camp – My most favorite natural site in the country, bordering Tajikistan, this is the most impressive mountain region.

Kyrgyzstan is good for:

Trekking (all types of trekking)

Getting immersed in the nomadic culture

All Central Asia is cheap, but Kyrgyzstan is definitely the cheapest

Further reading:

• Kyrgyzstan, 1-month itinerary
• Tips for traveling to Kyrgyzstan
• A beginner’s guide to trekking in Kyrgyzstan

Visa for Tajikistan – Most nationalities can get a free visa on arrival but you’ll need a special permit to visit the GBAO region. Read this visa section for more information.

Far less visited than its neighbor Kyrgyzstan but equally epic, perhaps even more, Tajikistan is another mountain destination, the heart of the Pamir range and home to the Pamir Highway, one of the most celebrated and exciting roads in the world to drive along.

The mountains of Tajikistan are less green and cute than Kyrgyzstan, but that’s because they are wilder, more remote, which means that the tourist infrastructure is also poorer, so, if you are seeking a real off the beaten track experience and can’t decide between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, I definitely recommend Tajikistan.

Prices are quite similar, just slightly more expensive but, since some areas are very remote and not suitable for independent backpackers, the total cost can be considerably higher, especially if you travel the Pamir Highway.

5 Top experiences in Tajikistan

Driving the Pamir Highway – One of the most stunning roads in the world, if not the most.

Trekking in the Pamirs – Some of the wildest and most stunning treks ever but keep in mind that those mountains are tough.

Wandering along the Afghan border in the Wakhan Valley – An ancient Silk Road route that goes along the Afghan border and filled with epic fortresses and landscapes.

Discovering remote mountain villages in the Fann Mountains – The more accessible Fann Mountains are also home to unspotted rural villages and settlements.

Explore the millennial city of Khujand – One of the oldest cities in Central Asia is Khujand, a traditional city in its purest Tajik form.

Tajikistan is good for:

Epic road trips

Super remote, offbeat landscapes

• Tajikistan travel tips
• Pamir Highway travel guide
• A guide to the Wakhan Valley in Tajikistan

Visa for Uzbekistan – Some nationalities get a visa on arrival, but others need to apply for an e-visa- Read this visa guide for more information.

Once one of the most hermetic countries in Asia, with very strict visa policies for foreigners, Uzbekistan is today, the most tourist-friendly country to visit in Central Asia, and the only one where you already see some mass tourism evidence, even though – and to be fair – the vast majority of it is concentrated in just 3 cities, the rest of the country remaining quite unexplored.

Uzbekistan has opened its borders to show the rest of the world the majesty of what used to be the heart of the ancient Silk Road, a country filled with absolutely jaw-dropping mosques, shrines and old cities.

However, if you thought the Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are the only reason to travel to Uzbekistan you would be very wrong, because here you also find some off the beaten track gems, ranging from the dried-out Aral Sea to the less-visited Fergana Valley.

I loved Uzbekistan but, to be honest with you, it’s my least favorite country to travel in Central Asia but this is just my very subjective opinion, as when I travel, I prefer mountains and rural life over visiting cities.

Top 5 experiences in Uzbekistan

Checking out the mind-blowing mosques and madrassas – They are absolutely stunning, and the reason number one to come to Uzbekistan.

Traveling back to the Silk Road times – Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva were some of the 3 most important cities on the Silk Road.

Visit the Aral Sea – The planet’s worst environmental disaster and you can visit a city with a harbor and no sea named Moynaq.

Visiting the Fergana Valley – A real off the beaten track region and the heart of Islam in Central Asia.

Walking among Soviet buildings in Tashkent – The capital of Uzbekistan is an old Soviet-planned city and a fun place to wander around for a few days.

Uzbekistan is good for:

Silk Road monuments & architecture

The best bazaars

A bit of off the beaten track stuff

• Travel tips for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan backpacking itinerary
• A guide to visit the Aral Sea in Uzbekistan

Visa for Kazakhstan – Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival valid for 30 days.

If you like visiting weird things and, at the same time, visiting the most Westernized city in Asia or checking out some drop-dead mountains, you are going to love Kazakhstan.

On the one hand, Kazakhstan is a huge country, the 9th largest country in the world and, in order to feel this vastness, I strongly recommend you cross the whole country on a Soviet train, from west to east.

On the other hand, this is home to some of the most off the beaten track attractions in Central Asia, ranging from the forbidden city of Baikonur to a former testing place for atomic bombs, the main city in the dried-out Aral Sea and Nur-Sultan (former Astana), the capital and a city that has quite a few peculiar and extravagant buildings to check out.

Moreover, the old capital Almaty is the most European-like city in all Asia and the mountains in the southeastern part of the country are just gorgeous, even though I couldn’t really enjoy them because I was there in November, but I did enjoy a lot traveling by train, the traditional Kazakh life in Shymkient, the Aral Sea and Baikonur.

Top experiences in Kazakhstan

Travel in a Soviet train through the steppe – Epic multi-day journeys through endless Kazakh steppe.

Discover the gorgeous mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan – Unbelievable scenery filled with alpine lakes and canyons.

Hang out in Almaty – The most European city in Asia, a city where I would not mind living for a while.

Visit the Aral Sea – The worst environmental disaster caused by humans and in Kazakhstan, you find the largest city, today mainly composed of a harbor without a sea.

Kazakhstan is good for:

Trekking (all types)

Train travel

Best city (Almaty)

Weird, offbeat stuff

• Kazakhstan travel tips
• Kazakhstan, 1-month itinerary
• Train travel in Kazakhstan

Visa – There are two types of visa: 1 ) Transit visa , which is a 5-day visa that you can only apply for if you enter overland and exit overland through two different countries. For example, Uzbekistan -> Turkmenistan -> Iran – 2) Tourist visa : You can get a longer, normal visa if you book a full tour with a valid tour operator.

Welcome to one of the most secretive countries in the world .

Along with Eritrea and North Korea, Turkmenistan is, sadly, one of the most repressive countries on Earth, the reason why this is also the most difficult destination to travel to in Central Asia (in fact, the only difficult one).

Actually, this is the only country in Central Asia I haven’t visited, basically because they denied me a visa when I applied from Tashkent . It is very high on my list and I am sure I will travel there soon.

Infamous for being ruled by an egocentric leader who spends billions in building nonsensical, and absolutely strange buildings to worship himself, Turkmenistan is the offbeat capital of Central Asia, but these weird things are not the only reason for visiting the country, but this is also home to some Silk Road wonders such as the city of Merv, and wonderful desert landscapes.

5 Top experiences in Turkmenistan

Exploring Ashgabat – A city made of marble and ridiculous monuments built with the sole purpose of satisfying the leader’s needless caprices.

Visiting Konye-Urgench – Minarets and turquoise-tiled mosques, like in Uzbekistan, but without souvenir shops.

Camping next to Darvaza crater – A living gas crater that has been burning for ages in the middle of the desert.

Checking out Merv – Probably, the most famous archeological site in Central Asia.

Wandering around Yangykala Canyon – Unique shapes, patterns, and colors, this desert is definitely worth to pay a visit.

Turkmenistan is good for:

Silk Road archaeological sites, cities and monuments

Desert landscapes

• Turkmenistan, 1 week itinerary
• Turkmenistan travel tips

📚 Best books about Central Asia and the Silk Road

These are just my top 5 books.

For more options, read: Best books on the Silk Road

Sovietistan, by Erika Fatland

A solo female traveler who travels across the 5 Stans, unveiling and discovering the darkest and most offbeat secrets in Central Asia.

Dictators without borders, by Alexander A. Cooley Ph.D. and John Heathershaw

International politics and the influence of Central Asia in the Western world, and how Western Governments have been involved in plenty of dirty businesses with Central Asian dictators.

Turkestan solo, by Ella Maillart

A solo female traveler who traveled in Central Asia in the 30s, so this travelogue will help you understand what was it like to travel in Central Asia during the Soviet Union times.

The Silent steppe, by Mukhamet Shayakhmetov

The story about the forced displacement that millions of Kazakh nomads suffered during Stalin’s regime, and the author is a survivor who tells the struggles that he and his family had to go through.

Murder in Samarkand, by Craig Murray

The human rights abuse in Uzbekistan during the regime from the previous president Islam Karimov, who ruled the country from its independence until 2016.

❗ More resources for traveling in the Stans

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

For everything related to visas, updated information on border crossings, etc., your best source is going to be Caravanistan .

Guidebooks for backpacking in Central Asia

Central asia travel guide by lonely planet.

If you are traveling to several countries in the region, you may want to get the LP, the most complete travel guide to Central Asia. Since they talk about 5 countries in one single book, however, the information is a bit limited.

Central Asia travel guides by Bradt

If you want to get deeper in each one of the countries, I strongly recommend you get Bradt guides, as they have one separate book for each country.

Bradt is my favorite brand when it comes to guidebooks because their information is always so insightful and they put a focus on off-the-beaten-track places.

• Kyrgyzstan Bradt Guide
• Tajikistan Bradt Guide
• Kazakhstan Bradt Guide
• Uzbekistan Bradt Guide
• Turkmenistan Bradt Guide

You may also want to get a Kindle, so you don’t carry so many books with you.

Hi Joan i read your interview on superblogging.com. It was very insightful. I am looking at starting a blog in 2 languages, I am just a bit confused, so you create the same post in 2 languages, but how do you add the flag feature that changes the language. Thanks Devyani

Hi Devyani, The ”flag” feature is just an option available in WPML, and it’s optional. The reason I have it is that it can be good for SEO purposes, since you are directly telling Google that there’s a translation available for that specific post.

I was disappointed to read your article. If you didn’t want to travel to Uzbekistan, why did you come? What you write is your right. but it is necessary to treat that country and its people with a little respect

what are you talking about dude

Hi Joan I am thinking on travelling to Central Asia this summer, in August or September, for 3 weeks. At the beginning I was thinking on visiting Uzbekistan but then, because maybe it will be hot, and also because I have read many articles here, I am thinking on Kyrgyzstan (and possibly Tajikistan too, or probably not). My doubt is, if I do it as a solo traveller, I think that maybe all the hiking alone could be boring and even dangerous. I am learning a bit of Russian and I think I will be able to communicate with locals, but not too much. So probably Uzbekistan being more a city travel will be better for a solo trip. I would like to know your opinion, thank you so much in advance.

Hello Antonio! I like traveling to countries during the right season and basically, August is not a good season for Uzbekistan, with temperatures in cities being over 40ºC. On the other hand, August is the best season for hiking in Kyrgyzstan. Go to Karakol and do stay in a hostel. Many people go there just for trekking, and you’re likely to meet other travelers you could share the hike with, not to mention that some trails might be busy with other travelers too.

Thank you so much for your answer Joan!!

Central Asia is a captivating region to explore, and this comprehensive guide provides valuable insights for travelers. The author’s personal experience and recommendations make it even more enticing. The information on visas, best times to visit, transportation options, and safety is particularly helpful. The description of Kyrgyzstan as a paradise for mountain lovers and adventurous travelers adds to the allure. Overall, this guide is a fantastic resource for anyone planning a trip to Central Asia.

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The Five 'Stans: The Best Places To Visit In Central Asia

Where to go and what to do in central asia.

Steven Hermans

• In this guide

The Karakum Desert

Bukhara and khiva.

• Need to know
• Where to go

The Pamir Highway

The Five ‘Stans… just a handful of countries, but covering a vast swathe of Central Asia.

Where do you start an introduction to a region that stretches from China in the east, to the Caspian Sea in the west, when just one of the countries, Kazakhstan, is almost the same size as Europe?

Some definitions to get us going: the Five 'Stans consist of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and the largest, Kazakhstan. Although these five countries have much in common, they also have quite different cultures and traditions.

Their histories are endlessly fascinating: violence and conquest, mixed with the most breathtaking scientific and cultural breakthroughs, the evidence of which is with us today. Yes, Genghis Khan swept through the region with an unimaginable ruthlessness, creating an empire which has never been equalled in size. And yes, Timur (Tamburlaine) was an equally brutal warlord whose influence extended even into India thanks to his descendants.

But the architecture! The scientific advances! The enlightened education! All while Europe was a wallowing backwater. Much of this impressive legacy remains for the visitor to gaze at and admire in awe. This civilisation created buildings which are still among the most stunning to be seen anywhere in the world. Here was where Ulugh Beg built an observatory (you can still see the ruins) at which he mapped the stars and calculated the length of the year; here was the first paper factory which eventually allowed us in the west to write and to read. The (restored) cities of Samarkand and Khiva are like nowhere else on earth. It's all here, and it's criminally underrated by the world's tourism industry.

Ready to go? Here's our summary of the best places to visit in Central Asia, what to do, and how to get there.

Statues around the Monument of Independence in Ashgabat

featured trips

Historical Cities of Central Asia

Following in the footsteps of marco polo.

Uzbekistan in Depth

Explore samarkand, bukhara, khiva, termez and fergana valley.

Best of Central Asia

Experience the people, history and nature of the 'five stans, best places to visit in the five stans, the highlights of central asia.

The Five 'Stans are the countries at the heart of the Silk Road, along which goods travelled between China and the West. They have vast mountains, vast deserts, vast valleys, vast plains – you get the idea: everything out here is on an epic scale.

They have Soviet-style cities, true, sometimes with immense monuments to past strongmen rulers, but they also have remote villages and nomadic communities where the old traditions endure.

What's in a name?

The “stan” in the names means “land of”. So Kyrgyzstan is the land of the Kyrgyz, Uzbekistan is the land of the Uzbeks, and so on. It follows that although these five countries have much in common, they also have quite different cultures and traditions.

Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand

Samarkand, one of the major stops along the ancient Silk Road, is a bustling city with, at its heart, one of the world’s unmissable sights - the Registan.

Built as madrassas, or schools, they are covered in ceramic tiles that sparkle in the sun. Dating from the 15th century and restored in the 20th, they are among the finest examples of Islamic architecture anywhere.

The Registan is just one of the highlights. The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, dating from the 11th century, is an extraordinary collection of mausoleums and shrines – more than 20 buildings of stunning beauty, packed together in a relatively small space. Legend has it that the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad is buried there.

And don’t miss the remains of the 15th century observatory on the edge of the city, built by Ulugh Beg. Here is where he mapped the stars and worked out the length of the year, among other things, with astonishing accuracy.

Visiting Samarkand

No place on the long and winding Silk Road captures the imagination quite like Uzbekistan's Samarkand, the beautifully-preserved 14th-century city and centre of the mighty Timurid Empire…

Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve near Shymkent

This busy town in the south of Kazakhstan, is one of the country’s ancient settlements. Destroyed by Genghis Khan, it recovered to become a major centre along the Silk Road, and in the 20th century developed as one of the country’s main trade and industrial hubs. It has a number of historic sights, but the main attractions are outside the city. The region is famous for its rare tulips that in spring blanket the meadows of the mountains that form a stunning backdrop to the town.

The beautiful national parks that protect the tulips and are sanctuaries for bears and snow leopards, are wonderful to explore on horseback or on a hike: The sight of wild horses roaming through the tulip fields will stay with you forever.

The nearby old oasis towns will give you an unbeatable insight into what life must have been like for the Silk Road traders, and for accommodation try a homestay to sample a genuine Kazakh welcome and the local cuisine which developed out of the traditional nomadic lifestyle.

Visiting Shymkent

If Almaty is the queen of Kazakhstan, Shymkent is the eager lady-in-waiting…

Park of the First President of Kazakhstan in Almaty

The biggest, Kazakh city, Almaty very pleasant and green, surrounded by mountains, with tree-lined streets and many parks – Panfilov Park in particular is well worth strolling through with colourful wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the Musical Instruments Museum.

The city is known for its cultural life. With its theatres, opera house, and museums, and outdoor cafés, restaurants and international cuisine, it has become the favoured home of Central Asia’s literati. The Arasan baths are a great place to relax. You really need to try the luxury spa experience at what is said to be one of the country’s most striking modernist buildings.

There also much to see beyond the city. The nearby mountains are great for hiking and there’s skiing and open-air ice skating on offer too. And don’t miss the spectacular Charyn Canyon - its red sedimentary rock make it a smaller version of the Grand Canyon and it’s home to a wonderful collection of flora and fauna.

Visiting Almaty: How To Get There & Things To Do

The biggest, most vibrant Kazakh city was the capital until 1997…

Yurt camp at Song Kul Lake

Want to get a taste of nomadic life in remote Kyrgyzstan? This is the place to head for, although it’s not an easy journey.

The lake is over 3,000m up in the Tian Shan Mountains, an area covered with snow for up to 200 days a year, and the water freezes in winter, thawing in April-May. The winters are harsh, but in spring the landscape bursts into life. Nowhere is greener than the slopes around this beautiful lake and dozens of nomadic shepherd families come here to set up camp with their flocks.

You can join them, accept their wonderful hospitality, and have the experience of a lifetime thanks to community-based tourism: Sleep in a yurt, eat and drink as the locals do, soak up the amazing beauty of the landscape, hike or ride to explore it.

It’s remote and difficult to get to, and cold even in summer. But the warmth of the welcome you’ll get will be worth it.

How To Get To Song Kul Lake

Central Asia’s archetypal semi-nomadic culture is alive and well in Kyrgyzstan, and nowhere is this more evident than at Lake Song Kul…

Arslanbob mountain range

Arslanbob is a village, a valley, a mountain range and even a large walnut forest, all in Kyrgyzstan.

The village is tucked away on the edge of a fairytale forest, and it is perfect if you want to spend some time away from cities and the heat of the summer, and hike in glorious surroundings.

Waterfalls and sacred lakes make this a place pilgrims are drawn to, and any visitor will find it irresistible. The walnut forest is vast and ancient. According to legend Alexander the Great took walnuts from here which led to them spreading through Europe and the rest of the world.

That may or may not be true. What is certain is that time spent here, perhaps in a delightful homestay getting to know the locals, will be unforgettable.

Visiting Arslanbob: Highlights & How To Get There

The fairytale walnut forest of Arslanbob in southern Kyrgyzstan is a year-round destination for visitors…

The Darwaza Crater in Turkmenistan

The black sands of the Karakum spread over a vast swathe of Turkmenistan – about 70 per cent of the country. Rainfall is scarce and there are few people, but the desert is home to wildlife - lizards, snakes and turtles, foxes and gazelles.

The area was ravaged by Mongol conquests and major cities were destroyed, but there are monuments still standing to give you an idea of what was lost, and in the desert is the eerie Yangikala Canyon which was carved out 5 million years ago by the retreating sea which once covered the whole area.

And then there’s possibly the desert’s weirdest sight of all – the Darwaza Crater, popularly known as the Door to Hell. It’s large, about 70m in diameter and 20m deep, and it is on fire, constantly. It has captured the public imagination and you’ll understand why when you camp nearby and see it glowing ominously in the dark.

Visiting The Karakum Desert

The black sands of the Karakum Desert were once the domain of roving bands of Turkmen slave raiders that terrorised the Caspian basin…

Alem Cultural and Entertainment Centre in Ashgabat

The capital of Turkmenistan is weird and unsettling, but fascinating at the same time. It’s huge, richly decorated – and largely empty of people.

Think marble-clad tower blocks looming over wide, but empty, streets and extravagant monuments and gilded statues honouring various heroes of the country. It’s all bizarre, but still worth seeing.

But as befits a city that was founded in the 19th century, there is an old town, and some real life with the Russian bazaar where you can bargain for fruit with the locals.

There are also a number of museums, including the Turkmen Carpet Museum, Fine Arts, and the National Museum of History. There are also mosques and churches worth seeing, the highlights being Turkmenbashy Ruhy mosque and Ertugrul Gazi mosque.

How To Get To Ashgabat

Described as the city “where Las Vegas meets Pyongyang”, nothing can prepare you for the desert mirage that is Ashgabat…

Cyclists on the Pamir Highway

Now this is probably not for the faint-hearted. Properly known as the M41, the highway connects Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan via the towering Pamir Mountains. It’s the second highest highway in the world, and it’s an epic road trip – if you dare!

The highway attracts pedal and motorcyclists, and drivers, looking for a unique adventure. For much of its length the road is mostly a rough track, but there are also ruins of ancient forts that once guarded the Silk Road trading routes.

The area is unstable, prone to landslides, earthquakes and rock falls – and it goes very close to the Afghan border. The ride is extreme and it’s challenging, but you see the most spectacular mountains, raging rivers and breathtakingly beautiful lakes.

Visiting The Pamir Highway & Mountains

Known locally as “the roof of the world,” the Pamir Mountains dominate with their superlatives…

Poi Kalan in Bukhara

Don’t count on seeing either of these two striking cities in a day. The history that’s waiting for you in both the ancient centres will blow you away.

Bukhara was one of the major trading posts on the Silk Road and although it has been rebuilt and restored there are many unmissable key sites, too many to list here. It’s easier simply to quote UNESCO’s view: “…the centre is unquestionably of outstanding significance as an exceptional example of a largely medieval Muslim city.”

A big bonus is that it’s easy to get to – it’s on a high-speed train line from Samarkand and Tashkent.

Khiva can be overlooked because of its distance from Bukhara, but that would be such a mistake. It too has an abundance of cultural and historical sites to visit – the old town itself has more than 50 monuments. The city is more than a thousand years old, and its inner walled town was the first site in Uzbekistan to be placed on the UNESCO world heritage list.

Visiting Bukhara And Khiva

Bukhara, sited on the remains of a Buddhist monastery, was to become one of Islam’s most important places during the Middle Ages…

Historical Uzbekistan

Where and how to see uzbekistan's historical cities, about the author.

Steven is the creator and editor of Caravanistan , an online travel guide to the Silk Road that was described by the Lonely Planet as a "peerless online travel guide to the region". He has been travelling the region since 2010, and has dedicated himself to improving tourism on the Silk Road, both for travellers and locals.

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The best sights of Central Asia

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written by Owen Morton

updated 07.10.2020

It hasn’t been long since the fantastic sights of Central Asia were hidden behind a barricade of expensive and convoluted visa-application procedures, compounded by a general perception that these were difficult and even dangerous countries in which to travel. In recent years, however, the local authorities have sought to open up to tourists, visas have been simplified – or even abolished – and word is spreading of the rewards of travelling to this relatively unexplored region.

Best for architecture and history: Uzbekistan

Best for culture: kyrgyzstan, best for hiking: tajikistan, best for the bizarre: turkmenistan, best all-rounder: kazakhstan.

In this article, we’ll be looking at the top sights of each ’stan – that’s Kazakhstan , Uzbekistan , Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and Turkmenistan – and working out which of these fascinating ex-Soviet republics would suit your travel style best.

Travel ideas for Kazakhstan, created by local experts

10 days  / from 1450 USD

Highlights of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

Discover the highlights of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan on this compact trip. Explore part of the Uzbek Golden Triangle with Bukhara and Samarkand before heading to the cosmopolitan city of Almaty. The Kazakh capital awaits with plenty of adventures in the surroundings.

21 days  / from 3955 USD

Along The Great Silk Road

Explore all the highlights of Central Asia: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan await you in this 3 weeks trip. Learn about the history, enjoy breathtaking nature and experience local traditions and culture. It's time to discover the Silk Road with an expert guide!

If there’s such a thing as a popular perception of Central Asia, it’s probably Uzbekistan – and more specifically, the Registan in the Silk Road city of Samarkand. Described in the 19th century by Lord Curzon as “the noblest public square in the world”, the beautiful ensemble of madrassahs in Samarkand – bedecked with intricate tilework, blue domes gleaming in the sunlight – takes the undisputed number one position in any list of Uzbekistan’s top sights.

Samarkand is an ancient city – it was already perhaps half a millennium old when it was conquered by Alexander the Great in 329 BC. Its golden age came in the 14th century, when it became the capital of the empire-builder Tamerlane, who awarded himself the immodest title Conqueror of the World. Tamerlane and his successors transformed the city, building the Registan and many other stunning landmarks, including the Bibi Khanum Mosque, the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, and Tamerlane’s own mausoleum, the elegant Gur Amir.

Elsewhere in the country – particularly Bukhara and Khiva – you’ll find further examples of gorgeous Islamic buildings, largely restored to their former glories by the Soviets and well-maintained by the current government. With this wealth of world-beating mosques, madrassahs and mausoleums , Uzbekistan is a strong choice for Central Asian leader in architecture and history.

Gur-E Amir Mausoleum, the tomb of the Asian conqueror Tamerlane, Samarkand, Uzbekistan © NICOLA MESSANA PHOTOS/Shutterstock

The first of the ’stans to embrace tourism, Kyrgyzstan is a largely mountainous republic known for its welcoming people. The Kyrgyz have a strong nomadic tradition , and visitors to the country are advised to familiarize themselves with this remarkable culture by spending a night or two in a yurt camp . These iconic circular tents are surprisingly spacious, as well as being both sturdy and warm – essentials when high up in the Tian Shan or Pamir mountains .

Staying in a yurt camp, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a number of nomadic traditions: this will certainly include horse-riding, but may also extend to traditional music performances or witnessing a game of kokburu – essentially polo played with a goat carcass. In the evening, you can try delicious Kyrgyz dishes such as manty (mutton dumplings) or besh barmak (noodles and mutton in sauce) – all washed down with koumiss, a fizzy drink made from fermented mare’s milk. When in Rome…

Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic culture is an undoubted highlight of a trip to Central Asia, and makes for a unique and hugely memorable experience. If you’re looking for somewhere to immerse yourself in a whole new way of life, Kyrgyzstan is definitely the country for you.

Yurts in a nomad village in Tash-Rabat in Kyrgyzstan © Nomad1988/Shutterstock

Tajikistan’s transition from Soviet republic to independence was marred by a civil war, which rendered the country unsafe for much of the 1990s. Perhaps as a result, tourism remains in its infancy here – though much progress has been made in recent years, and Tajikistan is now regarded as an emerging destination. The country certainly has much to offer: visitors can explore the ruins of Penjikent , an ancient city destroyed by Arab invaders in the 8th century, or marvel at the magnificent Kok Gumbaz Madrassah in the town of Istaravshan .

But where Tajikistan truly dominates is in its trekking opportunities : being home to two mountain ranges – the Pamirs and the Fann – there are trails here for all abilities, amid stunning and unspoilt scenery. Those wanting a reasonably short (but still spectacular) hike should consider the Seven Lakes region in the gorgeous Fann Mountains, while trekkers in search of multi-day adventures need look no further than the starkly beautiful Pamirs.

Still largely undiscovered by tourists , yet stunningly scenic, Tajikistan’s mountain ranges offer by far the best trekking to be found in Central Asia. If you’re itching to get your hiking boots on, you’ll find few better destinations.

Fann mountains in Pamir, Tajikistan © Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

The dark horse of the ’stans – literally. Turkmenistan is famed for its horses , particularly the hardy Akhal-Tepe breed that has adapted to the country’s harsh desert conditions. These remarkable creatures take pride of place on Turkmenistan’s coat of arms; there’s a glitzy golden statue of a horse in the capital city, Ashgabat; and the country celebrates National Horse Day every April. The president, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, considers himself a master jockey and regularly competes in races. Quelle surprise, he usually wins, and if he doesn’t, it’s not unknown for him to make it illegal to watch footage of his defeat.

So far, so eccentric, but Turkmenistan doesn’t stop there. Its post-Soviet history has seen it follow an isolationist path, led by megalomaniacal dictators who have embarked on extravagant building projects which have converted Ashgabat into a gleaming city of white marble and gold, punctuated by elaborate sculptures and statues of historic Turkmen heroes. Meanwhile, outside the capital, the country is mostly covered by the Karakum Desert – in the middle of which sits the Darvaza Crater , a continually burning gas field which has been dubbed the Gateway to Hell.

If an enormous white city and the world’s biggest fire pit aren’t enough to entice you, other options to add to the mix include Kugitang Nature Reserve (where you’ll find the world’s longest trail of dinosaur footprints ) and the Kow Ata Cave (which is 200m underground and is home to both an enormous bat colony and a sulphurous lake regarded as a great place for swimming). With all this and more, Turkmenistan is without question the most offbeat destination in Central Asia – and perhaps the world.

Statues around monument of independence in Ashgabat, capital city of Turkmenistan © Michal Knitl/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Kazakhstan may be the ninth-largest country in the world, but it keeps something of a low profile – it’s perhaps best known as the alleged home country of Sacha Baron Cohen’s Borat character. That’s a shame, as it has a great deal to offer the visitor, especially one who wishes to gain a taste of the all-round flavour of Central Asia.

Those interested in the magnificent Islamic architecture and culture popularized by Uzbekistan should pay a visit to the gorgeous Khoja Ahmad Yasawi Mausoleum in the town of Turkestan , while the futuristic architecture of the capital city of Nur-Sultan is a worthy companion to that of Turkmenistan’s Ashgabat. Ethnically, Kazakhs are closely related to Kyrgyz and they share a nomadic tradition, so it’s possible here to experience this fascinating culture; and for those who wish to get their hiking boots on, Kazakhstan is home to mountain scenery just as inspiring as that in Tajikistan – try routes around the Turquoise Lake in the Tien Shan mountains .

But don’t go thinking Kazakhstan has nothing of its own to offer: the former capital of Almaty is a great place to experience the region’s Russian legacy , as well as being temptingly close to the largest ski resort in Central Asia. Further afield, the Charyn Canyon is an impressive, if smaller-scale, take on the Grand Canyon; and if you venture far into Kazakhstan’s remote west, it’s possible to visit Baikonur Cosmodrome – the launch site of Yuri Gagarin’s historic space flight.

Encapsulating the best of Central Asia in one tidy if vast package, Kazakhstan is a great choice for travellers looking for a diverse introduction to this fascinating region.

Charyn Canyon in South East Kazakhstan © Lukas Bischoff Photograph/Shutterstock

So… have you decided which ‘stan is for you?

Top image: Ancient town of Itchan Kala. Khiva, Uzbekistan © Dudarev Mikhail/Shutterstock

Owen Morton is never happier than when exploring new places, with a particular fondness for wandering the former Soviet world and the Middle East. He is the author of the upcoming Rough Guide to Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, and has written for Rough Guides' Make the Most of Your Time on Earth compilation, as well as regular contributions to the Rough Guides and Insight Guides blogs. When not exploring the world, he entertains himself by writing a blog about 1980s cartoons. His favourite animal is the wonderfully expressive and permanently furious manul. Follow him on Instagram at @owenmortonmanul .

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Our Complete Central Asia Itinerary

25 April 2018.

Planning your own Central Asia itinerary? Here you’ll find the outline of our own adventure and the best places to hit and miss on your own trip. 

Wedged between China, Russia, Iran and Afghanistan, Central Asia or ‘the ‘stans’ are slowly gaining momentum as the next big travel destination.

Striking mountains and the boundless desert set the scene for epic hikes and bucket list worthy road trips, while harsh Soviet cities and dazzling silk road masterpieces weave together fragments of this region’s fascinating and often brutal past.

There are so many ways to travel through Central Asia and at a first glance it can all feel a little overwhelming, and that’s before things like transport logistics and visas get thrown into the mix. But things are changing slowly with the relaxing of entry requirements and constantly improving tourist infrastructure meaning it’s never been a better time to visit.

We spent almost four months in Central Asia guided by the changing seasons and chopping and changing plans on a whim as new and exciting destinations popped up on our radar. We were forced to skip over a number of places that sat high on our list for the simple reason that there was no reasonable or affordable way to get there.

We lost far too much time in the cities merely because they provided the comforts of home we had been craving and a decent wifi connection to catch up on work. In short, our trip didn’t always unfold in the most logical of ways, but it was pretty amazing nonetheless.

Need some help in planning your own adventure? This was our complete Central Asia itinerary, where we went, where we loved, what we wished we’d done differently and where is earmarked for next time around.

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Entry + Exit Point  |   Almaty, Kazakhstan

Duration  |  This route took us 3.5 months or 110 days – 25 in Kazakhstan, 47 in Kyrgyzstan, 22 in Tajikistan, 14 in Uzbekistan and a final 2 days in Kazakhstan before flying out. In the capital cities, we made use of the decent wifi to catch up on work and so generally spent far more time there than was strictly necessary. For those with less time, this route could absolutely be condensed into a shorter period or chopped to leave out one country or another altogether.

Time of Year  |  We arrived in Almaty in mid-July at the height of summer and left in early November when the leaves had fallen from the trees and snow covered the mountains. The seasons heavily dictated our route and ultimately, this was probably the best time frame for this length of trip and itinerary. Yes, the cities were excruciatingly hot but the mountains were lush green and comfortable for hiking while the Uzbek desert offered up cool autumn days.

Countries Covered  |  Of the 5 Stans, Turkmenistan was the one we didn’t make it to. For this trip, the difficulty in obtaining a visa just didn’t seem worth the hassle for the very limited number of travel days allowed if approved. Plus, there was so much we were excited to see in the remaining countries that it didn’t feel like we were missing out.

25 days   |   July + August

Our journey through Central Asia began in Kazakhstan, between the leafy boulevards and bustling markets of its former capital,  Almaty , incidentally a perfect place to begin your own trip through the region.

After getting lost in the Green Bazaar, touring the city’s churches and parks, gorging on the fantastic international cuisine on offer and enjoying a sunset from Kok Tobe, we took a day trip to the mountains to enjoy the hiking near Medeu and Shymbulak. There are a variety of trails leading to waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints, though our favourite was the fairly challenging Four Peaks Trail .

Once you’ve had your fill of the city, head east toward the desert where you’ll find the burnt orange Charyn Canyon  and the brilliant blue oasis of  Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy . Though transport in these parts is a little tricky, it’s well worth staying overnight to give you a little more time to explore.

If bright city lights are your thing, don’t miss the sparkling metropolis of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) in the country’s north along with a day or weekend trip to the lakes at nearby Borovoe National Park . In truth, our main reason for heading north was to attend the Astana Expo but otherwise we’d probably have skipped this area in favour of exploring the beautiful landscapes of the south instead.

Kazakhstan Itinerary  |  Almaty  – Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes – Saty + Lake Kaindy – Almaty – Astana – Borovoe National Park – Astana – Almaty

Border Crossings  |  Flew in direct with Air Astana from Beijing and left via the Kordai crossing on the marshrutka between Almaty and Bishkek.

Highlights  |  Almaty, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon

Next Time  |  Kazakhstan is enormous and there were a number of places that fell off our itinerary purely based on price and logistics. Multi-days tours were often wildly expensive and with few other tourists to share the costs with, we often struggled to justify the high prices and instead chose to splurge on the bucket-list items later in the trip like the Pamir Highway and Peak Lenin. With a bigger budget or simply more time to spend in the south, places on the list for next time would include Altyn Emel National Park, Altay Mountains, Mangistau, Turkestan and Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve. The Baikonur Cosmodrome could also be an interesting addition if your trip coincides with a rocket launch.

Things We’d Change  |  In hindsight, we’d probably skip over Astana as it didn’t quite win us over and the long travel time to and from Almaty left us needing a few days to recover. Instead, we’d have used the time to visit some of the places mentioned above or take the Karkara Valley border crossing between Charyn Canyon and Karakol, Kyrgyzstan instead of backtracking to Almaty.

Things To Do In Nur-Sultan: Kazakhstan’s City of Lights

A Complete Guide To Charyn Canyon | Kazakhstan’s Mini Grand Canyon

The Best Things To Do In Almaty | Kazakhstan

Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy: Everything You Need To Know To Plan Your Trip

Things To Do In Burabay | Kazakhstan

The Four Peaks Trail: Our Favourite Hike Near Almaty

47 days   |   august + september.

After more than a week of catching up on work in Bishkek, enjoying the cafe scene and eating our body weight in Korean fried chicken, it was time to hit the trails.

In a country that’s more than 90 per cent mountains, prepare to be doing a lot of hiking. From Karakol, the popular 3-day trek to turquoise Alakol Lake and the rejuvenating hot springs at Altyn Arashan is a good place to start. For something truly off the beaten path, explore the trails around Jyrgalan before setting off for the ochre rockface of Jeti-Oguz and its lush Valley of Flowers.

Mountain antics aside, be sure to allocate some time for relaxation along the southern shores of Issyk Kul. The tiny villages dotted around the lake provide a tranquil setting to slip into a slower pace. Choose one and stay a while or hop your way along the shoreline. I chose to spend my time in tiny Tosor in the hopes of visiting Fairy Tale Canyon and the Barskoon Valley, but Tamga and Kaji Say also sound like decent options.

From Bishkek make your way toward Osh by taxi, flight or overnight cargo bus and either head to Arslanbob to enjoy the shade of the world’s largest walnut grove or make a beeline for the Pamir Highway .

Our final night in Kyrgyzstan spent at Tulparkul Lake in the shadow of Peak Lenin and amidst a sea of rolling hills and shimmering lakes was one of the highlights of our time in Central Asia.

Kyrgyzstan Itinerary   |  Bishkek – Karakol – Jyrgalan – Alakol and Altyn Arashan Trek – Karakol – Jeti Oguz – Tosor – Bishkek – Osh – Arslanbob – Osh – Tulpar Kul Lake

Border Crossings  |  Arrived by marshrutka through the Kordai crossing between Almaty and Bishkek and left via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

Highlights  |  hiking in the mountains around Karakol, southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, Tulpar Kul Lake

Next Time  |  Kyrgyzstan is experiencing something of a tourism revolution with spectacular new destinations being added to the map every few months along with better tourist infrastructure. A few I’d love to check out are Kol Suu, Son Kul, Ala Archa National Park and Karavshin Gorge. There were also a number of places I’d love to have spent more time, such as the many villages along the southern shore of Issyk Kul and the stunning mountains at Sary Moghul and Tulpar KuI.

Things We’d Change  |  Despite being in the midst of the walnut harvest season, a bad spring meant the forests around Arslanbob were somewhat disappointing. If you’re planning to visit, definitely check up on the situation before arriving.

Climbing Lenin Peak: The Mountain, The Mystique and The Very Misleading

Hiking to Alakol and Altyn Arashan Without A Guide

Walnuts and Waterfalls: The Best Things To Do In Arslanbob | Kyrgyzstan

A Short Guide To Jeti-Oguz | Kyrgyzstan

Hiking in Jyrgalan, Getting Off The Beaten Path in Kyrgyzstan

22 days   |   september.

The Pamir Highway is the road trip of a lifetime and should absolutely be on your Central Asia itinerary.

From Osh, Tulparkul Lake on the Kyrgyzstan side is an ideal starting point and one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever seen. From there, trace the lonely road through the Pamir Mountains past mirrorlike lakes, jagged peaks and the verdant knot of the Wakhan Valley. Throw in a few high altitude hikes and a collection of remote mountain villages and you’re in for one hell of an adventure.

We opted to head away from the classic route, travelling instead to Rangkul and Jarty Gumbez before weaving through the Wakhan Valley and onwards to Khorog and Dushanbe . We spent about 10 days in Dushanbe relaxing, working and organising our Uzbek visas but ordinarily one or two days in the city is enough, especially as Uzbek visas can now be done online.

Truth be told, we found Tajikistan much harder to get around than the other countries in Central Asia and by this point in the trip the travel fatigue was definitely starting to creep in. Almost every destination required a 4WD taxi that may or may not be going on a certain day, was generally rather expensive and came with the extra hassle of negotiating fares. The Pamir Highway was absolutely incredible, but these other factors certainly limited our willingness to explore much further afield.

Tajikistan Itinerary  |  Pamir Highway via Wakhan Valley – Khorog – Dushanbe (see exact itinerary here )

Border Crossings  |  Arrived via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and left into Uzbekistan at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing. In 2018, the Penjikent border was finally reopened and is now the much better option for travelling between Dushanbe and Samarkand.

Highlights  |  Pamir Highway

Next Time  |  The Fann Mountains and Bartang Valley are definitely on the cards.

The Best Things To Do In Dushanbe | 24 Hours In Tajikistan’s Capital

16 Useful Things To Know Before Driving The Pamir Highway

An Epic 10-Day Itinerary For The Pamir Highway

14 days   |   october.

From the stark mountains to the riches of the ancient silk road. Immaculate blue mosaics, soaring minarets and rambling alleyways unite the main cities of Uzbekistan, though each reveals a unique character of its own.

Marvel at the enormous madrassas of Samarkand and the narrow corridors of Shah-i-Zinda before moving onto the bright chambers and leafy plazas of Bukhara . While these cities are the most famous, understated and often overlooked Khiva was our favourite of the lot.

Uzbekistan Itinerary  |  Samarkand – Bukhara – Khiva – Tashkent

Border Crossings  |  Travelled to Samarkand via at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing from Dushanbe, though these days the Penjikent border is the much better option. Left on the overnight fast train between Tashkent and Almaty.

Highlights  |  Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as well as the refreshing change in cuisine.

Next Time  |  The environmental devastation of the Aral Sea and the remaining cargo ships in the desert.

Exploring Samarkand, The Magnificent Ancient Kingdom Of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road

A Short Guide To Bukhara | Uzbekistan’s Holiest City

A Short Guide To Khiva: Our Favourite Town on Uzbekistan’s Silk Road

If planning our itinerary through Central Asia left us scratching our heads, then trying to figure out the best way to actually get there took us to new realms of confusion.

An initial search on Skyscanner offered up the best flight routes as 40+ hour ordeals from Sydney with no less than three pointless layovers in random cities across China (that would require an extra visa) before finally touching down in the ‘Stans at a cost higher than a month’s rent each. No thanks! With no logic behind the options that were provided, I decided to ditch the search engines and instead set about mixing and matching every possible combination of flights between Sydney and destinations in Asia or the Middle East that offered direct connections to Central Asia.

Truth be told, depending on where you’re arriving from, there may be very little choice of flights. In general, Almaty is served by a wide range of airlines making it an excellent and economical arrival point, while Kyrgyzstan’s growing popularity makes Bishkek the next best option. Tashkent, Dushanbe and Ashgabat still have very limited international flights and are served by few airlines.

From Australia, it worked out much cheaper to book our flights separately. This also allowed much better connections than those offered on any of the search engines and with more reputable airlines. From Sydney, we flew to Beijing with Qantas for a 5-hour layover before changing to Air Astana direct to Almaty. Air Astana’s widening network across Asia makes it a good choice from most major hubs in the region.

From the Americas, virtually everyone I met had arrived via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or via Moscow with Aeroflot, both of which offer easy connections at competitive prices.

Getting to Central Asia from Europe is easy with direct flights from a number of capital cities, particularly during summer. Low-cost airline Pegasus is generally the cheapest option with regular flights to Europe via Istanbul year round.

Start looking at flight options on Skyscanner here.

Overlanding your way from Asia or Europe? It’s possible to cross into Central Asia from all neighbouring countries, though China, Iran and Russia are the most common entry/exit points and all require special visas.

If you’re travelling the Trans Siberian Railway , it’s also possible to travel across the border into Kazakhstan, but you’ll need a double entry visa if you intend on returning to Russia.

At Central Asia’s far eastern point, where the sprawling desert runs into the Caspian Sea, it’s possible to leave by ferry. Running on an unpredictable and highly changeable schedule, ferries depart from Aktau in Kazakhstan and Turkmenbashi in Turkmenistan for Azerbaijan and Russia. See this guide for more info.

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Hi, this is incredible. It’s so helpful, I can’t thank you enough. I wanted to know if you got around okay with just English, or if there’s a language barrier, and what you did to overcome it.

So glad it was helpful for you! I did manage to get by, but there is definitely a language barrier and outside of the major cities and touristy towns you’ll find very few people who speak English. I would definitely recommend learning the Cyrillic alphabet and downloading Google Translate with the Russian dictionary as it’s very widely spoken in all countries. Of course, this isn’t foolproof and I had many locals in small rural villages type things in their local dialect or the national language which wouldn’t translate, but generally, people were so friendly and keen to help that you just muddle your way through. A good attitude, a smile and some charades are always a good place to start. Learning at least a few key phrases will also be a big help!

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The Little Adventurer

20 experiences you must have in Central Asia

Central Asia is a mix of cultures, traditions, food, architecture and natural beauty – and it’s filled with incredible experiences.

From being captivated by beautiful mosques and shimmering blue lakes, sleeping in a yurt, or exploring ancient cities across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, check out 20 of the must do experiences on your Central Asian adventure.

1.                   Sleep in a yurt

You can’t visit Central Asia without getting a taste of the traditional nomadic life.

Yurts are large tents lined with felt and you’ll find them scattered throughout Central Asian countries.

One of the best yurt experiences you can have is on the shores of Song Kul (Song Lake) in central Kyrgyzstan. During the summer months, nomadic families live on the lake and you can stay in one of the yurt camps.

The experience includes sleeping in a yurt that is warmed with a cow dung fuelled stove, and eat like the locals do and dine on soups and rice filled with horse or yak meat.

2.                   Down a shot of kumis

Kumis is fermented mare’s milk – an alcoholic drink traditional to Central Asian countries.

It’s loved by locals in this part of the world but the taste is not for everyone. But when in the Stans….

3.                   Take a road trip on the Pamir Highway

The Pamir Highway is the world’s second highest highway and it runs through Tajikistan.

You can hire a driver for the trip or tackle the highway in your own hire car. Along the way, you’ll witness azure lakes, towering snow-capped mountains, colourful valleys and spectacular panoramic vistas along the winding (and bumpy) dirt highway.

Most people traverse the Pamir Highway from Dushanbe to Osh in Kyrgyzstan (you can start from either end). Stops include the Tajik towns of Murghab, Khorog and Langar. The latter sits on the Afghanistan border and you’ll look into Afghanistan as well as see Pakistan’s biggest peaks.

Along the way you can also swim in hot springs and explore fort ruins.

4.          Step inside the Registan

The Registan is located in the city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan.

The Registan square is flanked by two colourful and intricately detailed madrasahs (Islamic schools).

This magnificent square was built between 1370 and 1500 – and has been restored over the years since in the wake of earthquakes in the region. In its heyday, the square was used for public executions, and to announce royal news.

The buildings of the Registan features wonderful mosaics, illuminated ceilings, towering minarets, and relaxing courtyards – and you can spend hours wandering this beautiful location.

5.                   Hike up to the desert fortresses of Khorezm

Did you know that you visit a handful of ancient desert fortresses in Uzbekistan?

The fortresses of Ancient Khorezm lie scattered across the steppe near the town of Urgench, located in western Uzbekistan.

You can hire a driver to reach them and then it’s a short walk up the sandy hills to reach each fortress.

6.                   See a ship graveyard

In the far west of Uzbekistan, you’ll find a ship graveyard.

Muynak used to be home to a thriving fishing industry on the banks of the Aral Sea. Due to the waters being diverted to irrigate crops in the 1960s, the Aral Sea eventually receded, leaving behind a handful of ships. The abandoned ships now sit rusting on the flat steppe.

7.                   Go hiking in the mountains

No visit to Central Asia is complete without a hike – or two, or three. Central Asia has many hiking opportunities, ranging from multi-day adventures up to bright blue lakes and high altitude mountain passes, or hiking alongside bubbling rivers and through green valleys.

The best hiking destinations in Central Asia are near Karakol in Kyrgyzstan or the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan.

From Karakol, the must do hike is the 3-day trek to Ala Kul (Ala Lake) via the village of Altyn Arashan.

8.                   Roam the Fairytale Canyon

The unique Fairytale (Skazka) Canyon is a colourful canyon filled with eroded rock formations. The canyon is located on the southern shore of Issyk Kul (Issyk Lake).

9.                   Drink tea

Drinking green tea is a traditional part of the Central Asia culture. You’ll be offered green tea for breakfast, lunch and dinner and any time you are welcomed inside someone’s home.

Tea is often served in decorative teapots, accompanied by a bowl of bread.

10.               Go shopping at local bazaars

When in Central Asia, you’ll find much of your fresh food shopping takes place in the bazaar. Here you can find an assortment of local products such as cheese, bread, meat, fruit and nuts.

Among the best bazaars in the region are the Green Bazaar in Almaty (Kazakhstan), Osh Bazaar in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) and bazaars in Samarkand and Bukhara (Uzbekistan).

The bazaars are also a chance to practice your bartering skills.

11.               Tour the open air museum of Bukhara

Bukhara was located on the ancient Silk Road route and is one of Uzbekistan’s most beautiful towns. It’s often described as an open air museum with its minarets, madrasahs, mosques and squares.

Must see sights include the Ark Fortress, Po-i-Kalyan Mosque and the Lyabi-Kauz square.

12.               Visit Old Khiva at sunset

Old Khiva is another beautiful city in Uzbekistan and the best time to see it is during the golden light of sunset. The Old City of Khiva is contained within some impressive fortified city walls, and inside you’ll find beautiful minarets, stairs leading up to the old city walls, and narrow alleys which are a photographer’s dream at sunset.

You can’t miss the beautiful azure Kalta Minor Minaret as you enter the city from the West Gate. The minaret is particularly unique as it was unfinished – due to the man who ordered its construction passing away before it was completed.

For spectacular views of Old Khiva, climb the north-western section of the city walls for free or the Kuhna Ark Watchtower.

13.               See one of the world’s biggest canyons

Kazakhstan’s Charyn Canyon is located east of Almaty and is one of the world’s largest canyons.

You can take a day trip to the canyon from Almaty with an organised tour or hire a driver.

The most accessible and famous part of the canyon is the Valley of Castles section.

14.               Take a train ride along the steppe

Uzbekistan offers modern public transport, in addition to shared taxis and marshrutkas. Train is an efficient way to get around Uzbekistan and get a view of the steppe as you roll along the tracks.

Trains regularly run between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. You can also take a night train between Taskhent and Urgench to reach Khiva.

15.               Bathe in hot springs

Tajikistan is home to a number of naturally occurring hot springs. You’ll find them in between Langar and Khorog. They range from springs inside caves to public bathhouses with water almost too hot to dip your big toe in.

You must enter the water without any clothes on. Hot springs are segregated by gender.

16.               Eat like a local 

Food is a big part of Central Asian culture and you’ll find many delicious  traditional offerings.

One must try offering is ayran. It has a similar consistency to yoghurt and is made from cow or yak’s milk and mixed with salt. It’s a savoury dish that can be served as a drink or in a bowl as an accompaniment to bread or meat.

You’ll also come across a lot of traditional dishes filled with horse or yak meat when travelling through Central Asia. Dishes such as dumplings, soups, stews and lagman are all served with horse or yak meat.

17. Get around in a marshrutka

Travels like the locals do and get around in a marshrutka. Marshrutka are mini buses that depart from bus stations when they are full. I won’t sugarcoat it here – they can be uncomfortable and often hot – but they are cheap and often the most convenient way to get around. And it’s always an adventure as you meet locals and get exposed to the local culture.

18. Take a cable car

Kazakhstan loves their cable cars and you can’t visit Almaty without finding yourself on one. Choose from the Kok-Tobe Cable Car in the centre of Almaty to reach a viewpoint, or head into the mountains at Shymbulak.

The Shymbulak Mountain Resort is located at 2,260 metres above sea level and you can take a cable car there from the Medeo ice skating rink. From the resort, you can take another cable car up to 3,200 metres above sea level.

19.               Tour the metro stations of Tashkent

Uzbekistan’s capital of Tashkent is a modern, developed city with an efficient metro system. The metro stations are like an art museum and each station features a different theme honouring famous Russians or Uzbeks.

20.               Check out beautiful madrasahs

No matter how many madrassahs (Islamic schools) you see in Uzbekistan, you’re sure to be impressed. You’ll find them across the cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara.

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Top 10 Places to See in Central Asia

Top ten places to see in central asia:.

#1 The cities of Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road – Samarkand , Bukhara , Khiva

#2 song kul – an alpine lake surrounded by lush summer pasture in kyrgyzstan, #3 the pamir highway traversing tajikistan, #4 darvaza – the gas crater also known as the “gate of hell”, turkmenistan, #5 issyk kul –  mountain lake located in kyrgyzstan, #6 astana- the modern capital of kazakhstan, #7 the turquoise lakes and world-class trekking in tajikistan’s fann mountains , #8 charyn canyon in kazakhstan, #9  ashgabat in turkmenistan – home to several guinness records for architectural achievements, #10 the tian shan mountains in kyrgyzstan.

To see the top 10 places in three weeks take a look at our Best of Central Asia Tour .

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Kalpak Travel

Central Asia

Central Asia - Nowruz

10 Extraordinary Places to Visit in Central Asia

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Often referred to collectively as Central Asia, the countries Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan contain a diverse array of cultures and landscapes worth experiencing in person. Cultural landmarks along the Silk Road, like the 11th century Burana Tower, showcase the ancient architectural ingenuity found within the region, while majestic wonders like Charyn Canyon and Iskanderkul Lake reveal its stunning natural beauty.

Here are 10 extraordinary places in Central Asia worth exploring.

Pamir Highway

Jakub Czajkowski / Shutterstock

Formally known by its Soviet road number M-41, the colloquially known Pamir Highway follows part of the ancient Silk Road trade route through the rugged Pamir Mountains. The famous road was paved mostly by the Soviets in the 1930s and has little in the way of signage or formal routing. The Pamir Highway passes through Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan, along scenic mountain terrain, across rivers, and through parts of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan as well—making it one of the best ways to see the region up close.

Kaindy Lake

taniche / Getty Images

Situated within Kolsay Lakes National Park in southern Kazakhstan, Kaindy Lake was formed in 1911 when a limestone landslide dammed up a gorge and it was filled with water from a mountain river. The beautiful lake, which reaches 1,300 feet long and 98 feet deep, has a blueish-green hue due to the deposit of limestone in the water. Kaindy Lake is also notable for the Asian spruce trunks rising above its surface, giving it the nickname “sunken forest.”

Mo'ynoq

Milosz Maslanka / Shutterstock

In the sands of western Uzbekistan lies the former fishing town of Mo'ynoq. The once populous community has dwindled by the thousands since its heyday in the 1980s, when the Aral Sea still lapped up against the shores there. Over time, destructive irrigation practices of nearby cotton farms depleted the water to such an extent that it eventually evaporated altogether. Today, the fishing, the sea, and most of the people who once lived there are gone, leaving only the rusting remnants of the former beachfront stuck alone in the sand. Visitors to Mo'ynoq can take Jeep tours of what's left of the former seaside village and see the city museum, which details what life was once like there.

Burana Tower

Labusova Olga / Shutterstock

In the Chuy Valley of northern Kyrgyzstan, the 82-foot-tall Burana Tower stands as the last remaining vestige of the ancient city of Balasagun. Built by the Karakhanids in the 11th century, the structure is what’s known as a minaret—a tower built near mosques often used in the Muslim call to prayer. Burana Tower is made of brick and features an external staircase to the top, as well as a staircase on the inside. Although the tower is one of the oldest standing structures in Central Asia, it is not in its original state, having been reduced over the years from the height of 148 feet by earthquakes.

Door to Hell

Dunk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

A collapsed natural gas reservoir in a Turkmenistan cavern known as the Darvaza gas crater has been burning for decades and is often referred to as the Door to Hell. Although the specific dates are disputed, the story goes that Soviet engineers discovered the gas field sometime in the 1970s, and when they tried to assess the viability of the site and set up a rig, the reservoir collapsed. In an attempt to keep poisonous gases from the nearby village of Darvaza, the engineers set fire to the site and it has been burning ever since. Today, the Door to Hell has become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors pitching tents to camp in the desert sand close by.

Charyn Canyon

YRABOTA / Shutterstock

Part of Charyn National Park in Kazakhstan, Charyn Canyon is a mesmerizing natural wonder that runs 56 miles along the Charyn River. Beautiful rock sculptures formed by water and wind erosion can be found along the stunning two-mile-long Valley of Castles. The colorful and intricate red sandstone patterns adorning the walls throughout the canyon can be observed from a variety of hiking trails or from a white water raft or canoe in the river below.

Registan Square

Carol Adam / Getty Images

Registan, or “sandy place” in Persian, was the center of the ancient city of Samarkand in modern day Uzbekistan, and stands today as an impressive remnant of the Timurid Empire. The highlight of Registan Square are the three "madrassas," Arabic for “schools,” that border the square. The first one built, Ulugh Beg Madrasa, was constructed from 1417 to 1420 by the grandson of the first Timurid ruler, Timur, and features a large, vaulted hall called an iwan, with two towering minarets on either side. The other two madrassas, Sher-Dor Madrasa and Tilya-Kori Madrasa, were built centuries later in the early and mid-17th century.

Iskanderkul Lake

Tarasenko Nataliia / Shutterstock

Roughly 7,000 feet up in the Fann Mountains of the Sughd Province of Tajikistan lies the greenish-blue waters of Iskanderkul. The glacial lake was formed by a landslide that blocked the Saratogh River and is named after Alexander the Great, who passed through Tajikistan during his conquests. Along with the forests, rivers, and meadows surrounding it, the lake has been designated as a nature reserve and is popular tourist attraction due to its close proximity to the country’s capital, Dushanbe. Iskanderkul and the nature reserve that it’s a part of are home to a wide variety of birds—from sulphur-bellied warblers and white-winged snow finches to Himalayan rubythroats and fire-fronted serins.

Tomb of Ahmad Sanjar

Michael Runkel / Getty Images

Located within the medieval city of Merv in modern-day Turkmenistan, the Tomb of Ahmad Sanjar stands as a stunning example of 12th century architecture in the region. The structure is built from stucco, brick, terra cotta, and plaster, and features 46-foot-high walls in the shape of a cube with a large dome on top if it. Originally built in 1157, the mausoleum was made in honor of the recently deceased Seljuk ruler Ahmad Sanjar and was destroyed by the Mongols in 1221. The tomb was rebuilt several times over the centuries by a variety of groups, however, and today it's a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the rest of the ancient city of Merv.

WITGOAWAY / Getty Images

The alpine lake of Song Kul sits 9,895 feet high in the mountainous northern region of the Naryn Province in Kyrgyzstan. The 167-square-mile lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kyrgyzstan and is nestled between the Moldo Too mountains to the south and the Songkul Too ridge to the north. Song Kul and the grassy fields surrounding it are especially popular among travelers in the summertime. Visitors to the beautiful mountain lake enjoy swimming, hiking, camping, and horseback riding at the scenic alpine getaway.

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Your Guide To The Countries Of Central Asia & Which To Visit

Central Asia is a complex region full of natural beauty and history and a region few ever explore.

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Kazakhstan - the largest central asian country, kyrgyzstan - the mountainous country, uzbekistan - the country with rich ancient architecture, tajikistan - home of the pamir highway, turkmenistan - the hermit country.

Central Asia is a fascinating part of the world that few people ever get to visit. This article will define Central Asia as the five former Soviet countries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan - it will not include Afghanistan or Mongolia (which are sometimes included in "Central Asia").

These countries are some of the least explored in the world and are gems full of history and some of the world's most spectacular scenery and exceptionally friendly people. But these countries often experience unrest, and it is important to check for up-to-date information before going there.

Kazakhstan is by far the largest of the Central Asian countries and the most developed. The vast bulk of the country is flat Asian steppe - like the Mongolians; the historic Kazakhs once roamed these vast steppes on horseback.

• Capital: Nur-Sultan (Formerly Astana)
• Largest City: Almaty

The capital is the new city of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) in the northern steppes. But the historic capital and largest city is Almaty in the south. Almaty lays at the foot of some of the mightiest mountain ranges in the world and is a stunning place to visit.

• Visa Requirements: Visa-Free One Month

Kazakhstan is visa-free for a month for most nationalities. There has been recent political unrest in Kazakhstan - while it is typically a safe country to visit, one should check for updates from the U.S. Department of State .

Related: This Is Why Kyrgyzstan Is A Gem Waiting To Be Discovered By Intrepid Travelers

The Kyrgyz people are similar in many ways to the Kazakhs, but whereas Kazakhstan is mostly flat, Kyrgyzstan is incredibly mountainous. The capital and largest city is Bishkek, and the country is famous for the massive and pristine alpine lake of Issyl Kul.

• Capital and Largest City: Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan is generally less developed than Kazakhstan but is very tourist-friendly. A must in the country is to take multi-day horseback riding trips through the mountains and sleep in traditional yurts.

• Visa Requirements: Visa-Free 60 Days

The two main attractions in Uzbekistan are its stunning architecture and the ghost fleet at the now largely disappeared Aral Sea. Uzbekistan is the most popular country in Central Asia and lies on the Silk Road . There are numerous group tours that go to Uzbekistan, where one can see the incredible architecture at Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent. If one has time, visit the ghost fleet on the vanished Aral Sea Too.

• Capital and Largest City: Tashkent

For most Western passport holders, Uzbekistan is visa-free for 30 days - but for Americans, they need to apply for an e-Visa online (this is very easy and straightforward).

• Most Western Passports: Visa-Free 30 Days (Canada, UK, EU, Australia, NZ)
• American Passports: e-Visa Required

As of the time of writing, parts of Uzbekistan are experiencing significant unrest - check for updates on the situation before going.

Related: Kazakhstan Very Nice! A Stunning Destination With Incredible Petroglyphs

Tajikistan is a small alpine country nestled between Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan. It is a poor country, but one that welcomes tourists. One of the greatest attractions in Tajikistan is the famous and remote Pamir Highway - it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who get to do it.

• Capital and Largest City: Dushanbe

To visit the Pamir Highway, tourists need a permit to visit the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (it costs $20.00)

• Visa Policy: Visa-Free For 30 Days (Except UK)

Until 2022, tourists needed to apply for an e-Visa to visit Tajikistan, but since 1 January 2022, visas have been waived for most Western countries (except the United Kingdom, which still requires an e-Visa).

Turkmenistan is very different from the other four Central Asian countries. The country is largely closed to tourism, and visas are very difficult to obtain. Tourists need organized tours that will likely be quite expensive and tour guides to take them around the country.

• Capital and Largest City: Ashgabat
• Visa Policy: Visa Required And Very Difficult To Obtain

One way to visit Turkmenistan is to just transit from Iran to Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan - the transit visa is for five days. However, this option is very difficult for Americans, Canadians, and the British as it is difficult for them to visit Iran.

It is not recommended to visit Turkmenistan unless one is an experienced traveler. Visitors need to be careful what they say, do, and what they take pictures of. It is common for the police to follow tourists. Never talk about politics while in Turkmenistan.

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Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

Multi-Day Tours with Culture Trip

Experience deeply immersive 7-14 days itineraries with a small group of like-minded people. See all tours

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Soulful South Korea

Connect with Korea through its food, natural splendor and vibrant cultural heritage.

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A Taste of Taiwan by Train

From city night markets to serene lakes via stunning coastal train routes in tranquil Taiwan.

Japan 12 Day s

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

Osaka to Tokyo, via historic cities and natural wonders, on Japan’s high-tech train network.

Thailand & Laos 14 Day s

Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train

This border-crossing epic marries Southeast Asian escapism with the timeless romance of train travel.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Central Asia Travel: Discover the Silk Road

Updated March 2024 ,   A Beginner’s Guide to Central Asia Travel was originally written in February 2019

For travelers looking for something different, this mostly unspoiled region will surely deliver. Personally, if I was only allowed to travel one region of the world for the rest of my life  Central Asia  would be my choice.

Central Asia is a region where east meets west, snow-capped mountains beg to be explored, where Silk Road empires conquered, claimed, razed, and repeated, ancient architectural gems dot barren desert landscapes, nomadic families still move their yurt camps from jailoo to valley and back again, and evidence in historical human movement is present from ancient languages still spoken, cuisine and cultural traditions.

Before I arrived in Central Asia I thought it’d be a one-and-done trip. My trip of a lifetime, a place that would prove difficult to travel. I left knowing I’d be back, what I didn’t realize then was that it would be every year.

I thought bureaucracy would test my patience (although it killed it in  Xinjiang ), visa debacles would ruin my plans (it sorta did in  Turkmenistan ), bribes would break the bank (not as often as you’d think), that I’d just like  Tajikistan  (not fall head over heels for it) and food poisoning would plague my ambitions (it’s only slowed me down a couple of times at best). These concerns have proven to be more the minority than the norm.

Things are quickly changing in Central Asia. Tourism is opening up (except maybe in Turkmenistan and Xinjiang), visa acquisition is becoming easier and easier with relaxed schemes (except Turkmenistan and  Afghanistan ), more foreigners are visiting and community-based tourism is exploding.

If you’re considering making your first venture to travel Central Asia this first-timer’s guide will help to share practical information and to answer common questions about Central Asia travel. This guide includes information on  Kazakhstan ,  Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan, Turkmenistan,  Uzbekistan , and additionally, information on Afghanistan,  Northern Pakistan , and Xinjiang (Western China).

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The bane of most Central Asian travel plans existence. For many years the rigorous visa policies, a carryover from (most of) Central Asia’s Soviet years, kept all but the most intrepid travelers away. But things are changing— visa policies are loosening, visa on arrival and e-visas are becoming more common.

A couple of countries still remain a pain-in-the-arse with stringent visa policies, but overall the region is opening its doors.

Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan are offering e-visas now to many nationalities, and Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are offering visa-free travel to more nationalities than ever before. Meanwhile, most nationalities will still need to obtain full-blown visas prior to travel in Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Xinjiang (China).

Learn more about visas in my  Quick Guide to Central Asia Visas

The sheer number of languages and dialects spoken in this region is mind-boggling. The good news is: In Post-Soviet Central Asia Russian is still widely spoken and understood.

If you are headed to Post-Soviet (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan) I recommend learning some basic Russian phrases. It also doesn’t hurt to learn a few basics in each local language as well.

A great pocket-sized book to pick up before you travel Central Asia is the  Central Asia Phrasebook  by Lonely Planet .

Kazakhstan : Kazakh and Russian are the official languages. Kazakh is a Turkic language.

Kyrgyzstan : Official languages are Kyrgyz and Russian. Kyrgyz is a Turkic language with similarities to Kazakh, however, Kyrgyz is typically written in the Cyrillic Alphabet.

Tajikistan : Tajik is the official language in Tajikistan, but Russian is still used and understood. Tajik is a dialect of the Farsi spoken in Iran and the Dari spoken in Afghanistan, but the main difference is that Tajik is written in the Cyrillic alphabet. Tajikistan has a plethora of languages and dialects spoken within it, including Wakhi, Shughni, Yagnobi (ancient Sogdian), Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Yazgulyam, Ishkashimi, Parya, and more.

Turkmenistan : Turkmen is the official language but Russian is still widely used. Turkmen is a Turkic language, officially written in a Latin script but Cyrillic is still commonly used.

Uzbekistan : Uzbek is yet another Turkic language and is closely related to the Uyghur language.

Since 1992 it has been written in the Latin script. Russian is still widely used and understood. In the desolate region of Karakalpakstan, Karakalpak is spoken as well which has ties with Uzbek and Kazakh.

Xinjiang :  Uyghur and Mandarin Chinese are official languages in the Xinjiang Province of China. Uyghur is the language spoken by the Uyghur people historically, though the Chinese government has launched a campaign recently banning the use of Uyghur in schools and even detaining and sending those using the language publicly or showing interest in it into labor camps. Uyghur is a Turkic language and is written in an Arabic script.

Afghanistan : The two official languages of Afghanistan are Dari and Pashto. Dari, which is a dialect of the Farsi spoken in Iran is the most widely spoken of the two in the country. Dari is written in modified Persian-Arabic, while Pashto is written in Arabic script.

Pakistan : Urdu and English are the official languages of Pakistan, however, there are over 60 languages spoken in the country. I’ve included Northern Pakistan (Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa in this guide). Languages spoken in northern Pakistan include Shina, Burushaski, Khowar, Wakhi, Balti. Pashto, Hindko, Saraiki, and Kohistani.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to travel Central Asia is largely dependent on what areas you want to visit and what activities you’d like to take part in.

If planning to trek in the high mountains of  Tajikistan , Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan,  Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor , or Northern Pakistan then July-September are going to be the best months.

For desert and lower-lying areas such as Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the Ferghana Valley, mainland  Afghanistan  and much of  Xinjiang  spring and fall months (April, May, September, October) will be the most comfortable months to visit in.

Winter sports enthusiasts wanting to get in a little downhill action on their trip should visit in January and February to the ski resorts and lifts in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan or trek in and ski down in Tajikistan and  Bamyan  Province in Afghanistan.

Transportation

Marshrutka & Shared Taxi

Marshrutka and shared taxi are the most common and usually easiest way to get between places traveling Central Asia. They usually do not have schedules and depart when full from a designated place in the town or city (many times near a bazaar). The best way to find out where the marshrutka or shared taxi you need to be on is leaving from is to ask locals or staff at your accommodation.

Trains can be a comfortable way to travel in Central Asia, and the least nerve-wracking (driving in Central Asia is a bit crazy).  Uzbekistan  and Kazakhstan have the best network of railways in the Central Asian countries.

Not a very common form of transportation in Central Asia, but it can be a comfortable alternative to shared taxis where available.

Often you will cross paths with cyclists on a giant Silk Road adventure, especially on Tajikistan’s  Pamir Highway — a huge bucket list route for many cycling enthusiasts.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is fairly common in Central Asia, with the exception of Afghanistan and extremely remote areas. Do note that drivers will typically expect a little money from hitchers as pretty much anyone with a car in Central Asia seconds as a taxi driver.

Organized Tour

For those with time constraints, organized tours can be a great way to optimize your Central Asia trip. Those not wanting to deal with logistics and language barriers will likely get more enjoyment out of group or private tours.

Big overlanding companies like  Intrepid ,  G Adventures , and Dragoman offer several Central Asian itineraries.

I have traveled and written extensively on Tajikistan, and have crossed paths with several of the owners of Tajik travel companies. You can find a list of Tajik tour operators  here .

If you’re planning a trip to this breathtaking country, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from experienced tour operators who know the ins and outs of Tajikistan’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. You can find a list of reputable Tajik tour operators here on a resource called  Top Essay Writing . Whether you’re interested in trekking through the Pamir Mountains or exploring the historical sites in Dushanbe, connecting with knowledgeable tour operators can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Central Asia vary widely. In big cities like Tashkent ,  Almaty ,  Dushanbe , and more you can find luxurious hotels at one end and homestays at the other end of the spectrum.

Once you start heading off to smaller towns options dwindle and offerings are extremely basic. If headed to the mountains you can expect to find homestays at very most, otherwise yurt camps or plan to bring your own tent.

My preferred platform for making accommodation bookings is of course, Booking.com , but you will find that many smaller out of the way locations you will either need to call ahead or take your chances and show up and see if there’s space.

Start shopping  Central Asia accommodation

If you’re scratching your head wondering what Central Asia cuisine is, you’re not alone. Central Asia (not including Afghanistan, Pakistan, or Xinjiang) is not a region known for its gastronomy, and there’s ample reason for this– it’s not exactly the most exciting the world has to offer- though there are some great dishes to try.

In general food in Central Asia is a tad bland, meat-centric, and fairly unimaginative. Food is more of a means of survival and not exactly the healthiest of all. With that said there are some good dishes out there and chefs hither and thither that can work a typically bland Central Asian dish into something delicious.

Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Xinjiang are total exceptions to the blandness of Central Asia, food in these three areas is a food lover’s dream come true. There are dishes that are typically only found in certain countries or regions of countries that you can read more about in my country-specific guides.

Vegetarians will have difficulties at times and vegans will really struggle with Central Asian cuisine. It’s not impossible either (I have traveled with both a vegan and a vegetarian at times in my Central Asia travels and they both survived).

Just try to plan ahead and learn how to communicate your dietary needs in the local language and/or Russian. I also recommend getting a copy of the  Vegan Passport , a multilingual vegan phrasebook (it includes several Central Asian languages) to help you communicate your needs.

People throughout Central Asia are learning about vegetarian and vegan diets and many times will be happy to try to help accommodate your needs.

Here are some commonly found foods throughout the region:

Plov : A rice dish fried in mutton fat and often includes mutton, onion, carrots, chickpeas, and sometimes raisins

Laghman : A personal favorite, a somewhat soupy dish served with meat and noodles and vegetables. Laghman can vary greatly from one cook to another.

Manti : Little noodle dumplings stuffed most often with minced meat and onions. My favorite? Potato manti and pumpkin manti.

Shashlyk : Meat skewers, that we would call shish-kabobs in the west.

Samsa : Similar to an Indian samosa, these deep-fried packets are usually filled with minced meat and onions.

Non : No meal is complete in this part of the world without bread, bread  is  life after all.

Chai : A hot glass of chai will accompany nearly every meal in Central Asia. Many times hosts will excitedly refill your cup over and over even if you plead no more.  Tip : If you are finished with chai simply swill down the remainder in your glass and flip your cup upside down– this is the universal no more chai sign.

Where To Go In Central Asia

TURKMENISTAN

XINJIANG (CHINA)

AFGHANISTAN

NORTHERN PAKISTAN

Money In Central Asia

ATMs and money exchangers can be found in major cities throughout Central Asia, though smaller towns may be a challenge. Do check exchange rates prior to your Central Asia travel as currencies are known to fluctuate dramatically over here.

If planning to carry in cash, the US dollar seems to be the preferred currency for exchanging. In some countries, like Tajikistan and Afghanistan, it’s sometimes the preferred currency for payments (especially large for larger purchases).

It’s worth noting that the black market is no more in Central Asia, Uzbekistan being the last country to abolish its currency black market.

Central Asia Packing List

General gear.

• Water Purifier – I personally use the  Katadyn water filter . Tap water is not safe to drink in much of Central Asia.
• External battery pack – Perfect for keeping things charged on long journeys.
• Headlamp – Perfect for camping, dark streets, and the occasional power outage.
• Camera — Don’t miss out on bringing your memories back home with you.
• Sunscreen – Sometimes difficult to find in the region. Sun is very powerful, especially at high altitudes.
• Toilet Paper
• Prescription & Over the counter medications

Recommend Gear For Trekking

• Inreach Explorer+ – GPS & SOS beacon, great for remote hiking in Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
• Solar charger – Keep those electronics charged in remote areas.
• Backpack – I recommend the  Osprey Ariel 65L backpack  for women.
• Daypack – My personal favorite is the Osprey Daylite Plus.
• Hydration Pack — Have water available without having to reach for a water bottle.
• 3 Season tent – I use the  MSR NX Hubba-Hubba 1 man tent  and love it! I also use a Mountainsmith Morrison Evo 2 tent when I’m traveling with others.
• Sleeping bag – Useful for trekkers & cyclists. I use a  Nemo sleeping bag  cold rated to 20ºF/-7ºC.
• Hiking Boots – My personal favorite is the  La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX  hiking boot.
• Lightweight cooking camp set – Prepare your own meals on the go.
• Trekking Poles – Great for steep slopes.
• Mosquito Repellant – Recommended in the summertime.

Guide Books

• I recommend Bradt’s Guidebooks to help you plan an in-depth visit to Central Asia. They have updated editions for Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan , and Uzbekistan .
• Central Asia  by Lonely Planet . Great to have on hand or phone on the road, though don’t treat it as a Bible.  Central Asia Phrasebook  by Lonely Planet  is a great pocket-sized book with basic phrases and translations for the plethora of languages spoken in the region.

Safety In Central Asia

Central Asia safety is one of the most commonly searched topics about the region on google. I’m going to break this into two sections: Post-Soviet Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) and the remainder of Central Asia, for simplicity’s sake.

Post-Soviet Central Asia

In general, the core of Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) is a safe destination to visit. After spending several months in these countries I can honestly say I’ve never felt in danger or concerned for my safety in any of them. With that said, things do on rare occasions happen here.

The most recent: in June 2018 there was a  terrorist attack  in Tajikistan that left 4 dead and 2 injured foreign cyclists.

Tensions do at times build up with fighting in the Fergana Valley (last notable was in 2012). These events are not the norm. The standard precautions are typically enough to ensure safety in these countries.

The biggest risks and dangers you will face are chaotic driving, altitude illness, and food poisoning.

Check out these popular itineraries: 2 weeks in Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan or 2 weeks in Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

Northern Pakistan

Northern Pakistan, especially Gilgit-Baltistan is reasonably safe to visit. Occasional things have happened (such as the 2013 Tahreek e Taliban  attack on climbers at Nanga Prabat  base camp that left 9 dead). At times sectarian violence against Shia Muslims does break out in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Afghanistan

As of August 2021, Afghanistan has fallen under control of the Taliban. Visiting is not recommended right now for obvious reasons, and you probably can’t even find an embassy to issue you a tourist visa at the moment anyway.

Not all of Afghanistan is at war as you would be lead to believe by western media. The  Wakhan Corridor  for instance has remained untouched by war and terrorism and is realistically the only safe place to visit in the country.

Travel in mainland Afghanistan is a much dicier prospect with some areas being *safer* (in terms of Afghanistan) to visit and others essentially off-limits. For visits to mainland Afghanistan, I highly recommend an experienced and knowledgeable guide such and Noor, Sakhi, and the team at  Let’s Be Friends Afghanistan .

Travel in Afghanistan does come with big risks, however, there are measures that can be taken to reduce them.

Read: Tips for Solo Female Travel in Central Asia

In general, Xinjiang is a safe place for travelers, however, there is turmoil there at the moment and many places are closed to foreigners. In the past, there have been a handful of terrorist attacks carried out in Xinjiang by radicalized people, but this is not a regular occurrence.

Since early 2017 the Chinese government has been effectively kidnapping Uyghur and other Muslim ethnic minorities in Xinjiang (after sending in mass numbers of Han Chinese to take the Uyghur down from being the majority population in the area) that show interest in Uyghur culture, practice their religion or use their language out in the open and placing them in “re-education” camps.

There are speculations that these camps are forcing people held in them to hard labor, and some that they are first taking to camps and then transferring them to full-on Chinese prisons. Many are never seen or heard from again.

Read more about the Cultural Genocide as it’s been coined  here . Learn more in an interesting interview about the Han Chinese being sent to occupy Uyghur homes  here .

Need More Central Asia Travel Info?

Check out my country guides and itineraries below, or ask your Central Asia travel questions in the comments!

More Posts from Central Asia:

A Quick Guide To Jeti Oguz, Kyrgyzstan

Khorog Travel Guide + 7 Things To Do In Khorog

Is Tajikistan Safe? The Short Answer: Yes

Crossing Kyzyl Art Pass Between Tajikistan & Kyrgyzstan

Female Travel In The Wakhan Corridor, Afghanistan

Shahr e Gholghola: Afghanistan’s City Of Screams

Iskanderkul & Sarytag Travel Guide, Tajikistan

Hike The Lakes Loop in Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains

How To Get An Afghanistan Visa

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10 Reasons to Visit The Pamirs

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5 Things To Do In Osh, Kyrgyzstan + Travel Guide

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One Day In Turpan Travel Guide

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Crossing Chimtarga Pass

How To Get To Timur Dara Lake, Tajikistan

A Guide to the Shokhdara Valley, Tajikistan

Bamyan Travel Guide

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Getting High On Balkh: Old Walls, Blue Tiles & Hash

How To Get To Lake Sarez, Tajikistan

Herat Travel Guide + Photos

Trekking to Pik Engles Meadow in Tajikistan’s Wakhan Valley

Across Tajikistan In 80 Photos

Ishkar & Ceramics in Istalif, Afghanistan 

How to Get an Iran Visa on a US Passport

10 Essentials You Need to Pack for Central Asia

Starry Nights & Chaikhana Floors: A Journey Through Daykundi, Afghanistan

How To Get To Hisor Fort, Tajikistan

Secret Soviet Bioweapons Lab of Aralsk 7 on Vozrozhdeniya Island  

31 Local Central Asia Foods & Drinks to Try on Your First Trip

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan: The Weirdest Capital City In The World

Tajikistan Border Crossings

How To Get To Burana Tower & The Tokmok Animal Market

Qarshi Travel Guide, Uzbekistan

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Crossing Dukdon Pass In Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains

South Aral Peak Hike, Tajikistan

Visiting the Sary Khosar Nature Reserve, Tajikistan 

How To Get To Kandovan, Iran

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Climbing Shah Foladi, Afghanistan

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10 thoughts on “a beginner’s guide to central asia travel: discover the silk road”.

Possibly a strange one but would you be able to give some advice on what to pack clothes wise for men in these countries for summer months?

Hi Matt, not a strange questions at all. It honestly all depends on what your plans and where you plan to visit in Central Asia in the summertime. In the lower lying areas and cities such as Dushanbe, Bishkek, Almaty, Tashkent (as well as most of Uzbekistan), the Fergana Valley, Shymkent, and the Khatlon region of Tajikistan you can expect hot temps exceeding 37C, and in the more extreme 40C and up. So think lighter and breathable fabrics. If you’re planning to do some trekking or visiting mountainous areas layering clothing will be helpful as well as a warm jacket as the temps can plunge quite low if you’ll be spending time above 3500m. Merino wool base layers, trekking pants, fleece, and a down jacket would be helpful in this case.

Your post has reminded me of the importance of sustainable and responsible travel.

This is an incredible source of info. I salute you.

Do they offer e-visas for Australians? Would love to travel the Stans soon so just want to know. Thanks!

Hi Sharon, Here is the current visa policy for the ‘stans for Australian passport holders

Tajikistan- evisa Uzbekistan- visa free Kazakhstan- visa free (KZ’s visa free program is suspended through Dec 2021 as of now) Kyrgyzstan- visa free Turkmenistan- visa (Turkmenistan still is not open to tourism and it’s unclear when it will again)

Many thanks for this very useful list of attractions and destinations. It helped us a lot, as we are planning a trip to Central Asia.

Hi Maria, I hope you enjoy Central Asia! I have lots more posts on each destination too if you need more help planning 🙂

Wow, so much good information here. Thank you for sharing all your expertise on the region, I’m excitedly awaiting visiting Central Asia

Happy to hear it’s helping you plan!

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3 Stans: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan

Best of kyrgyzstan and tajikistan, premium uzbekistan, central asia 16 days start in bishkek, tour along 4-stans of central asia 14 days, 5 stans - a journey to central asia, tashkent to ashgabat, central asia: five stans express, central asia tour 16 days, start in almaty, china and 5 stans.

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“Whistle stop tour of 4 countries in 2 weeks, taking in many highlights, fascinating cities & hikes in dramatic landscapes.”

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“The tour was generally ok, but there were some specific issues that I shall comment later.”

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When is the Best Time to Visit Central Asia? A Seasonal Guide by Minzifa Travel

Spring in Central Asia

Spring, from March to May, is an excellent time to visit Central Asia . The weather is mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the cities. The flowers and trees are in full bloom, adding a touch of beauty to the landscape. During this season, you can also witness several traditional festivals such as Navruz, which celebrates the Persian New Year.

Summer in Central Asia

Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Central Asia. The weather is hot and dry, with long sunny days perfect for sightseeing. This season is also a great time for outdoor activities like trekking and camping in the mountains. The famous Silk Road Festival takes place in July, which is a great opportunity to experience the region’s cultural heritage.

Autumn in Central Asia

Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent time to visit Central Asia. The weather is mild and comfortable, making it an ideal season for exploring the region’s natural beauty. The colorful autumn foliage adds a stunning visual touch to the landscape. During this season, you can witness several cultural events, such as the Almaty Marathon and the Golden Autumn Festival.

Winter in Central Asia

Winter, from December to February, can be extremely cold in Central Asia. However, this season offers its unique charm and attractions, such as skiing in the mountains, ice-skating on frozen lakes, and experiencing the traditional winter festivals. The famous Shab-e-Yalda festival, which celebrates the winter solstice, is a must-see event in Iran.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Central Asia depends on your preference and interests. Each season offers its unique attractions, whether it’s exploring the cities and historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing cultural events and festivals. Contact Minzifa Travel to plan your next Central Asian adventure and make the most of your trip!

The Man in Seat 61

Europe to China via Kazakhstan

Central asia by train.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, through central asia by train.

The most usual (and easiest) route from Europe to China is via the classic Trans-Siberian Railway , shown in blue on the map below.  But there is another route now open to foreigners, the so-called Silk Route via Kazakhstan, shown on the map in yellow.  Let's be clear, if you want to travel between Europe and China, the main Trans-Siberian route is faster and easier to arrange, both in terms of visas and train tickets - for a start, just one Trans-Siberian train will get you all the way from Moscow to Beijing.  The Silk route will take a little more thought and organisation, with more visas, train tickets and stopovers to arrange.  However, this page will explain routes, train times, costs and how to buy tickets.  You can also use trains to reach Central Asia from Europe and Moscow.

Important update 2024 :  All trains between western Europe and Russia are suspended, originally due to Covid-19, now due to the war in Ukraine & sanctions.  Travel to Russia is no longer advisable.  International trains between the Stans and China are also remain suspended since the pandemic.  This route is currently not viable.  Nor is a route via Iran feasible, given the difficulty in getting visas.

London - Moscow

You can travel from London to Moscow by train, for times, fares, how to buy tickets and Russian visa information, see the London to Russia page .  Direct sleeper trains run to Moscow from Paris, Vienna, Prague, Warsaw, Berlin, Budapest, Helsinki and many other cities, go to this page and select your starting city, then select Moscow .  You will usually need a Belarus transit visa as well as your Russian tourist visa, see the visa section on the Russia page . 

Trains to Russia were suspended due to Covid-19 and remain suspended due to sanctions .

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Moscow - Almaty & Astana (Kazakhstan)

Trains link Moscow with both Almaty and Astana in Kazakhstan.  A direct train links Moscow with Astana every 2nd day.  The time-honoured direct Moscow-Almaty train Kazakhstan was sadly discontinued in June 2017 (nobody knows what RZD is playing at here), but it's still possible to travel between Moscow and Almaty with a change at Saratov as shown below.  Or you can travel from Moscow to Astana then Astana to Almaty, which may be better.

The best place to confirm days of running & times, including times of border crossings (and therefore entry dates for visa purposes) is at the Russian Railways site www.rzd.ru .

The Saratov times shown above are Moscow time.  Local time is one hour head of Moscow time. 

UPDATE:  After decades of running to Moscow time, from 1 August 2018 trains are shown in local time on Russian timetables, usually with the difference from Moscow time shown in brackets, for example (MCK +5) .

Train 7 & 8:   Kupé (4-berth) and platskartny (open plan berths).  There are no 2-berth sleepers.  Southbound, train 8 departs Saratov on even dates (2nd, 4th, 6th etc of each month).  Northbound, train 7 departs Almaty also on even-numbered dates.  The train passes from Russia into Kazakhstan, but briefly transits another part of Russia before re-entering Kazakhstan.  However, it is reported that you just need single-entry visa for Russia to travel on this train.  Multiple-entry visas are not required for this.  In fact, this Kazak visa question may have been resolved completely, as Kazakhstan has removed the need for UK & some other nationalities to get a visa from 2014 onwards -please check the latest Kazak visa situation.  Moscow to Almaty is 4,017 km in total.

Train 17:   A Russian domestic firmeny (quality) train with spalny vagon (2-berth), kupé (4-berth) and platskartny.

Trains 83 & 84:   Train 84 leaves Moscow's Kazanski station on even-numbered dates (2nd, 4th, 6th etc of each month).  Train 83 leaves Astana on even-numbered dates.  The train has kupé (4-berth sleepers) & platskartny (open plan dormitory cars) plus restaurant car.  There are now no 2-berths, but you can book 4 tickets in a 4-berth to have sole occupancy for one or two of you.  Moscow to Astana is 3,105 km.

Fares:   Moscow to Astana costs around £247 in kupé.

How to buy tickets:   You can book train travel in Russia, including this train, through several reputable Russian agencies, including:

You can make arrangements for trains, hotels and tours in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan through local agencies such as www.tourasia.kz .  You will need Russian tourist visa for this journey (by all means double-check, but at the time I write this Kazakhstan no longer requires UK & some other nationals to get a visa.  For information on Russian visas, see the visa section on the Russia page .

What are the trains like?

Moscow-Almaty better via Astana than direct?   Traveller Chris Nuttall suggests going Moscow-Almaty via Astana:  "I travelled from London to Almaty (Kazakhstan) and back last autumn (2009). On the return journey I travelled via Astana and as a result made the journey from Almaty to London in under 5 days, about 13 hours quicker than using the (then) direct train from Almaty to Moscow.  I departed Almaty 2 station at 19:28 on the daily Talgo overnight train to Astana (train number 1/2) and travelled in Platskartny which consisted of 4 berth compartments, the same as the 'Tourist class' on the Spanish railways own Talgo sleeper trains, rather than the usual Russian semi-open carriages.  According to my sister, who lives in Almaty and has used this train on a number of occasions, this service has a reputation for arriving punctually, unlike many other trains in Kazakhstan.  I then used train 83/84 to Moscow as shown on your site.  As well as being quicker and giving me the opportunity to explore Astana for a few hours, this route only crosses the Russia / Kazakhstan border once. I know you mention that only single entry visas are required for train 7/8, but I couldn't find further information on this, so my chosen route gave me added peace of mind."

Moscow - Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan )

A train called the Kirgizia links Moscow with Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, with 4-berth sleepers & restaurant car.  No 2-berth sleepers.

The best place to confirm days of running & times, including times of border crossings (and therefore entry dates for visa purposes) is at the Russian Railways site www.rzd.ru

Fares: Moscow to Bishkek costs £295 in 4-berth kupé.

How to buy tickets:

Moscow - Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

There is a train running 3 times a week from Moscow to Tashkent in Uzbekistan.  This is the Uzbekistan , with Spalny Vagon (2-berth sleepers), kupé (4-berth sleepers) and platskartny (open plan dormitory car) plus restaurant car.  The train passes from Russia into Kazakhstan then it enters Uzbekistan.

The best place to confirm days of running & times, including times of border crossings (and therefore entry dates for visa purposes) is at the Russian Railways site www.rzd.ru . 

Fares:   Moscow to Tashkent costs around £415 in 4-berth kupé or £461 in 2-berth spalny vagon.

Visas:   You will need a Russian tourist visa and Uzbekistan tourist visa for this journey.  For information on Russian visas, see the visa section on the Russia page .  By all means check the latest Kazak visa situation but at the time I write this Kazakhstan no longer requires UK & some other nationals to get a visa.

You can make arrangements for trains, hotels and tours in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan through local agencies such as www.tourasia.kz or www.advantour.com .

Travellers' reports

Traveller Jeff Mortelette travelled Tashkent to Moscow in 2016:  " The boarding arrangements were crazy.  We arrived an hour early and made our way to the security check.  There were tons of people pushing to get in.  I think there was another train leaving right before us, so a lot of people were trying to get on that train.  We waited in line for about half an hour before we realized we needed to start pushing our way to the front if we wanted to catch the train.  We finally got through with about 10 minutes to spare and hustled to the platform.  We got on our car with a few minutes to spare.

The train left Tashkent at 18:50.  About half an hour later we spent 80 minutes at the border while Uzbek border patrol went though.  They had me open some bags and answer some questions about where I was going and why.  They spoke no English.  We went for 20 more minutes and did the same thing with the Kazak border control.  It was pretty similar when we left Kazakhstan/entered Russia.  We only entered Russia once. 

On the train there were a few power sockets.  One at each end and one in the middle, but none in our cabin.  A nice feature is each car had shot water dispenser people used for noodles or tea.  We also had one employee of the train assigned to each car and ours was really helpful, especially when crossing borders.

There was a restaurant car that served Uzbek staples:  plov, lagman, and dumplings.  In addition sometimes people would go by our cabin and sell the food the restaurant cooked.  My friend and I got two bowls of plov and scopula beers for around $7.  It was pretty good for plov, but there was not much variety.  We paid in Kazak Tenge, but you could also pay in som or rubles.  It would help to not carry big bills;  I couldn't use my 10,000 Tenge note.  In addition to he food on the train, many stops of at least 20 minutes had places you could buy food.  Mostly crackers, potato chips, candy bars, water and soda, and uncooked ramen noodles.  Each car of the train had a place where you could get hot water that many people used for tea and ramen noodles.  In Samara, we could find more food for sale:  cheese, bread, sausage.  In general the closer we got to Moscow the more choices we had when we stopped."

Tashkent - Samarkand - Bokhara - Urgench (for Khiva):  See the Uzbekistan page

For train service within Uzbekistan, linking Tashkent, Samarkand, Bokhara & Urgench, see the Uzbekistan page .

Tashkent - Almaty

There is now a train every few days between Tashkent and Almaty, using a modern Talgo train.  You can buy tickets at tickets.kz .

Almaty & Astana (Kazakhstan) - Ürümqi (China)

Direct train twice a week.

Two trains per week link Almaty in Kazakhstan with Ürümqi in China, one using the original route through Druzhba/Alashankou, the other via the new much shorter route through Horgos/Altynkol.  One train per week carries through cars Astana-Ürümqi.  One set of carriages is Kazak with 2-berth and 4-berth sleepers, the other set Chinese with modern air-conditioned soft class 4-berth sleeper compartments and hard class open-plan bunks.  A Kazak restaurant car runs Almaty to the border, and a Chinese restaurant car runs from the border to Ürümqi.  If you use this route, please let me know !

Update:  International trains to/from China remain suspended due to Covid-19.

One train is operated by Kazakhstan Railways, the other by Chinese Railways.  Astana is now also known as Nur-Sultan.

Which station in Urumqi?   There are two main stations in Urumqi, plain Urumqi which opened in 2016 just northwest of the city centre ( see map ), and Urumqi Nan ( see map ) which is the original Urumqi station, south of the city centre, and confusingly called plain Urumqi until 2014.  These trains use the new Urumqi station.  Urumqi has an unofficial local time 2h behind normal Chinese time, but the times shown above for Urumqi are all the official Beijing time zone used by the railways.

Check your train times & dates carefully as times and days of running have changed regularly over the years, and there is much conflicting information online depending where you look .  You can get more definitive info at the Kazakhstan Railways online timetable at epay.railways.kz but you need to be clever with cutting and pasting Cyrillic place names алматы for Almaty and урумги for Urumqi.

Fares:   Almaty to Ürümqi costs around £123 in 4-berth or £138 in 2-berth.

How to buy tickets:   You can book these trains for westbound journeys at www.chinahighlights.com/china-trains (click International Train from China above the journey planner) for westbound journeys.

Traveller's report

Traveller Tom Earwaker reports:   "Departure was 23:14 on Monday 14/10/19, Beijing time.  Note that there's an unofficial local time in Urumqi, 2 hours behind Beijing, but train times are all in Beijing time. The train had around 10 carriages, I only counted about 18 people getting on! I had a 4-berth compartment to myself up to the border crossing and there was a nice German couple in the next compartment.  It was an old train, but clean and comfortable, with bedding and hot water provided.  Got to the China side of the border around 9am where security checked passport, looked around compartment and asked some questions about reason for travelling, where we went in China, etc. Got off the train 09:30 with luggage, more questioning (about purpose of visit, my job, and whether I liked China!), luggage search and they took fingerprints.  They also looked though the photos on my phone for quite a while and the books on my kindle.  It was quite thorough, but they weren't unfriendly about it.  Back on the train and left the station around 11:00, reaching the Kazakh side of the border at 11:20 (09:20 Kazakh time) There was 1.5hr of security checking passport, checking bags, questioning and waiting, all carried out on the train. Then we had to get off the train for another 1.5hr and wait at Druzhba station while they changed the wheels over.  There was a small cafe at the station serving typical Russian/Kazakh food (Borscht, Samsa, Plov etc.) and I was able to exchange Yuan for Tenge at the station's convenience store (also a bank nearby with similar exchange rate).  We left at 12:40 Kazakh time, and the train very quickly filled up over the next few stops. Arrived in Almaty 2 station at 05:50 next morning (16/10/19)."

Ürümqi - Xian - Beijing

All these trains have soft & hard sleepers and most have a restaurant car, see the Train Travel in China page for general information about trains in China.  There are other trains available between Ürümqi and Xian and between Xian and Beijing, see the Train Travel in China page .

Fares: Ürümqi to Beijing costs around RMB 901 ($146) in soft sleeper or RMB 566 ($92) in hard sleeper, if bought at the station.  Ürümqi to Xian costs around RMB 768 ($124) in soft sleeper.

You can check times & buy tickets at www.chinahighlights.com/china-trains .  Not all trains are shown here!

* Trains Z179/Z180 use Beijing main station, not Beijing West.

Planning your trip

Probably the best way to plan a trip like this is to start by reading up on all the possible routes, trains and stopovers, then plan out an itinerary and budget using a simple table or spreadsheet:  How to plan an itinerary & budget .

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It's time to discover the world around you. No matter what type of traveler you are, IHG Hotels & Resorts provide an extensive array of unique stays and experiences. Are you a  luxury-loving or budget-conscious traveler? Or do you prefer to lounge by the pool , or maybe spend quality to with the kids at a  family-friendly  resort, IHG has something for you. Go explore the warm waters of the Caribbean , the rich heritage and historic architecture of Europe , the stunning natural landscapes of the US National Parks , or  California’s eclectic neighborhoods . Whatever you choose, IHG Hotels & Resorts is the perfect escape to extraordinary travel experiences.

Search by your travel interests.  Beachfront hotels , pet-friendly hotels , romantic hotels , ski resorts , or all-inclusive resorts are all great places to start. Start planning your next trip now.

Join in Fireworks Celebrations with IHG

With the Fourth of July quickly approaching, there’s always excitement around where to see the best fireworks and enjoy all-American food favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and beer. Here is a quick guide to some of the nation's most dazzling fireworks shows, along with our recommendations for the best hotels in the best locations for easy access to all the holiday festivities. 

Bright lights in the City

New York City, New York

Experience the best of the Fourth of July with Macy's Fireworks Spectacular, illuminating the iconic NYC skyline. At Hotel Indigo on the Lower East Side , vibrant guest rooms boast stellar city views, and the 15th floor rooftop at Mr. Purple , overlooking the breathtaking skyline, is the perfect place to dine, take a dip in the pool, and witness the show. At  Hotel Indigo Williamsburg  just across the city, enjoy East River vistas and easy access to Domino Park and the Williamsburg Bridge. IHG hotels offer the perfect vantage points to savor NYC's various Fourth of July festivities.

Magic on Lake Michigan

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago comes alive in summer, with outdoor music festivals, the re-opening of seasonal rooftops, and the perfect temperatures for walking around town without overheating. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city this Fourth of July — from the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, where the Navy Pier Fireworks light up the night sky, to iconic hotels like InterContinental Chicago , Kimpton Gray Hotel , and voco Chicago Downtown , which offer luxurious amenities and prime locations for exploring the city's top attractions. Experience the best of urban sophistication and celebration in the Windy City, where stunning views await you.

Bayside Festivities

San Francisco, California

Immerse yourself in Independence Day magic with San Francisco Bay Fireworks reflecting across the city’s waters. Lounge at the Intercontinental San Francisco downtown, boasting modern elegance and sweeping city skyline views. Atop Nob Hill, the InterContinental Mark Hopkins offers unparalleled views from its 19th-floor rooftop bar, Top of the Mark. For coastal charm, escape to Kimpton Alton Hotel in Fisherman's Wharf, where retro-inspired rooms provide stunning bay vistas, so you can witness the fireworks spectacle from the comfort of your bed with a side of room service. 

More Places to see Fireworks

Everywhere in Between

Celebrate the Fourth of July with impressive fireworks displays across multiple US cities. In  Philadelphia , the Wawa Welcome America Festival. One of the largest fireworks shows in the country, "Let Freedom Sing!" in  Nashville  is free, family-friendly. On the West Coast, every year dazzling fireworks illuminate the Strip in  Las Vegas  ,  Huntington Beach's  and   Lake Tahoe  boasts "Lights on the Lake".   In  New Orleans  "Go 4th on the River" event lights up the Mississippi Riverfront,  Houston's  "Freedom Over Texas" offers a magnificent display over Eleanor Tinsley Park.  Miami  fireworks feature an all-day festival with live music and family activities at Bayfront Park in downtown.  There is a lot to explore.

Best Destinations for Every Season

From the spectacular shores of  Key Largo to  Lake Tahoe 's snow-capped mountain tops, each season offers travelers like you a unique experience all year long. Start the year anew with a refreshing experience of a Japanese Onsen or ski the slopes in Colorado . Swim into summer by visiting warm-weather destinations with rooftop pools and waterparks.

• Summer 2024 Vacations
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Vacation More. Summer Forever.

Discover the ultimate vacation experience at IHG Hotels and  All-Inclusive Resorts  across the  Caribbean . Few places in the world can compete with the idyllic settings and crystal-clear waters found in destinations like the  Maldives ,  Guam ,   Seychelles , and  Hawaii . These beach destinations provide ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure, with lots of water activities like snorkeling and freediving. Other locations, like the island of   Mauritius ,  Vietnam's Phu Quoc ,  Okinawa, Japan  and the Caribbean, boast a more laid-back vibe that's perfect for simply taking in the sunbathing. You can also experience picturesque, straight-out-of-a-movie locations like Jamaica ,  Puerto Rico ,  Aruba ,  Grand Cayman  and more. 

Fall into Adventure

As Autumn begins, the landscapes transform into an artist's palette of rich, warm hues.  Vermont  foliage season is a sight to behold, with the Green Mountain National Forest offering a stunning backdrop for the vibrant colors. In  upstate New York , spectacular display of fall leaves encompass the cities of Albany , Lake Placid to name a few.  New Hampshire's  White Mountains are prime locations for leaf peeping. While the Arcadia National Park in  Maine  presents another breathtaking spectacle of autumnal beauty. . Further south,  Virginia's Shenandoah National Park   is a must-visit .Take in views from the Pacific Northwest, including  Seattle  and  Portland , offering a unique fall experience with Oregon's Crater Lake and Washington's Olympic National Parks .

Winter Like You Mean it

From the enchanting glow of the  Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree  or holiday mesmerism of  Times Square ice skating  in  New York City  to the breathtaking Trail of Lights in  Austin, Texas , our hotels are your gateway to popular holiday light attractions. Embrace the festive spirit as you explore the dazzling holiday displays at the National Christmas Tree  near the White House  in  Washington, D.C. , or be captivated by the illuminated wonderland of ZooLights when you stay at our  hotels near the San Diego Zoo . Create cherished memories this winter with IHG Hotels & Resorts at the heart of some of these enchanting holiday experiences.

Best Father's Day Getaways for Dad

IHG Hotels and Resorts has incredible experiences to offer that Dad is sure to love. Show your appreciation with a special Dad focused getaway. Treat Dad to a round of golf at a premier course in the Caribbean or a Michelin Star dinner at one of IHG’s award-winning restaurants. From city escapes to beachfront retreats,  IHG has the perfect destinations for celebrating all dads. Book now and make this Father's Day one to remember.

Golf Getaways

Fine Dining

From perfectly aged cuts of steak to gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs, lasting memories are made over spectacular meals. In Atlanta, delight in a menu of steaks, pastas, and Mediterranean-influenced seafood using seasonal ingredients at The Americano. With a wine list of over 200 wines to choose from,. this sophisticated American steakhouse in Los Angeles, La Boucherie offers a surreal sky-high dining experience inside the tallest building on the West Coast.

Water Adventures

Treat Dad to the ultimate coastal getaway at one of IHG's exquisite  beachfront hotels . Luxurious relaxation awaits via an early morning of fishing, a sunset cruise, poolside cocktails, or a leisurely afternoon exploring the local surroundings by boat. From  Clearwater Beach  and  Destin  in Florida to exotic locales like  Phuket , there is no shortage of stunning resorts near the sand, where dads can enjoy solo vacations or families can indulge in snorkeling, deep-sea diving, paddleboarding, and other waterfront activities together.

Take Your Furry Friends with You

May is National Pet Month, but every month is the best time to travel with your pet in our eyes! Headed on a dog-friendly road trip? Or maybe your pups are frequent flyers. With pet-friendly hotels all over the world, your four-legged BFF will be pampered wherever you go.

Insider Tip: All Kimpton hotels are pet-friendly, with no size, weight, or breed restrictions, and no added fees. Check-in with your pup and you’ll be offered a selection of hotel amenities and extras including plush pet-bed loaners in your guest room, water bowls, mats, and more.

Portland, Oregon

Toronto, Canada

Paris, France

Rome, Italy

Melbourne, Australia

Pawsome Portland

With hundreds of dog-friendly trails, bars, and restaurants, Portland welcomes dogs with open arms. From leisurely strolls through lush parks to adventurous hikes in the nearby forests, Portland offers a good time for both you and your canine friend.

Tail-Wagging Toronto

Discover the beauty of Toronto with your companion animal by your side! This Canadian metropolis is a haven for dog lovers, offering a plethora of pet-friendly parks, trails, and attractions. Enjoy scenic walks along Lake Ontario's waterfront, explore bustling neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Queen West, and unwind at dog-friendly patios where your pup is treated like family. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences, Toronto promises a tail-wagging good time for all.

Woof à la Française

Embark on a positively delightful adventure in the City of Love! Paris is not just for romance; it's also a haven for four-legged friends. Enjoy charming walks along the Seine River, visit dog-friendly attractions like the Luxembourg Gardens, and dine at outdoor cafes where your pup will be treated like royalty. 

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Discover Rome’s ancient wonders and vibrant streets with your furry family member. Explore historic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, take leisurely strolls through picturesque neighborhoods, and indulge in mouthwatering gelato at pet-friendly cafes. With its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, Rome offers an unforgettable experience for both you and your loyal companion.

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Experience the laid-back vibes of Melbourne with your canine companion by your side! This colorful Australian city is a paradise for dog lovers, boasting spacious parks, scenic beaches, and dog-friendly cafes. From off-leash adventures in Royal Botanic Gardens to exploring trendy neighborhoods like Fitzroy and Collingwood, Melbourne offers endless opportunities for you and your furbaby to create lasting memories together.

Escape to the World's Best Beaches

Head to Brazil for a tropical vacation filled with samba rhythms, spirited carnivals, and breathtaking natural wonders. From the sparkling beaches of Maceió to the lush rainforest, Brazil offers an adventure like no other.

Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Greece on your next vacation. Explore ancient ruins, lounge on white sand beaches, and take in all the charming culture the Greek islands have to offer. 

Experience paradise on earth in Bora Bora. With its crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows, and breathtaking sunsets, this tropical paradise is the ultimate escape for luxury seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. 

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Luxury and sophistication abound at IHG hotels in the heart of Washington, D.C. Enjoy the utmost comfort and the warmest service as you explore the iconic landmarks of the nation's capital. From elegantly appointed rooms to rooftop bars with stunning city views, every moment in D.C. is truly memorable. 

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Traveling within the U.S. doesn't require a passport for citizens and residents. So whether you’re packing up a van and hitting the road, or hopping on a plane to another state, there are many fantastic destinations to explore. Discover some of the best places you can visit without a passport like San Juan, or more than 63 national parks, each offering unique landscapes and outdoor activities. Some of the most famous ones include the Grand Canyon , Yosemite , Yellowstone , Zion National Park , and the Great Smoky Mountains .

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Explore Arizona for its stunning desert landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions. From the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon to the serene beauty of Sedona's red rock formations, the state offers a myriad of experiences for every traveler. 

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Frequently asked questions, what makes ihg hotels & resorts a great choice for my next vacation.

At IHG, we offer a diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Whether you seek a  luxurious stay ,  beachfront escape , a cultural city adventure, or a peaceful countryside retreat, we have a property to suit your desires.

How can I find the perfect IHG hotel for my vacation?

You can easily explore our hotels by using our user-friendly website or mobile app. Simply enter your destination, travel dates, and any specific preferences you have, such as amenities or hotel brands. Our search tools will help you discover the ideal accommodation.

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Our amenities vary by brand and location, but generally include essentials like comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and exceptional customer service. Many of our properties also offer on-site dining, fitness centers, and swimming pools. Check the individual hotel's page for specific amenities.

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Yes, IHG frequently offers special promotions and exclusive deals  for our guests. These can include discounted room rates, bonus points, or packages that include meals or activities. Keep an eye on our website and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.

Does IHG offer any special discounts or partnerships for members of loyalty programs, organizations, or affiliated partners?

Yes, IHG Hotels & Resorts frequently collaborates with various loyalty programs, organizations, and affiliated partners to offer exclusive discounts and benefits to their members, such as  AAA ,  AARP , and  military discounts . These partnerships can provide you with access to discounted room rates, bonus loyalty points, or unique promotions. To discover if you're eligible for any of these special offers, please check our website or contact our reservations team for more information. Keep in mind that eligibility criteria and discounts may vary depending on the specific partnership or program.

How can I earn and redeem IHG One Rewards points for my vacation?

Enroll in our  IHG One Rewards program  to start earning points when you stay at our hotels. You can redeem these points for free nights or other exciting rewards, making your vacation even more enjoyable.

Can I book group reservations or events at IHG properties for special occasions or vacations with friends and family?

Absolutely! IHG offers  group reservations and event planning services  for weddings, meetings, reunions, and more. Contact our group reservations team for personalized assistance in organizing your special occasion.

Can I cancel or modify my reservation if my vacation plans change?

Most IHG reservations offer flexible cancellation policies. However, policies may vary by hotel and rate type, so it's essential to review the cancellation terms at the time of booking or contact the hotel directly for assistance.

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You can reach our customer service team through the contact information provided on our website. We're here to assist you with any questions or concerns related to your vacation planning or reservations.

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Why 2024 is the prime time to discover Kazakhstan

Direct flight routes, festivals with nomadic flair and millennia-old natural beauty are drawing travellers to the Kazakh Steppe this year. Here's how to explore the best of the country's landscapes, culture and events in 2024.

Stretching far out into the horizon, the vast grass seas of the Great Steppe roll across Central Asia in a rugged and dramatic fashion. Though occasionally roamed by the rare horse rider or lone nomad, the plains of Kazakhstan are largely unexplored by the majority of travellers. But this beautiful, remote region is increasingly showing its modern identity to the world through its cities, events and transport hubs. Thanks to a number of direct flight routes from London and 30-day visa-free access for UK visitors, it's now easier than ever to experience Kazakhstan’s distinctive culture and landscapes. Here’s how to do it.

Most visitors will enter Kazakhstan from the forest-swathed southeast, landing in Almaty . Divided by dense thickets of pine and birch, the city’s surrounding green mountain peaks conceal vast lakes and twisting horse-back trails. In Kolsai Lakes National Park, Lake Kaindy’s cerulean waters draw the most attention. Here, a landslide triggered by an earthquake formed a natural dam and submerged a spruce forest beneath the surface of the lake. It’s now surrounded by picturesque hiking trails and secluded accommodation options. For equally dramatic yet drastically different scenery, travel from Almaty to Charyn Canyon. Easily traversable, this vast red and golden gorge is cut through by a walkable or driveable (in a 4x4) trail guiding visitors to dizzying desert viewpoints.

Those keen to venture deeper into central Kazakhstan can take the train into the region of Turkistan and the historic Silk Road city of Shymkent . Life has persevered here since the fourth century, with the city playing host to Sufi sheikhs and Mongol leaders, and becoming a centre of Islamic learning under the Timurids. Hop over low-lying mud-brick walls and stroll between the turquoise-tiled domes that cap mausoleums around the city, or roam the battlement ridges of the protective outer wall. The city’s Uzbek architecture and Persian designs were conserved under Soviet rule, making it an ideal stop for those curious about the history of the Turkic Steppe and a great base for further exploration of the Turkistan Region.

When in the west, the port city of Aktau and its Caspian shores offer easy access to the otherworldly plateaus that characterise the Mangystau Region. Laced with lines of ochre rock and amber streaks, here colourful geology enshrouds labyrinthine desert trails and dramatic gorges. Sharp jutting ridges and undulating rock formations shadow clear traces of 50 million years of life existing in its canyons — palaeontologists regularly unearth new evidence of animal life in the Ustyurt Nature Reserve. From large Tyrannosaurus rex and mammoths to giant fish fossilised within the Paleozoic seas, the fauna of the region has been millennia in the making.  

All these landscapes have been navigated for centuries by the nomadic people of the steppe, whose ancient traditions you can witness today. Observe displays of horse riding or falconers flying their hunting eagles before settling down to try beshbarmak , a platter of boiled meat and innards served with a glass of fermented milk to settle the stomach. Alternatively, order qurt , a cheese made from goat’s or camel’s milk that’s stored in saddlebags and churned by the galloping motion of the nomads’ horses.

How to travel to Kazakhstan in 2024  

Why now? In September 2024, competitors from all over the Eurasian Steppe will converge in Astana for the fifth World Nomad Games . Athletes participate in events like mounted archery, falconry, goat pulling and horseback wrestling.

Where to stay? Visitors from the UK should base themselves in either Aktau or Almaty, both of which are accessible via direct flights from London Heathrow with Air Astana up to four times a week. These cosmopolitan hubs serve as gateways to the country’s best natural and cultural experiences. To catch the World Nomad Games, take a domestic flight to the country’s capital, Astana.

When to travel? Seasons are an intense affair in Kazakhstan as temperatures can range from 40C to -20C. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn, when the climate is more moderate. In winter, head to Almaty, where ski areas are accessed via cable-car.  

Related Topics

• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• CULTURAL TOURISM

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Why wait? The world is calling you now!

When it comes to traveling, one of the most stressful parts can be the planning, making sure each member of your family or friend group is in agreement on the itinerary, hotel, spending and more. Want to avoid all of that?

We recommend a solo trip!

Traveling on your own can seem scary, but with the proper preparation and a good head on your shoulders, the world is ready for you to explore it right now. Going it solo, there are a few less things to worry about like a hotel room size (you just need one bed!) and group flights, but there also some nuances to make note of.

That’s why we interviewed a professional solo traveler, who now helps others get outside of their comfort zone and off into the great unknown.

We chatted with Jen Tenzer, founder of The Soloist , a luxury solo travel advisory site with all the tips and tricks you could need when going it alone. She let us in on some insider tips, plus mapped out where the best places to venture solo are, from the Americas to Asia, Europe and beyond.

The best places to solo travel in America

The best places to solo travel in south and central america, the best places to solo travel in europe, the best places to solo travel in asia, the best places to solo travel in the rest of the world.

Plus, read on for tips and tricks for who should travel solo

• Solo travel FAQ

What our experts say: “Sedona, Austin, and New York City — These cities are very concentrated and accessible, with tons of activities to keep solo travelers busy. Consider a wellness hotel in Sedona, a foodie walking tour in Austin, or a solo museum visit in NYC,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: What can I say — since New York City is on the expert list and I totally agree. As cliché as it may be, the Big Apple has endless options for solo travelers, from watching a Broadway show to seeing landmarks or just exploring the many museums and parks the five boroughs have to offer.

Sedona, Arizona: If you’re in need of a wellness moment, go it solo to the southwest and head to Sedona, Arizona. For an actual retreat, check out the Sedona Mago Center for a SunTao spa. If you prefer solo excursions, head here for hikes and tours to do solo.

Austin, Texas: For a true blue Texas trip, consider going alone to Austin. This is the best place to catch a live show and vibe with likeminded people, or, as our expert recommended, join a food tour and leave full of BBQ and great memories.

New York City, New York: What can’t you do in New York? Our expert first recommended a Broadway show, and we couldn’t agree more. Find tickets here and then plan the rest of your trip, with tours designed for solo travelers like you.

What our experts say: “Costa Rica and Peru — Same as above! These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English,” said Tenzer. “I love the idea of a wellness-focused surf and yoga retreat in Costa Rica or joining a group trek to Machu Picchu!”

What our editors say: I need to add Brazil to this list, since I did take a trip there myself. For a more friendly and party atmosphere where you are bound to meet other backpackers and solo travelers, Rio de Janeiro would be a great home base. I also took a solo trip into the Amazon Rainforest, which was a crazy adventure, but when done right, was a life-changing and introspective trip to do on my own.

Costa Rica: Per our expert, unwind and relax with a yoga retreat, staying at the Pura Vida Retreat & Spa . You can also book surf lessons to stay active or book a multi-day tour here so you don’t have to make your own itinerary.

Peru: Machu Picchu is a top bucket list destination for many, so why wait for a group to go? Instead, join an EF tour that also takes you to Lima and Cuzco, and even the Amazon Rainforest should you opt to extend. If you’d rather explore on your own, book a highly-rated hostel for budget lodging, sorted by city.

Brazil: Brazil is a huge country, so we advise you to pick a few places or spend a long time exploring. For a true cultural explosion, Rio is the place to be and you can take daily tours of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and more. For the more adventurous, take a flight to Manaus and enter the Amazon Rainforest. We did it in spring 2022 and took our tour here.

What our experts say: “England, Portugal, Italy… I could go on and on! European cities in general make for perfect for solo trips because everything is walkable, there’s tons of activities to keep you busy, and the expansive European train network makes it easy to transfer between cities,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I added two countries to our expert list: Spain and Switzerland. Spain is a great one to tack on to the end of any European adventure, as it is super closely connected to Portugal and Italy from the list. You can go from the northern Basque country to the south of Valencia and see a huge range of culture, food and architecture in just one country.

England: To start, flights from the US to England aren’t too hard to find, and savvy travelers can use Skyscanner to find the best deals. Once you’ve arrived, rent a cottage for a relaxing stay in a town of your choice or head into the thick of it and go to London for a full itinerary of solo things to see and do.

Portugal: Portugal is a great country to explore solo, with Lisbon and Porto as standouts for a great combo of nature and city life. If you like to be solo but also experience a place as the locals do, consider a tour or activity with a local guide , like a cooking class or a walking tour.

Italy: Italy may seem like a place of romance, but it can also be a place of self-love for the solo traveler. Use the railroads to book trains throughout the country so you can see it all, from Rome to Florence to Venice and beyond to see the country for yourself. You can also book a solo tour through EF and not worry about making your own itinerary.

Spain: Architecture, food and culture blend seamlessly together in Spain. See it for yourself, with a trip through the country. We personally started in Barcelona and then headed to Madrid and Valencia, all via train or bus. Then load your days with museums, walking tours or even dance classes to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle.

What our experts say: “Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam — These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English. There’s so much to see and explore here,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I have to agree 100% with Thailand, as I lived there on my own for six months. The country is easy to explore via public transit, cabs and even short flights, inexpensive to travel in and has some of the best food, nature and culture I have been exposed to.

Thailand: What can I say about Thailand? I personally lived there for six months and still never ran out of things to do alone, and also ran into plenty of other solo travelers and backpackers throughout the country. If you want some guidance, consider a tour with an itinerary. If not, be sure to keep your wits about you and make sure to visit Bangkok , with a trip north to Chiang Mai and a trip south to the islands of Krabi or Phuket for the full Thailand picture.

Bali, Indonesia: Once you’ve booked your ticket to Bali, the rest of the trip is all about relaxing, unwinding and taking in the incredible nature. It is also a surfing hot spot, should you like to take a lesson from just $14. Bali is also famous for yoga, so why not stay at a spa and yoga retreat to charge up for your next adventure?

Vietnam: There are plenty of things to do in Vietnam, making it another hot spot for backpackers and solo travelers who want to explore Asia . Built on the water, be sure to take some tours down Halong Bay and the Mekong River, or take an island day trip to get all the sun and sand you need.

What our expert says: “Another less-obvious way to travel solo is by joining a group retreat or cruise ! You’re still traveling alone to a new destination and surrounding yourself with strangers, but there’s a comfort in knowing that you’re not  truly  alone in an emergency. It also takes some of the stress out of things when everything is pre-planned for you. Group travel experiences are a great way to tiptoe into solo travel,” said Tenzer.

• Search Expedia for multiple destinations
• Plan a Princess cruise
• Shop for cruise deals and discounts at MSC Cruises
• Get a single stateroom for the Celebrity Cruises solo traveler

Solo travel FAQ with an expert:

What is the appeal of traveling alone? “Solo travel offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with your core wants and needs,” said Tenzer. Solo travel enables you to explore wherever and whenever you want, stick to a tight budget or truly treat yourself and fill your days with whatever activities light you up! It’s a newfound freedom that allows you to return from vacation actually refreshed.  You’ll return re-motivated to show up for everyone in your life as your best self!”

What are some benefits of solo travel? “Solo travel is incredibly empowering,” said Tenzer. “You don’t know how capable you truly are until you’ve pushed yourself beyond your comfort zone. Solo trips always come with the added benefit of a self-confidence boost. Solo travel is also a fantastic way to meet like-minded new friends. I know it sounds counter-intuitive, but I’ve met infinitely more people traveling solo than when traveling with a companion.”

Who should solo travel? “There’s a bit of cliché around solo travel; that it’s best suited for 20-something single backpackers on a gap year,” said Tenzer. “In reality, there are all sorts of reasons why someone may choose to travel alone: A major life transition like a breakup, career change or the loss of a loved one. Maybe they’re feeling burnt out and craving a personal recharge, or maybe they’re just sick of waiting for other people’s travel schedules and budgets to perfectly align. I’ve had solo travel clients in their 20s and in their 70s. The common tie amongst solo travelers isn’t a certain demographic, it’s a certain state of mind — ready to shake things up and have an adventure.”

How long do I need to solo travel for? “Solo travel doesn’t have to mean an intimidating 2-week trip to some far flung destination. The same solo travel benefits can be obtained from a weekend away to a nearby city you’ve always wanted to explore,” said Tenzer. “I always recommend starting small in your own city. Try visiting a museum on your own or dining out alone. Or, if you’re traveling with family, maybe you spend some time alone during the day and meet up with everyone else at dinner.”

When choosing lodging, what are some tips and tricks for solo travelers? “It’s important to pick a hotel that’s centrally-located in the heart of your destination,” suggested Tenzer. “This is not the time to pick a budget hotel located outside the city in a remote area. Ideally, your hotel is walkable to all of the major sights and attractions, so that you have the freedom to come and go as you please without being reliant on taxis. I also don’t recommend Airbnb’s for a first big solo trip, and prefer the support and safety that comes from a front desk staff who can help in a pinch. 

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• Asia-Pacific

Hidden gems of Central Asia captivate Chinese tourists

Under spotlight of bri, region's travel boom further fueled by visa-free policy.

It is as old and venerable as Rome, the eternal city, and Athens, the city of wisdom, yet Samarkand, the pearl of the Muslim world, draws only a fraction of the attention that those two capitals do.

Indeed, while most people know that Rome is in Italy and Athens is in Greece, few would have even heard of Samarkand, let alone know that it is in Uzbekistan.

That very anonymity, largely a result of being all but ignored by the world's travelers, may be what is helping fuel a surge of Chinese tourists to the countries of Central Asia, where they are discovering the marvels of Samarkand and other ancient and unheralded treasures.

This new interest in the region was helped 11 years ago when President Xi Jinping unveiled in Astana, Kazakhstan, a proposal that would eventually be known as the Belt and Road Initiative. The spotlight was shone on this corner of the world and sparked travelers' passion to discover new attractions and adventures.

"Before going to Central Asia I had only a vague idea of what it is like," said Yu Shengnan, 31, an office worker in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

"I chose to go there because I was planning a low-cost world trip and realized that cities such as Almaty and Samarkand were affordable transit points for traveling through the Middle East."

Yu, who completed her 300-day around-the-world trip last year, said she was delighted by what Central Asia had to offer.

"For me, Central Asia was full of wonderful surprises. There's a lot of stunning natural landscapes and rich historical heritage to explore. The architecture is diverse, with Soviet-era style to be found next to magnificent mosques. I've been to many Arab countries, but the mosques in Samarkand are astonishing. Central Asia really does provide an unforgettable experience."

The visa-free policy adopted by China and Kazakhstan last year has added to the allure of Central Asian countries for Chinese tourists, who can now stay in Kazakhstan for up to 30 days visa-free, and in Uzbekistan for 10 days. Last year, about 217,000 Chinese tourists visited Kazakhstan, a twelvefold increase from 2022, according to official figures.

As 2024 has been designated the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China, an even larger influx of Chinese tourists is expected to visit the country.

In the first quarter, Central Asia witnessed a significant rise in travel, with Chinese visitors increasing by more than 300 percent year-on-year, according to Trip.com, a travel service platform in China.

Most of the visitors are millennials and Generation Z, who are drawn to destinations such as Almaty in Kazakhstan, Tashkent in Uzbekistan, Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, and Dushanbe in Tajikistan.

Central Asia is essentially attracting two types of tourists, Yu said, namely those who view it as a cost-effective transit point on long trips and those who seek niche travel destinations after visiting other countries.

"It's a place where you can experience deep historical and cultural immersion," she said.

Qian Shihao, 29, an analyst in Shanghai, who visited Central Asia 10 months ago, his first overseas trip after the pandemic, said he wanted a destination off the beaten track after having traveled to more than 20 countries.

"I love visiting places with historical depth. I chose Samarkand because I hadn't come across anyone in my social circle who had been there. From there I explored other cities in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan."

Qian said he was most impressed by the "history enthusiasts" he met during his 15-day trip.

"These Chinese tourists come to Central Asia intent on seeing history. They visit ancient ruins and cities that have vanished, and are often surrounded by grazing land or arid desert," he said.

"Locals are mostly blase about these surroundings, but for those Chinese tourists who come here with wide-open eyes there are invaluable fragments of history to be found.

"Here and there, you can even find shards with inscriptions on them. You'll never get this in Europe or Southeast Asia."

Historic links

For many Chinese tourists the deep historic connections between China and Central Asia are a significant draw.

Tales and depictions of the celebrated monk and traveler Xuan Zang (602-664) and the missions of the diplomat and explorer Zhang Qian, an envoy in the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD) to the West, can be found in local museums, Yu said.

"You'll even come across street artists painting the story of Zhang on hand fans," she said. "In China, such scenes are rare these days, but here they continue to keep these stories alive. It's a unique moving experience, unlike anything in Europe or the Middle East."

Yang Hongchao, 35, an algorithm engineer in Shanghai, also chose Central Asia as an overseas travel destination following the pandemic.

"Growing up in Xinjiang I was familiar with the Tianshan Mountains in China but curious about their extension into Central Asia," Yang said.

"Even though we Chinese are right next to Central Asia, its countries are largely a mystery for us. So I decided to spend three months exploring them.

"Central Asia's landscapes are stunning and often underestimated. The people are friendly, and home-stays in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan offer a unique opportunity to experience local life. This has left a lasting impression on me. Some of my friends now want to follow in my footsteps."

Ardak Akymhan, 35, from Hami, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, who has lived in Almaty for more than 10 years, said the number of Chinese tourists to Kazakhstan this year has increased sharply.

"Last year, few companies needed bilingual guides, but now one company alone is recruiting 50 to 100 Chinese-speaking guides," said Ardak, who has been a Chinese tour guide in the capital city for two years.

She attributes the growing number to the visa-free policy and the promotion of Kazakh culture on Chinese social media platforms such as Douyin and Xiaohongshu.

"Previously few Chinese regarded Kazakhstan as a travel destination. They're now being attracted by the great scenery and cultural riches they see on social media," she said.

Cai Jiaxin, 32, who has worked in tourism for nine years, said that as early as 14 years ago the shoots of blossoming tourism in Central Asia were beginning to appear.

"Our travel agency started offering Central Asia tours in 2010, but the groups were small and mainly business-oriented. However, with the Belt and Road Initiative, interest in Central Asia has visibly grown. After the China-Central Asia Summit in Xi'an last year there has been a surge in interest and in the number of tour groups."

The visa-free policy has led to a 30 percent year-on-year increase in the number of tour groups, Cai said.

"During the May Day holiday, many tour groups and trade exhibition groups headed to Central Asia. This year many more Chinese trade exhibition groups are heading there to showcase their products in exhibitions and explore business opportunities, boosting trade between China and Central Asian countries."

Deepening relationship

Zou Tongqian, the first Chinese vice-rector of the "Silk Road" International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage in Samarkand, said there are many reasons for the recent travel boom in Central Asia.

"It's closely tied to the deepening relationship between Central Asian countries and China," Zou said.

"At last year's China-Central Asia Summit, China and the five Central Asian countries agreed to boost cooperation in many areas, while emphasizing tourism cooperation and the creation of China-Central Asia travel routes. The visit of the Uzbek president to China and the frequent visits of Chinese governmental delegations to Central Asia have all boosted the two sides' business and tourism cooperation."

An increase in the number of flights — including direct flights between China and Central Asian countries boosted by government policies — has also contributed greatly to making Central Asia more attractive as a tourist destination, Zou said.

In addition, the region has a distinct advantage over other popular tourist destinations such as Japan, Europe and Southeast Asia, because "many well-known Chinese stories and legends are set in this region, providing a sense of familiarity and connection for Chinese tourists", he said.

Rapid economic growth in Central Asia has also given a fillip to regional tourism, he said.

"When I first came here in 2019 few people had cars, but now road traffic is hectic," Zou said. "Increased car ownership and the extremely robust real estate market have also contributed to the tourism boom."

Challenges ahead

However, even against this backdrop, the continued success of the nascent industry is by no means assured, particularly given the region's lack of mature tourism infrastructure.

The problems that most Chinese tourists complain about include language barriers and patchy services such as transportation and accommodation.

After traveling in the region for three months, Yang, the algorithm engineer, called for better regulation of the industry.

"I once hailed a taxi and was overcharged, and I have had to double-check to ensure I'm not being overcharged when I exchange currency. The other thing is that with most people speaking Russian, communication can sometimes be very difficult," he said.

Qian, the analyst, said: "When I first walked into Tashkent Airport I had the distinct feeling that Uzbekistan is simply not equipped to handle mass tourism. None of the signs seemed to be for tourists, there was no clearly marked currency exchange counter, and no obvious signs provided tourist information. Visitors had to use hand gestures to ask for help or they had to search online."

Nevertheless, asked if he would return to the region, Qian was unequivocal.

"Definitely. Central Asia has really got me hooked. The local culture is like a melting pot, blending obvious Western and Eastern influences that coexist harmoniously," he said.

"I believe Central Asia will eventually become a highly popular tourist destination, and I'm sure that as this happens the Silk Road will be reflected in its former glory."

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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What to Do in Moscow — the Best Travel Tips for this Historic City

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The Russian capital is the largest city in Europe with a population of over 13 million, and has a long history as the capital of one of the most important countries and empires in world history. While Russia is often cast in a negative light in the media in Western countries, Moscow is actually one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world and although there certainly are some political issues to consider there, it is a place with plenty of fun things to do and see.

The location of the city on the Moskva River is one of the reasons that it developed, and the earliest records of the city date to the twelfth century. At the time Moscow was only a small town, although it started to grow into a prominent trading city towards the late thirteenth century.

What are the Best Things to Do in Moscow?

While there are many different attractions that you will be able to see in Moscow, there is no doubt that the most iconic of these is Red Square , which is surrounded by the oldest and most prominent buildings in the city. It is right in the heart of the city and on every tourist map you’ll find. The cobblestone square is surrounded by beautiful architecture and a lot of the history of this city took place here and you obviously have access to the public area at any time of day or night. It is well worth planning a night visit for some spectacular photographs. Around Red Square you will also find the colorful towers of Saint Basil’s Cathedral.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

The onion-shaped domes of Saint Basil’s Cathedral are unforgettable and it is on everyone’s list of places to visit in Moscow. They were designed to make the building look like the shape of a flame on a bonfire and although the Soviet government was pronounced in their anti-religiousness, even they knew better than to do anything with this iconic Moscow attraction. It was ordered to be built in 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and it is far from… terrible.

While the Kremlin is often associated with the government, much of the complex is open to visitors, and is well worth spending a few days exploring. Although it is still an active government complex, part of it is open from Friday through Wednesday from 10 am to 5 pm.

While you are at the Kremlin doing some Moscow sightseeing, check out the world’s largest bell, which sits on those grounds. It was originally cast in 1735 at the request of Empress Anna Ioanovna , a niece of the famous Peter the Great.

Tsar Bell postcard

Lenin’s Mausoleum

Lenin’s Mausoleum houses a glass sarcophagus with the embalmed body of… wait for it…. Vladimir Lenin. It is not open for too long each day, only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

One of the remnants of the Cold War, and 165 feet below the surface of the city, it is a collection of tunnels and bunkers that you can now see, but it is only available via a scheduled tour. Tour packages are available at all hours of the day, catering to a range of ages, some of which focus more on the historical aspects of the bunker, while other take a nearly comic angle on the tangible threat of nuclear annihilation for all humankind.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

Located in the basement of a technical school in the suburbs, the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games features about 60 machines from the Soviet era including video games, pinball machines, and others. The museum has an underground feel and is one of the oddest Moscow attractions you can imagine, and although only 50 to 55 of the games are playable, each of the machines paints a picture of life and entertainment in the past, during the Cold War behind the Iron Curtain.

Laika Monument

Laika was the first living thing to circle the Earth in outer space. It did so in Sputnik 2, which made over 2,000 revolutions of the Earth before disintegrating on reentry. This statue was installed near a Moscow military facility in 2008 in honor of this Moscow mutt that got in a spacesuit and got shot into outer space.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space

On the more traditional list of what to see in Moscow, this is a massive, 350-foot fall obelisk that commemorates Yuri Gagarin’s 1961 orbit of earth and the feeling that the U.S.S.R. was going to dominate the space race.

Novodevichy Cemetery

The cemetery was opened in 1898, but once famous Russians like Nikolai Gogol and Sergey Askakov got re-intermentered there, after their former necropolises were demolished under Stalin, it got even more popular. Here you can find the graves of Chekov, Bulgakov, Khrushchev, Yeltsin, Tolstoy, and also a number of Russian cosmonauts.

Fallen Monument Park

When the Soviet Union fell, so did dozens and dozens of monuments to historical figures from the past of the U.S.S.R. Some ended up at in the Fallen Monument Park, which is also known as the Park of the Fallen Heroes. In this park near Gorky Park , you can find statues of Lenin, Stalin, and other heros of the Soviet past.

Institute of Russian Realist Art

This museum was only opened in 2011, largely consisting of a private collector’s extensive collection. It has pieces that reflect the artistic style of socialist realism, which was the officially approved art of the Soviet Union. Most consider it merely propaganda , but it is eerily beautiful.

State Darwin Museum

In a society that devalued religion and religious beliefs, of course there is a museum dedicated to Charles Darwin, who’s evolutionary theory still irks most religious people in the world. It was built in 1907 and has over 3,000 pieces in a three story building.

The Pushkin Museum

For those of you that have a keen eye for art, the Pushkin Museum is one of the things to see in Moscow, for sure. There are some fine original pieces in here, and it’s devoted to Western art. You will spend a good few hours in here, just walking around, admiring the artwork.

More Fun Things to do in Moscow?

Along with its historical and touristic attractions, the culture in Moscow is also a particularly thriving, with the ballet and the orchestras of Moscow being internationally recognized. There are also plenty of other venues for enjoying live music and theatre, while another of the distinctively Russian attractions is the Moscow State Circus . The city is also home to some of the finest restaurants, with internationally renowned chefs, while the local cuisine is also quite distinctive and worth trying during your visit.

The things to see and enjoy are also complemented by the range of activities that you can enjoy in the winter, with one of the most popular being ice-skating. There are several ice-rinks around the city that tend to be quite busy when they are open, but it is something that many people will want to do during their visit. If you are visiting during the warmer months there is also a water park that is fun for families, while the Moscow Zoo is the oldest in Russia. If you are looking for something a little more adrenaline fueled, you can take flights in a MiG fighter aircraft over the city.

The Geography Of Moscow

Central Moscow

The heart of Moscow is found on the north bank of the Moskva River, and is where many of the historical buildings and the Kremlin are located. This is not generally a residential area, as almost all of the buildings are museums, churches, monuments or buildings dedicated to the running of the government. The Kremlin complex takes up much of this part of the city, while the Red Square and Kitay-Gorod area has much of the rest of Central Moscow. Most visitors to the city will spend several days exploring this historic part of the city looking around the various Moscow tourist attractions that are located here.

The Kremlin may be the home to the Russian Government, but most of this complex is actually open to visitors, and has a range of museums, churches and exhibitions, along with its fortifications. One of the most impressive attractions is the Cathedral of the Annunciation , which is beautifully topped with a series of gold domes, and was once the private chapel of the Tzars, while now it is one of the best things to do in Moscow. The Armoury Museum is another must-visit as it has a stunning collection of treasures, a diamond exhibition, ceremonial armor and state regalia. However, there are numerous other sites worth visiting in the Kremlin as well.

The cobbled grounds of Red Square are another of the most popular tourist sites in Central Moscow, and the Kazan Cathedral and Saint Basil’s Cathedral are both well worth seeing. In the square itself, you will also find monuments to Alexander II, and a grand mausoleum for Vladimir Lenin, where his body is embalmed. They are on the must-do list of places to visit in Moscow, Russia. If you do need to find a little more peace and quiet in the city center, it is worth spending some time exploring the pleasant Alexander Garden and the Taynitsky Garden.

As all of the historic center of Moscow is filled with the historic buildings, it is only the most expensive hotels that are present on the fringes of this part of the city and it definitely a place to visit in Moscow. Most people looking for budget options may need to stay a little further away from the center. Here are the hotel options that are in the center:

Where to Stay in Moscow: Central Moscow

Luxury – Hotel National – This grand hotel was opened in 1903, and is around 200 yards from Red Square, with a swimming pool and hot tub within the hotel. Rooms are beautifully decorated in a traditional style, while the reception and shared areas of the hotel are especially opulent. Rates begin at around $310 per night.

Luxury – Hotel Metropol – An Art Nouveau style hotel built in 1899, by 1918 this building was occupied and used as the Second House of the Soviets. Today it is in a great location for the Kremlin and Red Square, offering beautiful accommodation with a swimming pool and lovely restaurant and bar. Rooms available from around $290.

Luxury – St Regis Moscow – Just a short walk from the main attractions of the city, this hotel has a lovely swimming pool and a spa offering a range of treatments to help you relax. The rooms are beautifully decorated, with the bathrooms being particularly grand. Rooms begin at around $295 per night.

North-Central Moscow

Lying to the North of the Kremlin and the Kitay-Gorod district, this part of the city has a large number of historic churches to visit, mainly dating from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Of particular interest is the Nativity Convent, which was a nunnery founded in the fourteenth century and relocated to its current position in the fifteenth century. The Katholikon in this complex dates from 1500, while several buildings have been added to the complex since. Another distinctive building is the Nativity Church at Putinki, which has a tented roof and is topped with several blue spires with gold crosses at their peak.

One of the interesting aspects that is worth investigating in this part of the city are the two attractions that look at some of the workings of Moscow during the Soviet era. The first of these now partially opened to the public is the Lubyanka building and prison, which was the heart of the security services in Moscow, and was also where many of the opponents of the government was taken. There is also the state museum of Gulag history, which looks at the history of the development of Russian gulags, and also features photographs, art, and even the memoirs and personal belongings of those who were sent to the gulags. Both are great things to do in Moscow when it rains, since they are indoors.

There is also a strong cultural aspect to this area of the city, with the Bolshoi Theater being home to some of the premier ballet, opera and classical music companies, and where their performances are staged. Within the Hermitage Gardens there is also the Novaia Opera (reserve your tickets early though), which hosts daily opera performances, while in the summer the gardens also host an open air jazz festival. If you are looking for a more colorful form of entertainment, the Nikulin Circus also has its home in this part of the city, and has regular performances and is well worth a private tour.

Where to Stay in Moscow: North-Central Moscow

Budget – Matrushka Hotel – Within walking distance from Red Square and the attractions of the city center, this hotel has free WiFi and has a bar on-site. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with an en-suite shower in the room, and a flat screen TV. Rooms start at around $35 per night.

Mid-range – Hotel Otokomae – Just minutes away from the Bolshoi theatre, this hotel has a lively decoration featuring a lot of modern art. Rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi and flat screen TVs, while there is also a free breakfast included. Prices start at $60 per night.

Luxury – Moscow Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel – A 5-star hotel that has a butler services sets the tone well, and this hotel has a lovely heated pool and is in a good location for exploring the city. Rooms are comfortable and spacious, with large screen TV, air conditioning and free WiFi. Rates start at $210 per night.

East-Central Moscow

For those who are looking to explore the east of the city, there are a range of museums and galleries to explore here, including some that are a little more quirky and unusual than what you would expect elsewhere. One of these is Bunker 42, Tagansky Protected Command Point, which is a large underground military bunker that was designed to have housed up to 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack during the Cold War. You can now take tours of the bunker, see an exhibition that looks at the history of the bunker, and take in a meal in the restaurant 65 meters below the surface.

There are also some interesting museums that are worth a look in this part of the city, with the Museum of Russian Icon being a free museum looking at the history of religious icons from Russia and beyond. Another fascinating place that will be of particular interest for car lovers is the Museum Moskovskiy Transport, which has a collection of several hundred vehicles, looking at how people would have moved around Moscow, while there are also some racing cars preserved here as well. The Polytechnic Museum is another place worth visiting, with collections and exhibitions looking at science and technology.

Almost every part of Moscow has historical buildings that you can visit, and here in the east of the city the Choral Synagogue was the first Jewish synagogue completed in the city in 1891, and has an ornately decorated interior. Lying on the banks of the Moskva River, the Moscow Orphanage has recently been auctioned for redevelopment, but was a huge building that was developed by Catherine the Great as a way to improve the lot of Moscow’s orphans, and while it isn’t open, you will still see the building in its prominent position. There are also several historic churches that can be explored in this part of the city.

Where to Stay in Moscow: East-Central Moscow

Budget – Wood Design Hotel – Within easy reach of the city center and the attractions in this part of the city, this quirky hotel has utilized a range of wood in the design of the room and throughout the hotel. Rooms have flat screen TVs with cable channels and free Wifi, and are simple and comfortable. Rooms start at $40 per night.

Mid-range – Red Brick Hotel – Less than a mile from the city center and Red Square, this hotel has a stylish restaurant and bar on-site, and includes a free breakfast. Rooms are nicely furnished with a modern shower room, with air conditioning and free WiFi included. Rates start at $75 a night.

Luxury – Custos Hotel Lubyansky – Located within easy reach of the city center, this hotel offers pleasant accommodation in a modern style. Rooms are air conditioned and offer spacious accommodation, with flat screen TV and Wifi included. Rates start at $95 per night.

South-Central Moscow

Lying between the south bank of the Moskva River and the Garden Ring Road, this part of the city has a particular wealth of historic churches from the sixteenth and seventeenth century. The Church of St Clement is an eighteenth century Russian Orthodox church that is topped with five domes in gold and blue, while also decorated with an attractive baroque interior. The Temple Museum of Saint Nicholas is another site worth taking a tour of, with its beautiful gold altarpiece depicting religious scenes, while there is also a range of religious art on display throughout the church.

One of the biggest attractions here is the Tretyakov Gallery, which has one of the largest collections of Russian Art on display in the city. The gallery has a collection covering many centuries up until the end of the nineteenth century, including some of the most noted Russian artists working in sculpture as well as on canvas. The New Tretyakov Gallery is an expansion of the main museum which has its own building in Gorky Park, and has the modern art collection of the gallery, and has some fascinating exhibitions and contemporary art on display.

If you prefer to explore the outdoors in Moscow, then Gorky Park is on the south bank of the river, and is a large park that is a pleasant place for a walk and to enjoy, with impressive gardens and fountains dotted throughout. There is also another museum of contemporary art located towards the southern end of the park. For those who enjoy the ballet, there is also the State Central Theater Museum of Bahrushin, which looks at the history of the ballet in Moscow.

Where to Stay in Moscow: South-Central Moscow

Budget – Delight Inn Polyanka – Offering simple accommodation with nicely decorated rooms, this hotel has access to a shared kitchen and also an outdoor terrace. The economy rooms have free WiFi and hot drinks facilities, while there is also access to a shared bathroom, with the option to upgrade to an en-suite. Rooms begin at around $35.

Mid-range – N-House Hotel – Around 15 minutes walk away from the city center, this hotel has tastefully decorated rooms that are air conditioned, and with a modern bathroom. There are flat screen TVs with satellite channels and the Wifi available. Rooms from around $65 per night.

Luxury – Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow – This grand hotel is just on the south bank of the river, with some rooms enjoying views of St Basil’s Cathedral and the city center. Rooms are large and spacious and are beautifully decorated with grand bathrooms. Air conditioning and large flat screen TVs in each room, while the hotel also has a swimming pool and spa. Rates begin at around $255 per night.

West-Central Moscow

To the west of the city center is one of the most traditional areas of the city, with Arbat Street being a pedestrianized walkway that stretches for around a kilometre, and is a lovely area to see the traditional street architecture of Moscow. Naturally, it also has many cafes and restaurants to serve visitors to the city, and has some western chains that have also arrived in this part of the city. It is also worth exploring some of the side streets of the area, away from the slightly touristy feel of this street.

As with every area of central Moscow, there are no shortage of historic churches to visit. However, one of the more interesting sites is the Christ the Saviour Cathedral, which was only completed in the 1990s. This cathedral was on the site of a previous church that was demolished during the governance of Joseph Stalin, and served as a large open-air swimming pool before being rebuilt after the fall of the Soviet Union. Now there is a museum beneath the cathedral looking at the history of the site.

You will also find several museums worth exploring in this area of the city, with the Museum of the History of Moscow having an extensive exhibition looking at the growth, development and the people of the city over the centuries. The Pushkin Museum is also well worth exploring with its extensive collection of European art, including works from Botticelli, Degas, Renoir and van Gogh.

Where to Stay in Moscow: West-Central

Budget – People Business Novinsky Hotel – Just a short walk from Arbat Street and within a short walk of the city center, this modern hotel offers simple and comfortable accommodation. Rooms have air conditioning and WiFi and compact bathrooms, with breakfast also available. Rates start at $30 a night.

Mid-range – Barin Residence – This hotel has traditionally decorated rooms that also have modern bathrooms, with WiFi, flat screen TVs and are spacious with large beds. The service includes a free breakfast and there is also a spa on-site with relaxing treatments on offer. Rooms from $70 per night.

Luxury – Pentahotel Moscow Arbat – This stylish modern hotel is located in the Book building on Arbat Street, and has been designed with modern facilities and has an attractive bar and restaurant area. Rooms are air conditioned with flat screen TVs, Wifi and large comfortable beds with views over the city. Prices start at around $95 per night.

How To Get To Moscow

There are four international airports that serve Moscow city, and each is within an hour’s journey of the city center, with international routes serving destinations in Russia, Europe and across the world. The city also has extensive railway connections, with routes to the capital cities of many European countries, along with the Trans-Siberian railway that allows you to take the train from Beijing or Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia. There are also long-distance bus services from many cities in Asia, Eastern Europe and Central Europe, meaning that there are plenty of options that will allow you to get in to the Russian capital.

Travel Around The City

Moscow has a comprehensive public transport system that is made up of a combination of buses, trams, trolleybuses and an underground rail network, which makes it easy to get around, with routes running from 5:30am to 1am. You can buy a cheap Troika card for the Moscow metro which you can then top up with cash to pay for your journeys, and the rates for using these routes are very reasonable. Traveling on the underground metro is also a great opportunity to see the grand ornate stations that are almost attractions themselves.

Food And Drink In Moscow

As you would expect in any cosmopolitan capital, there are plenty of international cuisine options available, but trying the local food and drink will certainly add to your cultural experience of the city. There are plenty of local dishes to look out for on Moscow’s menus, and while beef stroganoff has been exported around the world, it is a tasty dish of fried beef in a sauce made with sour cream, onions and mushrooms that is best tried in Moscow. Blinis are thin pancakes that are usually served with either a sweet or savory filling such as smoked salmon, while another dish to look out for is borscht, a soup made with beetroot and tomatoes.

There are plenty of drinks to try in Russia, and while vodka is key to the culture, there are plenty of beers that are brewed and served here, with a thriving craft beer scene too. Many of the wine options are imported from Georgia, with a few Russian wineries, but there are still several champagne producers that make the drink in Russia. One of the drinks to look out for is medovukha, which is a drink similar to mead that is produced by fermenting honey and water together. If you are looking for something non-alcoholic, mors is a fruity berry drink while ryazhenka is a thick milk based drink worth looking out for.

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