Traveling across Uzbekistan by train is one of the most scenic, affordable, and culturally rich experiences on the Silk Road. With fast bullet trains like the Afrosiyob and atmospheric overnight routes to cities like Bukhara and Khiva, the country offers a railway network perfect for adventurous travelers.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your train travel in Uzbekistan — including booking tips, route details, train classes, and essential travel advice for 2025.

🚆 Why Travel by Train in Uzbekistan?

Train travel in Uzbekistan is not only affordable and convenient, but also culturally immersive and eco-friendly. With well-maintained railways connecting major Silk Road cities, it offers a unique way to experience the country — without the stress of long road trips or costly domestic flights.

Whether you're exploring ancient Samarkand, spiritual Bukhara, remote Khiva, or the lively capital Tashkent, the train makes your journey just as memorable as your destination.

🗺️ Major Train Routes (2025)

Here’s a list of top routes you can take — including travel time and recommended train type:

Notes	Train Type	Travel Time	Route
Fastest, modern, scenic	Afrosiyob	2 hours	Tashkent → Samarkand
Frequent connections, both fast & classic	Afrosiyob/Sharq	1.5-2 hours	Samarkand → Bukhara
Best done overnight	Sleeper/Day Train	6-8 hours	Bukhara → Khiva (via Urgench)
Stunning mountain views	Night Train	6–8 hours	Tashkent → Fergana Valley
For advanced explorers	Sleeper Train	17–20 hours	Tashkent → Nukus

🚄 Types of Trains in Uzbekistan

Afrosiyob (High-Speed Bullet Train)

• Manufactured by Spanish company Talgo
• Speeds up to 250 km/h
• Modern, clean, fast
• Seats: Business, Economy, VIP
• Best for tourists and short city hops

🧳 Example: Tashkent → Samarkand → Bukhara in one day? Totally doable on Afrosiyob.

Sharq Trains

• Classic intercity trains
• Cheaper than Afrosiyob
• More frequent stops (connects small towns too)
• Comfortable with A/C and assigned seats

🧳 Example: Great if Afrosiyob is sold out or if you want more interaction with locals.

Sleeper Trains (Night Trains)

• Ideal for long routes like Bukhara–Khiva or Tashkent–Nukus
• Cabins come in 3 types:
  • SV (1st class) – Private 2-bed cabin
  • Kupe (2nd class) – Shared 4-bed cabin
  • Platskart (3rd class) – Open dormitory-style, very local

🧳 Example: Take the night train from Bukhara to Khiva, sleep onboard, and wake up in another world.

🎟️ How to Book Tickets

Option 1: Online

• 🔗 eticket.railway.uz – Official site (in Russian/Uzbek; passport required)
• 🔗 12go.asia – User-friendly, accepts foreign credit cards<

📝 Pro Tip: Book at least 10–15 days in advance, especially in spring and autumn.

Option 2: At the Station

• Available in major cities (Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara)
• Bring passport; write train name and date in advance
• Use local sim or translation apps to assist if needed

💰 Ticket Prices (Approximate for 2025)

Route	Afrosiyob (2nd)	Sharq (2nd)	Kupe Sleeper
Tashkent → Samarkand	$18–22	$12–15	N/A
Samarkand → Bukhara	$20–25	$14–18	$15–20
Bukhara → Khiva (sleeper)	N/A	N/A	$18–30

Prices may vary by season and class.

📸 Real Example Itinerary

3-Day Express Trip Using Trains:

Day 1:

• Morning: Tashkent → Samarkand (Afrosiyob – 2 hrs)
• Visit Registan, Shah-i-Zinda, Gur-e-Amir
• Evening train to Bukhara (Afrosiyob – 1.5 hrs)
• Overnight stay in Bukhara

Day 2:

• Full day in Bukhara — Ark Fortress, Kalon Minaret, Lyabi Hauz

Day 3:

• Overnight train to Khiva (Kupe Sleeper – 7 hrs)
• Morning arrival and city exploration

🎒 Packing Tips for Train Travel

• 🎫 Print your ticket and carry your passport
• 🍱 Bring food/snacks and bottled water
• 🔋 Pack a power bank and headphones
• 😴 Earplugs, sleep mask for night trains
• 🧴 Hand sanitizer, tissues, and travel towel
• 👟 Easy slip-on shoes or sandals

✅ Final Thoughts

Train travel in Uzbekistan combines efficiency, comfort, and cultural richness. Whether you're racing between ancient cities on the Afrosiyob or sleeping your way to Khiva under the desert stars, the train is more than transportation — it’s part of the adventure.

So grab your backpack, pick your route, and hop aboard the Silk Road railway in 2025. It’s safe, scenic, and unforgettable.

👉 Browse our Uzbekistan Travel Blog or book a custom train-based tour with us today!