Taxis, Buses & Shared Taxis
Shared Taxis (Sammeltaxis)
Shared taxis are the backbone of Uzbek long-distance transport — everywhere trains do not run. They work like this: At bus stations, drivers stand and call out destination cities. When 4 passengers are together, they set off. Prices are negotiated per seat. It is cheap, spontaneous, and a great way to meet locals.
- Samarkand–Bukhara: 4–6€/person, 3–4h
- Bukhara–Khiva: 8–12€/person, 6–7h
- Tashkent–Samarkand: 3–5€/person, 4h
Tip: You can also rent the whole car (pay for 4 seats) and leave immediately — especially useful for two or three people.
City Taxis
In all cities: use Yandex Go or MyTaxi. Fair prices, no bargaining needed, GPS tracking. A city ride in Tashkent costs 1–3€. In Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, distances are so short that a taxi is rarely needed.
Buses & Marshrutkas
Marshrutkas (minibuses) are the cheapest option for intercity travel — but also the most uncomfortable. Tight, hot, no fixed schedules. Suitable for short distances (e.g., Urgench–Khiva), for long distances trains or shared taxis are better.
Rental Cars
Generally possible, but not recommended. Reasons: chaotic driving style, poor roads outside main routes, lack of signage in English, and insufficient insurance coverage. The Afrosiyob train and shared taxis are more comfortable and stress-free.
