Money & Saving Tips
Uzbekistan has revolutionized its financial system in recent years. Here are the most important tips:
- Cash vs. Card: Until recently, Uzbekistan was a cash-only country. Now, hotels, better restaurants, and larger stores accept Visa and Mastercard. However, you still need cash in sum at bazaars, small restaurants, and for taxis.
- Currency exchange: Best done at the airport or in banks. The black market exchange rate practically no longer exists — since the currency reform in 2017, the official and unofficial rates are almost identical.
- ATM: ATMs are available in all cities. Kapitalbank and Ipoteka Bank have the most reliable ATMs for foreign cards. Limit often 2,000,000 UZS (~150€) per withdrawal.
- Food at the bazaar: The cheapest and best meal is at the bazaar. Plov, shashlik, samsa, laghman — all fresh and for 1–3€.
- Shared taxis (marshrutkas): Shared taxis run between cities from the bazaars. Much cheaper than private taxis and a great way to meet locals.
- Book Afrosiyob early: The high-speed trains are very popular. Book tickets 10–14 days in advance online at railway.uz.
- Bargaining at the bazaar: Haggling is done in tourist souvenir shops. Prices for food are fixed. Rule of thumb: negotiate 30–40% off the first price.
- Yandex Go / MyTaxi: Taxi apps are standard in Tashkent and prevent rip-offs. Always use app taxis instead of street taxis.
