15 Must-Explore Cities in Central Asia to Visit

Central Asia is filled with so much unique history, vibrant culture, natural wonders, rugged landscapes, and stunning attractions. All these things are present in Central Asian cities. To embrace the essence of this beautiful continent, you must explore the cities in Central Asia. Central Asian cities are spectacularly incredible to experience, swarming with abundant historical sites, tourist places, and fascinating wonders.

Some famous cities to visit in Central Asia are Samarkand, Bishkek, Almaty, Bukhara, Osh, Tashkent, and more. These cities have so much to boast to the tourists, such as Burana Tower, Iskanderkul Lake, Song Kul Lake, Registan Square, and more. If you are on an adventure to traverse the beautiful cities in Central Asia, you are at the right place. We have made a list of cities you can visit in Central Asia.

List of Top Cities to Visit in Central Asia

Central Asia is full of cities that offer an electrifying experience to everyone who visits. Here’s a list of the most prominent cities in Central Asia that everyone should visit:

1. Almaty

Almaty is another gem in Central Asia. It is Kazakhstan’s most treasured city that attracts lakhs of tourists. This captivating city is one of the cities in Central Asia that has awe-inspiring landscapes, natural wonders, cultural awes, and delightful culinary experiences. Not just this, Almaty also offers unforgettable adventures that give you lifetime memories. Tourists can enjoy shopping and buy souvenirs as a memory to bring back home. Almaty celebrates various festivals that you can be a part of. If you want to visit a Central Asian city, Almaty should be on your list.

Book: Almaty Tour

2. Tashkent

Tashkent, the bustling capital of Uzbekistan, is one of the largest cities in Central Asia. It has been a cultural and business center of Uzbekistan, welcoming visitors from all over the world. Adorned with Soviet and Islamic architecture, Tashkent captivates everyone’s heart. Tashkent has a wealth of attractions, mesmerizing landscapes, and heritage sites that please every nature and history enthusiast's heart. There are an array of places that you can explore, such as Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent Metro, Tashkent TV tower, and many others. All you need is enough time to traverse every corner of this beautiful central Asian city.

Book: Tashkent Tour

3. Bishkek

Bishkek is one of the largest cities in Central Asia and is Kyrgyzstan’s capital. Bishkek is everything a tourist wants: mountainous landscapes, spectacular attractions, vibrant culture, wealthy history, and friendly locals. For nature lovers, Bishkek is a paradise on the earth. Furthermore, Bishkek’s nightlife is one of the things to experience in Kyrgyzstan. It is even best for the Silk Route expedition. It also offers favorable weather conditions to make visitors enjoy this place throughout the year. There are a plethora of things to see in Bishkek, such as the State Historical Museum, Osh Bazaar, Ala-Too Square, Ala-Archa National Park, Konorchek Canyon, etc.

Book: Bishkek Tour

4. Dushanbe

Dushanbe, the beautiful capital of Tajikistan, is one of the hidden Central Asian cities that blend history, nature, and culture. Through the timeless attractions of Dushanbe, you can experience the hues of its exceptional beauty. Dushanbe has an array of holy places, magnificent museums, and theatres that keep tourists entertained throughout the trip. Furthermore, the food of Dubhanbe is one of the most significant parts of your vacation. You will find mouthwatering cuisines in every nook and corner of the city, making your taste buds. One of the best things is that Dushanbe is an affordable city to tour.

Book: Dushanbe Tour

5. Ashgabat

Ashgabat is one of the most incredible cities in Central Asia. It is the capital of Turkmenistan that is known as “The City of White Marble”. There are a lot of things to see in Ashgabat, such as the National Museum, Museum of Turkmen National Values, Museum of Fine Arts, Oguzhan Palace, and more. You can also enjoy shopping, as there are various vibrant bazaars offering souvenirs, handicrafts, and many traditional items. If you want to plan a holiday in central Asian cities, Ashgabat should be on your list.

Book: Ashgabat Tour

6. Samarkand

Samarkand is a stunning city in Uzbekistan that is magnificent splendor. Samarkand is Uzbekistan’s iconic city, one of the Silk Road cities. It is a melting pot of cultures. Samarkand also has its name inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is one of the best cities in Central Asia. Various poets and historians epitomize Samarkand as “The Pearl of the Eastern Muslim World”. Surrounded by ancient architecture, dazzling blue domes, glittering mosques, and hypnotic mosaics, Samarkand astonishes everyone with its staggering beauty. Some popular things to see and explore in Samarkand are the Gur-E-Amir Mausoleum, Registan, Siyob Bazaar, Shah-I-Zinda, and more.

Book: Samarkand Tour

7. Astana

Astana is one of the most magnificent Central Asia cities to traverse at least once. It is the capital city of Kazakhstan that is the newest tourist hotspot. This cosmopolitan city is famous for its futuristic & impeccable architecture and surreal skyline formed from sci-fi architecture. There are plenty of cheerful attractions that you can see, restaurants that offer finger-licking good food, and things to do that will make your trip more exciting and memorable. Some of the landmarks of Astana are Bayterek Tower, Sky Beach Club, Nur-Astana Mosque, Palace of Peace & Reconciliation, The Presidential Palace, and more.

Book: Astana Tour

8. Bukhara

Bukhara is Uzbekistan’s jewel. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Among the other cities in Uzbekistan, Bukhara is one of the most famous among tourists. Bursting with majestic monuments, ancient buildings, profound history, and admiring architecture, Bukhara welcomes thousands of tourists every year. Besides plenty of sightseeing options, Bukhara also offers mouthwatering food. There are many restaurants and local food stalls that offer delicious cuisines. If you are planning a tour of any of the Central Asian cities, make sure to add Bukhara to your list. It is a must-visit city in the whole continent, and that too for all the right reasons.

Book: Bukhara Tour

9. Khiva

Khiva is one of the most impressive cities in Central Asia and is known for its tranquility. Khiva is a beautiful desert town situated in the Khorezm Region of Uzbekistan. This town has over 50 historical sites. It is Central Asia’s first UNESCO World Heritage City. The town is filled with clay-colored houses and shining minarets. There are many things to do in Uzbekistan, such as admiring the architecture of Kalta Minor, exploring the wooden Juma mosque, visiting the Tash Khauli Palace, and more. Khiva is full of UNESCO-listed architecture, historical landmarks, cultural heritages, and unique places to stay.

Book: Khiva Tour

10. Shymkent

Shymkent is one of the off-the-beaten cities in Central Asia. It houses the incredible and untouched Silk Road towns. With bustling bazaars, a vibrant downtown, lively attractions, and ancient heritage sites, Shymkent attracts a large number of tourists every year. Shymkent has so many must-see attractions that every visitor should see at least once while traversing this beautiful city. For adventurous travelers, Shymkent also offers a range of outdoor activities. If you are on a tour of Central Asia, Shymkent must be on your list of places to visit.

Book: Shymkent Tour

11. Osh

Osh is one of the historic cities in Central Asia that is the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan. Osh is a famous tourist destination in Kyrgyzstan filled with historical and cultural landmarks. It is home to many famous attractions, such as Jayma Bazaar, Sulamain Mountain, Osh New Mosque, Uzgen Ancient City, etc. Besides, Osh is about exploring the natural scenery, mountain villages, soviet monuments, and trekking trails. You can also check out lavish restaurants that offer the mouthwatering food.

Book: Osh Tour

12. Aktau

Aktau is one of the best cities to visit in Central Asia. Aktau is Kazakhstan’s smart city that offers so many wondrous things to experience. Nestled on the banks of the Caspian Sea, Aktau welcomes hundreds of tourists every year. It is also a major seaport of Kazakhstan. This city is small but youthful. It keeps tourists engaged with its stunning attractions and ancient charm. One of the significant attractions of Aktau is the Caspian Sea, which adds more allure to your holiday here. Strolling through the streets of Aktau is enough to make you fall in love with this city.

13. Navoi

Navoi is one of the most beautiful cities in Central Asia. This ecstatic city is a unique tourist destination that offers an array of attractions to see and activities to do. Navoi is filled with the rich history and culture of Uzbekistan. Some famous attractions in Navoi that you can explore are Alisher Navoi National Park, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Sarmishsay Gorge, etc. Navoi is the newest town in Uzbekistan that offers a unique experience to travelers from all over the world.

14. Turkestan

Turkestan is one of the medieval cities in Central Asia. Packed with places to visit and things to see, Turkestan tops the list of cities to visit in Central Asia. From the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi to the Underground Mosque, Karavan Saray, and others, Turkestan is a place to visit. Tourists can visit this city from April to May and September to October, as these months are best for travel in the city. Many renowned poets lived in Turkestan. It is also the best place to eat various culinary delights. If you are on a voyage to Central Asia, don’t forget to visit Turkestan.

15. Qarshi

Qarshi is Uzbekistan’s hidden jewel. It is one of the best cities in Central Asia to visit. It is one of the economic, trading, agricultural, and tourist sites in Uzbekistan. There is a long list of things to do and see in Qarshi. From exploring Rabiya Madrasa to admiring the Khodjaev Abdul Aziz Madrasa, visiting Eski Bazaar, and much more, Qarshi is a place to remember. If you want to experience the charm of an ancient city, Qarshi is the best place to visit.

Travel to the Most Thrilling Cities in Central Asia

Have you ever been to Central Asian cities? Well, if not. It is your chance to plan a trip to one of the above-mentioned cities. Don’t think about how because Dook International is here to make you feel at ease. We have a wide range of Central Asia tour packages for all the cities mentioned above. You can pick any holiday package and start packing your bags. We will take care of everything else. From flights to hotels to visas, we leave nothing offhand. Now, don’t wait and visit Dook International’s website for more information.

Explore: Top Places to Visit in Central Asia

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