Uzbekistan Transportation Guide: Metro, Trains, Taxis, and Apps

Transportation in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan offers a range of public and private transportation options, including metro, buses, trains, taxis, and domestic flights. Major cities have organized networks, and ride-hailing apps are available.

• Public Transport: Tashkent has a metro system (3 lines, 43 stations), city buses, and trams. Other cities like Samarkand and Bukhara rely mainly on buses and minibuses.
• Transportation Apps: Yandex Go and MyTaxi are widely used for ride-hailing. International apps like Uber and Grab are not available.
• Internal Flights: Uzbekistan Airways operates domestic flights connecting Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench, and Nukus.
• Intercity Trains: The high-speed Afrosiyob train links Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Qarshi. Sharq and regional trains serve other routes. Intercity buses connect major towns.
• Taxis: Metered taxis are available in cities. Fares are usually negotiated in advance outside Tashkent. Ride-hailing apps offer fixed pricing.
• Car Rental: International and local agencies operate in major cities. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for foreign drivers.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the main options from airports to city centers. Public buses are available in Tashkent.
• Accessibility: Public transport accessibility for travelers with disabilities is limited; metro stations in Tashkent have some facilities.
• Unique Local Transport: Shared taxis (marshrutkas) are common. No tuk-tuks or rickshaws.
• Safety & Payment: Public transport is generally safe and reliable. Payment is mostly in cash (Uzbekistani soʻm), with some apps accepting cards.