Trains in Uzbekistan: the Afrosiyob and how to book it
The high-speed Afrosiyob is the easiest way to travel between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara: fast, comfortable and on time. Tickets sell out, so book early.
The Afrosiyob
The Afrosiyob is a modern high-speed train that runs between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, and on to Khiva. Approximate journey times:
| Route | Time |
|---|---|
| Tashkent → Samarkand | about 2–2.5 hours |
| Samarkand → Bukhara | about 1.5 hours |
| Tashkent → Bukhara | about 4 hours |
There are three classes — economy, business and VIP. Economy is comfortable for most travellers. In 2026 an economy ticket from Tashkent to Samarkand costs around 300,000 som (about $25).
Other trains
The Sharq is a slower, cheaper day train on the same line. Night trains run to Khiva, Urgench and Nukus, with sleeper compartments. The Fergana Valley is reached by train over the mountains from Tashkent.
Booking tickets
- Tickets go on sale several weeks before departure on the official website eticket.railway.uz and in the Uzbekistan Railways app.
- Afrosiyob seats sell out early, especially in spring and autumn — book as soon as your dates are fixed.
- You need your passport details to buy a ticket.
Don’t want to deal with it? We book train tickets for you as part of your trip.
At the station
- Arrive 30–40 minutes early: there is a security check and a passport check before boarding.
- Some stations are outside the centre: Samarkand station is about 15 minutes from the old town by car, and Bukhara’s station is in Kagan, about 20 minutes away. We can arrange a driver to meet you.
- Keep your passport at hand — it is checked again on the train.
This page is a short, practical guide. Rules and prices can change — check the official sources before you travel.