Uzbekistan Shopping and nightlife
Shopping in Uzbekistan
Shopping in Uzbekistan is closely tied to the country’s long trading history along the Silk Road. Traditional bazaars remain the heart of everyday commerce, offering a lively mix of food stalls, household goods and locally made crafts. In major cities such as Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, visitors will also find modern shopping centres and boutiques selling clothing, souvenirs and imported goods.
Local markets are the most rewarding places to shop. Famous examples include Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent, Siab Bazaar in Samarkand and the covered trading domes of Bukhara. These markets are ideal for experiencing daily life and buying spices, dried fruit, nuts, breads and fresh produce, as well as textiles and handicrafts. Bargaining is customary in bazaars and informal stalls, and is generally expected, while prices in shops and malls are fixed.
Uzbekistan is well known for its handicrafts, many of which make distinctive souvenirs. Popular items include handwoven silk and cotton textiles, ikat fabrics, embroidered suzani wall hangings, ceramic plates and bowls, carved wooden boxes, and traditional musical instruments. Gold jewellery and carpets are also widely sold, though carpets may require export documentation, so visitors should check regulations before purchase.
Cash is widely used, particularly in markets and smaller shops, though card payment is increasingly accepted in larger stores and shopping centres in major cities. Visitors should carry small denominations when shopping in bazaars, as change is not always readily available.
Most shops are open from around 09:00 or 10:00 until 18:00 or 19:00 on weekdays and Saturdays. Markets usually open early in the morning and close by late afternoon, while some bazaars operate daily with shorter hours on Sundays. Larger shopping centres may stay open later in the evening.
Nightlife in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan's nightlife is relatively understated but steadily evolving, particularly in larger cities. Tashkent has the most developed evening scene, with a growing number of cocktail bars, lounges, wine bars and nightclubs catering to both locals and visitors. Many venues are concentrated in central districts and hotel areas, and evenings tend to start later, with nightlife picking up from around 21:00 onwards.
Outside the capital, nightlife is more low-key. Cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara focus less on clubbing and more on relaxed socialising, with evenings often spent in cafés, hotel bars and restaurants that stay open late. Live music, including jazz and acoustic performances, can be found occasionally, particularly at cultural venues or higher-end hotels.
Alcohol is legally available, though Uzbekistan remains a socially conservative country and nightlife reflects this. Beer, vodka and wine are widely consumed, alongside locally produced wines and spirits. The legal drinking age is 18. Dress codes are generally smart-casual, and behaviour is expected to be respectful. While nightlife is safe in established areas, visitors are advised to use taxis or ride-hailing services late at night and avoid poorly lit streets.
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