Last Updated on: 12th June 2026, 03:12 pm
Of Uzbekistan’s three major tourism hubs, Bukhara has what’s arguably the largest intact and authentic-feeling Old Town in the country. While it may lack a single attraction that can rival Samarkand’s Registan Square, Bukhara’s Old Town offers a truly immersive experience that neither Samarkand, nor ‘Disneyfied’ Khiva, can match. In this Bukhara guide, we’ll be covering the top attractions not to miss.
All of the attractions below can be visited on foot in a single day. But if you have the extra time in Bukhara, taking things slow is recommended.
Bukhara’s attractions span a myriad of historical eras. Though it was the capital of the prosperous Samanid Empire in the 9th-10th centuries, much of the city was flattened by Genghis Khan in 1220. And Timur (Tamralane) would then rule his empire out of Samarkand from 1370.
But Bukhara would have another golden age in the 16th century, when the Uzbek Shaybanids conquered the city in 1506, making it the capital of the Khanate of Bukhara .
The Emirate of Bukhara would later flourish during the Manghit dynasty (1753-1920), with several of the city’s prominent structures dating to that time.
For information on how to get to Bukhara and the best places to stay, be sure to check the end of the article.
Bukhara Guide Contents
Chor Minor
One of Bukhara’s most peculiar landmarks is Chor Minor, which translates to ‘four towers.’ As my hotel was situated nearby, I decided to start my day here before walking around the city in a large loop.
Built in 1807 during the rule of the Manghit dynasty, Chor Minor was the original gatehouse for a madrasa that no longer exists. But at the same time, the main structure served as a mosque.
Interestingly, however, the towers are not minarets. Rather, three were used for storage, while one was used as a lookout tower.
Nearby the structure, you’ll find a coffee shop where you can relax and look out at Chor Minor and its surrounding courtyard. Though I had a peek inside the interior, like many historical monuments in Uzbekistan, it seems to have essentially been turned into a flea market.
Though it’s possible to climb up one of the towers for a small fee, I decided to skip it after overhearing another tourist say it wasn’t worth it.
As great a tourist city as Bukhara is, paying for every single small museum or vantage point can really start to add up over time.
If you’re starting your day at Chor Minor, you could just as easily continue southwest to the Lyabi-Hauz area, but I decided to head directly west.
Ulugbek & Abdulaziz Khan Madrassas
In the heart of historic Bukhara are two prominent madrasas situated directly across from each other. But they were actually built centuries apart.
If you’re approaching from the east, on the right side is the Ulugbek Madrasa, constructed in 1417.
Ulugbek is more commonly spelled as Ulugh Beg. And he was the grandson of Timur (r. 1370-1405) himself.
Ulugh Beg ruled as sultan of the Timurid Empire from 1447-1449. And in addition to being a ruler, he was also a renowned mathematician and astronomer.
Accordingly, during this time, astronomy was commonly taught at madrasas – not just religious studies. Mathematics and philosophy were other common subjects.
The Ulugh Beg Madrasa in Samarkand is part of Registan Square – arguably Uzbekistan’s most famous attraction. But the sultan also built this one in Bukhara, and it remains the only major Timurid madrasa that still stands in the city.
It was heavily restored during the reign of Abdullah Khan II (1583–1598), and then further in the 17th century.
Inside, vendors now sell local wares in the courtyard, and you can also pay 10,000 som to visit a small on-site calligraphy museum. Considering all of the other museums in the city, I didn’t feel it was worth it.
Across from the Ulugbek Madrasa is the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa, commissioned in the 1650s by Abdulaziz Khan (1614-1683), the fifth Khan of Bukhara of the Uzbek Ashtarkhanid dynasty.
The stunning muqarna, or honeycomb vaulting, is the highlight here. But the exterior decoration was never fully finished due to the Khan’s death.
Some nearby restaurants offer excellent views of the madrasa from their balconies or rooftops, which you can enjoy while eating plav.
Bukhara's Covered Bazaars
The covered bazars which remain today were restored during the Soviet era, while only three out of dozens remain. Still, they help modern visitors get a sense of what Bukhara was like several hundred years ago.
For those shopping for souvenirs, it’s here that you can buy things like carpets, ceramics, hand-painted miniatures, silk scarves, spices, dried fruit, and more.
Kalyan Minaret & Surroundings
Visible from all around central Bukhara, the Kalyan Minaret was erected by the Karakhanid ruler Arslan Khan in 1127.
And when the Mongols arrived and ransacked much of the city a century later, Genghis Khan was so impressed by the tower that he had it spared.
Standing at 47 m tall, it was likely the tallest structure in Central Asia for quite some time.
Its foundations extend 10 m beneath the ground as a way to protect it from earthquakes. And the technique, which involved stacking reeds, clearly worked, as the minaret has never toppled over.
The minaret’s ornamented brick decorations are separated into fourteen bands. But they originally would’ve been entirely adorned in vibrant blue tiles.
While the Kalyan Minaret’s staircase, comprising 105 steps, was climbable in the past, it hasn’t been for years at the time of writing.
Though the views are surely spectacular, it was from this tower that criminals were thrown off as punishment in medieval times!
The adjacent Kalyan Mosque was built by the same Karakhanid ruler. But it wouldn’t be fully completed until centuries later during the reign of Shaibani Ubaidullah Khan in 1514.
Access to the mosque costs 15,000 som to enter at the time of writing.
Stepping inside, you’ll walk through a large courtyard surrounded by beautiful tilework. And the four sides each have their own iwans, or large rectangular vaulted halls.
The octagonal dome in the center is actually a recent addition, having been placed here in the early 20th century. But it was intended to replicate a much older structure.
The Karakhanid Khanate controlled much of Central Asia from the 9th to early 13th centuries. They were the first native Turkic dynasty to convert to Islam, and their architecture was striking. But despite how large and powerful the empire was, only a handful of examples remain.
The Kalyan Complex is one example, with other well-known monuments being the Burana Tower and the Uzgen Architectural Complex – both in Kyrgyzstan.
While not built by the Karakhanids, also part of the complex is the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, which stands across from Kalyan Mosque.
It’s known for its beautiful blue domes, but it was inaccessible at the time of my visit due to renovations. However, it’s apparently not open for visitors anyway due to it being an active seminary.
Archaeological Site of Shahristan
As you approach the Ark Citadel from the east, you’ll pass by an archaeological dig site known as Shahristan – what’s left of a village that formed to the southeast of the citadel back during the time of the Kushan Empire (1st-4th centuries AD).
The visible ruins, however, likely date to the Samanid era (9th-10th centuries).
While only visible through plexiglass at the time of my visit, plans are apparently in the works to turn the area into an open-air museum.
Also note that this site shouldn’t be confused with the archaeological site of Shahristan in Panjakent, Tajikistan.
The Ark Citadel
Throughout its long history, in addition to being a defensive fortress, the Ark Citadel served as a city within a city where Bukhara’s royal families lived.
Entrance costs 60,000 som at the time of writing, which includes access to several museums within the fortress. Set aside at least an hour to explore it.
While still worth purchasing a ticket to step inside, the Ark is arguably most impressive from outside its walls. The walls reach up to 20 m high at some points, while their total perimeter stretches out to around 790 m. And numerous curvy brick bastions protrude from them.
The entrance gate, flanked by two 18th-century towers, is another highlight.
While a lot of the surviving structures date from the last few centuries, the Ark was originally built in the 5th century AD – though archaeological findings suggests it could be even as old as the 4th century BC!
It then largely took its current form during the Shaybanid dynasty. Much much of the Ark was more recently reconstructed during the 20th century, however.
Upon entering the citadel, one of the first highlights visitors encounter is the Juma Mosque (Friday Mosque), also constructed in the 18th century. It features wooden columns and a beautifully painted ceiling.
Today, it houses a small museum featuring examples of calligraphy and ancient Qurans.
A real treat for history lovers will be getting to explore the pathways of the open-air section. Walking around, you’ll encounter structures like an 18th-century mausoleum, the ruins of an 18th-century mosque, and other ruins dating to the 16th-17th centuries.
With Kalyan Minaret inaccessible, the Ark Citadel also offers what’s arguably the best view of historic Bukhara from above. From the edge, one can simultaneously view several of the landmarks already discussed.
Back in the cluster of buildings, you can also explore a modern museum featuring various ceramics, frescoes, and weaponry discovered at the citadel. Amazingly, a cauldron on display was created in the 4th century BC.
And you can also spot Bukhara’s old throne hall, where coronation ceremonies used to take place. Nowadays, tourists line up to pose for pictures while seated in the throne.
Bolo Hauz Mosque
Bukhara isn’t just a pleasant city due to its well-preserved historic structures, but also due to its abundant green spaces.
Just southwest of the citadel are a couple of well-manicured and tranquil parks. And just next to one is the Bolo Hauz Mosque, among Bukhara’s most attractive. It was constructed in 1712 during the Manghit era, and it was the Emir of Bukhara’s preferred place of worship on Fridays.
As mentioned, the Ark Citadel had its own mosque, but here the Emir was able to worship amongst his people.
In front of the facade are a series of thin wooden columns which each have their own muqarnas. And behind them are a series of arched iwans.
Beside the mosque is a tower which looks like a minaret, but was apparently used instead as a water tower.
As it was Friday on the day of my visit, I didn’t go inside given the throngs of worshippers in attendance.
Samani Park & Surroundings
Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum
The structure is said to enclose a well that’s believed to have been formed by none other than Job of the Old Testament. According to local legend, Job once visited the area and struck his staff on the ground to create a natural well.
The current structure largely dates to the reign of Timur (c. 1320s-1405).
Notably, Job isn’t the only Old Testament figure that many Uzbeks believe once visited their country. Others include Daniel (his tomb said to be in Samarkand) and David (believed to have taken refuge in the Hazrat Davud cave near Samarkand).
Yet there’s no such evidence from a historical or geographical perspective, and these stories only arose well after the spread of Islam in the region.
Just across from it, meanwhile, is the Imam al-Bukhari Museum, dedicated to the 9th-century Islamic scholar. It appeared closed so I didn’t go inside, but I stopped to admire the architecture which tastefully blends modern and classical elements.
Ismail Samani Mausoleum
Bukhara served as the capital of the Samanid Empire in the 9th and 10th centuries – an empire that encompassed large parts of Iran and Central Asia, including much of Afghanistan.
During that time, Bukhara played a major role in Persianate culture, growing to become a major part of the Islamic world. The Samanids even saw themselves as successors of the Persian Sassanian Empire, despite that kingdom being Zoroastrian.
Interestingly, the Samanids would fall to the Ghaznavids, who were of Turkic descent. But the Ghaznavids continued promoting Persian culture and literature – albeit out of Ghazni rather than Bukhara.
Despite their important legacy, very few Samanid-era structures remain due to the Mongol conquests. But Bukhara’s Ismail Samani Mausoleum, which entombs the founder of the Samanid dynasty himself, is an exception.
Constructed in 905 AD, the elegant mausoleum stands out for its ornate terracotta brick patterns. But the small structure requires a fee of around 20,000 som to step inside.
More Around The Area
Heading southeast from the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, you can find more tranquil garden paths along with additional ancient madrasas. Among the highlights are the Madori Khan Madrasa and the Abdulla Khan Madrasah, both of which date to the 16th century.
The Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum
If you’re looking for a break from religious monuments, the excellent Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum shouldn’t be missed. The museum was refurbished and opened as a museum as recently as 2023, and at the time of writing, entrance costs 30,000 som.
The house dates from 1892 and belonged to a local wealthy merchant family. But their son, Fayzulla Khodjaev, ended up taking a different path.
Born in Bukhara into a wealthy merchant family in 1896, he was later sent to study in Moscow. Impressed by what he saw there, he later sought to modernize his homeland.
Upon his return to Bukhara, he became a politician, hoping to reform and modernize Central Asia while simultaneously maintaining a strong Turkic identity. He called his new party the Young Bukharan Party.
And they even briefly performed a coup, taking power from the Emir of Bukhara while simultaneously keeping him as a figurehead.
But those loyal to the emir soon took the power back, forcing Khodjaev to flee to Tashkent. And right around this time, the Bolsheviks were making their encroachment into Uzbekistan.
Once they reached Bukhara, the emir fled, and the Bolsheviks appointed Khodjaev as the new leader of the region. And he would eventually ascend to lead Soviet Uzbekistan as a whole.
But in typical Soviet fashion, he eventually had a falling out with the Communist Party and was ultimately sentenced to death during the Great Purge in 1938.
You won’t learn any of that at the house museum itself, however, as it mostly lacks on-site signage.
In any case, as you explore the various rooms, you’ll encounter antique furniture and walls painted in gorgeous geometric and floral patterns. Another major highlight is the outer walls and terrace.
Impressively, the house blends traditional Bukharan architecture with Russian and European elements.
Despite being one of the best things to do in Bukhara, I only spotted a handful of other visitors at the Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum, making it feel like a hidden gem.
Maghoki Attori Mosque
In the southern part of historic Bukhara stands Maghoki Attori Mosque, the oldest surviving mosque in Central Asia.
The facade dates back to the 9th century, though the interior was reconstructed in the 16th century. But even centuries prior to it becoming a mosque, the spot was formerly home to both Buddhist and Zoroastrian temples.
In addition to the Kalyan Minaret and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, it’s one of the few structures in Bukhara to have survived the Mongol invasion. Supposedly, it was covered in sand prior to their arrival in order to hide and protect it.
The structure now functions as a small museum dedicated to, of all things, carpets. It costs 30,000 som to enter at the time of writing.
Next to it, meanwhile, is a stretch of archaeological excavations which reveal a plethora of other building foundations, many of which were caravenserais and hammams.
Lyabi-Hauz Area
The Lyabi-Hauz area is one of the liveliest parts of the historic Bukhara. It’s centered around a large pool established in 1620 that’s flanked by large madrasas.
The perimeter of the pool, meanwhile, is now surrounded by lively cafes largely patronized by tourists. But supposedly, until not too long ago, this was largely a hangout spot for locals.
Notably, historic Bukhara used to have a lot more pools like these, but poor sanitation knowledge led to the outbreak of numerous diseases. Ultimately, many of them were drained by the Soviets for hygienic reasons.
Architecturally, the highlight around here is the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasa. It’s named after the 17th-century vizier and uncle of the Emir of Bukhara, Imam Quli Khan.
It’s adorned with depictions of the simurgh, a popular mythological bird from Persian folklore.
Also nearby, just south of the pool, is a historical synagogue for Bukhara’s Jewish community, who once made up a significant portion of the population. Though I went to check it out, I was quoted an exorbitant sum of 100,000 som just to step inside.
Additional Info
Not only is Bukhara one of Uzbekistan’s most captivating and immersive cities, but it also has some of the best value in regards to accommodation.
I stayed at Madina-Mehribon, a homestay type of accommodation located within a short distance from Chor Minor.
For a very reasonable price, I had a private room with my own bathroom, and a very hearty breakfast was included as well. For some reason, though, breakfast wasn’t served until 9:00 am. But it was good enough to make getting a bit of a late start worth it.
The main downside I dealt with was having to ask repeatedly to get the hotel registration slip from the family that runs it. (More on those shortly.)
Other highly-rated budget hotels include Shom Hotel with Terraca and Hotel Grand House Real Estate.
A popular midrange option is Oasis Boutique. And for those able to splurge, Caravansaray Rashid is one of the top-rated hotels in Bukhara.
Note that when visiting Uzbekistan, you’re supposed to collect little slips from each accommodation proving where you stayed and for how many nights. You may then be asked to show them when leaving the country.
A lot of hotel owners will tell you that the system is digitized now and therefore it shouldn’t matter anymore. There are also many cases where the officers won’t ask anything at all.
But the reality on the ground is that immigration officers are indeed still sometimes asking for the paper slips. And I’ve met some travelers who got themselves into trouble when they couldn’t provide them.
I entered and exited the country twice, and though I wasn’t asked anything during my first exit, I was asked during my second. Fortunately, I had them on me.
Generally speaking, Uzbekistan is one of the easier countries to travel through in Central Asia thanks to its rail network. You can easily book tickets online or via the official Uzbek Railways app.
Coming from Samarkand, you have the choice between either regular speed train (2.5-3.5 hours) or an express ‘Afrosiyob’ train (about 1.5 hours). Numerous trains leave throughout the day.
From Tashkent, the regular train lasts 6-8 hours, while the express train takes a little over four.
It’s also possible to travel between Bukhara and Khiva by train, with the journey lasting around 6.5 hours.
For those coming from Termez, the only option is a shared taxi. That’s what I did, and I paid 250,000 som, or about $20, for the journey.
But while I was told that the journey would last around seven hours, it actually took nearly twelve hours in my case due to various issues along the way. Note that it’s also possible to break up the Termez>Bukhara journey in the city of Qarshi.
If you’d like to visit Bukhara’s top landmarks in the company of a knowledgeable guide, there are a number of affordable options on Viator to choose from, such as this Historical City Highlights Guided Walking Tour or this Walking Tour with a Small Group.