Can You Pay by Card in Uzbekistan, or Do You Need Cash

Uzbekistan has made real progress on card payments in recent years, but going fully cashless isn’t quite possible yet.

Where cards work fine

International chain hotels, major restaurants in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, supermarkets, and online “Afrosiyob” train tickets all accept Visa and Mastercard.

Where you need cash

Bazaars, small teahouses, taxis without an app, entrance fees at some remote monuments, and small shops in villages. The local currency is the sum (UZS), and that’s what most of these places expect.

Getting cash

ATMs are available in every city on the tourist trail, including Khiva and Bukhara. Withdrawing with an international card is usually possible, but check your bank’s foreign withdrawal limits beforehand.

Practical advice

Keep a small amount of sums on hand for bazaars and teahouses, and put larger expenses (hotels, restaurants, tickets) on a card — it’s safer and more convenient.

Card payment availability can vary by region — on more remote routes, it’s safer to carry extra cash.