Where to Stay in Bukhara: Best Areas for Tourists

Located in Western Uzbekistan near the border of Turkmenistan, Bukhara in Uzbekistan is one of the Silk Road’s oldest cities with a history of over 2,500 years. This ancient city was home to many different ethnic and religious groups, and is best known for its iconic monuments such as the Ark of Bukhara, Kalon Kinaret, and the Chor Minor Madrasah.

If you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to know where to stay in Bukhara to have the best location to suit your plans and budget.

In this article we look at the best areas to stay in Bukhara for tourists.

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Best Place to Stay in Bukhara: Quick Answer

The ideal place to stay in Bukhara is the Old Town, as most tourist attractions are within a 15-minute walk from the city center. The walk from Bolo Hauz Mosque in the West of the Old Town to Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah in the East covers the majority of the most popular places to visit.

Hotels in Bukhara offer excellent value for money as there is a fair amount of competition. Even hotels inside the Old Town can be found starting from $20-30 per night for a double room depending on the season.

For this price don’t expect to be blown away but do expect a clean room with friendly staff in a fantastic location.

Bukhara Old Town

Bukhara’s Old Town can be separated into two main areas: the Lyabi-Khauz ensemble in the South and Khakikat Street and Khodja Nurobobod Street in the North. Separated by Toqi Telpakfurushon, a trading dome which sits between the two areas, it’s only a short walk between the areas.

Both places have a similar vibe but the South part has more hotels and restaurants, especially in the area around the Lyabi-Khauz which is a picturesque pond surrounded by madrasas and mosques.

Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble Area

The Lyabi-Khauz ensemble is the livelier area of the city where visitors can eat and drink around the Lyabi-Khauz pond whilst listening to live music. It’s my own favorite part of the city due to its unique architecture and energetic vibe.

This area is surrounded by beautiful Uzbek architecture and the most notable of these is perhaps Madrasah Nadir Divan-begi, a medrasa whose decoration depicts mythical birds of happiness.

Hotels in this area are slightly better value for money but the difference between the two areas is not huge. This is the most convenient area for eating and drinking as there are multiple restaurants and cafes all within a few minutes walk such as the waterside Labi Hovuz and top fine dining Ayvan restaurants.

The Northern Part of Old Town

The Northern part of the Old Town is home to some of the best known monuments in Bukhara such as the Kalon Minaret, the Ark of Bukhara and Po-i-Kalyan complex. There are slightly fewer hotels in this area but still plenty of choices for all budgets.

As well as being home to the city’s main tourist attractions, it also hosts some lesser known places of interest such as the Tim Abdulla Khan Trading Dome, the Bozori Kord Bathhouse, and the Silk Road Tea House.

Khakikat street is a bustling avenue with a number of small museums, spas, and street vendors selling textiles, rugs, and antiques. It’s also home to a small number of cafes, restaurants and hotels.

Old Town Backstreets

Aside from the center of the Old Town, there are dozens of hotels all lining the backstreets of Bukhara. Bukhara city center is somewhat of a maze of narrow streets, alleyways, and dead ends.

The backstreets of Bukhara is where you’ll get the best value for money.

Hotels can be found just 10 minutes walk from some of the main attractions and offer excellent value for money if you’re willing to make the short walk to the city center.

Best Hotels in Bukhara Backstreets

• ⭐ Best Overall: Marhaba Boutique Madrasah (9.7)
• ✨ Best Luxury: Mercure Bukhara Old Town (9.2)
• 👪 Best for Families: Uzbegim Family Guest House (9.5)
• 🛎️ Best Boutique: Koh-i-Noor (9.4)
• 💵 Best Budget: Payraviy (9.6)

In a nutshell, if you’re wondering where to bunk down in Bukhara, you can’t go wrong with the Old Town. It’s where all the action is, with historical gems right at your doorstep. Plus, you won’t break the bank here. From the swanky Mercure Bukhara Old Town to wallet-friendly spots like Hotel Ravshan Boutique, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a family on the hunt for a comfy crash pad or a couple in search of a cozy hideaway, the Old Town’s got you covered. So, make the most of your Bukhara trip by staying in the heart of the action.

Related articles:

• Where to Stay in Tashkent
• Where to stay in Samarkand
• Where to Stay in Khiva

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city then read our guide to visiting Bukhara.