There are way fewer tourist crowds in Khiva, so you can take your time and really soak everything in. There are plenty of souvenirs too, though in my opinion, Bukhara has a bit more variety.

Thanks to our travel companion, we learned a lot of fascinating stuff about local history and traditions – by the way, the locals here belong to a different ethnic group. We saw various crafts and learned techniques unique to this region – like distinctive jewelry styles and wood carving. One piece really amazed us – a wooden book stand that unfolds into 10 different positions.

We also learned about the symbolism in their jewelry – they use local coins in the designs. There was a folk dance performance, and the dancer did this finger-snapping thing in some secret local way!

We watched carpet weaving in action, I tried on a paranja, we joined a silk-making workshop, climbed a minaret, had delicious food, and even tried a glass of local wine called Carmen (our first time having wine in Uzbekistan!) at the Terrace restaurant. Highly recommend it – great food and amazing views. Best to make a reservation in the morning, you can also have breakfast there.

We also went to Khiva Moon and tried a local dish – dumplings with egg. And we stopped by the Safina pastry shop – they have both local sweets and European-style desserts.

All in all, Uzbekistan really surprised and impressed us – the beauty, the kindness of the people. I honestly can’t say which city I liked best. We were exhausted because our trip was packed, didn’t even make it to the market – but for us, that wasn’t a big deal.

and here are some photos of Khiva from our trip. Also check the dance on the video, look how the dancer performs with her fingers.

https://youtube.com/shorts/KgTxDbB4v5U?feature=share

We didn’t want to go during the heat of the day. Arranged with a driver for $45 – he took us out to the desert and to both fortresses.

You can also do a trip to the Aral Sea to see the abandoned ships. That would take pretty much a full day.

Personally, I’d recommend Khiva. We spent three days there, but honestly, two days is enough.

It’s very small, cozy, and compact – like an open-air museum.
All the sights are within walking distance.

We only paid the entrance fee to climb the fortress wall – 40,000 soums – and got into everything else for free.

All three cities are very different from one another.

All of Khiva’s main attractions are located inside the Ichan Kala fortress. It has several gates for entry, but they only check tickets at one of them.

We stayed near the North Gate and could go in and out freely. There are turnstiles at the gates, but we just walked past them.

If someone does ask for a ticket, you can just say you’re going to your hotel.

But just speaking from our own experience – we used different gates to go in and out, and no one ever asked us for tickets.

It’s atmospheric, cozy, and feels totally unreal (you forget about work and home by the third step…).
Also, it’s cheaper, by the way.

So I highly, highly recommend visiting!

Here is majestic Khiva

I also recommend Khiva Moon

We didn’t really like Khiva Moon – it felt like they took an hour just to cook our food…

We actually liked the Minor restaurant more, especially dinner on the terrace.

It’s pricey though – they charge a 20% service fee, not 15% like most places.
Although maybe our bill was high because of the wine, who knows...

But the view of Khiva lit up at night from the terrace – absolutely beautiful.

There are lots of great places to eat in Khiva – Khiva Moon, Tapas, Mirzaboshi, Sultan, and Ayvon

I also recommend Khiva Moon, and don’t miss Terrassa.

At Khiva Moon we had fish – it was amazing, super tender, juicy, and a big portion.

At Terrassa everything was top-notch, and dessert lovers will be thrilled – their sweets are incredible.

It’s best to reserve a table at Terrassa in advance – sometimes there’s no availability.

Also, where would you recommend for lunch?

There are lots of great places to eat in Khiva – Khiva Moon, Tapas, Mirzaboshi, Sultan, and Ayvon are all worth trying.

Highly, highly recommend visiting Khiva – we never once regretted making time for this city!