Last updated: June 2026
Khiva was the first city I visited on this part of my trip through Uzbekistan, and the arrival was already special. I flew into Urgench, the nearest city with an airport, and from there took a taxi to Khiva (you can also go by bus, for those wanting to save money). It's one of the best-preserved historic cities in the country, and inside Ichan Kala, the walled historic centre, everything feels like an open-air museum: minarets, madrassas and mosques concentrated in a compact area.
I went in April 2026 and the weather was perfect, neither hot nor cold, ideal for walking a lot, filming and taking photos at a relaxed pace. In 2 days you can explore everything on foot, since the attractions are close together within the walls. My number one tip: stay near the walls. I stayed close to the station, where there's a walking path between the hotels that leads straight to the wall, and that made everything much easier.
2-day Khiva itinerary: what to do day by day
Day-by-day itinerary
- Day 1, Historic centre of Khiva (afternoon arrival)
- Day 2, Main remaining attractions (optimised morning)
Day 1: Historic centre of Khiva
Afternoon
Ota Darvoza, West Gate
The main entrance to the walled city and the ideal place to start. My favourite moment in Khiva was exactly here: crossing the gate and entering the old city was a very strong impact, it gave the feeling of leaving the present and entering another world. It's also one of the best spots for photos, with the brick towers and a direct view into the heart of Ichan Kala.
Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah
One of the largest madrassas in Central Asia, with turquoise tiles and architecture typical of the Silk Road. Today it works as a luxury hotel, but the facade and courtyard can be visited and photographed.
Kalta Minor, Unfinished Minaret
The most iconic monument in Khiva, known for its wide structure and blue ceramic decoration. It was meant to be the tallest minaret in the world, but construction was halted with the death of the khan who commissioned it.
Kunya-Ark, Citadel
Former residence of the rulers of Khiva. I climbed to the top and it was well worth it: from there you get one of the best panoramic views of the whole walled city, with the minarets and domes spreading out to the walls.
Muhammad Rahim Khan Madrasah
Today it works as a museum and presents the history of the Khanate of Khiva, with exhibitions on art, manuscripts and court life during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Juma Mosque, Friday Mosque
A unique interior with over 200 carved wooden columns, creating an atmosphere unlike any other mosque in the region. The silent atmosphere and the light filtering between the columns make this one of the most special places in Khiva.
Toshhovli Mosque (Khodja Berdibai Mosque)
Small and less visited, with a detailed wooden interior. One of the most authentic and peaceful spaces within the historic centre.
Ak Mosque, White Mosque
A simple, charming mosque with open verandas and traditional architecture. A good option to escape the crowds in the more touristy areas.
Sunset
Walls of Khiva or Kunya-Ark
One of the best moments of the day. I climbed the wall (it cost around 40,000 UZS, ~$3 when I went) and it was well worth it: the view from up there is one of the best ways to grasp the size of the old city and see Ichan Kala from another angle. The sunset light turns the buildings golden and creates one of the most beautiful scenes you'll capture in Uzbekistan.
Night
Walking through the illuminated historic centre was one of the best experiences I had in Khiva. With less movement and the soft lighting on the monuments, the city takes on an even more special atmosphere, quite different from what you see during the day. For me, Khiva is worth seeing at all three moments: by day, at sunset and at night.
Day 2: Khiva in half a day (optimised morning)
The second day in Khiva can be done in half a day, since the city is compact and easy to explore on foot. In about 3 to 4 hours you can visit the main remaining sights without rushing. Since the general ticket usually lasts 2 days, you can use the same ticket.
Morning
Nurullaboy Palace
A historic palace outside the walls of Khiva, built in the early 20th century. I went there because I wanted to see a different side of the city, and what struck me most was the contrast: unlike the traditional architecture of Ichan Kala, the palace blends European and local influences, with decorated halls, historic furniture and details that show the transition to a more modern Khiva. Worth it for those wanting to see a less touristy side of the city.
Practical tips for visiting Khiva
Khiva is one of the easiest cities to explore in Uzbekistan, mainly because it has a compact historic centre inside Ichan Kala. I went in April and got great weather for walking all day.
Getting around
- I arrived via Urgench (nearest airport) and took a taxi from there; there are also buses
- Within Ichan Kala everything is done on foot, the distances are short
- Stay near the walls: I stayed close to the station, with a direct path to the old city
Tickets
- The general ticket (~250,000 UZS / ~$20 when I went) covers most monuments and usually lasts 2 days
- Climbing/walking on the wall had a separate cost (~40,000 UZS / ~$3)
- Buy it right at the entrance to make the whole visit easier
Best time
- April was great: mild weather, ideal for walking
- In summer, start Day 1 in the late afternoon to avoid the heat
- Day 2: head out early to enjoy the morning cool
Best views
- Kunya-Ark: best panorama of the city, I climbed up and recommend it
- Walls at sunset: golden light on the monuments
- Ichan Kala at night: lighting transforms the atmosphere