What to Buy in Uzbekistan: A Souvenir & Crafts Guide

Suzani embroidery

Hand-embroidered suzani textiles — bold floral medallions on cotton or silk — are Uzbekistan’s signature craft. Bukhara and Samarkand have the best selection, from cushion covers to wall-sized pieces. Look for hand-stitching (slightly irregular) over machine work, and don’t be shy about bargaining.

Ceramics from Rishtan and Gijduvan

Uzbek ceramics glow in turquoise and cobalt, each town with its own style: Rishtan in the Fergana Valley for ishkor-glazed blues, Gijduvan near Bukhara for warmer greens and browns. Plates, bowls and tiles travel well if packed carefully — workshops will wrap them for you.

Silk, carpets and ikat

Silk is woven and dyed here as it has been for centuries. Look for ikat (abrband) fabrics with their feathered, blurred patterns, hand-knotted silk carpets, and scarves straight from Margilan’s workshops in the Fergana Valley — the heart of Uzbek silk.

Knives, miniatures and metalwork

Chust pocket knives with their distinctive handles, Bukhara’s gold embroidery, hand-painted lacquer miniatures and engraved copperware all make characterful gifts. Buying from the artisan or a workshop usually means a better price and a genuine piece.

Where to shop — and bargaining

Bukhara’s trading domes are the single best place; Samarkand’s Siab bazaar and the workshops of Rishtan and Margilan are worth seeking out. Cash (som) gets the best price, polite bargaining is expected, and a workshop visit lets you see the craft before you buy. We can build craft stops into any itinerary.