Is cash still widely used?
Yes. Despite improvements in Tashkent, cash dominates across Uzbekistan. The famous bazaars of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are entirely cash-based. Guesthouses, local restaurants, and transport also rely on som.
USD is widely accepted as a parallel currency, particularly for larger transactions and tourist services.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Tashkent and major tourist cities. Ipak Yoli Bank and Kapitalbank ATMs accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 10,000 UZS per withdrawal
- Som comes in large denominations — carry a money clip or bag
- USD can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and licensed money changers
Card acceptance
Limited. Tashkent hotels and some modern restaurants accept cards. Tourist sites, bazaars, guesthouses, and most eateries are cash-only.
Tips for travelers
- Bring USD in small denominations for easy exchange and direct payment
- Bazaar vendors only accept cash — keep plenty of som on hand
- Currency exchange is straightforward at official booths in tourist cities
- Som cannot be exchanged abroad — spend or exchange before leaving