Money in Uzbekistan: how to pay and exchange currency

What is the currency of Uzbekistan?

The currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbek som, internationally identified by the code UZS. It is the country's official currency and therefore the main reference for everyday expenses during a trip.

The som is divided into 100 tiyin, although in practice everyday transactions are carried out in som and fractional units now have little practical importance.

For travellers arriving from Italy, it is useful to become familiar with the value of the local currency and the banknotes in circulation before making purchases.

Euro to Uzbek som exchange rate

The exchange rate between the euro and the som is not fixed and may change daily. For this reason, it is better not to include a fixed conversion rate in an article, as it would quickly become outdated.

The Central Bank of Uzbekistan regularly publishes the official exchange rates for the main international currencies, including the euro.

Before departure or during your stay, it is therefore advisable to check the current exchange rate.

Official exchange rate of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan

Where to exchange euros in Uzbekistan

Euros can be exchanged for som at authorised exchange offices, including those available at banks and various facilities used by travellers.

Uzbekistan's official tourism information indicates that currency exchange services are available at banks, airports, hotels and other tourist facilities. Euros are among the international currencies that can be exchanged.

It is advisable to use only banks and authorised exchange offices and to check the exchange rate applied before completing the transaction.

Paying with cash in Uzbekistan

Having a reasonable amount of cash in Uzbek som remains useful during a trip.

While international cards can be used particularly in more organised establishments, local currency remains important for markets, small shops, local restaurants and other everyday expenses.

Electronic payments are becoming increasingly widespread, but it is not advisable to organise a trip relying exclusively on cards.

Credit and debit cards in Uzbekistan

International cards can be used in many establishments, particularly in major cities and services aimed at travellers.

Hotels, larger restaurants and businesses equipped with compatible payment terminals are among the places where international cards are more likely to be accepted. However, card availability can vary depending on the establishment and location.

It is therefore useful to travel with a combination of cards and cash rather than relying on a single payment method.

Before departure, it is also advisable to check with your bank for any fees applied to transactions outside the euro area and international cash withdrawals.

ATMs and cash withdrawals in Uzbekistan

ATMs are available at airports, hotels, major cities and other tourist areas. Compatible ATMs allow travellers to use international cards to withdraw local currency.

Withdrawals from Uzbek ATMs using international payment cards are generally dispensed in the national currency, the som.

Fees and withdrawal limits may depend on both the card issuer and the ATM operator. It is therefore advisable to check the applicable conditions before confirming a withdrawal.

Is it better to bring euros or US dollars?

For travellers arriving from Italy, euros can be exchanged directly in Uzbekistan at authorised exchange offices that handle the currency. It is therefore not necessarily necessary to convert euros into US dollars before travelling and then exchange dollars into som.

The US dollar remains a widely exchanged international currency in the country, but making two currency exchanges can result in additional costs or exchange-rate differences.

The best option may depend on the currencies already available and the exchange conditions at the time of travel.

How much cash should you bring to Uzbekistan?

There is no single amount suitable for every traveller. The amount of money required depends on the length of the stay, which services are already included and individual spending habits.

A practical solution is not necessarily to exchange a large amount upon arrival, but to initially have enough som for small expenses and then use exchange offices or ATMs when necessary.

In markets, small shops and areas with fewer international services, having cash in local currency can be particularly useful.

Payments in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva

In the main tourist cities, including Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, it is generally easier to find banks, exchange offices, ATMs and establishments accepting international cards.

When travelling to smaller towns, villages or rural areas, it is more prudent to have an adequate amount of som available.

This distinction is particularly useful for travellers planning an itinerary that combines major cities with less urbanised areas.

Practical tips for managing money during your trip

The most flexible solution is to combine cash in som with an international card, avoiding dependence on a single payment method.

Before travelling, check that your card is enabled for international transactions, verify the fees charged for payments and withdrawals and, if possible, carry a second card stored separately.

When exchanging currency, use authorised operators and always check the exchange rate being applied.

Tax Free for foreign tourists

Since 1 April 2026, Uzbekistan has extended its Tax Free system to all international airports in the country. Foreign visitors can request a VAT refund on eligible purchases that meet the minimum spending requirements.

This can be useful for travellers planning purchases during their stay, although it remains a secondary aspect compared with the main subject of currency and everyday payments.

Money in Uzbekistan: what to know before travelling

Understanding how money in Uzbekistan works makes it easier to organise expenses during your trip. The som is the national currency, and having cash remains useful for small purchases and in less urbanised areas, while cards and ATMs are more readily available in major cities.

The euro-som exchange rate changes over time, so it is preferable to check the latest rate published by the Central Bank rather than relying on a conversion found well before departure.