Top reasons to visit Khiva
- Stunning Architecture: Explore the enchanting Old Khiva, where the city's rich Uzbek aesthetics are showcased through its stunning historical buildings and mosques.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with the local art scene and experience the vibrant atmosphere that Khiva has to offer.
- Historical Significance: Visit key attractions like the Khiva Madrasah and the majestic Islambek Khiva, which reflect the region's rich history.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling quad bike trips around the picturesque landscapes surrounding the city.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Stay in charming hotels and guesthouses, offering a warm welcome and unique amenities for every traveller.
Find great hotels in Khiva
Discover the charming hotels and guesthouses of Khiva, where a warm welcome awaits every traveller. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a pet-friendly getaway, or a base for business travel, Khiva offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Notable options include Hotel Asia Khiva, Farovon Khiva Hotel, and Khiva Siyovush Hotel, each providing unique amenities to enhance your stay in this historic city.
- Arkanchi Hotel: Located in the heart of Khiva, the 3-star Arkanchi Hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel is an ideal choice for business travellers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. The stylishly designed rooms provide a welcoming atmosphere, while the hotel's amenities cater to professional needs, including business facilities and meeting rooms. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the hotel's proximity to local attractions, making it a perfect base for both work and exploration.
- Islambek Hotel & Travel: With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, Islambek Hotel & Travel is a family-friendly 3-star hotel that warmly welcomes guests travelling with children and pets. The hotel features a range of amenities aimed at younger visitors, including a shared playground, an arcade game room, and childcare services available for an additional fee. The pet-friendly policy allows for a hassle-free stay for those travelling with their furry companions. The welcoming atmosphere ensures that families can enjoy a relaxing vacation while still being close to the sights of Khiva.
- Khiva Residence Hotel: A budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Khiva Residence Hotel offers a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. This hotel is particularly suited for business travellers, providing essential amenities and a serene environment conducive for work. Located conveniently in Khiva, it serves as a practical choice for those looking to balance professional commitments with leisure activities. Guests often highlight the hotel's clean and well-maintained facilities, making it an appealing option for visitors to the region.
Where to stay in and around Khiva
Your journey to Khiva promises an enriching cultural experience steeped in history. Explore the enchanting Old Khiva, where the city's rich Uzbek aesthetics come alive with stunning architecture and vibrant city views. Don't miss the majestic Islambek Khiva, which showcases the region's historical significance. With its unique atmosphere and captivating sights, Khiva and its surroundings offer an unforgettable vacation filled with cultural immersion and historical exploration.
- Itchan Kala: Itchan Kala is a captivating village nestled within Khiva, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The area sees a seasonal influx of tourists, with peak visits occurring in May, August, and October. Visitors are drawn to Itchan Kala for its immersive cultural experiences, where they can explore significant landmarks such as ancient mosques and intricately designed monuments. The local architecture reflects the historical grandeur of the Silk Road, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking to experience Uzbekistan's vibrant traditions.
- Urgench: Located 31km from Khiva, Urgench is a lively city that offers a unique blend of modernity and history. Unlike Itchan Kala, visitor numbers remain consistently high throughout the year, particularly peaking in July, September, and November. Urgench attracts travellers with its cultural attractions, including historic sites and impressive mosques that showcase the region's architectural legacy. This city serves as a convenient gateway for exploring nearby attractions, making it an ideal base for those looking to delve into the cultural richness of the Xorazm region.
Things to do in Khiva
Shopping
In Khiva, visit the local bazaars for unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted textiles and ceramics. If you're up for a drive, check out the Urgench Shopping Centre, located 48km away, where you can find a range of shops and local goods to enhance your shopping experience.
Recreation
In Khiva, the Hotel Asia Khiva offers a serene spa with traditional Uzbek treatments and rejuvenating massages, allowing guests to unwind amidst stunning architecture. Nearby, the Khiva Wellness Centre provides yoga sessions and relaxation therapies, set against the backdrop of the ancient city’s historical charm.
Adventure
Explore the ancient city of Khiva by wandering through the UNESCO-listed Itchan Kala, where you can admire stunning architecture and historical sites. Consider a camel ride in the surrounding desert for a unique perspective of the landscape and the opportunity to experience local culture.
Nightlife
In Khiva, the charming rooftop cafes provide a serene setting to enjoy local teas and traditional music. The vibrant atmosphere at the local bazaars transforms into a lively scene in the evening, offering a taste of Uzbek culture through dance performances and artisanal crafts.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Khiva
To save money on your trip to Khiva, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when prices are generally lower. Book your accommodation 1-3 months in advance, and aim for a stay on a Monday for the best rates. Use Expedia's tools to filter hotels by budget and explore package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Walking is a cost-effective way to navigate the compact city, allowing you to enjoy the sights without spending on transport.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Khiva are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Khiva about 1-3 months out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Khiva is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Khiva is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Khiva with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Khiva
Khiva is an ideal destination for culture-themed vacations, offering a wealth of historic buildings, mosques, and forts to explore. Key attractions include the heart of Khiva and the Khiva Madrasah, providing a rich cultural experience for travellers. This enchanting city is sure to leave a lasting impression with its unique heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
- Tosh-hovli Palace: Explore the exquisite Tosh-hovli Palace, a fine example of Khiva's rich cultural heritage. This grand structure boasts intricate tile work and ornate carvings, reflecting the artistic genius of its era. The palace's serene courtyards and lavish rooms provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Khivan Khans.
- Kalta Minor Minaret: Stand before the striking Kalta Minor Minaret, an iconic symbol of Khiva. This unfinished minaret, with its vibrant blue tiles, offers a unique aesthetic that captures the imagination. Its soaring height and intricate patterns showcase the region's architectural prowess.
- Islam Khodja Minaret and Mosque: Visit the Islam Khodja Minaret and Mosque, a significant religious site in Khiva. The impressive minaret, adorned with stunning mosaics, is the tallest in the city, providing breathtaking views. The mosque's tranquil atmosphere invites contemplation and appreciation of its historical importance.
Best time to go to Khiva
The best time to visit Khiva is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Khiva
Reaching Khiva, Uzbekistan, is convenient via its major airports. Urgench International Airport (UGC) is situated 32km from Khiva, with excellent nearby hotels such as the 3-star Navro'z Hotel and FAYZ HOTEL, both located 3km from the airport. These hotels offer various transportation services, including 24-hour airport shuttles and fee-based transfers. Alternatively, Nukus Airport (NCU), located 130km away, has options like Karakalpak Palace Hotel and Hotel Jipek Joli, both 13km from NCU, providing free airport transportation and on-request shuttles. Both airports offer easy access to Khiva, ensuring a pleasant start to your holiday.