Central Asia from Heathrow

Looking for somewhere different to explore? Central Asia is calling.

With direct flights from Heathrow Terminal 4 to Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, you can fly straight into the heart of the Silk Road - the ancient trade route that once linked China with Europe.

For centuries, travellers passed through these lands carrying spices, silks and goods. Today, that same route leads to cities rich in history, bold design and food that’s worth the journey alone. Still just under the radar but probably not for much longer.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Silk Road soul and serious style

• Airline: Uzbekistan Airways
• Flights: 2 per week (Tue and Fri)
• Terminal: Terminal 4

Once a major Silk Road stop, Tashkent is a city of contrasts: ancient sites and leafy boulevards, bold Soviet architecture and buzzing modern cafés. The metro is a must - each station has its own design, more gallery than underground.

Start at Chorsu Bazaar under its turquoise dome, or hop on a high-speed train to Samarkand, Bukhara or Khiva – three of the Silk Road’s most iconic cities.

Good to know: Friday flights now offer extra capacity. A newly announced codeshare with Azerbaijan Airlines makes regional connections even easier.

Visa: UK and EU passport holders can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days.

Baku, Azerbaijan

Caspian flair with a modern twist

• Airline: Azerbaijan Airlines
• Flights: 3 per week
• Terminal: Terminal 4

Baku blends old-world charm with a modern edge. Its UNESCO-listed old town, Icherisheher, is packed with winding lanes, sandstone palaces and caravanserais. Just outside, the Flame Towers light up the skyline after dark.

Expect a walkable waterfront, standout museums and food that’s big on flavour. Think saffron rice, grilled meats and piles of herbs. With direct flights and simple e-visas, it’s ideal for a long weekend or the starting point for a bigger trip. You can apply for an ASAN e-visa online and it usually takes just a few days.

Visa: UK passport holders need an e-visa, usually issued within 3 working days.

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Laid-back, mountain-backed, culture-packed

• Airline: Air Astana
• Flights: 3 per week (year-round)
• Terminal: Terminal 4

Almaty sits at the base of the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains and makes it easy to mix city life with the outdoors. You'll find leafy streets, rooftop bars, great coffee spots, and reminders of the Soviet era, from grand mosaics to huge public squares.

Head to the hills by cable car, ski in winter, or visit turquoise lakes and red rock canyons. Almaty is a laid-back, creative city with access to some of Central Asia’s best scenery.

Good to know: Use Air Astana’s multi-city tool to plan a wider Central Asia trip.

Visa: UK and EU passport holders can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days.

Why now?

Central Asia is rich in culture and full of surprises but without the crowds.

You can explore ancient madrassas in the morning and contemporary art in the afternoon. Sip tea under tiled arches or stay in a boutique guesthouse inside a centuries-old building.

With expanding flight options from Heathrow and simple visa rules, it’s never been easier to go. ✈️