Trying to plan ahead so any know if card payments are common at hostels in Uzbekistan or cash is king?
Most small accommodations and hostels in Uzbekistan still run on a cash-first model. Some may technically accept cards but due to unstable connections or processing fees, they often ask for cash instead. Even hostels listed on Booking.com or Hostelworld may not clarify this. Larger hotels like the Wyndham or Radisson will definitely take cards, but for hostels, assume cash. Always message ahead to confirm if you're unsure.
Nope. Don't rely on card payments at hostels in Uzbekistan. Even the fancy ones will act like their card terminal is broken the moment you check in. I stayed at Art Hostel and Central Perk Hostel in Tashkent - both wanted cash. I asked about PayMe or QR - got blank stares. If you want a smooth experience, withdraw or exchange som before you show up. You'll save time and headaches.
In Tashkent, Topchan Hostel had a card machine, but it was down when I arrived. The receptionist said the bank network is “unreliable.” I was lucky I had som. In Samarkand, at Bibi-Khanym hostel, they only accepted cash. Even bigger hostels often say they accept cards but prefer som. So yes, cash is still king. If you're wondering “can I pay at hostels in Uzbekistan with card” - don’t count on it.
I stayed in five different hostels in Uzbekistan - Tashkent, Samarkand, Khiva - and every single one asked for cash. Even though they let me book online with card, payment at check-in was som only. Some had card machines, but either claimed “not working” or said foreign cards wouldn’t go through. Bring enough local cash, or at least USD to exchange. It’s common to pay in full at check-in.