Afrosiyab Train Journey: Business Class from Samarkand to Tashkent

When traveling between Samarkand and Tashkent, there’s no better way to experience the swift connection than by taking the Afrosiyab high-speed train. The journey, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, offers a glimpse into the convenience and comfort of modern travel in Uzbekistan, particularly when you opt for business class.

Arriving well ahead of schedule at Samarkand station, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet and relaxed the atmosphere was. The station wasn’t very crowded, and there were plenty of comfortable seats to wait for the train. Watching the hustle of just one Afrosiyab departure to Tashkent and a Sharq train arrival from Tashkent was more than enough to keep a rail enthusiast like me thoroughly engaged.

The Talgo 250: Speed and Comfort in Motion

The Afrosiyab is a 250 km/h articulated train built by the Spanish Talgo company, connecting Samarkand and Tashkent in just 2½ hours. This sleek high-speed train features three classes: VIP (premium 1st class), Business (1st class), and Economy (2nd class), with a restaurant car for additional convenience.

In Business class, the seats are fabric and arranged in a 2+1 configuration, ensuring more space and privacy compared to Economy, which has a 2+2 seat arrangement. VIP class offers leather seats, also arranged 2+1, for an even more luxurious experience. The train’s design focuses on comfort, with minimal vibrations and a smooth ride, though you may occasionally feel a slight shake. Despite this, the ride remains comfortable, and the ample luggage storage space makes it convenient for passengers with larger bags.

The Service

Business class passengers are treated to a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. While snacks were served, they were nothing extraordinary, but the comfort of the seating and the overall space made up for it. The service onboard was friendly and efficient, enhancing the overall experience, even if the snack selection didn’t stand out as much.

This particular journey took place in the evening during winter, so unfortunately, the views of the countryside were limited. However, if you’re lucky enough to travel during daylight, the experience of watching the high-speed train race through Uzbekistan’s picturesque landscapes would undoubtedly be a highlight of the journey.

While the train was very comfortable, the vibrations from the Talgo rakes could be felt, especially during certain parts of the journey. This minor issue aside, the seats provided a good amount of space and support, making it a pleasant way to travel between the two cities.

For those on a budget, economy class is more than sufficient. However, for just a few dollars more, business class offers a superior level of comfort, quieter surroundings, and a more relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a little more luxury and peace during your trip, the upgrade is well worth it.