We're taking you to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and sharing everything you need to know before you go! We cover the city's Soviet-era landmarks, the stunning Turkish Central Mosque, Osh Bazaar, where to eat, and the travel tips that made our first days in Central Asia a breeze.

Highlights of this Bishkek episode:

• How to get to Bishkek & from the airport to your hotel

• Tips for visiting Bishkek (cash, e-SIMs, Yandex Go, tipping & more)

• Where to stay in Bishkek

• Bishkek Central Mosque (Turkish Central Mosque)

• Victory Square

• Oak Park & the Open-Air Sculpture Museum

• Vladimir Lenin Statue

• State Historical Museum

• Panfilov Park

• Ala-Too Square & the changing of the guard

• Osh Bazaar

• Dinner at Papuri (Georgian khinkali!)

Hotels in Bishkek we recommend:

• Sheraton Bishkek — booked with Marriott points, great home base before and after the tour

• Ak Keme Hotel

• Orion Hotel Bishkek

Book a Private Airport Transfer from Manas International Airport to your hotel — it's about 45 minutes into the city.

Check out our Kyrgyzstan Viator Experiences for all activities we recommend and even some we wanted to do but couldn't get to.

Find a great flight deal to Bishkek with Thrifty Traveler Premium's flight deals. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.

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