must visit tashkent

16 EPIC Things to Do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From exploring imposing Soviet Architecture to marvelling at gorgeous mosques and museums, here’s our list of the best things to do in Tashkent.

The biggest city in Central Asia has never received much love from the travelling community.

Articles on Uzbekistan tend to focus on the countries’ big hitters and more well-known destinations like Samarkand , Bukhara or the fabled Aral Sea.

Even when compared to other Central Asia cities, Tashkent is usually trailing behind the regions big hitters; Ashgabat and Astana.

Most travellers blast through on their way in or out of Uzbekistan and this really is a crying shame.

However, as tourism to the region increases, this is slowly starting to change. Tashkent is starting to show itself as a fascinating destination in its own right.

Tourism is really starting to take off in the Uzbek capital and travellers are starting to take advantage of Tashkent’s awesome tourist spots.

It is a city brimming with culture, architecture, history and good food.

Whilst having all of the Uzbek and Central Asian staples, if you need a break from plov, manti and shashlik then this is the place!

READ MORE: Check out our epic Uzbekistan travel guide to make the most of your trip here!

Table of Contents

Tashkent Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Tashkent, here’s my mini travel guide to the city to help you plan the rest of your trip.

Transport in Tashkent

Getting to Tashkent and around the city has never been easier. Here’s my guide to help you plan your next trip.

Most people enter Tashkent at the city’s international airport. In the past there were strict limits on how much cash you could bring into the country.

However the restrictions have been lifted somewhat, but you need to declare if you are bringing in between $2000 and $5000.

Anything over $5000 requires the completion of another form at the airport.

The most convenient way of getting to and from the airport is by taxi. When you exit the airport you will be harassed by taxi drivers charging extortionate prices.

Ignore them and keep walking. The further away you get from the entrance the cheaper the prices will get.

We stayed around Kosmonavtlar subway station and paid $2 (16,000 som) from the airport.

Alternatively you may arrive in Tashkent by train. Again, taxi’s are the best way to get to and from the station. From the station to Kosmonavtlar it cost us $2 (16,000 som).

Tashkent is serviced by two train stations handling both high speed and slow trains travelling from all over Uzbekistan.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance or from ticket offices in the city centre.

However the chances of encountering an English speaker at these ticket offices is slim.

If you come across the border from Kazakhstan you will need to get a taxi into Tashkent itself which should cost around $5.

However do be warned that this border with Kazakhstan is extremely chaotic and as a result it can take a few hours to get through.

Tashkent’s metro is famous for its extravagant designs, although not quite at the level of Moscow or St Petersburg there is some fantastic artwork on display. Aside from that, it’s taxis or marshrutka.

In Uzbekistan, every car is a potential taxi. Stand on the side of the street and try and flag one down and you will probably get a regular car before you get a taxi.

When we hopped into regular cars we never felt unsafe or ill at ease. However if this isn’t for then just get a regular taxi.

Expect journeys within the city centre to be between $1-2 (8000-16000 som).

Generally the months to avoid are June, July and August when Tashkent and Uzbekistan swelter under the desert heat.

Spring and Autumn are excellent times to visit.

In the past the only way to get local currency was through the bank or black market. Uzbek som was traded for dollars by any international visitor, due to the lack of ATM’s.

However the bank rate was much worse than the black market rate. This is because the bank rates were fixed by the government and the black market rates reflected the actual value of the som against the dollar.

Banks set $1 at being worth 4210 som, on the black market it was worth around 8,000 som.

You were better off changing money with some shady looking characters round the back of the Chorsu bazaar than going into a bank.

However in 2017 this all changed. The government abandoned the fixed rates and the black market and bank rates were the same.

In addition the government introduced 10,000 and 50,000 som bills, although the 50,000 som bills are not that common yet.

Prior to this the only notes available were 1000 som.

This gave Uzbeks the reputation of being the worlds fastest money counters, certainly something we are no position to disagree with after seeing them in action.

Nowadays you don’t need to bring all of you money in with you, but ATMs are not widespread, may not work and there can be issues with them accepting foreign cards.

Therefore it’s still probably a good idea to bring most of your cash with you. In Tashkent you shouldn’t have too many issues finding an ATM, but elsewhere is much trickier.

Another piece of good news is that a number of major currencies are now accepted by all Uzbek banks: US Dollars, Euros, Pound Sterling, Japanese Yen and increasing the Chinese Renminbi.

When changing money you will need to bring you passport and you money needs to be crisp and clean. They will not accept ripped or old notes.

You can change som back, usually into dollars as that’s the currency most banks hold.

However do this in Uzbekistan as it’s a nightmare to do it outside of the country.

Accommodation – Where to Stay in Tashkent

Being the largest city in Central Asia, there are certainly plenty of accommodation options in Tashkent ranging to cheap and cheerful dorms to luxury suites.

The nearer you are to a subway station the easier life will be. We stayed a two different places during our time in Tashkent – Anvar’s Guests and Top Chan.

We felt Topchan was too far away from everything for us. Anvars on the other hand was just a 15 minute walk to Kosmonavtlar station.

This is probably the most popular hostel in Tashkent. With wifi and free breakfast as well as a variety of private and shared rooms this could suit couples and solo travellers.

However bathrooms are shared so it may not be for everyone. It even has a pool, perfect for escaping the Uzbek summer. Additionally staff are friendly and can offer plenty of helpful advice where necessary.

This excellent guesthouse is something of a stalwart on the Tashkent travel scene.

Offering decent rooms and free breakfast it’s also close to the subway as well as numerous restaurants and shops.

There’s also an excellent cafe just opposite serving great coffee and cakes. The rooms do need a little bit of TLC in places and the bathrooms are a bit on the small side.

However for price and private bathrooms this is an excellent option.

Anvar himself is full of helpful advice and information and speaks flawless English alongside Uzbek and Russian. He was able to recommend taxi drivers, restaurants and the best place to pick up a cheap sim card.

Located near the Minor Mosque this hotel has large rooms and free breakfast.

The wifi connection is quick and reliable and being located up here means that it’s in one of the more secluded accommodation options in Tashkent.

Luxury hotels in Central Asia usually run into the issue of not being up to international standards.

There are a number of luxury options in Tashkent however this issue is a consistent area of complaint.

However Sharq hotel seems to be one of the few that has overcome this. It has everything you would expect form a luxury hotel; large rooms, great food and a pool. This really is a superb luxury option in Tashkent.

For great Uzbek food, you can’t go wrong with checking out some of the stands at the Chorsu bazaar. The plov and shashlik are both excellent.

Do check the price before ordering as you may end up with a bigger bill than you anticipated.

Most small hole in the wall restaurants offer good cheap eats, so if you’re watching the pennies these are excellent options.

You won’t find too many of these in the city centre, however.

One thing that sets Tashkent apart from other cities and towns in Central Asia is the variety of cuisine.

As good as plov, manti, lagman and shashlik are, you will at some point crave something different.

Tashkent can provide this in oodles, but it is more expensive than local cuisine.

The excellently named Jumanji has a huge menu offering local, European and Asian cuisine. Functioning as both a bar and restaurant it usually has live music as well.

However our favourite non-Uzbek eatery was an excellent Korean restaurant located on the corner of Vosit Vokhidov Street and Shota Rustaveli Street, just east of the Mir Hotel.

The dishes are certainly not cheap, but taste wise it is exactly what you would get if you walked into a restaurant in Seoul.

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Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Related posts, 40 incredible photos of uzbekistan that will blow your mind, 19 awesome things to do in bukhara, uzbekistan [2024], 15 best things to do in samarkand, uzbekistan [2024], 1 thought on “16 epic things to do in tashkent, uzbekistan (2024 guide)”.

You don’t say exactly where are the mosaics nor posted any pictures. I walked that road you mentioned and could not see anything to be honest…

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The 15 Best Things to do in Tashkent Uzbekistan – Tashkent City Guide

Tashkent will be very likely the first city you’ll arrive in when you travel to Uzbekistan. What are the best places to see in Tashkent Uzbekistan? Read this travel guide to have a wonderful stay in Tashkent city!

Uzbekistan’s modern capital Tashkent lives a bit in the shadows of the more attractive-looking Silk Road cities Samarkand ,  Bukhara  and  Khiva . 

It’s a shame because Tashkent is a really nice destination to visit and spend some time if you know where to go.

Tashkent city can be seen as an introduction to the stunning Islamic architecture – probably the reason why you’re going to travel to Uzbekistan – as it has some beautiful historical sites.  It’s also a very modern city with many parks and fountains, beautiful statues, nice cafes, and great restaurants.

Tashkent city is a fantastic base from which to explore the rest of Uzbekistan.  It’s very easy to take buses or trains from Tashkent to all the other interesting destinations around the country.

You’ll very likely begin and end your trip to Uzbekistan here as it’s home to the country’s international airport. If you prefer to travel overland, it’s also very straightforward to travel from Almaty (Kazakhstan),   Bishkek   (Kyrgyzstan) or Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus or train. 

It’ll also be a nice place to hang out at the end of your travels in Uzbekistan because trust me, after spending days and/or weeks of staring intensely at radiant colors and interlaced patterns of architectural masterpieces, you’ll be feeling a little “ tiled-out” !

Tip: See my  Uzbekistan Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Uzbekistan!

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Uzbekistan

• 18 important things to prepare your trip to Uzbekistan
• 26 beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan
• How to travel aroun d Uzbekistan by train
• What to pack for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Safety Guide
• Uzbekistan Money Guide
• Tours & Experiences: Guided City Tours in Uzbekistan, Adventure Tours in Uzbekistan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Tashkent City – Things you need to know before you go

Tashkent is the economic and cultural center of Uzbekistan and one of the wealthiest cities in Central Asia. It used to be the most populated city of ex-Soviet Central Asia and the 4th largest city of the Soviet Union. 

It’s very easy and cheap to get around Tashkent by metro. It only costs $0.15, there are metro stations near all the must-see places to visit in Tashkent and one of the top things to do in Tashkent is riding its metro as the city has some of the most beautiful metro stations in the world! 

Another way to get around Tashkent is by taxi. Install the Yandex Taxi app on your phone to easily order a taxi and see the rate in advance. This saves you the hustle of bargaining or the risk of paying triple the standard rate.

Tashkent is also a very clean and green city filled with Soviet, Islamic and modern-day architecture. It’s really not as conservative as you might think and I was even surprised to see young women walking around in cute little dresses.

This doesn’t mean you can start wearing tank tops and shorts that barely cover your bum but you also don’t need to cover yourself completely. 

Tashkent has many banks where you exchange your money for Uzbekistani Som (UZS). There are also ATMs in the city where you can withdraw Uzbekistani Soms or US Dollars.

The best time to visit Tashkent (and Uzbekistan) is during spring (April – May) and fall (October – November). The weather during those seasons is very pleasant and the temperatures are usually around 20°C (68°F). 

Summers in Tashkent (July-August) are dry and hot with average temperatures of 35°C (95°F). Once the sun has set though, it’s nice to walk around the parks and boulevards as this is the time when the city and its inhabitants come to life. 

Winter in Tashkent can also be a nice time if you want to see the city covered in snow. The average temperature during the winter is usually around 5°C (41°F).

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Discover the mystical Silk Road cities and travel along the ancient caravan trails in the mountains and desert of Uzbekistan during the 14-day H i g h l i g h t s o f Uzbekistan Adventure Tour !

Is Tashkent safe for tourists?

The capital of Uzbekistan is very safe for travelers and it has even become safer now that the government introduced a ‘tourist police’. You’ll find their boots in every tourist destination in Uzbekistan.

So in case you’d ever feel uncomfortable or in danger – which I highly doubt – just go to one of those touristic police stands and they will help you.

When I traveled for the first time to Tashkent in 2017, I was a bit worried about my safety. 

I was a woman traveling alone, I didn’t know many people who had been there before, and the country was a bit of a mystery to me.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or not, you shouldn’t worry too much about your safety in Uzbekistan and in Tashkent.

The Uzbeks are very friendly and have no bad intentions whatsoever. If they see you’re lost or you’re in need of help, they’ll kindly approach you and offer you their help.

When I traveled for the second time to Tashkent with my friend, we had a bit of an awkward situation in the metro.

A group of young guys surrounded us and our first instinct was to walk away as we thought they might want to rob us. But they were students and just wanted to have a chat so they could practice their English with us!

There might be cases of petty crime such as pickpockets, especially in crowded places and in the bazaars of Tashkent, but they don’t happen often. Just always keep your valuables in a safe place, no matter where you are in the world.

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What I recommend to avoid being pickpocketed is to always keep your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag .

I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

The 3 most budget-friendly travel insurance companies compared!

Need Travel Insurance for Central Asia ? I use and highly recommend HeyMondo Travel Insurance . As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

15 places to visit and top things to do in Tashkent in one day

While Tashkent is a nice place to relax and do some sightseeing for a couple of days, you might not have much time on your trip around the country.

That’s why I made a 1-day itinerary for Tashkent so that even if you only have one day to spare in Uzbekistan’s capital city, you won’t miss out on the highlights and main tourist attractions in Tashkent. I would also recommend going on a guided city tour in Tashkent as you’ll learn so much more about the history and importance of Uzbekistan’s capital.

If you follow the map below, you’ll have an enjoyable time and you’ll also find out what Tashkent is famous for!

Tashkent Tourist Places – Map

I marked the places and attractions on the map below. You can open this map on your phone and also quickly find your way to and from the nearest metro stations.

1. See the world’s oldest Koran at the Hazrat Imam Complex

The Hazrat Imam Complex , also known as the Hast-Imam Ensemble or Khast Imam, is the religious heart of Tashkent. It’s the perfect place to start your Tashkent sightseeing trip.

While you walk around the complex, you’ll see some beautiful architectural monuments, such as the Barak Khan Madrasah, the Tilla Sheikh Mosque and the mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi. 

They are a nice introduction to the impressive Islamic architecture that you’ll find in other Uzbek cities like Bukhara . You can freely enter the courtyard of the Barak Khan Madrasah.

Barak Khan Madrasah

Hazrat Imam is also home to the Muyi Mubarak Library, a library with oriental manuscripts and the Uthman Koran, which is claimed to be the world’s oldest Koran. The entrance fee to visit this library is  30,000 UZS (around €3/ US$3). 

How to get to Hazrat Imam Complex

Get out at the Gafur Gulom Metro Station . Follow Abdulla Qodiriy Street to the left and turn into Qorasaroy Street (see map).

The Hazrat Imam Complex is a 10-minute walk from the metro station and on your way there, you’ll get a glimpse of the old town of Tashkent. 

2. Shop at Chorsu Bazaar

The Chorsu Bazaar is Uzbekistan’s largest market where locals can buy anything from raw food products, fresh fruits and veggies, honey and spices to clothing, jewelry, beauty products and more. You can find everything here!

The central part of the bazaar is covered by an impressive blue dome but you’ll also find many outdoor food, textile and household stalls in the surrounding streets and alleys. It seems like this market just goes on forever!

Even if you don’t want to buy anything, the Chorsu Bazaar is an ideal place to do some people-watching and observe the cultural blend Tashkent is famous for. 

How to get to Chorsu Bazaar

The moment you walk out of Chorsu metro station , you’ll be in the midst of bread and cheap Chinese products stalls. You’ll also quickly see the blue dome.

If you’re coming from the Hazrat Imam Complex, walk back to Abdulla Qodiriy Street and go right at the intersection. Follow the road towards Zakaynar Street (see Tashkent Tourist Places map above).

It’s about 15 minutes walking from Hazrat Imam to the Chorsu Bazaar.

3. Visit the Kukeldash Madrasah and the Dzuma Mosque

The Kukeldash Madrasah is the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical places in Tashkent.

While Kukeldash is not as impressive as the three madrasahs surrounding Registan Square in Samarkand , the building still is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and worth a quick visit.

Kukeldash was originally an educational institution (madrasah means ‘school’ or ‘college’ for Islamic education) but over the centuries the building has been used as a caravanserai for merchants, a fortress of the Kokand rulers and even as a place of execution.

The Madrasah survived several earthquakes and has repeatedly been repaired and restored. Today Kukeldash functions again as a spiritual institution.

You can enter the courtyard of the madrasah where you’ll find a small wood carving workshop. The entrance fee to the courtyard is 10000 UZS .

The Dzuma Mosque is right next to the Kukeldash Madrasah and worth a quick stop to admire the architecture.

How to get to Kukeldash Madrasah and Dzuma Mosque

Kukeldash Madrasah and Dzuma Mosque are right outside the Chorsu Bazaar and the Chorsu Metro . Just walk between the outdoor stalls in the direction of Beruniy Street (see the Tashkent Tourist Places Map above). 

4. Admire the Minor Mosque

Minor Mosque is a striking new mosque in Tashkent. It was built in 2014 on the banks of the Ankhor Canal.

Locals call it the “Snow Mosque” because it’s completely made of white marble. It’s particularly beautiful when the sun rays hit its walls, making the mosque sparkle and shine. 

How to get to Minor Mosque

Take the metro (at Chorsu metro station if you’re following this itinerary) and get out at Bodomzor Station . Walk along Amir Temur Avenue until you reach the intersection with Kichik Halqa Ring Road.

Turn right and keep walking along Little Ring Road until you reach Minor Mosque. It’s about 15 minutes walking from Bodomzor metro station.

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5. Climb the Tashkent TV Tower

The Tashkent Tower is at its 375 meters, the 11th tallest tower in the world. You can take the elevator to the 6th floor and enjoy the panoramic views over the city from the observation deck.

There’s also a restaurant on the 7th floor where you can have a beer and/or enjoy a meal at a reasonable price. 

The entrance fee to go to the observation deck is  40,000 UZS . You’ll also need your passport to go up the tower. The Tashkent Tower is open daily from 10 am until 8 pm. 

It could be a nice spot to return in the evening and see how the sun sets over the city’s skyline.

How to get to Tashkent TV Tower

Get out at  Bodomzor Station   and walk along Amir Timur Avenue in the direction of “Tashkent Land”. The Tashkent TV Tower is a 5-minute walk from the metro station.

6. Visit the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and the surrounding park

  I really enjoyed spending some time near the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and the park surrounding it.

The memorial itself is a large gazebo-shaped structure with a blue dome.

The museum of the Victims of Political Repression is also a beautiful building but the story behind it is a bit sad.

The museum is dedicated to the people who fought for the independence of Uzbekistan during the Soviet Union time and who were killed by the government. Inside you can find photographs, documents and personal belongings of those killed.

If this sounds a bit too heavy, just stroll around the complex and enjoy the peace and quiet of the park near the river bank.

How to get to the Memorial to the Victims of Repression

The museum and Memorial to the Victims of Repression are across the Tashkent TV Tower. You have to cross Amir Timur Avenue to reach it.

7. Have lunch at Besh Qalan, the Central Asian Plov Center

Plov is the most famous Central Asian dish. This traditional Uzbek dish consists of rice fried with raisins, carrots, and spices with meat on top of it. It’s usually cooked in lamb fat and served with pieces of lamb meat. 

You can find this dish anywhere in Uzbekistan and Central Asia but Besh Qozon claims to have the best Plov of the whole region.

What is really cool about this Plov Center is that you can see how the plov is made in huge pots that can serve hundreds of people!

Eating plov at the Central Asian Plov Center is an activity you can’t skip while in Tashkent!

For about 25000 UZS ($2.50) you get a big bowl of plov, freshly baked bread, pickled veggies, and lemon tea. Keep in mind that the Plov center closes at 2 pm . 

How to get to the Central Asian Plov Center

The Central Asian Plov Center is located across the Memorial to the Victims of Repression and next to the Tashkent TV Tower. The nearest metro station is  Bodomzor .

8. Ride the metro

Another top thing to do in Tashkent is to ride its metro. It’s the perfect activity to do in the early afternoon during the summer when it’s scorching hot outside as the metro has air conditioning. 

Tashkent has some of the most beautiful metro stations in the world! Visiting Tashkent’s subway was one of the most memorable highlights of my time in the city!

Almost every metro station in Tashkent is fascinating. They all have their own unique architectural features and artistic elements.

The 1 3 m o s t b e a u t i f u l m e t r o s t a t i o n s i n T a s h k e n t

9. Leaf through some books at the Book Bazaar 

If you love books and old magazines, you might enjoy this small Book Bazaar. 

We stayed in an Airbnb next to the park where this bazaar is located so we stumbled upon it by chance.

The Book Bazaar has little bookstalls lined up along a pedestrian street in a nice green park.

Most books are only in Russian but it’s quite fun to leaf through the books and find some old-school English books as well.

At one side of the bookstalls, you’ll also find some souvenir stalls and people selling antique items. 

On the other side of the book bazaar, you’ll pass some ice-cream shops and little dining places selling Uzbek and western food. 

How to get to the Book Bazaar

Get out at the  Kosmonavtlar metro station . This is a metro station you really can’t miss when visiting Tashkent! 

Cross the intersection of Afrosiyob and Mirabad Street and walk towards the park. That’s where you’ll find the book bazaar. 

10. Learn about Uzbekistan’s history in the State Museum of History

If you want to learn a bit more about Uzbekistan’s history, then the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan is the place to be.

This museum has 2 floors with a range of exhibits showing the history of Uzbekistan over the past 2500 years. 

The entrance fee is  10000 UZS, 25000 UZS  if you want to take photos (not really worth it in my opinion) and you can get an English-speaking guide for  8000 UZS  (this is worth it if you want to learn more).

The museum is open daily, except on Mondays, from 10 am until 6 pm. 

If you’re not really into musea, it’s worth passing there anyways as the architecture of the museum is quite interesting to see.

It’s built in the form of a cube, blending a Soviet approach with oriental decorative patterns. This Soviet-Modernism architecture can also be found back in other places in Central Asia. 

How to get to the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

The nearest metro station is  Mustakilik Maydoni , one of the most beautiful metro stations in Tashkent!

If you’re following this itinerary, it’s a 7-minute walk from the Book Bazaar to the museum. You’ll pass the beautiful Alisher Navoi Opera on the way. 

If you want to see a performance in the opera building, you can check the program at the small ticket office outside the building. I didn’t go inside the opera building but I’ve heard it’s quite grandiose. 

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11. Watch the stunning fountains and monuments at Independence Square

Independence Square , also known as Memorial Square, is a popular gathering place for the residents of Tashkent. It’s located right in the center of Tashkent. 

This square used to be known as Lenin Square during the Soviet Union but upon declaration of independence in 1991, it was re-named Mustakillik Maydoni, which translates to Independence Square in English.

It’s used for large gatherings and performances on festive days, like Uzbekistan Independence Day (1st of September) and New Year (1st of January). 

Independence Square has some of the most beautiful fountains of the city and a number of significant monuments.

Among them, 16 marble columns joined by a bridge and sculptures of storks on top of it that symbolize peace, the Independence Monument itself and a statue of a woman holding a baby, the symbol of Motherland. 

How to get to Independence Square:

Mustakilik Maydoni   metro station is right at Independence Square. It’s a stunning metro you definitely have to see!

If you’re coming from the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, just keep walking down the road. Independence Square is just a 5-minute walk from the museum.

12. Go for a stroll around Amir Timur Square

Amir Temur, also known as Tamerlane, is Uzbekistan’s national hero and the most famous Central Asian conqueror.

You’ll hear his name very often in Uzbekistan, especially in  Samarkand   as this city was the center of his Temurid Empire. 

The Amir Temur Square is a little park and ideal for an afternoon stroll or to take a break from all your sightseeing in Tashkent. 

The highlight of the square is the 7-meters high statue of Amir Temur on his horse, which is a popular spot for the locals to take photos and selfies. 

How to get to Amir Timur Square:

Get out at  Amir Temur   metro station. 

If you’re following this itinerary, you can make the pleasant 7-minute walk from Independence Square to Amir Temur square along Sailkogh Street (see #15 below). 

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13. Have a beer at Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is one of the most iconic sights of Tashkent. It’s a must-see place in Tashkent if you like Soviet architecture.

The inside of the hotel isn’t really spectacular but you can walk in and go to the bar on the 17th floor for a beer and a good view of the city.  Tip: Go there for sunset!

How to get to Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is behind the Amir Timur statue so get out at Amir Temur metro station. The hotel is so massive that you can’t miss it. 

14.  Visit Amir Temur Museum

As I’ve mentioned already above, Amir Temur is the national hero of Uzbekistan and this museum is dedicated to him.

The architecture of the building is quite photogenic. The inside of the museum is also very beautiful with its golden-domed ceiling.

The entrance fee to visit the Amir Temur Museum is 16000 UZS  ( 30000 UZS  if you want to take photos).  You’ll find some paintings and belongings of Amir Temur, as well as a copy of the Qoran and small-scale models of the most important mosques of Uzbekistan.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am until 5 pm. It’s closed on Mondays.

How to get to Amir Timur Museum

The Amir Timur Museum is located next to Amir Timur Square. Get out at  Amir Temur metro station.

15. Enjoy the evening on Broadway Boulevard (Sailkogh Street)

Sailkogh Street is a pedestrian street that unites the two most important squares of Tashkent: Amir Temur Square and Independence Square. 

The street is known as Broadway Boulevard is a very popular place for the locals to enjoy time with their friends and families.

You can find all kinds of food, souvenir, and art stalls on this boulevard, along with street artists and carnival games for kids. 

It’s particularly nice to walk there during the early evening when Broadway Boulevard is illuminated by all kinds of lights. 

How to get to Broadway Boulevard

You can get out at Amir Temur metro station   and walk from Amir Temur Square or the museum to the boulevard.

You can also get out at Mustakillik Maydoni metro station  and walk along Broadway Boulevard after you’ve visited Independence Square.

Tashkent City Tours and Experiences

There are several guided city (walking) tours you can do in Tashkent. I often like taking a guided tour around a city as it allows me to learn more about the local culture and the history of a destination.

Tashkent is also on the itinerary of my Uzbekistan Adventure Tours .

Here are a couple of city tours in Tashkent I recommend:

Uzbekistan itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan

Where to eat in Tashkent – Tashkent Restaurants

Tashkent is a big city so the restaurant options are practically endless. There’s a wide selection of restaurants that can satisfy travelers with different budgets.

Whether you want a traditional restaurant where you can try some Uzbek Plov or you’re craving some western food, you’ll find plenty of savory options in Tashkent.

Here are the restaurants I suggest:

1.Besh Qozon

This is the place you don’t want to miss in the capital of Uzbekistan. Eating at Besh Qozon is one of the top things to do while in Tashkent (see above). 

This restaurant is a bit outside of the city center but believe me, eating there is absolutely worth it! If you arrive there a bit before noon, you’ll witness hundreds of kilograms of rice being cooked right in front of you.

The ambiance of this place is fantastic. When you’ll walk in, you’ll see men stirring the rice in a giant pot. It’s mainly locals who eat there. This is great because the best way to capture the spirit of Tashkent is to eat where the locals do.

The plov served here is delicious and it only costs 25000 UZS (around $2.50) for a big bowl of plov. You’ll find the Central Asian Plov Center in Tashkent near the metro station of  Bodomzor . 

2. National Food

National Food is one of Tashkent’s best restaurants. You’ll get a wonderful culinary experience of Uzbekistan’s cuisine and the restaurant is set in a traditional Uzbekistan decor that offers a warm and welcoming ambiance. National Food is located at walking distance from Gafur Gulom Metro Station .

Caravan is another great budget-friendly Tashkent restaurant that offers delicious traditional food, rustic decor, and live music. It’s located in a small suburb, about 30 minutes walking from Tashkent Metro (best would be to take a taxi to get there). They have great manti (Central Asian dumplings ), salads, and Uzbek wine. Caravan has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Afsona is a modern Uzbek restaurant with a terrace, located near Ming O’rik metro station . The budget-friendly menu offers traditional Uzbek dishes such as plov, somosa, manty and dolma, as well as vegetarian options. There’s often some live music so it’s a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Uzbekistan Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Uzbekistan?

Where to stay in Tashkent?

Tashkent offers a wide choice of hostels for budget travelers to top-end hotels for those who enjoy that extra bit of luxury. I also stayed a couple of times at an Airbnb in Tashkent.

1. Budget Hostels (less than $20 per person)

• Topchan Hostel

Topchan hostel’s location is ideal if you’re traveling by yourself and visiting Tashkent for the day. It’s at a 30-minutes walking distance from the railway station to start (or finish) your travels in Uzbekistan. See the rates and availability for “Topchan Hostel”

• Light Hostel

This is another hostel conveniently located in Tashkent. It’s about 40-minutes walking from the train station and a 20-minute walk from Oybek metro station, from where you can easily travel to Tashkent’s city center. See the rates and availability for “Light Hostel”

• Jules Verne Hostel

Jules Verne is a lovely hostel located near the Minor Mosque in Tashkent. You don’t have to go far to get to a metro station or walk to the city center of Tashkent. Click to check out rates and availability for “Jules Verne Hostel”

2. Mid-range (between $20 and $50 per night)

• Leader Hotel

I stayed at the Leader hotel while hiking in Uzbekistan and it was my base across the trip. It has beautiful rooms (one of mine had a *chandelier*), hot showers, great food, and excellent service. The rooms average around $50 per night.  Check out rates and availability for “Leader Hotel”

• Great Trip Mini-Hotel

Great Trip Mini-Hotel offers comfortable rooms with a shared lounge, free private parking and a garden. It’s located in a quiet residential area close to the Tashkent TV-Tower and Japanse Garden and other places of interest in Tashkent. See rates and availability for “Great Trip Mini-Hotel”

• Hotel Suzuk-Ota

Hotel Suzuk-Ota is a highly-rated hotel in the center of Tashkent. It offers clean and nice rooms, a shared lounge and a garden and is located in a park next to the Suzuk Ota Mosque, at walking distance from a mall and many restaurants. The closest metro stations are Chorsu and Bunyodkor. Click to check out rates and availability for “Hotel Suzuk-Ota”

3. High-end (+ $50 per night)

• Hyatt Regency Hotel

If you like to splurge a bit, you can stay at the  Hyatt Regency Hotel   with its stunning rooms, indoor swimming pool and a restaurant on the 7th floor. Check out rates and availability for “Hyatt Regency Hotel”

• Ichan Qal’a Hotel

Another stunning luxurious hotel we’d recommend is the Ichan Qal’a Hotel. This hotel doesn’t only offer beautifully decorated rooms but also an indoor fitness center and swimming pool.  See rates and availability for “Ichan Qal’a Hotel”

6 Best Places to visit in the Fergana Valley – The Complete Travel Guide

My Tashkent photography gear

This is the gear I used to capture Tashkent. You can also see my article on photography essentials and cameras for travel photographers for more information.

• Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-90
• Main lens: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6
• Wide-angle lens : Leica DG Vario-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0
• Prime lens: Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7
• Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod (Hybrid Head)

How to get to Tashkent?

Tashkent is very well connected by train with other Uzbek cities such as Bukhara , Khiva or Samarkand .

It’s a city that is also very easy to reach from Almaty in Kazakhstan or from Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan .

1. How to get from Tashkent airport to the city center

It’s a 30-minute drive to get from the airport to the city center of Tashkent by taxi.

As soon as you exit the airport, you’ll be greeted by eager taxi drivers who are happy to bring you to the city center of Tashkent for 50.000 UZS.

This is the same rate as the “official” taxi office in the airport, which doesn’t make sense as the standard price for a taxi from the airport to the city center of Tashkent is between 20.000 and 25.000 UZS (around US$2 – US$3).

This means you’ll have to negotiate the price with the driver and you might not feel like playing the bargaining game after a long flight. So here’s a good tip.

When you exit the airport, ignore the taxi drivers who are standing at the gate. Walk to the left towards the parking lot across ‘Departures’. There you’ll find taxi drivers who just drove travelers from the city center to the airport.

They’ll be happy to quickly return to the city center and therefore are a lot easier to negotiate with. Offer the driver 20.000 UZS, max 25.000 UZS.

Show him the money and tell him to take it or leave it. He’ll probably try to ask for more but as soon as you start walking towards another taxi, he’ll very likely take it…

Another way is to install the Yandex Taxi app on your phone. You can easily order a taxi through the app and it shows you how much you have to pay upfront.

2. How to get to Tashkent from Almaty by public transport

It’s possible to travel from Almaty to Tashkent by bus and by train. Although the bus and train rides can take a long time (13 and 16 hours respectively), it’s a very relaxing journey.

It’s definitely a good option to travel this way if you’re on a budget and/or if you have plenty of time to spare.

How to get from Almaty to Tashkent by bus or by train. 

3. How to get to Tashkent from Bishkek by public transport?

There is now a bus line connecting Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan with Tashkent in Uzbekistan.

Traveling between the two cities by bus takes about 8 to 13 hours depending on how long it takes to cross the borders and this bus runs at night.

How to get from Bishke k to Tashkent by bus. 

4. How to get to Tashkent from Bukhara by public transport?

Getting from Bukhara to the Uzbek capital is very easy. There is a high-speed train that connects the two cities as well as a standard train. It’s also possible to take a night train towards Tashkent. It leaves Bukhara at 10:30 PM and arrives in Tashkent around 6:30 AM.

Traveling between the two cities by bus is also super convenient.

Getting from Bukhara to Tashkent by train

Bukhara’s train station is about twenty minutes by taxi from the old town. It’s located in the newer part of Bukhara called Kogon.

You can reach it from the old city center by taxi for 20000 som. Taxi drivers tend to overcharge tourists but you shouldn’t pay more than this.

You’ll need your passport to buy a train ticket. The train station is usually very crowded with people so it’s preferable to arrive there early in the day.

You can book your tickets online on the official Uzbek Railways website . It also shows you the train schedules. Read my Uzbekistan Railways Guide with all the information on how to take trains in Uzbekistan and how to order tickets online.

In Tashkent, you will arrive at the Northern train station. It’s right next to a metro station so it’s easy to reach the city center from the station. You can also reach the city center of Tashkent from the station for 16000 som.

It’s possible to take a bus from Bukhara to Tashkent from the northern bus station on Gijduvon street, north of town.

How to get from Bukhara to Tashkent by bus?

Reaching Tashkent from Bukhara by bus takes around 8 hours and costs around 60000 som. You can buy your ticket directly at the bus station or through the official website where you can also check the bus schedules.

5. How to get to Tashkent from Khiva by public transport?

How to get from khiva to tashkent by train.

It’s possible to take trains from Khiva to Tashkent. There are currently 2 trains a day connecting Tashkent and Khiva and the journey takes around 16 hours.

I hope this guide was useful and that you’ll have a great time in Tashkent.

If you have any questions or updates about Tashkent, let me and other readers know in the comments below!

Related posts

• Tashkent City Guide
• Samarkand City Guide
• Shahrisabz City Guide
• Bukhara City Guide
• Khiva City Guide
• Fergana Valley Guide
• Karakalpakstan Guide

The best way to get from Tashkent to Osh and from Osh to Tashkent, crossing the Dostyk border (Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan)

The Best Uzbekistan Itinerary ideas: What to Visit in one week in Uzbekistan up to 4 weeks?

Uzbekistan Money Guide (2024) – How much does it cost to live and travel in Uzbekistan?

What are the 26 Best Places to visit in Uzbekistan in 2024?

Everything you need to know about horse riding in Uzbekistan+ 3 best horse trekking destinations in Uzbekistan

Hiking in Uzbekistan –  6 best Hiking Trails in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains in Uzbekistan

14 thoughts on “the 15 best things to do in tashkent uzbekistan – tashkent city guide”.

Hi Cynthia,

Greeting from Brussels!

Happy to come accross to your blog while planning a trip to Uzbekistan! Thanks for advices and the beautiful photos.

Wherever you are now, enjoy yourself,

Thanks so much Fanny!

hello Cynthia, what an incredible journey you’re sharing with us! Your adventures in Uzbekistan are truly captivating. I’ve been planning my own trip there next month, and your vlogs have only heightened my excitement and really a great help for me. Your insights into the culture, the food, and the breathtaking landscapes are invaluable for someone like me who’s about to embark on a similar adventure. Thank you for taking us along with you on this unforgettable expedition!”

Hello Eloisa, thank you so much for your kind words, it means a lot!! Wishing you a fantastic time in Uzbekistan!

Enjoyed reading your page and learning about you, Cynthia. We are planning a 5-day trip to Tashkent and Samarkand in November. Will let you know abour our experiences there.

Have a great time Suresh and always happy to hear more about your experiences!

Is the Central Asian Plov Center will be opened during Ramadan? I will be visiting Uzbekistan next month, and my visit to Tashkent still falls during Ramadan.

The Plov Center should be open as Ramadan isn’t as strictly followed in Uzbekistan as in other countries. Have a great trip!

Very help full information, currently planning a backpacking budget tour to Kazahstan & Usbekistan. Your detail information will definitely help me a lot, thanks.

Hi Jayshree, I’m very happy to hear that my travel guides are helping you! When are you planning to travel to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan?

Dag Cynthia Vermits jij in België woont veronderstel ik dat je Nederlands spreekt…indien niet dan zal ik de mail opnieuw sturen maar dan in ‘t Engels. Ik ga op m’n eentje van 9-26 oktober naar Uzbekistan. De route ligt vast. Maar ik zou je advies knn gebruiken ivm kiezen tussen een dag meer in Tashkent (1 dag of 2 dagen) ipv Khiva (2 ipv 3 dagen) . Het verschil is een ochtendvlucht in Tashkent (7.25u dus vroeg uit de veren) of een avondvlucht om 19.00u. Super dankje voor je advies en de prachtige foto’s !!. Fijne, zonnige groetjes uit Boechout. Peggy.

Nu begrijp ik wat je in je mailtje bedoelde 😀 Ik had je reactie hier nog niet gezien! Je hebt vermeld dat je intussen al je beslissing hebt gemaakt. Eigenlijk kan je alles in Khiva in 2 dagen bezichtigen, tenzij je nog een daguitstap vanuit Khiva naar de woestijn wil maken.

Groetjes! Cynthia

It is nice journey to know about Uzbekistan

I’m happy you enjoyed the post!

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Tashkent, Uzbekistan: The Top 13 Things to Do in the City

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Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan and where you’ll likely begin and end your trip. It’s home to the country’s international airport so most people fly into Tashkent and spend less than 24 hours in the city before heading west to Samarkand . But Tashkent has its own charm and it’s worth spending a few days here to experience what life is like outside of the touristy towns.

Instead of just passing through, we’d recommend spending at least a few days in Tashkent as it actually has a lot to offer! There are loads of delicious restaurants, the historical sites are beautiful, and the people are so friendly. So if you’re wondering what to do in Tashkent, read on to discover our favorite sights in Uzbekistan’s capital city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tashkent Travel Basics

Know before you go.

• The currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Soʻm (UZS). At the time of writing, the conversion was 8,450 UZS to $1 USD. In this post, we’ll be referring to prices in Uzbekistan currency.
• Bring some cash with you to exchange at the airport. There are only three ATMs at the airport in Tashkent and they are often out of order. You can exchange money at the small window right outside of immigration at a decent exchange rate.
• It’s not nearly as conservative as you might think. You’d probably feel a bit out of place in daisy dukes and a tube top, but pretty much anything else goes. Just cover yourself when you visit any religious sites.
• Tipping is not common, in fact, most taxi drivers actually round down. So if your ride should cost 8,300 UZS and you give them 10,000, you’ll likely get 2,000 back.

Getting to Tashkent

Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport is located in Tashkent and you’ll likely need to fly into and out of it. There aren’t many airline options to get into and out of the country other than Uzbekistan Airways.

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

Getting Around Tashkent

Taxis are incredibly cheap in Tashkent. You should only pay 1,000 UZS per kilometer so most trips will be less than a dollar. The only difficulty is that many taxi drivers don’t speak any English so getting them to understand where you need to go can be a challenge. Download the Yandex.Taxi app ( iPhone | Android ) so you can easily input your destination.

The metro will also get you where you need to go for next to nothing (1,000 UZS per trip) but be aware that none of the signs are in English. And none of the announcements are in English either. So unless you’ve really researched your stops, you’ll have a challenging time figuring out where you need to go.

Getting Around Uzbekistan

Trains in Uzbekistan are fast, convenient, and comfortable. The train from Tashkent to Samarkand takes less than three hours and the most you will pay is 105,000 UZS for the fast train. The slower train, which takes closer to three hours, will save you about 35,00 UZS.

You can book your train tickets online although the train station names are in the Uzbek language which can be confusing. Plus, they’ll add a processing fee to the price of your ticket. You can also buy directly at the train station if you want to avoid the additional cost.

Where to Stay in Tashkent

Hyatt Regency Tashkent

Finding a hotel in Tashkent can be difficult as most of them are old and dated. By far the nicest accommodation around is the Hyatt Regency Tashkent . Offering gorgeous rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and a revolving restaurant, you’ll never want to leave your hotel!

Check Prices on Booking.com

Ichan Qal’a Premium Class Hotel

The impeccably decorated rooms at the Ichan Qal’a Premium Class Hotel are fit for a king! Plus, they are super spacious and comfortable. You’ll love the well-equipped fitness center and the refreshing pool. It’s certainly one of the nicest hotels in the city! The location is just outside of the center but it shouldn’t matter since taxis are so cheap!

Navruz Hotel

If you are looking for something more mid-range, then Navruz Hotel is a great choice! It’s close to the Tashkent Tower and Minor Mosque, as well as a metro stop to get you anywhere you need to go in the city. Rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable with updated, modern decor.

Where to Eat in Tashkent

Kafe-Restoran Ogni Tashkenta is a darling little restaurant with delicious salads, yummy desserts, and the most delicious mulled red wine. The service here is stellar, you’ll think you’re dining at a super fancy restaurant but prices are actually quite reasonable.

Our favorite restaurant in the city is Socials Cafe , a spacious coffee shop located in downtown Tashkent. They have delicious food, huge portions, and great coffee. Everyone there is super friendly and it’s quite affordable, especially the “Working Lunch Special” which is a salad, a sandwich or pasta, and coffee all for only 55,000 UZS (~$6.50). Plus the Wi-Fi is some of the best we encountered in the entire country of Uzbekistan.

Qorasaroy is a very local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek food just a block north of the Hazrati Imam Complex. Their signature dish, “lag’mon” is one you must try during your trip to Uzbekistan. It is made of noodles, veggies, meat, and a sauce that tastes eerily similar to pizza. Beware that the menu is written in Uzbek so just order the lag’mon, bread, and lemon tea. Your bill will be less than 50,000 UZS for two people.

Where to Drink in Tashkent

Silk96 WineLounge is a chic bar with a large imported wine list. If you have a hankering for a good bottle of wine, this is the place to go. But because it’s all imported, it’s also pretty pricey. If you’re trying to stick to a budget, opt for the mulled wine instead. They also have reasonably priced (and delicious) food and cocktails.

Caravan is a restaurant and bar that serves Georgian food and often has nightly live music. Beer and wine are reasonably priced and it has a nice, local vibe. The food is good but if you’re short on time, we’d recommend just enjoying a few drinks here while listening to live music and enjoying dinner at one of the spots we recommend above.

The 13 Best Things to do in Tashkent

1. people watch at the chorsu bazaar.

The Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to experience the local flavor of Tashkent! The covered area of the bazaar, under the massive blue dome, is full of vendors selling various raw food products. Behind the central dome, you’ll find a huge tented market full of fresh fruit, veggies, honey, and spices. Continue on toward Ko’kaldosh Madrasasi and you’ll pass little stalls selling clothing, fresh bread, jewelry, beauty products, and more.

This isn’t a tourist market, it’s mostly locals here. There are a few shops that have souvenir-type products, but you’re better off saving your treasure shopping for Bukhara or Samarkand. This is just a great place to do some people-watching in Tashkent.

2. Stop at the Kukeldash Madrasah and the Dzhuma Mosque

The Kukeldash Madrasah ( Ko’Kaldosh Madrasasi ) and the Dzhuma Mosque are right outside of the Chorsu Bazaar. Both are beautiful examples of Islamic architecture and are certainly worth a stop when you’re in the area.

You’ll have to pay a small fee to enter the courtyard of the madrasah, 10,000 UZS per person. Inside is a small shop with intricate wood carvings and if you’re lucky, you can see several wood carvers hard at work.

3. Check out the View from the Tashkent Tower

The Tashkent Tower is the 11th tallest tower in the world. The building has an interesting shape, almost like a spacecraft that is getting ready to launch. The entire structure stands 1,230 feet high and the observation deck is 328 feet above the ground. You’ll get off the elevator on the 6th floor for the observation deck, or you can continue to the 7th floor to have a beer in the revolving restaurant. The decor is really funky and the food and drinks are surprisingly reasonably priced.

If you’re in the area, head back to the Tashkent Tower after dark. It comes alive with blinking white lights after the sun goes down. It’s a must-see during your trip to Tashkent!

Entrance Fees: 40,000 UZS per person. You’ll need your passport to enter the tower, don’t forget!

Hours: Open daily from 10 am until 8 pm

4. Try Plov

Plov is the traditional cuisine of Uzbekistan and a must-try during your visit! This dish is comprised of rice, onion, carrots, and meat (usually lamb or beef), cooked in a large cast-iron pan. It’s a bit like fried rice but without the egg. Plov is a heavy dish so plan to take it easy after eating a massive bowl of this yummy dish.

You can find restaurants serving plov all over Tashkent but the most popular one is Central Asian Plov Center . Here you can get freshly baked bread with dip, pickled veggies, lemon tea, and two big bowls of plov, all for under $5 USD. But keep in mind that it’s more of a lunch spot and they close at 6 pm. You’ve got to try it at least once during your trip to Uzbekistan!

5. See the Memorial to the Victims of Repression

The memorial to the Victims of Repression is a large gazebo-shaped structure topped with a bright blue dome. It’s easy to see from the Tashkent Tower observation deck. The park surrounding it is gorgeous and is quite popular for wedding photos.

The Museum of Victims of Repressions is right next door and is worth wandering around to see the intricately carved wooden details. There is also a nice view of the Tashkent Tower all lit up at night from the park.

6. Admire the Minor Mosque

The Minor Mosque is the most spectacular mosque in the city of Tashkent. It is stark white with a large blue dome and intricately carved wooden doors. The gardens in the front are perfectly manicured, as are the trees in the inner courtyard. Women can enter the mosque if their shoulders, knees, and head are covered and men have a separate entrance on the right side of the courtyard.

You’ll be in awe of how incredibly beautiful this mosque is, inside and out. It’s arguably the most popular attraction in Tashkent and you’ve got to see it in person!

7. Wander Around the Hazrat Imam Complex

The library of oriental manuscripts is a small area where several mosques and madrasas are in close proximity. Plus, there is a huge mosque currently being built right next door. It’s awesome to stroll around this complex, admiring the architecture of these beautiful structures.

Make sure to visit the library of oriental manuscripts (Entrance Fee: 15,000 UZS) where you find a treasure trove of ancient Qurans and other books. The highlight is the Quran of Caliph Uthman-Ottoman (also known as the Samarkand Kufic Quran ) which was written over 1,200 years ago.

The Barakhan Madrasah is the most impressive building in the complex. Anyone can enter the inner courtyard (no head covering required) and the classrooms have been transformed into small shops selling traditional Uzbekistan souvenirs. Don’t miss it during your stay in Tashkent!

8. Visit the Amir Temur Monument and Square

Amir Temur (sometimes spelled “Timur”) has been officially recognized as Uzbekistan’s national hero due to his conquering of Western, South, and Central Asia during the 14th century. You’ll see his name all over Tashkent, including the Amir Temur Monument and Square.

Temur is a controversial figure as he sacked and destroyed many cities during his reign. But for Uzbekistan, he is a unifying figure of strength and courage. In fact, his name and image have replaced the previous landmarks bearing the names of Marx and Lenin.

The Amir Temur Square is a nice place for an afternoon stroll. It’s peaceful and beautiful and really popular with Uzbekistan families. The large monument of him on a horse is at the center of the park.

9. Get a History Lesson at the Amir Temur Museum

As mentioned above, Amir Temur is a hero in Uzbekistan and you’ll see his name everywhere. The Amir Temur Museum houses a few depictions of his likeness as well as some of his belongings. The most impressive area of the museum is the central rotunda. A copy of the Quran sits in the center with a vibrantly colored mural behind it. The domed ceiling is painted gold with a fantastic chandelier hanging from the center.

The rest of the museum houses small-scale models of the most important mosques around Uzbekistan, as well as copies of important cultural artifacts. You won’t need more than 30 minutes here to see all of the highlights.

Entrance Fees: 16,000 UZS per person. 30,000 UZS to shoot photos and 40,000 UZS for video.

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am until 5 pm. Closed Mondays.

10. Snap a Photo of the Uzbekistan Hotel

Tashkent is full of post-Soviet era architectural remnants and the Hotel Uzbekistan is one of the best examples. It’s a large, cream-colored concrete building with patterned slabs over the windows. It’s impossible to miss while you’re wandering around Amir Temur Square as it towers over the eastern edge.

Don’t bother going inside the hotel, the interior isn’t nearly as interesting as the exterior.

Be on the lookout for other post-Soviet architecture during your stay in Tashkent. You’ll find similar buildings all over the city.

11. Shop for Antiques on Sailgokh Street

Sailgokh Street lines the park just to the west of the Amir Temur Monument and is quite a popular spot in the early evenings. Vendors selling antiques and unique paintings line the pedestrian street as do artists vying to sketch your portrait. Local entrepreneurs have games for kids (and adults!) to enjoy and motorized cars are available to rent for small children.

It’s the perfect place to find unique Uzbekistan treasures or just enjoy watching the locals enjoy time with their families. Don’t be surprised if you get approached by young people who want to practice speaking English or take a selfie.

12. Ride the Metro

Taxis are so cheap and easy in Tashkent that we would recommend using them as your primary means of transportation. However, it’s worth taking the Tashkent metro to see the impressive and unique stations. Every one of them is different.

When you enter the metro station, you’ll need to buy a small plastic token from the window, it’s 1,000 UZS per person. Then you’ll have your bag inspected and head down the steps to the trains.

The Tashkent metro stations have different features – some have gorgeous light fixtures, others have ceramic artwork on the walls, and still, others have impressive archways. They are old and you’ll feel like you’re in a museum or a ballroom, somewhere much fancier than a metro station.

Keep in mind that the metro is difficult to use as none of the signs are in English. Check the Uzbek names of the stations that you need to get off at and don’t be nervous about asking someone, most people will be happy to help you get where you need to go!

13. Visit the State Museum of Arts

The State Museum of Arts is a well-organized museum with a wonderful collection of Uzbekistan artifacts. The second floor is the highlight of the museum, with intricate wood carvings and beautiful handwoven tapestries. It’s definitely worth a stop while you’re in Tashkent, even if it’s a short visit, as the entrance fee is only about $1 USD.

We found it to be the most interesting of the museums that we visited in Tashkent and would recommend checking it out!

Entrance Fees: 10,000 UZS per person to enter, 50,000 UZS if you want to take photos inside

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am until 5 pm

Enjoy your time in Tashkent!

Want more info to help you plan your trip to Uzbekistan? Check out our favorite travel guides!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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7 thoughts on “tashkent, uzbekistan: the top 13 things to do in the city”.

Is there people can speak Russian language ?

Yeah, it seems Uzbek and Russian are used interchangeably around Uzbekistan. And most people here can speak Russian.

If you are short on time in Tashkent, take the red city tour bus from the front of the Hotel Uzbekistan.

The correct word for describing people and things is Uzbek. Uzbekistani and Uzbeki are not.

Well then it’s a good thing we don’t call them that! We refer to the currency as the “Uzbekistani Soʻm” as that is the information we found on several financial websites and Wikipedia if that’s what you’re referencing. Thanks for keeping an eye out – the more eyes catching any errors on our posts, the better!

Thank you very much from Dhaka-Bangladesh for your nice guide lines and beautiful pictures. I like to visit Tashkent very soon.

Thank you for reading! Tashkent is amazing!

Preparing the travel for the great Uzbek, got one question, we should pay to shoot with camera, phone as well?

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Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Sprawling Tashkent (Toshkent) is Central Asia’s hub and the place where everything in Uzbekistan happens. It's one part newly built national capital, thick with the institutions of power, one part leafy Soviet city, and yet another part quiet Uzbek town, where traditionally clad farmers cart their wares through a maze of mud-walled houses to the grinding crowds of the bazaar. Tashkent is a fascinating jumble of contradictions that's well worth exploring over several days.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan

The History Museum is a must-visit for anyone looking for a primer on the history of Turkestan from its earliest settlements 5000 years ago to the present…

Chorsu Bazaar

Tashkent’s most famous farmers market, topped by a giant green dome, is a delightful slice of city life spilling into the streets off the Old Town’s…

Museum of Applied Arts

The Museum of Applied Arts occupies an exquisite house full of bright ghanch (carved and painted plaster) and carved wood. It was built in the 1930s, at…

State Fine Arts Museum

The four floors of this excellent museum walk you through 1500 years of art in Uzbekistan, from 7th-century Buddhist relics from Kuva and the Greek…

Earthquake Memorial

The New Soviet men and women who rebuilt Tashkent after the 1966 earthquake are remembered in stone at the Earthquake Memorial just north of Mustaqilik…

Moyie Mubarek Library Museum

The primary attraction of Khast Imom square is this library museum, which houses the 7th-century Osman Quran (Uthman Quran), said to be the world’s oldest…

Minor Mosque

The striking new Minor Mosque, also known as the white mosque for the colour of its marble, is proof that Uzbekistan still knows how to create sublime…

Assumption Cathedral

It's impossible to miss the handsome gold onion domes, pastel blue walls and 50m bell tower of the impressive Assumption Cathedral. Built in 1958 and…

Latest stories from Tashkent

Feb 4, 2019 • 3 min read

On a busy weekday morning, trains arrive and depart and passengers stream through Alisher Navoi to the interchange between the central Uzbekistan and…

May 31, 2018 • 5 min read

Nov 6, 2017 • 6 min read

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16 Things To Do In Tashkent + Tashkent Travel Guide

Updated March 2024 ,   15 Things To Do In Tashkent + Tashkent Travel Guide was originally written in January 2020

Tashkent gets skipped over by many visitors to Uzbekistan for its more glamourous Silk Road cities of  Samarkand ,  Bukhara , and  Khiva , but Tashkent actually has quite a bit to offer. If you’re flying into the country, you’ll likely arrive in Tashkent, so why not allow for a couple of days to explore the Uzbek capital?

In this Tashkent travel guide, you’ll find everything to plan your Tashkent visit from the best things to do in Tashkent, where to stay,  Tashkent’s best restaurants , day trips, and more. For more ideas to help you plan the perfect trip to Uzbekistan, I recommend purchasing a copy of the Bradt Uzbekistan guidebook.

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Uzbekistan?

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The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

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The Best Time To Visit Tashkent

Start planning here: The  Uzbekistan Travel Guide

How Long To Visit Tashkent?

How long you choose to visit Tashkent, of course, will greatly depend on your interests. I’d say for most travelers two days is probably enough time to hit the highlights in Tashkent, though on my most recent visit to Tashkent in 2019 I had three days there and could have easily spent double that.

With that said I wanted to visit and photograph every Tashkent metro station (there’s 29) and see a number of sites (many were revisits), so much more than 2-3 days I think would be overkill for most travelers on limited time in Uzbekistan.

Like much the rest of Uzbekistan, it’s boiling hot in the summer and can be quite chilly in winters. The best months to visit Tashkent with the most comfortable weather are April, May, September, and October. Unfortunately, those months are the most popular for this reason so prices are a bit higher and good-priced and quality accommodations can book up fast.

Shoulder months such as March and November can be good months to opt for to get fewer crowds and a bit more of a bargain, though plan to bundle up, especially in the evenings.

Need help planning you itinerary? Check out my  two week Uzbekistan itinerary

Things To Do In Tashkent

Take A Ride On The Tashkent Metro

Tashkent Metro is among the most beautiful and ornately designed metro systems in the world. Starting in 2018 the Tashkent Metro was declassified as a military installation so photography is finally allowed in the Tashkent underground. So not only is the Tashkent Metro a cheap and fast way to zip between the sites on this list, but it’s also a sight to behold all itself (and thus making it pretty much my favorite things to do in Tashkent!).

Cost: 1,400 UZS per ride

The Tashkent Metro In Photos & Travel Guide

Mustaqillik Maydoni (Independence Square)

The square is a great place to plop down for a rest between sites in Tashkent and a great place to meet friendly locals. Situated around the square are the Senate Building, Romanov Palace, Crying Mother Monument, and the 1966 Earthquake Memorial.

Metro stop:  Mustaqillik Maydoni

Besh Qozon (formerly the Central Asian Plov Center)

Head over at about lunchtime to see the Plov Center in action, in the covered outdoor area, watch cooks fry up plov in front of a line of hungry onlookers armed with bowls from home and even trash bags to carry off plov to-go in.

Home to the world’s largest qazan, the metal pan plov is fried up in. Once your done drooling over plov being cooked up in front of you, head over to the dining hall where you can put in an order and enjoy a bowl of plov.

Metro stop:  Bodomzor or Shahriston

Tashkent? A foodie destination? Yes! Check out my  Best Restaurants in Tashkent Guide

Hotel Uzbekistan

The massive Hotel Uzbekistan is a Soviet fixture, looming over Amir Timur Square. Even if you’re not staying in the communist-era monstrosity, head in and have a drink at the Bar Vienna downstairs or grab dinner at the upstairs restaurant.

Metro stop:  Amir Timur Hiyobuni or Yunus Rajabiy

Khast Imam Complex, Abu Bakr Kaffal Shoshi Mausoleum, & Barak Khan Madrasa

Among my favorite things to do in Tashkent is visit the Khast Imom Complex, the official religious center of Tashkent that is comprised of the Hazrati Imom Mosque, Moyie Mubarek Library Museum, and the sprawling Khast Imom Square. Try to visit early to avoid the massive tour bus groups.

On the same grounds, you’ll also find the Abu Bakr Kaffal Shoshi Mausoleum dedicated to the Shaybanid era poet and scholar, and the souvenir-shop filled Barak Khan Madrasa. The Moyie Mubarek Library Museum houses (allegedly) the world’s oldest Uthman Quran, which dates back to the 7th century.

Metro stop:  Gafur Gulom

Want to see more grand Silk Road architecture? Check out the  Samarkand Travel Guide

Chorsu Bazaar

The frenetic and bustling core of Chorsu Bazaar is covered by a Soviet-era blue dome, but the bazaar sprawls out from underneath it and feels almost like a city of its own. If you’re on the hunt for literally anything, this is the place you’ll likely find it.

Metro stop:  Chorsu

International Islamic University & Sheik Khantaur Complex

The Islamic University has an impressive facade that faces out toward Abdullah Qodiri Street, with three 15th century mausoleums to Yunus Khan, Tole Bi, and Sheikh Hovendi Takhur.

Metro stop:  Alisher Navoi or Pakhtakor

Minor Mosque

Minor Mosque is a new addition to Tashkent, built in 2016, but the large mosque complex is quite unique being decorated in blinding white marble.

Metro stop:  Bodomzor or Minor

Have more time in Uzbekistan? Why not check out the Uzbek Fergana Valley ?

Tashkent Tower

This monstrosity is the tallest structure in all of Central Asia at 395 meters. The TV tower itself, in my opinion, isn’t really worth the 120,000 UZS admission fee to go up in, but you can easily admire it from a distance. The Tashkent Tower is located very close to the Central Asian Plov Center.

Metro stop:  Bodomzor or Shahriston

Oloy Bazaar

Oloy Bazaar is a bit pricier, but far more chill than Chorsu Bazaar. The bazaar has a modern look to it, but it’s argued whether the bazaar originated in the 12th century or the 17th century.

If you wanna grab a bite to eat while shopping at Oloy Bazaar, I recommend heading toward the back and grabbing a plate of lagman at Injis Restaurant (it’s probably the best lagman I’ve had in Tashkent, and I do love my lagman, so you should trust me). Injis Restaurant is unfortunately gone.

Metro stop:  Abdulla Qodiri

Kulkadesh Madrasa & Joma Mosque

Kulkadesh Madrasa and Joma Mosque sit side by side atop a hill overlooking Chorsu Bazaar. Entrance to Kulkadesh Madrasa is 10,000 UZS.

Navoi Theatre

Most evenings the theatre puts on a show, which can be a great way to spend one of your evenings in the city. Tickets typically fall in the 10,000-100,000 UZS price range depending on the seat but make sure to get there early to wander the halls and foyers to appreciate the architecture.

Metro stop:  Mustaqillik Maydoni or Kosmonavtlar

Plan a perfect two week Uzbekistan & Tajikistan itinerary

Cathedral of Assumption

The gold-domed Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin is a Russian Orthodox cathedral originally built in 1871. On the opposite corner of Nukus and Avliyuta Ko’chasi you’ll find the Mirobad Bazaar. The neighborhood off of Nukus and Oybek Ko’chasi still has some good Soviet apartment blocks that still have Soviet-style mosaics on display (many of the old apartment blocks are being updated and mosaics disappearing).

Metro top:  Tashkent or Oybek

Amir Timur Maydoni (Amir Timur Square)

Amir Timur Maydoni feels like the center of Tashkent with the streets of the city spiderwebbing out from it. You’ll find the Amir Timur Statue at the center of the square, but also around it, you’ll find the Amir Timur Museum, the Dom Forum, the House of Photography, and Hotel Uzbekistan.

Metro stop:  Amir Timur Hiyobuni or Yunus Rajabiy

Tashkent Museums

State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan

Even if you’re not a history buff, the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan is definitely worth a stop for anyone looking to learn a little about the history of Uzbekistan from the days of Turkestan to present day. Admission is 10,000 UZS, cameras are an additional 25,000 UZS.

Metro stop:  Mustaqillik Maydoni

Art Gallery of Uzbekistan

The Art Gallery of Uzbekistan houses a combination of the rotating international exhibits and permanent exhibits displaying Uzbek contemporary artists’ works.

Amir Timur Museum

The Amir Timur Museum houses displays that explain the history of the Timirid Empire. The museum opened in 1996, the year the late president Islom Karimov declared ” the year of Amir Timur”. Admission is 15,000 UZS, and an additional 30,000 to take photos.

Metro stop:  Amir Timur Hiyabuni or Yunus Rajabiy

Railway Museum

The Railway Museum displays a collection of Soviet locomotives that were in use from the 1930s-1950s. Admission is 25,000 UZS.

Metro stop:  Toshkent

State Fine Arts Museum

The State Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan houses artwork that spans over 1,500 years of history. The highlight (at least I think) is the Uzbek Applied Arts section which showcases carvings and suzanis (an embroidered tapestry). Admission is 10,000 UZS, and cameras are an additional 50,000 UZS.

Metro stop:  Oybek or Ming Orik

Museum of Applied Arts

The Museum of Applied Arts is housed within the former home of Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev, who collected Uzbek handicrafts inside his mansion decorated in grand Uzbek style. It’s quite colorful and a great introduction to Uzbek decorative styles and architecture. Admission is 21,000 UZS for admission + camera.

Metro stop:  Kosmonavtlar

Check out the  Bukhara Travel Guide  &  Khiva Travel Guide  to plan further travels

Museum of the Victims of Political Repression

Located just across Amir Timur Ko’chasi from the Central Asian Plov Center and the Tashkent Tower, the Museum of the Victims of Political Repression pays tribute to those repressed and killed by the government as well as the history of the country when Uzbekistan was under control of the Soviet Union

Newly built, Magic City is akin to an Uzbek Disneyland with a princess castle, replicas of several famous monuments around the world, and even a replica of the Registan and Samarkand. I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to visit (we happened to be passing by in the evening and wandered in), but if you are traveling Uzbekistan with kids, this will likely keep them occupied for a bit.

Entry to Magic City is free and they even have weekly firework displays. There are heaps of restaurants and shops to wander through here as well including several foreign chains.

Metro stop: Xalqlar Dostigli or Milliy Bog

How To Travel To Tashkent

By Flight:  Tashkent is easily reached by air with Uzbekistan Airways, Aeroflot, Ural Airlines, Air Manas, Air Astana, Turkish Airlines, and several more airlines offering services to the city. Uzbekistan Airways, of course, offers the most routes including several throughout Central Asia, Europe, East Asia, the Middle East, and even a new direct flight to New York City.

By Shared Taxi:  Tashkent is easily reached by shared taxi and marshrutka from just about any city or town in Uzbekistan. International connections include Shymkent, Kazakhstan; Osh, Kyrgyzstan; and Khujand, Tajikistan, but do expect to have to change to a different vehicle on the other side of the border.

By Train:  Major cities in Uzbekistan such as Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench, Termez, Nukus, and more are all connected by rail as well as international destinations in Kazakhstan, Russia. You can book tickets within Uzbekistan  here , but do note that many have difficulty booking online with the Uzbek Railways site (I gave up when I was there in October and just took a shared taxi). You’ll typically want to book at least a couple of days in advance, so if the site isn’t working for you ask a local (many times your guesthouse can lend a hand) to book a ticket for you and pay them in cash.

Where To Stay In Tashkent

Topchan Hostel |  Booking.com  |

Art Eco Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Ichan Qala Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Best Restaurants In Tashkent

Another of my favorite things to do in Tashkent is to gorge out on great food. Here are a few of my recs for best Uzbek, general Central Asian, and international fare. For more info, you can also check out my  Best Restaurants in Tashkent Guide .

Uzbek Cuisine

Central asian plov center.

Heralding itself for frying up the best plov in Central Asia (debatable, but also I’m not a plov fanatic), the Central Asian Plov Center is still a must-see if not just for viewing the giant qazans full of plov in the entrance. A bowl of plov, salad, a slice of qazi (house sausage), and a glass of compote (juice) will cost you about 32,000 UZS. The plov isn’t half bad either.

Note that the Central Asian Plov Center has changed its name to Bosh Qazan.

Afsona is a popular restaurant, so I’d recommend making a reservation in advance if traveling in the peak seasons. Afsona cooks up delicious modern and contemporary twists on classic Uzbek and Central Asian favorites (think Central Asian dishes with flavor). A plate of lagman, salad, pumpkin samsa, and chai set me back 80,000 UZS.

Navat is a Central Asia chain that has sprung up in other major cities such as Almaty and Bishkek. Navat offers modern twists on many traditional Central Asian dishes. You can expect to pay about 100,000 UZS for a meal, appetizers, and drink.

International Cuisine

Gruzinski Dvorik

Gruzinski Dvorik offers up delicious Georgian dishes for those looking for a break from Central Asian food that has been on the road in the region for a good while, but do note the prices are fairly expensive for Uzbekistan (but still worth it to me). The fried Sulguni, Badrijani Nigvzit (eggplant rolls stuffed with garlic, pomegranate, and walnut), and khinkali are great items on the menu. Don’t forget to pair dinner with Georgian wine.

This scattering of dishes with a glass of wine will cost you about 170,000 UZS.

Metro stop:  Oybek or Ming Orik

Forn Lebnen

Forn Lebnen opened up in 2020 and serves up Lebanese as well as other dishes from the greater Middle East. The food, as well as the staff, is excellent.

This is a good option for vegetarians, but prices are a bit expensive for the region. Expect to pay around 100,000 UZS for a spread of mezze-type dishes.

Afghan Pudding

Most people seem to call in orders and pick up, but Afghan Pudding does give the option of dining in. If you’re looking for bulani, Qabuli palau, kebab, doogh or other delicious Afghan dishes this is a good place to head. Expect a dish and drink to set you back about 30,000 UZS.

Metro stop:  Minor

Tacos Mexican Cuisine

I stumbled across this little gem as we were walking back to the guesthouse we were staying in on my latest trip in the fall of 2021. Outside the front door was a little sign that just said “tacos”. Needless to say, my interest was piqued and I was hungry anyway so we went on in.

The menu is relatively small, but the tacos are pretty excellent, considering that I hadn’t found any Mexican restaurants in Uzbekistan at all over the years.

Metro stop:  Kosmonavatlar

B&B Coffeehouse

On Shota Rustaveli Ko’chasi this western-style coffee shop offers up decent coffee and snacks. Definitely try the french toast. A coffee and snack or pastry will cost around 35,000 UZS.

Blackbear Kofi

Blackbear Kofi is a local chain, one of which is located right on Shota Rustaveli Ko’chasi (just a couple minutes walk from the Rooms Stay Boutique Hotel that I like to stay in) offers up good espresso and coffee as well as pastries. A flat white and a samsa set me back 25,000 UZS.

French Boulangerie & Patisserie

A bit out of the way from most sites, but just outside Novza Metro Station, the French Boulangerie & Patisserie is a great place for breakfast, coffee, and treats. The chicken croissants are my favorite thing to grab here.

Metro stop:  Novza

Ovqat Bozori at Chorsu Bazaar

Outside the colorful blue domes of the Chorsu Bazaar, you’ll find an alley lined with men and women in stalls draped with a strip of the famous Uzbek ikat fabric selling cheap Central Asian dishes such as plov, shashlik, naryn/beshbarmek, and more.

Master Food

Master Food offers up cheap fast food, think hamburgers, döner kabab, lavash, etc. This place is packed with locals in the evenings and is located right next to the roundabout on Shota Rustaveli Ko’chasi, out front of the Grand Mir Hotel.

National Food

National Food is located next to the old circus on Sabzar Ko’chasi and dishes up several Uzbek and Central Asian staples, such as plov, naryn, dimlama, and more.

Tashkent Tours

There are a handful of tours on offer around Tashkent including this  full day walking tour of the city , and this  night tour of Tashkent . Shop all the tours on offer in Tashkent as well as the rest of Uzbekistan  here  on Viator.

Things To Do Outside Tashkent: Tashkent Day Trips

At only 45 km from Tashkent, the Solar Furnace that sits on a hill above the town of Parkent makes for a perfect day trip from the city. The Solar Furnace’s staff will give tours of the fascinating facilities for 100,000 UZS on weekdays during normal business hours (though it is best to call in advance to arrange it).

The solar furnace uses thousands of mirrors to reflect light in order to achieve temperatures of over 3,000ºC to create energy, melt metals and elements, and more. Read up more about the Solar Furnace .

The easiest way to visit is to order a Yandex Taxi from Tashkent to the Solar Furnace and back (it’s still quite cheap, especially if you have a few of you going). However, it is possible to get to Parkent from Tashkent by marshrutka and then hire a taxi in Parkent to take you the remaining 7 km and up the hill to the Solar Furnace.

Plan your visit to the fascinating Solar Furnace

Ugam Chatkal National Park

Ugam Chatkal National Park is located in the Chimgan Mountains, a portion of the Western Tien Shan that Uzbekistan shares with  Kyrgyzstan . The national park is only about an hour’s drive from Tashkent. This is the best place to head if you’re in Tashkent and want to get out into nature, whether it be a day trip to the mountains or a multi-day trek.

Not to worry if you don’t want to figure out the logistics of visiting on your own, you can book this  day trip to Chimgan , or this  3 day trekking tour .

Chimgan, as well as nearby Beldersay, are great places to head if you’re visiting in the winter and want to get in some skiing.

Wanna get off the beaten path in your Uzbekistan travels? Check out the  Karakalpakstan Travel Guide

Have Any Questions About This Tashkent Travel Guide Or About Any Of The Things To Do In Tashkent Mentioned?

Ask your Tashkent travel questions in the comments section below.

More Posts from Uzbekistan:

Uzbek Fergana Valley Travel Guide

Khiva Travel Guide + 13 Things To Do In Khiva

Uzbekistan Travel Guide

Two Week Tajikistan & Uzbekistan Itinerary

Bukhara Travel Guide + 19 Things To Do

Khorezm Fortresses: Uzbekistan’s Castles of a Forgotten Empire

Crossing The Uzbekistan-Afghanistan Border At Hairatan

Samarkand Travel Guide: The Best Things To Do In Samarkand

Two Week Uzbekistan Itinerary

Uzbek Food: 33 Must-Try Dishes in Uzbekistan

A Beginner’s Guide To Central Asia Travel: Discover The Silk Road

Tashkent Travel Guide + 16 Things To Do In Tashkent

The Best Restaurants In Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Panjakent-Samarkand Border Crossing Between Tajikistan & Uzbekistan

Secret Soviet Bioweapons Lab of Aralsk 7 on Vozrozhdeniya Island  

Qarshi Travel Guide, Uzbekistan

Solo Female Travel In Uzbekistan

Visiting the Solar Furnace in Parkent, Uzbekistan 

Exploring the Frontier Town of Termez, Uzbekistan 

Travel Karakalpakstan: The Stan Within A Stan

Visiting the Aral Sea Disaster, Uzbekistan 

A Simple Guide To Central Asia Visas

30 Best Things To Do In Uzbekistan

7 Tips For Solo Female Travel In Central Asia

Tashkent Metro In Photos & Guide

Shahrisabz Travel Guide + Best Things to do

2 thoughts on “tashkent travel guide + 16 things to do in tashkent”.

I’m pretty sure Afghan pudding is closed, I just went to the maps.me location but there was only a closed restaurant :/ 09/06/2023

Good to know, thanks for the update! Sad to hear it’s shut

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15 Things You Must See and Do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

• Author david
• Date December 27th, 2019

Located on a well-watered plain just 13 miles from the Kazakh-Uzbek border is the beautiful city of Tashkent. This ancient city is the capital and largest city in Uzbekistan . It’s also the most populous city in the Central Asian countries that made up the Soviet Union. But despite being one of Central Asia’s greatest metropolises, Tashkent, and Uzbekistan as a whole, still escapes most travelers’ radar. But I’m here to tell you that there are numerous things you must see and do in Tashkent.

The History of Tashkent

At 2,200 years old, Tashkent may not be quite as ancient as other cities in Uzbekistan. Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand may be older, but Tashkent’s rich history is undeniable. In its pre-Islamic days, Tashkent was known by the name Chach. It dated back to at least the 5 th century BC.

The city was famously destroyed by Genghis Khan and the Mongols in 1219. It was then rebuilt during the Timurid and Shaybanid Empires that followed. Meanwhile, Tashkent’s location along the Silk Road caused the city to flourish. Merchants, traders, and explorers from the East and West passed through the city, influencing its food, culture, and religion.

During the 18 th and 19 th centuries, Tashkent became an independent city-state before falling to the Russian Empire in 1865. It was named the capital of Russian Turkestan and later became part of the Soviet Union in 1925. After much of its Old City was destroyed in a 1966 earthquake, Tashkent was rebuilt again, this time in the Soviet style.  And although the Soviet Union fell in 1991, relics from that era—namely its wide streets, apartment blocks, plazas, and statues to figures like Lenin—are still prominently featured around the city to this day.

Modern-day Tashkent

Today, Tashkent is the most modern city in Uzbekistan. It’s also very well-connected, thanks in part to its international airport, roads, and subway system. It’s also a fantastic food city, with no shortage of places to try some of Uzbekistan’s most delicious traditional foods. And while most of Tashkent’s ancient, historical buildings are no more, you’ll still find a few gems as you explore the city. These are the 15 things you must see and do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Eat at Minor Somsa 

One of my favorite aspects of traveling to a new destination is trying the local cuisine. Almost immediately upon arriving in Tashkent, I set out on my very first Uzbek adventure: trying a somsa. Somsas are savory pastries filled with meat and onions. They can be found all over Central Asia with minor spelling and pronunciation differences, but they’re essentially the same. The best spot in Tashkent to try them is Minor Somsa Restaurant.

While similar meat pastries like Latin American empanadas and Indian samosas are always fried, somsas are always baked. They’re cooked by sticking the uncooked beef somsas to the inside wall of a large, clay oven called a tandoor.

Minor Somsa Restaurant is an open-air restaurant with an outdoor terrace. They have four tandoor ovens outside, which they fire up and toss water inside. The ovens get to about 300 degrees inside, so the cooks use a special tool to scrape the somsas off the interior wall.

Minor Somsa Restaurant was packed with locals the day I visited, and after one bite of my first somsa, I could see why. They were unreal! The minced beef inside was tender and juicy. The meat was full of flavorful spices that made my mouth water, while the onions inside added a nice, acidic crunch.

Because the somsas were baked, the dough was crispy and flaky on the outside and still soft on the inside. For an added flavor kick, try them with some tomato sauce. Best of all, the somsas are ridiculously affordable at only $0.30 USD each!

Mountain Tea

While in Uzbekistan, I recommend always having some local green tea with your meals. It’s called Mountain Tea, which is said to be healthier than other types of tea. The mountain tea has a light flavor but is still quite tasty. And while it was very good, I had other reasons for drinking it. The dry, desert air in Tashkent had made me hoarse, and I had started losing my voice. The tea helped soothe my dry, scratchy throat so I could continue documenting my experience for my YouTube show!

Eating incredible food like this is always an experience. It’s why dining at Minor Somsa Restaurant is one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan!

Visit Minor Mosque

While many people might think Islamic architecture in Uzbekistan is a thing of the past in the post-Soviet era, Minor Mosque is proof that it’s still alive and well. This gorgeous mosque made of white marble was only 4-5 years old when I visited in August of 2019. Despite its youth, it has become the main mosque in city.

The architecture at Minor Mosque is breathtaking. The outside of the gleaming, white building is adorned with stunning, hand-painted tiles. As my exploration around Uzbekistan continued over the next week and a half, I would learn that blue tiles are a fixture in the architecture around the country.

A pair of minarets stand proudly on either side of the mosque. Visitors will also find a pair of beautiful, hand-crafted doors with intricate designs on them. There’s also a fountain and a circular prayer hall with an equally gorgeous mihrab, which faces Mecca. It’s an incredible site and seeing it is one of the best things to see and do in Tashkent!

Dine at Lagman House

As I mentioned earlier, the traders, merchants, and explorers who passed through Tashkent via the Silk Road helped influence its culture. Among those travelers were people from both China and India. The travelers from those countries helped shape Uzbek cuisine, and their influences can be tasted at our next restaurant, Lagman House.

Eating Lagman House is one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent for their signature dish, lagman. This enticing Central Asian dish consists of pulled noodles, meat, vegetables, and sauce. The noodles are thickly cut and al dente, exactly the way I like them.

While the dish is mild in terms of heat and light on spices, so many delicious flavors still come through. I could tell it was made with love, and it actually reminded me of Italian pasta. You can’t beat soulful cooking like this!

Enjoy your lagman with some fluffy and airy Uzbek bread. It’s served freshly baked and has a soft, fresh, and chewy texture like the crust of a well-made pizza. Try it with some chili oil for a nice kick of flavor. Don’t forget to try the incredible fruit juice at Lagman House while you’re there! It has a sweet and unique flavor that’s almost like a cross between peach and apple!

Check out  5 Things You Must Do in Khiva, Uzbekistan

Visit the khazrati imam complex.

As I mentioned earlier, Tashkent’s Old Town fell victim to a powerful earthquake in 1966, which left most of its historical buildings in ruin. Among the structures left standing after the quake were the beautiful buildings of the Khazrati Imam Complex . Taking a tour of it is, without question, one of the best things to see and do in Tashkent.

As you enter Old Tashkent to visit the mosque, you’ll probably notice the stark difference between it and the modern city. You won’t find wide, Soviet streets or lots of apartment blocks here. Instead, the streets of the Old Town are much narrower and lined with smaller houses. It feels more like the countryside.

The Complex

The complex is the most popular historical site and the main Islamic center in the city. It’s made up of the Barak-Khan Madrasah, the Tilla Sheikh Mosque, the Muyi Muborak Madrasah, the Khazrati Imam Mosque, the new Al-Bukhari Islamic University, and more. The oldest buildings in the complex date back to the 16 th century.

Khazrati Imam Mosque is a massive, 19 th -century building that features a silver dome, a wooden veranda, and two minarets. The mosque dates back to the 16 th century and is massive! Though the mosque doesn’t clearly honor one person by name, the inscription above its door is thought to reference a holy man from the 9 th century named Abu Abdulla Muhammad ibn Nasr al Keshi.

The Uthman Koran

Another notable site within the complex is the 16 th -century Muyi Muborak Madrasah. This madrasah is said to house preserved hair from the prophet Muhammad. In addition to that, the building is also home to the Uthman Koran, also known as the Samarkand Codex and the Tashkent Koran, among others. This 8 th -century Koran, written in Kufic script, is significant because it is thought to be the oldest Koran in the world.

The Uthman Koran once belonged to Uthman ibbn Affan, the third of the four Righteous Caliphs who succeeded Muhammad. The book, which has centuries-old blood droplets on its pages, is considered a national treasure.

Even if you don’t have the time to explore the entire Khazrati Imam Complex, be sure to check out the Uthman Koran. It’s an irreplaceable piece of Islamic history and is among the best things to see and do in Tashkent!

Tour Chorsu Bazaar

No visit to Tashkent is complete without visiting and exploring the sights, smells, and sounds of Chorsu Bazaar . This massive market is Tashkent’s largest and oldest traditional bazaar. It’s best known for its gleaming central dome, which is covered in blue and green tiles and houses countless vendors selling everything from fresh horse meat to spices to dried fruit.

Uzbek Street Food

It may not be apparent right away, but Chorsu Bazaar is also a wonderful spot to try traditional Uzbek street food. In fact, it’s one of the few places in the entire country I found that actually serves street food. The street food vendors are extremely friendly and usually more than happy to feed you samples of their dishes. Even though Chorsu Bazaar is very important to local life in the city, it still doesn’t receive many tourists. So, when one shows up, the vendors are excited to share their food and culture with them.

Take note that Uzbek cuisine is very heavy on meat, so vegetarians may not have much luck here when it comes to food. But if you’re a carnivore, be sure to try out the hasib, a tender lamb-intestine sausage served in a tasty broth. The sausage absorbs the flavors of the broth, which creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. If you find yourself with a sore, scratchy throat like I did because of the dry air, this soup is the perfect way to soothe it!

You also should not skip the norin, a traditional wheat pasta dish with horse meat and onions. The pasta doesn’t have much flavor, but the gamy horse meat and acidic onions more than make up for it. It’s a dense, flavor-packed horse salad!

One of my favorite things to see and do in Tashkent was to try the honim at Chorsu Bazaar. It’s like a thin dumpling that is packed with thinly sliced potatoes and coated in a sauce made from tomatoes and chilies. It’s served topped with onions and tastes similar to Italian pastas.

Beef Kebabs and Green Tea

You also can’t miss the beef kebabs, which are cooked with lamb fat. The combination of the two made it one of the most phenomenal kebabs I’ve ever had in my life. They’re tender and juicy and have a breaded crust that adds a new layer of texture that contrasts nicely with the tender meat and gelatinous fat.

Meals in Uzbekistan are immediately followed by green tea. At Chorsu Bazaar, the tea had a splash of lime in it, which really helped my dry, scratchy throat.

Exploring the Dome

After you’ve eaten your fill (or before, depending on your preference), be sure to check out the domed bazaar. There, you’ll find vendors selling clothes and gorgeous crafts like pottery and decorative plates. But Chorsu Bazaar is known for its meat vendors, who sell various cuts of horse, chicken, lamb, and beef. You can also find sausages, various organ meats, and even cow bones!

On the upper floor of the domed bazaar, you’ll find vendors who mostly sell spices and dried fruit. Like the vendors in other parts of the market, they’re very friendly and allowed me to sample some of their goods. Don’t miss the chewy dried apricot and dehydrated kiwi – they’re both unreal!

The Souvenir Market

Lastly, you’ll want to check out the on-site souvenir market, which you’ll reach by winding your way through the clothing vendors. There, you’ll see vendors offering clothing and accessories like hats, vests, bags, and leather boots. You can also find more decorative plates, fruit bowls, jewelry boxes, pottery, and much more. It’s a great spot to buy gifts for friends and family!

Eat at Plov Center

During my time at Chorsu Bazaar, my guide Bobur told me that the two best things to eat in town are the beef kebabs and the plov. With one of the two checked off my list, we headed to the next place on our list of things to see and do in Tashkent, Plov Center!

What is Plov?

Plov is a traditional rice dish that is very popular around Central Asia. It’s also the national dish of Uzbekistan and is eaten in both rural and urban areas. It’s traditionally served as a sign of hospitality but is also eaten at celebrations such as weddings. Plov is even eaten to honor family members who have passed away. Because of the way it has been woven into the tapestry of rich, Uzbek traditions, plov is recognized as a UNESCO dish.

Plov has lots of regional variations, but in essence, they’re all pretty similar no matter where you have it. At Plov Center, it’s made with white and yellow rice, beef, lamb, yellow carrots, chickpeas, raisins, quail eggs, and horse sausage. You can order it from either a vendor or a waitress. I suggest going with one of the seven vendors, as the waitresses take longer. And at 25,000 som, or about $3 USD, you can’t beat the price!

You can also take advantage of Plov Center’s self-serve policy to get bread, salads, and fresh fruit juices, or you can order them from a waitress. I suggest serving yourself and heading upstairs so you can enjoy your meal with a view of the entire restaurant.

The yellow carrots and raisins make the plov a little sweet, which balances out the oiliness of the rice and the hearty, gamy, and salty meat. The horse sausage, in particular, pairs extremely well with the rice. The flavors of the horse, beef, and lamb are the perfect, meaty marriage, and together, the flavor is downright explosive.

The vegetables add a brightness and freshness. All in all, the plov is a culinary masterpiece of contrasting textures and complementary flavors. It’s also quite different from other rice dishes from around the world like biryani and paella!

One of the few veg-only dishes you’ll consistently come across in Uzbekistan is Achichuk salad. It contains tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions and is similar to a Greek salad. You can also try a second salad made with cabbage and pickles. I recommend mixing some of the salads into the plov for even more flavor! If you miss the plov and salads here, you’re missing one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent.

Check out the  Top 10 Things to See and Do in Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Visit oloy bozori.

While Chorsu Bazaar is Tashkent’s old-school, traditional, and grittier market, there is a second bazaar that should be on your list of things to see and do in Tashkent. Oloy Bozori, also known as Alay Bazaar, is more of a produce market located in a pretty, modern building. Inside, the bazaar has a very modern feel, as it’s cleaner and well-kept, and has 30-40-foot-high ceilings.

Unlike Chorsu Bazaar, you won’t find much in the way of meat at Oloy Bozori. However, you will find vendors selling high-quality fruit, vegetables, spices, and nuts as far as the eye can see. But even with the differences between the two, there was one charming similarity: the friendliness and hospitality of the vendors.

Sample the Produce

As I explored the bazaar with my friend and guide Bobur, vendor after vendor beckoned me to try their finest products. I tried some tasty figs and some small and out-of-season strawberries that surprised me with how good they were. I also was given some medicinal-tasting green tea that gave me a jolt of energy and some light and herbal Samarkand mountain tea.

If you’re a cheese lover, you’ll also want to try the Uzbek milk balls. They are as fresh as they come and smell like a strong, unpasteurized cheese! The flavor was equally strong and tasted almost like drinking milk straight from the cow! Whether you walk away liking it or not, trying one is one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent!

Honor World War II Soldiers at Independence Square

Like many families around the world, my family was directly impacted by the events of World War II. My grandparents met during the horrors of the war, and if they hadn’t met, I would not be here today. This war changed the world in small ways like that, as well as large ways that have had a direct impact on how we live today. Because of that, whenever I visit World War II memorials, I like to pay tribute to those who fought so future generations could be free.

The best place to do that in Tashkent is Independence Square, the largest square in the city. Before the Soviet Union fell in 1991, it was known as Lenin Square, but the monument to the former Soviet head was dismantled the following year. It was replaced with a large globe statue known as the Monument of Independence of Uzbekistan.

The Monuments

The square is actually more of a park than a square. It contains lots of trees and flower beds, as well as administrative buildings and monuments like the Monument of Independence and the Arch of Independence. But its most sobering features are those that acknowledge the country’s role in World War II.

At the monument known as Memory Lane, you can read the names of the Uzbek people who fought in the war. Nearby is an eternal flame and a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that honors Soviet soldiers who fought in the war. These monuments are powerful reminders that, even half a world away the place you call home, are people and families who were forever changed by the war. Be sure to stop by and pay your respects when you visit Tashkent.

Eat at Ugolok

I’ve talked a lot about the tender, mouthwatering meat that’s very much a staple in Uzbek cuisine. But I haven’t even touched on the magic that is Uzbek fried chicken. To try the most incredible fried chicken in Tashkent, you’ll need to head over to Ugolok, a 55-year-old restaurant next to the main street.

Ugolok is known for their fried chicken, particularly their fried chicken tabaka. The recipe is as old as the restaurant it’s cooked in, and they only use organic chicken. But the real kicker is how they fry the chicken. Instead of using oil, the cooks at Ugolok fry their birds in butter!

The end result is a chicken that is juicy, slightly salty, and bursting with buttery chicken flavor. When I visited, I ordered a wing and leg and was genuinely blown away by its freshness and the amount of meat on the bones. I could taste the fact that it was an organic chicken, free of chemicals and hormones, that was freshly butchered and had never been frozen.

It was literally farm-to-table, which is exactly the way I like to eat. Try the chicken with some bread to make a moist, flavor bomb of a sandwich. On the side, I have a delicious tomato drink from Ugolok’s menu. It’s reminiscent of a gazpacho and goes really well with the buttery chicken! 

So, even though the lamb (and to a lesser extent, the beef) in Uzbekistan tends to take center stage, its stellar chicken also deserves some love. Having the fried chicken tabaka at Ugolok is one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent. If you love good chicken as much as I do, this is a can’t-miss opportunity!

Check out  15 Things to See and Do in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Visit a metro station.

I mentioned earlier that, following the 1966 earthquake that devastated much of the old part of Tashkent, the Soviets rebuilt the city in their image, with wide streets, lots of plazas, and apartment blocks. But what I didn’t mention is that the most impressive—not to mention, most beautiful—relics from the Soviet era are actually located underground. Yes, I’m talking about Tashkent’s metro stations .

The History of the Tashkent Metro System

In 1977, the Soviets completed the seventh metro system in the USSR, located in Tashkent. As the cities in the USSR grew under Joseph Stalin’s rule, he needed a quick and efficient way to transport labor workers. At the same time, Soviet ideology decreed that metro stations were meant to display the beauty of Soviet life. The end result was some of the most ornate, colorful, and extravagant metro stations in the world.

These stations are known for their intricate architecture, lavish décor, and the gorgeous tile work that adorn their walls. Some of them even feature fancy chandeliers and portraits of Lenin and Stalin. In addition to their beauty, many of the stations were also practical. Some of them even served military and strategic functions and doubled as bomb shelters.

Visiting the Metro Stations Today

Until 2018, photography in the Tashkent metro system was forbidden. But as the government began realizing the appeal of the city’s metro stations, the ban lifted. For 1,400 som—about $1.50 USD—you can visit a local metro station. I had never seen anything like the one I visited. The marble pillars and chandeliers were stunning. I wish I could have visited more stations, but I was in too much of a time crunch to see more than one.

If you have the time, be sure to tour the Tashkent metro system. If the station I visited is any indication, it’s well worth the time it takes to do it. It’s easily one of the best things to see and do in Tashkent!

Explore Broadway Street

Visiting Uzbekistan, at least for me, is almost entirely about the historical, cultural, and gastronomical experiences you can’t really have anywhere else. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t places where you can just let loose and have fun. Tourists looking for an exciting place to explore and have fun, day or night, should head over to Broadway Street.

Here, you can find a bit of everything. One of my favorite things to see and do in Tashkent is to tour the craft-lined section of the street. There, you can find amazing handmade works of art, including decorative plates, jewelry, antiques from the Soviet era, silver utensils, pottery, and much more. It’s a fantastic place to dip your toe into the world of fine Uzbek craftsmanship, especially if you have yet to visit craftsman-centric cities like Bukhara and Samarkand.

Some of my favorite vendors along Broadway Street are those selling paintings. As you browse the street, you’ll find hyper-realistic creations painted on stretched animal skins in wooden frames. The vibrant colors and amount of detail that goes into the paintings on display along the street is mind-blowing.

I met one vendor who created a beautiful painting of Samarkand that cost 450,000 som, or roughly $47 USD. It’s a remarkable deal for such a gorgeous work of art, especially since it took him 10 days to complete it! He even took 50,000 som off of the price for me.

But, as I mentioned earlier, Broadway Street is also a great place to have fun. You can get a street artist to do a portrait of you or someone else from a photograph for only $20 USD. It’s also an awesome spot to play games! I visited Broadway Street early in my Uzbekistan trip and again on my very last night in the country.

On my last night, I returned with some friends from the World Influencers Congress to blow off some steam after a long, hard trip around the country. If you come with friends, challenge them to a dart game to see who can burst the most balloons, or attempt to climb to the top of a swaying ladder without making it twist! The further you climb the ladder, the more money you make!

Further along the street, you’ll come across more kiosks with games, as well as fast food places selling hot dogs and hamburgers. It’s no wonder locals go there to meet and have a good time!

Visit the Amir Timur Monument

If there’s one name that’s synonymous with Uzbekistan’s long history, it’s Amir Timur. Timur, who was born in 1336, was a Turco-Mongol Persianate conqueror. He was born in Transoxiana, an ancient area of Central Asia that is now made up of modern-day Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, as well as parts of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

Timur founded the Timurid Empire in Central Asia and was the first ruler of the Timurid Dynasty. He was also a feared military commander throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe at the time and later became known as one of the greatest military leaders in history.

Timur’s legacy throughout Uzbekistan is apparent, as he is honored with several monuments throughout the country, including in Tashkent and Shahrisabz. Many of the most important structures still standing in the country were constructed either during his nearly 35-year reign or were influenced by his preferences.

His monument in Tashkent can be found in the center of Amir Timur Square in the heart of the city. It depicts the famous commander in his imperial regalia, atop his horse. On the monument’s plinth are the words “Power is in Justice” in four languages. The square, established in 1882, is bounded by other notable locations including the Amir Timur Museum, the Tashkent Chimes and Forums Palace, and the University of Law. It’s a great place to begin your adventures in Tashkent!

Check out  Exploring Shahrisabz, Uzbekistan: UNESCO World Heritage City – Travel Guide

See the marching band in the town square.

During my time in Tashkent, I spent as much time as I could exploring the city and immersing myself in its culture. Most of my itinerary was planned beforehand, as I worked with the World Influencer Congress for the majority of my time there. But I also had a couple of special and unexpected experiences on my own.

While I was at the town square, not far from Ugolok Restaurant, I had the incredible opportunity to witness a marching band perform as they made their way through the square. It was such a pleasant surprise and yet another insightful look into life in Uzbekistan’s capital city. And while I’m not sure if this is a daily occurrence or if I just happened to get lucky, it was an awesome experience. If you happen to experience it, too, have a great time and enjoy the music!

Eat at Sultan Saray Family Restaurant

Of all the restaurants I visited in Tashkent, one of my favorites is the Sultan Saray Family Restaurant. It’s a traditional restaurant in the downtown area just a few minutes’ walk from the Hyatt Regency. If you’re staying there, it’s conveniently located. The restaurant has a nice, cozy atmosphere and is a great place to visit with family or a group of friends.

I dined at the Sultan Saray Family Restaurant on my last night in Tashkent with friends from the World Influencers Congress. I highly recommend the lamb chops, which like the rest of the food in Uzbekistan, are farm-to-table. It’s juicy and fatty and extremely fresh. I also suggest trying their tasty dolmas, bread, crispy potatoes, and Uzbek dumplings. They’re all fantastic and help make eating at the Sultan Saray Family Restaurant one of the top things to see and do in Tashkent!

Stay at the Hyatt Regency

During my time in Tashkent, I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. It stands on Navoi Street in the downtown area, not far from Amir Timur Square. There are four restaurants, bars, and lounges in the hotel, as well as a state-of-the-art pool, spa, and fitness center.

As you might expect from the Hyatt, the accommodations are exceptional. My first time at the hotel, I stayed in a very nice, spacious room on the sixth floor. that boasted two twin beds, a very chic and modern bathroom, a desk where I could work, and a view of the building. Each room has a charging station, and the bathrooms boast a walk-in rain shower, and a large, separate tub!

When I returned to the Hyatt Regency on my final night in Tashkent, I met up with my friends Joey and Alex and headed up to their rooftop lounge for the first time. There, we enjoyed a few drinks in the luxurious and relaxing rooftop space before we had to take off the following morning.

While you can order everything from a Moscow Mule to water, I recommend having a limoncello. They’re very strong and are made in the hotel! If they have them when you visit, take advantage of it. Once they run out, they won’t have another supply available for months! I actually got their very last glass of it!

Staying at the Hyatt Regency is one of the best things to see and do in Tashkent. They’re the best and most comfortable accommodations around and offer anything you could possibly need while you’re there! Enjoying them is one of the best things to see and do in Tashkent!

Check out the 15 Things to See and Do in Termez, Uzbekistan

The modern-day city of Tashkent, Uzbekistan may not boast the sheer number of astounding UNESCO sites as some of its Uzbek neighbors, but it still has a charm that’s all its own. Whether you find yourself on the hunt for authentic Uzbek cuisine, want to experience a traditional bazaar, or are looking to explore the history of the Soviet Union, you can do it all in Tashkent. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly locals and get to feel Uzbek hospitality up close. Book a trip to Tashkent today to see why this amazing city should be on everyone’s bucket list!

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15 Amazing Things to Do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in 2024

Things to do in Tashkent – Quick Look Best Tashkent Tours 1. Tashkent City Tour 2. Tashkent Walking Tour 3. Day Trip to Bukhara 4. Day Trip to Samarkand 5. 3-Day Private Uzbekistan Tour Tashkent Accommodation 1. Topchan Hostel 2. Hotel Uzbekistan 3. Ichan Premium Hotel

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and is the largest city in the country. With so many incredible things to do in Tashkent, this city is fast becoming a tourist attraction and is a must-visit if you are travelling through Central Asia.

I’ve travelled to Tashkent on numerous occasions and love exploring this laid-back city with a Soviet air and distinctly Central Asian feel. From museums charting the rise and fall of the Timurid Empire to parks, churches and mosques, there are plenty of great places to visit in Tashkent.

Tashkent is known to be one of the main cultural and economic centres within Central Asia, and so is a great destination to visit. In this article, we will go through everything you need to know about this city including the most popular Tashkent attractions and the authentic dishes you need to try.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

15 Best Things to Do in Tashkent Uzbekistan

Below you’ll find a diverse list of Tashkent things to do from exploring bustling bazaars to interesting museums, the city’s incredible architecture and a lot more. This Tashkent travel guide will help if you’re a first-time visitor looking for things to do in the city.

1. Take a Tashkent City Tour

One of the best things to do in Tashkent for first-time visitors is to take a city tour . This full-day (6-7 hours) tour takes in the major places to see in Tashkent including Amir Temur Square, Independence Square, the Minor Mosque and Chorsu Bazaar.

You’ll travel between the Tashkent famous places in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle and get to eat an authentic Uzbekistan lunch. Entrance to all the museums, including the Amir Timur Museum, Hazrat Imam Complex, and Uzbekistan state museum. Click here to book .

2. Take in the Smells and Sights at Chorsu Bazaar

One of the first things I do when in Central Asia is head to the local Bazaar. The buzzing Chorsu Bazaar is one of the most popular places to visit in Tashkent and is one of the most important markets in Asia. It has been around for centuries and is a reminder of the ancient Silk Road.

Today you can find an array of items at Chorsu Bazaar including fruit, meat, clothes and crafts. If you are looking for an authentic travel experience, then this is one of the top things to do in Tashkent. Visit Chorsu Bazaar on a guided tour of the city. Click here to find out more .

Address: 57 Tafakkur ko’chasi, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Chorsu Opening Hours: 5am to 9pm Monday to Sunday

3. Ride on the Tashkent Metro

Aside from being the best way to get around, the Tashkent metro is also worth seeing for its beautiful architecture . It was designed to be an artistic masterpiece and it doesn’t disappoint. When travelling, look out for beautiful mosaics, murals and candelabras.

The design of the metro was based on those in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. It was the seventh metro system to be built in the USSR and was opened in 1977. No Tashkent sightseeing trip is complete without a ride on the metro.

It’s also one of the deepest in the world as the Soviets loved to bury their subways deep underground. I’ve visited some incredible metro stations in my time, including Moscow, Pyongyang and Almaty, and Tashkent is definitely one of the most impressive.

Tickets cost around 1,400 Som ($0.15) for any journey across the city, making it one of the cheapest ways to get around.

4. Visit the Hazrat Imam Complex

The Hazrat Imam Complex is one of the top Tashkent tourist attractions and is known as the official religious centre of the city. This part of Tashkent is known for its beautiful Islamic architecture and is not to be missed.

The complex is home to some incredible monuments including the Mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, the Tila Sheikh Mosque and Barak Khan Madrasa.

You can also find the Muyi Mubarak Library here which is home to oriental manuscripts and the world’s oldest Koran. See the incredible Hazrat Imam Complex on a guided tour of Tashkent. Click here to book .

Address: Karasaray Street, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Gafur Gulom Opening Hours: 9am to 9pm Monday to Sunday

5. See Independence Square (Mustakillik Maydoni)

During the era of the Soviet Union, this square was used for celebrations of labour day and Victory day and was named Lenin Square. After Uzbekistan gained its independence in 1991, the square was renamed Mustakillik Maydoni (which translates to Independence Square in English).

Today the square is used to celebrate Independence Day and New Year among other festivities and is a popular spot among locals and one of the major things to see in Tashkent for tourists.

The square is surrounded by important government buildings including the cabinet office and the senate and has some pretty impressive monuments. However, the most beautiful part of the square has to be the fountains and the Independent monument itself.

This full-day guided tour of Taskent includes a visit to Independence Square among other top Tashkent places to visit. Click here for more info .

Address: Independence Square, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Mustakillik Maydoni Opening Hours: 24/7

6. Climb the Tashkent Tower for Incredible Views

The TV Tower in Tashkent is actually the 11th tallest tower in the world at an impressive height of 375m and one of the top things to do in Tashkent for visitors.

If you are feeling adventurous and aren’t afraid of heights (I am), then you can take the elevator up to the 6th floor and marvel at the views of the city from the observation deck.

There is also a restaurant located on the 7th floor if you are looking for a tasty meal and a beer. The TV Tower is one of the best places to visit in Tashkent as it gives your panoramic views and is a great spot to take photographs of the city.

Address: Amir Temur ASve, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Shahriston Opening Hours: 9:30am to 6pm Monday to Saturday Ticket Price: 40,000 Som ($3.50)

7. See Hotel Uzbekistan

The Hotel Uzbekistan is a huge soviet hotel that is located in the centre of Tashkent. The architecture is typical of other communist-era hotels and is one of the top places to see in Tashkent. The hotel is made up of 17 floors and has over 250 rooms.

The hotel accepted its first guests in 1974 and has been a popular choice ever since and a symbol of the city. You can book a stay at the hotel, but even if you are not a guest, you can still pop in and have a look around (I went there to change USD to Som).

If you head up to the top floor, you can even get an amazing view over Amir Temur Square. Rooms are surprisingly cheap with singles from around $50 and doubles from $65. Click here to book your room .

Address: 45 Mirzamakhmud Musakhanov Street, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Amir Temur Hiyoboni Opening Hours: 24/7 Book a room: Hotel Uzbekistan

8. Visit the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan

The State History Museum is one of the best museums in Tashkent for its incredible collection of exhibits dating back to antiquity. It opened in 1876, and the exhibitions focus on Uzbekistan’s rich history dating from 2,500 years all the way up to President Karimov’s time.

The museum is open daily, and if you want to make the most out of this experience then it’s best to hire an English guide (which costs less than one dollar). It is one of the oldest museums in Central Asia and has over 250,000 listed exhibits.

Some of the most unique exhibits in this museum include a stone sculpture of two snakes from the 2nd millennium BC, the decor of the Bukhara governor’s palace and fragments of a 7th-8th century mural painting.

However, one of the most impressive is probably the remains of a primitive man from Sel-Ungur cave that dates back to 1.5 million years BC. For history lovers like myself, the State Museum is one of the top Tashkent tourist places.

Address: 3 Buyuk Turon Street, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Mustakillik Maydoni Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday Ticket Price: 10,000 Som ($1) single entry. 25,000 Som ($2.50) camera pass.

9. Amir Temur Square (One of theTop Places to Visit in Tashkent)

Amir Temur Square is one of the most popular Tashkent tourist attractions, and so is a must for any itinerary. Built in 1870, this square has seen various monuments including statues of Lenin, Stalin and Karl Marx.

Today, the monument that stands here is Amir Timur on his horse. Amir Timur is the national hero of Uzbekistan and the most famous Central Asian conqueror. This monument has stood proud since it was built after Uzbekistan’s independence and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Aside from the monument, Amir Temur Square is a great place to take a walk and unwind. Some of the other popular spots located here include the Amir Timur Museum (one of the top museums in Tashkent), Hotel Uzbekistan and the Clock Towers.

Address: 4 Amir Temur Avenue, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Amir Temur Hiyoboni Opening Hours: 24/7 Ticket Price: Free

10. Visit the Amur Timur Museum

The Amur Timur Museum is one of my favourite Tashkent tourist attractions and one of the best museums in Tashkent. Inside you’ll find a selection of displays charting the Timurid Empire that lasted from 1370 to 1405.

Amur Timur, or Tamerlane as he is known in the west (Timur the lame due to an arrow injury), was a Turkik-Mongol warlord that oversaw an empire stretching across Central Asia and including what is now Uzbekistan, Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan. Click here to book a tour of the museum .

Address: 1 Amir Temur Avenue, Tashkent 100000, Uzbekistan. Click here for directions . Nearest Metro: Amir Temur Hiyoboni Opening Hours: 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday Ticket Price: 8,000 Som ($0.70) Website: temurid.uz

11. Broadway Boulevard

A trip to Tashkent isn’t complete without an evening stroll along Sailkough Street. Also known as Broadway Boulevard, this street connects the two main squares in the city; Independence Square and Amir Timur Square.

During the evening, Broadway Boulevard is lit up with beautiful lights and is filled with food stalls, art stalls and street artists. It is also popular with families as there are plenty of carnival games located down this street for children.

Places to Visit Near Tashkent

There are lots of popular day trips you can take from Tashkent. Here are the places you need to visit:

12. Charvak Lake

Charvak Lake is located in the Northern area of the Tashkent region and offers beautiful views. It is an artificial lake that was made during the Soviet Union to provide cheap energy to the city of Tashkent. The construction of the dam started in 1964 and was completed in 1970.

Aside from the surrounding snow-capped mountains, lush greenery and the beautiful blue waters, there is something even more special about this place. When the reservoir was filled, about 150 archaeological sites ended up being submerged underwater.

There are no direct public transport options to Charvak lake from Tashkent, however, there are a few options. You can either get a public bus part of the way and then get a taxi, or you can book a day trip from the city centre. However, the easiest way would be to hire a car.

13. Samarkand

Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia and was founded in the 7th century BC. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has jaw-dropping architecture that will leave you amazed.

Samarkhand was invaded by Alexander the Great and then destroyed by Genghis Khan, which meant the city was in need of a serious rebuild. Amir Timur took on the task and made it the capital city of the Timurid Empire in the 1370s. The stunning architecture that you will see all across Samrkhad is from this time period, so make sure you bring your camera.

When it comes to travelling to Samarkand, the most popular options are train and bus. The train journey from Tashkent is a lot quicker, taking around 3 hours whilst the bus takes about 6 hours.

See my full guide to Samarkand for more information.

14. Bukhara

Silk Road Bukhara is the 5th largest city in Uzbekistan and is located along the ancient Silk Road. The city has around 140 architectural monuments, so there is plenty of history to explore.

The most popular places to visit in Bukhara include the Chor Minor, the Ark of Bukhara and Bolo Hauz Mosque. However, aside from visiting the architectural masterpieces, there are also plenty of opportunities to shop, as there are lots of bazaars located within the city.

When travelling from Tashkent to Bukhara, there are a couple of choices. The most popular option is the train which takes about 6 hours, although a hire car would probably be more convenient.

If you’re looking for accommodation, check out this useful guide on where to stay in Bukhara .

This excellent six-hour guided tour of Bukhara’s top attractions is the perfect way to see the city if time is tight.

15. Khujand

The city of Khujand dates back around 2,500 years to the Persian Empire. It is situated on the Syr Darya River and is actually located in Tajikistan. Khujand is located close to the borders of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan and was once a major city along the famous Silk Road.

Khujand is the largest city in Tajikistan and so has plenty to offer. The most popular places to visit include the Panchshanbe bazaar, the Citadel and the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mausoleum. You can also take a cable car over the Syr Darya River if you are feeling adventurous.

The most direct way to get to Khujand from Tashkent is by bus, and the journey takes about 5 and a half hours. However, if you choose to hire a car instead of taking public transport you will cut your journey in half. The one thing to be mindful of with this day trip is that there will be an immigration point and border control, as you are travelling to another country.

Getting to Tashkent

Tashkent International airport is located about 10km outside the city centre. There are plenty of direct flights from various countries making the city easily accessible.

If you are travelling into Uzbekistan from neighbouring countries, then there are a couple of journeys you can do. You can travel by rail into the city of Tashkent from various cities in Russia, the city of Kharkov in Ukraine and Almaty in Kazakhstan. If you don’t mind changeovers and multiple visa’s you can also arrive from China.

More info: Almaty to Tashkent Train

Getting Around Tashkent

There are plenty of different ways to get around Tashkent. The most popular and easiest way is the metro which runs between 5 am and midnight. Waiting times in the metro are pretty short, and the system is easy to use. It is very well signposted and security is tight so police will check any belongings.

Getting a taxi is another popular way to get around, but it can be quite complicated. There are two types of taxi in Tashkent – licensed taxis and ‘independent’ taxis. Independent taxis are quite flexible with fares, and are just random cars with a little taxi sign on the roof. Licensed taxis are a lot more expensive, so make sure a price is negotiated beforehand.

Food in Tashkent

There are lots of different authentic food dishes for you to try in Tashkent. Here are a couple of the most popular ones!

Plov – Plov is Uzbekistan’s national dish, and is a must-try during your visit. The dish consists of rice, meat, onions and carrots boiled within a light broth. There are so many different variations of this dish, and you’ll often find it served with eggs, sausages and many other foods.

Lagman – Lagman is a dish that consists of noodles with meat and veg, and there are different ways it can be served. It is either served as a soup or light broth, or it is fried in a sticky sauce.

Shashlik – Shasklik kebabs are often found on street markets and roadsides throughout the country. They are cubes of meat that are placed onto skewers, alongside peppers, onions and tomatoes. They are usually grilled over coal or wood and make a great snack.

One of the best places to sample local cuisine is the Central Asian Plov Center. Click here for directions .

Tashkent Weather

The climate in Tashkent varies throughout the seasons. Summer is known for being hot, arid and very clear. Winters are known to be very cold, with plenty of snow.

The warmest month to visit Tashkent is in July when temperatures can reach up to around 36°C. The coldest month is January with an average low temperature of around -2°C. Tashkent’s summer season lasts between May to September, and the cold season lasts between November to March.

Best Time to Visit Tashkent

The best time to visit Tashkent is between the months of May to June, as the weather is starting to turn but isn’t too uncomfortable.

The summer months are also a popular time to visit as Tashkent receives around 10 hours of sunshine a day. However, the heat can become pretty unbearable if you are exploring the city all day, which is why many people choose to visit in the spring.

Is Tashkent Safe to Visit?

Although Tashkent isn’t at the top of many bucket lists, it is a relatively safe city to visit for tourists. Violent crime is known to be incredibly rare in this city. However, petty crime like pickpocketing is still common in touristy areas. It is also a good idea to be careful where you choose to exchange your money. Only change money at banks to avoid scams.

As with the police in some former Soviet countries, they can be corrupt so best to try and avoid any contact with them unless absolutely necessary. Tashkent has a reputation for police trying to scam tourists, however, it is not as bad as in the past. I’ve visited Tashkent on multiple occasions and never had any problems.

The most likely problem you will encounter is being ripped off by a taxi driver!

Accommodation in Tashkent

There are plenty of different accommodation options in Tashkent. Here are some great options for each budget:

Budget: Topchan Hostel

I’ve stayed at Topchan on every visit to Tashkent and have found it an excellent place, especially for backpackers. The location isn’t perfect as it’s a little way out from the centre, but it’s walkable from the station.

On my last visit, I hired a 50cc scooter from the hostel which made getting around much easier. Click here to book on Hostelworld .

Mid-range: Hotel Uzbekistan

Tashkent is famous for the Hotel Uzbekistan which is located close to Amir Temur Square and makes an excellent option. Rooms are excellent value with singles starting from just $50. Click here to check prices .

Luxury:: Ichan Qal’a Premium Class Hotel

Things to Do Tashkent FAQs

Tashkent is definitely worth visiting for its excellent museums about the Silk Road, the beautiful Hazrat Imam complex and its excellent nightlife. It also makes a great base for exploring nearby places such as Samarkand and Bukhara.

Tashkent is famous as the seat of the Timurid Empire and its interesting array of architecture charting the city’s past from a stop on the ancient Silk Road to its time as part of the Soviet Union.

I often spend around three days in Tashkent when visiting and find this is enough to see the main sites and enjoy the nightlife. You can also make the city your base and explore other parts of Uzbekistan.

Tashkent has an excellent nightlife and some of the best bars and clubs in Central Asia. Whether you’re a lover of craft beer, gourmet food, or dancing ’til dawn, you’ll be sure to find plenty of things to do in Tashkent at night.

Now you know what to do in Tashkent, the charming capital of Uzbekistan. If you are a fan of architecture, tasty dishes and culture, then this city should be on your bucket list.

There are so many incredible places to visit in Tashkent including the History Museum, Chorsu Bazaar and Navoi Park. If you are looking for a destination that is off the beaten path and often overlooked by other tourists then this is your place.

You might like my other guides about cities in Central Asia:

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

One thought on “ 15 Amazing Things to Do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in 2024 ”

Really interesting and helpful article! I’d love to visit Tashkent, it’s been on my bucket list for years!

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33 Best Things to Do in Tashkent in 2024 (many FREE!)

OK, so you are in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan! You’ve read online that you should spend only 1, max 2 days, and then go to Samarkand to admire the beautiful madrasahs there.

NO, WAIT! Don’t book that Afrosiyob train ticket yet! I’m here to tell you that you can easily spend 3 or more days without running out of things to do in Tashkent! This list right here can easily last you 5 whole days!

The places that are close to one another are also close in numbers on the list.

Why do Tourists Skip Tashkent?

There are two main reasons why tourists spend less time in Tashkent: the 1966 Earthquake and the Soviet city planning.

A devastating earthquake hit Tashkent on 26 April 1966. It obliterated the Old City, which would’ve been very similar to the ones in Samarkand and Bukhara.

Not that many people died ( at least according to the official statistics, which for a Soviet Republic are never trustworthy ), but up to 300.000 were left homeless.

The Soviet Authorities, instead of rebuilding the Old City and restoring its heritage, saw an opportunity to build a modern communist city .

Thus, they created a model Soviet city, but let its old glory as a fabulous Silk Road stop be lost to the annals of history.

1. The Metro – easiest way to explore Tashkent!

• Opening times: Every day: 05:00 to 00:00;
• Price: 1400 UZS (0.12$)

Yeah, in Tashkent everybody with a car is a taxi and they are very affordable too, but at 1400 UZS per ride, 48 stations, and 4 lines , the Tashkent Metro is unparalleled.

Moreover, many of the stations are works of art ! Similar to other Soviet-built metro systems (like Moscow and Almaty ), they were decorated to inspire and induce awe.

Once inside, you can get off at as many stations as you want, so you can technically visit all 48 stations with just 1 ticket !

The most beautiful stations are:

• Kosmonavtlar (my favorite)
• Alisher Navoi
• Gafur Gulom
• Xalqlar Dustligi

Here is all you need to know about the best Tashkent Metro stations .

2. Hotel Uzbekistan

• Address: 45 Mirzamakhmud Musakhanov Street
• Nearest Subway: Amir Temur Avenue & Yunus Rajabiy
• Opening times: It’s a hotel, come on;
• Price: FREE to look at, 55-80$ per night. Click here to book .

This massive hotel has been receiving guests since 1974. Its imposing facade faces the nearby Amir Temur Square. In the spirit of Soviet Hotels, it’s big, it’s grand, it’s impressive !

Unlike many of its brethren in other post-Communist countries, Hotel Uzbekistan has managed to transition into the market economy as an eschelon of luxury and upscale accommodation in Uzbekistan. Nowadays, it’s almost always full .

There’s a bar on the top floor with nice views of Tashkent.

3. Amir Temur Square

• Address: 4 Amir Temur Avenue
• Opening times: Open 24 hours
• Price: FREE

Amir Temur, aka Tamerlane, is Uzbekistan’s national hero and probably the most famous Central Asian in the world. The capital of his massive empire ( which at one point in the 14th century was from the mouth of the Mediterranean to China ) was Samarkand and you will see his tomb there.

But before that, take a moment to check out his 7-meter statue in the middle of Amir Temur Square.

4. Sailgokh Street (Broadway)

• Address: Sailgokh Street ( duh )
• Nearest Subway: Amir Temur Avenue & Yunus Rajabiy OR Mustakillik Maydoni
• Opening times: Open 24 hours ( but visit in the evening )
• Price: FREE ( but you might want to buy something )

Let me be straight – this street has nothing to do with New York’s Broadway. It connects Amir Temur Square with Independence Square (see #7).

There are many food stalls on this pedestrian street selling anything from ice cream and popcorn to burgers and hotdogs. Maybe that’s why it’s called Broadway, no one really knows for sure.

5. Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre

• Address: 28 Bukhara Street
• Nearest Subway: Mustakillik Maydoni
• Opening times: Admire during daylight. To visit: https://gabt.uz/
• Price: To look at: FREE; Tickets: 20.000-100.000 UZS

This is one of the only buildings that survived the devastating 1966 earthquake. And of course it did- it was built by the Japanese!

Okay, let me elaborate – it wasn’t really a Japanese construction company contracted for the project. It’s a bit more sinister than that.

In reality, the theatre was finished using the labor of Japanese prisoners of war at the end of the Second World War. It really is a fascinating story, read all of it here .

6. The palace of Grand Duke Nicholas Constantinovich (Romanov Palace)

• Address: Sharaf Rashidov Avenue
• Opening times: To look at: 24/7
• Price: FREE to look at; CLOSED for visitors ( expected to reopen in 2025 )

This small, but exquisite-looking palace was built for Grand Prince Nikolay Konstantinovich Romanov (1850-1917), first cousin of Tsar Nikolay II , who was deported here in 1881 to mine precious stones.

It was then closed in 1919 after the Revolution and reopened as a museum. In 1935 the museum was closed and the building became a Young Pioneers Palace – a place for the training (both physical and ideological) of young pioneers (i.e. kids) into communist propaganda.

It once again became a museum in 1980 to display the lavish jewelry that the aristocracy wore before the Revolution. However, in 1991, the museum was once again closed. It remains closed to this day and you can only see it on the outside.

It’s undergoing restoration works and according to my offline sources, it will once again reopen as a museum in 2025 in time for the Asian Youth Games.

7. Mustakillik Maydoni /Independence Square

Located in the heart of Tashkent, this main square serves as a popular meeting spot within the city. The most outstanding thing about it is the many fountains that grace the square.

Behind the fountains is the great marble arch of 16 columns to symbolize peace and the prosperity of nations.

8. Chorsu Bazaar

• Address: Sakichmon Street
• Nearest Subway: Chorsu
• Opening times: Mon-Fri: 5 AM-8 PM; Sat, Sun: 5 AM-9 PM
• Price: FREE ( but the food isn’t )

Chorsu Bazaar is the city’s most famous bazaar located in the heart of old Tashkent. Its enormous blue dome is visible from afar. Here you can buy a wide variety of fruits and veggies, raw meat, souvenirs, textiles, and my favorite – nuts and dried fruit ( I recommend the big black raisins! )

The Bazaar isn’t contained just within the building and under the dome. No, no, no. It has alleys all around it and feels like a small city of its own.

Outside the domed building is the cooked food, but I shouldn’t have to tell you this – let your nose lead you to the nearby kebabs, fresh bread, and samsas .

People are always in a hurry here – it’s either business time or time to buy groceries. Get ready to join the bustle!

9. Alay Bazaar

• Address: 7 Yahyo Gulyamov Street
• Nearest Subway: Abdulla Kodiriy
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 9 AM – 5 PM

Talking about bazaars, I must mention the other popular favorite – Alay Bazaar. It’s smaller than Chorsu and way less chaotic, but the prices are higher as the tourist flow is bigger.

Nevertheless, it is a good place to buy some dried fruit, nuts, or souvenirs to take home, and deserves a spot on this list of things to do in Tashkent.

10. Kukeldash Madrasah

• Address: Beruni Avenue Relief Road
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 9 AM – 6 PM
• Price: Grounds: FREE; Second Floor: 10000 UZS

Kukeldash Madrasah is the biggest one in Tashkent. It doesn’t get as much love as the three madrasahs that form the Registan Square in Samarkand, but it’s still an impressive example of Islamic architecture.

It has had a tumultuous history with several destructions and rebuilding since its construction in 1570, but most importantly, it survived the 1966 earthquake so you and I can visit it today.

11. Tashkent City Park

• Nearest Subway: Alisher Navoi & Pahtakor OR Ozbekiston OR Xalqlar Dustligi
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 11 AM – 11 PM

The Tashkent City Park is a relatively new park in the heart of the city. There are lots of trees, benches, green areas, playing grounds, a fountain as well as small restaurants and food stalls.

Being surrounded by tall buildings, one might easily make the comparison with Central Park of New York.

12. Hazrati (Khast) Imam Complex

• Address: Karasaray Street
• Nearest Subway: Gafur Gulom
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 9 AM – 9 PM

The Khast Imam Complex is to Tashkent what the Registan is to Samarkand and what the square in front of the Kalyan Mosque is to Bukhara. This is the heart of the religious part of Tashkent and the most popular tourist attraction in the city.

The whole complex consists of several mosques, a couple of madrasahs, a few mausoleums, and a library . This isn’t just any library though – it claims to hold the world’s oldest Quran – the Uthman Quran .

While visiting the complex and ensemble of beautiful buildings is free, if you want to enter the library, you have to pay a 15000 UZS / 1.30$ entrance fee.

13. Minor Mosque

• Address: Little Ring Road
• Nearest Subway: Bodomzor

The Minor Mosque is one of the newest places to visit in Tashkent. Built in 2014, it’s as spectacular, as it’s bright. Its main component is white marble, which makes it glisten on a sunny day.

It has a capacity of 2400 people and since it’s a mosque, anyone can visit and stay as long as desired.

I think I stayed way too long though ( excuse me, but it was cold outside and the carpet inside was so soft ). So much so, that a few people came up to me and gave me money, thinking I was perhaps homeless. Oh, Uzbek hospitality at its finest.

14. National Circus of Tashkent

• Address: 1 Zarkaynar Street
• Opening times: To look at: during daylight; To visit: http://cirk.uz/
• Price: FREE to look at; Tickets: 20000-50000 UZS

The circus culture in Uzbekistan is more than 200 years old. The first permanent circus was constructed in 1819, but its building didn’t survive the 1966 earthquake.

The new building is from 1976, renovated in 1999 and its most recognizable feature is the massive blue dome with the words “SIRK” on top.

While it’s worth it to visit just to see, performances are carried out and aren’t very expensive. If you’re looking for entertainment in Tashkent, go watch the circus perform every Saturday at 16:00, Sunday, 12:00, and 16:00 .

Check their official website for tickets and schedule .

15. Tashkent Television Tower

• Address: 109 Amir Temur Avenue
• Opening times: To look at: during daylight; To visit: 10 AM – 8 PM
• Price: FREE to look at; To go up: 40000 UZS

Who would’ve thought that the 12th tallest tower in the world would be in Uzbekistan? Certainly not me!

At 375 meters, it’s impressive, even though its main function is just a TV and radio tower and not an architectural masterpiece like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

You can look at the tower from the Japanese Garden Lake just south of it for free, or go up to the observation deck at 97 meters above ground for 40.000 UZS / 3.5$.

You must bring your passport with you for some weird reason. There’s also a restaurant on the 7th floor

16. Besh Qozon (The Plov Center)

• Address: 1 Guards Colonel Khodjaev Street
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 9 AM – 11 PM
• Price: FREE ( food not included )

Where are you going to eat in Tashkent, huh? Why not pop over to the home of the plov and have a look at the massive qazans ( frying pans basically ) in which they prepare this delicious meal?

If you’re not hungry, it’s still worth it to visit and observe as masses of people line up to take home some food. Otherwise, their plov portions are big and go for about 30000-35000 UZS / 2.60$-3.00$.

17. Monument of Courage

• Address: 74 Sharof Rashidov Shoh Ko’chasi
• Nearest Subway: Mustaillik Maydoni OR Abdulla Qodirii
• Opening times: To look at: best during daylight

I’ve decided to include the Monument of Courage out of all other statues and monuments in Tashkent, first because it’s a perfect example of a Soviet sculpture, and second because it is dedicated to the 1966 earthquake that I have referenced so many times in this article.

The earthquake (and its aftermath) had such a profound effect on Tashkent, that we can easily just call it New Tashkent nowadays.

The monument base is a black cube installed on a granite pedestal . On the two sides of the cube facing forward read the date 26 April 1966 and a clock that shows 5:24

The cube is split by a crack symbolizing the break of the earth. The crack splits the ground too and leads to the statue of a woman embracing a child and a man protecting them. Behind the monument, there is a relief telling about the restoration of Tashkent.

18. Friendship of Nations Palace / Istiklol Palace

• Address: 3 Furqat Ko’chasi
• Nearest Subway: Xalqlar Dustligi
• Opening times: To look at: 24/7; To enter: Mon-Fri 9 AM – 5 PM

Set at the back of the Friendship of Nations Square ( Ploshchad Druzhby Narodov ), this is the leading concert venue in Tashkent.

It reminded me a bit of my home city – Sofia – and its eye-catching National Palace of Culture (NDK). Not the building, but the concept – a brutalist architecture example created to host events to promote Socialist culture and values.

Nowadays there are regular concerts in the Palace. If you want to attend, you might want to check the schedule here .

19. Book Bazaar

• Address: 77 Sharaf Rashidov Avenue
• Nearest Subway: Kosmonavtlar
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 8 AM – 8 PM

The book bazaar is an informal collection of stands of booksellers situated in a marvelous park in the center of Tashkent. There’s green all around, ice cream stalls, a ton of benches, and even bicycle rentals in the park.

As for the books – they are mostly in Russian, but if you dig deep enough, you should be able to find English literature.

20. Navoi Park / Milliy Bog

• Address: Rasulov Street (main entrance)
• Nearest Subway: Milliy Bog
• Opening times: 24/7

It’s a very cute park to visit, especially in the summer, when Tashkent will be very hot, but in the park – moderate. There are many statues commemorating famous Uzbek poets, writers, musicians, and religious leaders, including of course Alisher Navoi’s monument.

21. Magic City Park

• Address: Beshyogoch Square, Furkat Street
• Nearest Subway: Milliy Bog OR Xalqlar Dustligi
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 10 AM – 10 PM

At the eastern side of Navoi Park is the Tashkent Disneyland – Magic City Park . It’s perfect for kids, but even if you don’t qualify in this category, it could still induce a “Ha! That’s {insert famous world attraction} “ from you. If not, then there is food there. Food is good.

22. Holy Assumption Cathedral Church (Russian Orthodox Church)

• Address: 91 Avliyoota ko’chasi
• Nearest Subway: Toshkent

The Cathedral was built in 1871 and has been the seat of the Tashkent Diocese ever since (or its various forms, due to historical events). It’s an impressive architectural landmark in the city and is well worth a visit. There’s a nice park around too.

23. St. Alexander Nevsky Church (Russian Orthodox Church 2.0)

• Address: Botkin Cemetery, Botkin Street
• Nearest Subway: Mashinasozlar

This is just such a cute church that if you’re into Orthodox architecture and churches, why not visit it too? Yeah, it’s situated in a cemetery, but I promise it’s a nice, well-kept one.

24. Soviet Murals

• Address: Everywhere

Soviet murals are an intrinsic part of any ex-USSR city and Tashkent is no exception. You can see some as big as the side panels of blocks and some as small as a street electricity box.

You can see murals in open places like squares and popular streets or tucked in small alleys in quaint neighborhoods. There are also many in the Metro stations, especially Amir Temur , Xalqlar Dostigli , and Chilonzor stations.

The best street to discover Soviet murals is the 6km long Shota Rustaveli street running north-south in the east part of town.

Museums in Tashkent

As Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent has some of the country’s best museums.

Even the most expensive one on the list is not more than 5$ and this is a massive bargain considering the number of exhibits and the time you can spend there.

Nevertheless, I’ve included some free museums , because who doesn’t like free stuff?

25. State History Museum

• Address: 3 Buyuk Turon ko’chasi
• Nearest Subway: Mustaillik Maydoni
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 10 AM – 5 PM
• Price: 50000 UZS

This has to be the best museum in all of Uzbekistan . If you only have time for one, let it be this one. It will give you a good overview of the history of the region with hundreds of exhibits and information about various eras from prehistory to modern times.

Also, the building is a fine example of brutalist architecture (if we can use “ fine ” at all together with “ brutalist “).

26. State Museum of the Temurids

• Address: 1 Amir Temur Avenue
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 10 AM – 6 PM

This museum has everything you need for good background knowledge before you go off to Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

Since it’s all about the Timurids (chiefly Amir Temur), expect a lot of family trees, manuscripts, letters, and replicas of famous monuments. It’s very beautiful on both the outside and the inside.

27. Museum of Victims of Repressions

• Address: Amir Temur Avenue ( on the other side of Tashkent Tower )
• Nearest Subway: Shahristan
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 9 AM – 5 PM (Lunch break 1 PM-2 PM)
• Price: 25000 UZS

Islam Karimov may have been bad, but guess who was worse? The Communists.

That’s why the former dictator himself built this Museum of the Victims of Political Repressions in 2002 (and then went on to conduct a massacre in Andijan in the Fergana Valley 3 years later).

The museum has 10 halls with information about the most controversial periods of Uzbek history, including the October Revolution, Stalin’s Regime, and the Cotton Cases .

28. State Museum of Art

• Address: 16 Amir Temur Avenue
• Nearest Subway: Mingo’rik & Oybek
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 9 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 30000 UZS

Here’s everything related to art in Uzbekistan. You can easily spend a whole day in this museum if you’re into art ( not me, I’m more of a history buff ). The museum has several thousand art pieces.

Nevertheless, it wouldn’t be Central Asia, if there wasn’t some controversy.

In this case, the previous curator used to sell original works of art on the black market, replacing them with forgeries. He was caught eventually, but come on, that’s a Hollywood blockbuster right there!

There’s a section on applied arts, that kind of overlaps what the next museum on the list.

29. Museum of Applied Arts

• Address: 15 Rakatboshi Street

This gem of a museum was founded in 1937 as a temporary exhibition and then grew and grew until it was promoted to a permanent museum.

The works inside are mostly from the ’80s and ’90s, not that old, but they look beautiful. Worth an hour-long visit.

30. Railway Museum

• Address: 6 Turkiston ko’chasi
• Opening times: Mon-Sun 8:30 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 20000 UZS

Located just off the main entrance to Tashkent’s North Train Station ( Severniy Vokzal ), it can easily be visited if you have an hour to spare before your train to Samarkand.

Kids will have a blast here.

You can also take a ride on one of the museum’s oldest trains.

31. Islam Karimov Museum

• Address: Samarqand ko’chasi
• Nearest Subway: Kosmonavtlar OR Ozbekiston
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 9 AM – 5 PM

This museum used to be the late Islam Karimov’s working place, called Aksaray (the White Palace). It was transformed into a museum in 2017 by the next president of Uzbekistan.

Unfortunately (but not surprisingly), the museum portrays Karimov as an all-powerful, all-benevolent great leader. That was simply not the case. Visit to get an idea for yourself.

32. House of Photography

• Address: 4 Istiqbol ko’chasi

If you’re into photography, this free exhibition space is an awesome spot to visit when exploring Amir Temur Square and the surrounding area.

33. Yunus Radzhabi Historic House Museum

• Address: 20 Yunus Rajabiy str.
• Opening times: Mon-Fri 10 AM – 6 PM
• Price: 15000 UZS

Yunus Rajabi (1897 – 1976) is one of the most recognizable and probably the most beloved Uzbek musician and composer. He left a deep mark on Uzbek society and his house museum is the most visited one in Tashkent.

It was founded by his son in 1997 commemorating the 100th year since the birth of Yunus Rajabi.

The museum does tours that provide insights and useful information.

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• How to get from Tashkent to Almaty by bus or train in 2024
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The modern metropolis

Tashkent – The modern metropolis

Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan and also the largest city in Central Asia.

For many years, Tashkent has been the most important business and cultural center of the country, attracting tourists and businessmen from various countries of the world.

Popular landmarks

Tashkent has a large list of attractions. It will take several days to visit all of them.

✔️ Wide avenues, green alleys, fountains and eco-parks for leisurely walks;

✔️ Unique artifacts about the history and culture of the peoples of Central Asia in the numerous museums of the city;

✔️ Majestic architectural ensembles, mosques and minarets;

✔️ Theaters and galleries for every taste.

Here everyone can create his or her own itinerary through the top attractions of the city!

Alley of Writers in Tashkent

The state museum of the temurids history, the state museum of history, suzuk-ota complex, the complex of khazrati imam, barak khan madrasah, kukeldash madrasah, muyi muborak madrasah, the minor mosque, the state museum of arts of uzbekistan, islam karimov museum, museum of literature named after alisher navoi, the state museum of applied atrs of uzbekistan, museum of nature, ancient settlement of ming urik, national library of uzbekistan named after alisher navoi, monument to shamakhmudovs family, “tashkent land” park, the ruins of aktepa, amir temur square, the sacred heart cathedral of jesus in tashkent (catholic church), tashkent tv tower, tashkent botanical garden, metro in tashkent, mirzo ulugbek central park, tashkent ecopark.

• Video about Tashkent

Photo gallery 📸

Tv tower view.

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Palace of Prince Nikolai Konstantinovich Romanov

Palace of international forums "uzbekistan".

Most time of the summer in Tashkent is hot, so do not forget about sunscreen and hats! Winter is mostly mild and snowless, but do not neglect warm things, it is so cool in the evening that you want to wear a scarf!

Gifts and souvenirs 🛍

Walking along the streets of Tashkent, you can find many memorable things, ranging from small trinkets to huge memorable souvenirs. Most of the souvenir workshops are located in old madrassas and at Chorsu Bazaar. There you can find absolutely everything: crafts carved from wood, pottery, national clothes, and even knives and daggers forged in local forges.

Tashkent restaurants with their variety and the level of service can surprise any gourmet. In the city, you can find not only national cuisine, which in Tashkent differs in taste from the identical dishes in the other parts of the country, but also the best representatives of the foreign gastronomic industry. In Tashkent, you can try Uyghur, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, European and even molecular cuisine. However, the most delicious cuisine is naturally Uzbek! Did you know that in December 2016 pilaf was included in the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List? Now you know it! Come to see and taste the most delicious food in the world! You can read more about the national cuisine of Uzbekistan at this  link .

Photo zones 🙋‍♂️

An integral part of every trip is photography! In this section, we introduce you the most beautiful places in this city, where you can make the best shots.

P.S. Do not forget that during the visit the religious sights of Uzbekistan, women are advisable to cover the exposed parts of the body (shoulders, back and legs). Such attractions will be marked with

☪️ The Minor Mosque was built in 2014 and immediately fell in love with all residents and guests of the capital. It is made of white marble and is located in a picturesque place.

☪ The Khazrati Imam complex  (popularly known as the Khast Imam) is  one of the main attractions of Tashkent. It appeared about four centuries ago. Now many tourists come to appreciate the beauty of the architecture of this place every day.

Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan and, concurrently, the largest city in Central Asia. In 2008, the archaeologists announced that the city is already 2,200 years old. One of the first mentions of the city was found in the chronicles written in the II century BC. In the ancient Chinese sources, Tashkent was called “Shi”, which means stone, and in the early Middle Ages, Shash or Chach.

The scientists concluded that the Turkic tribes who settled on this territory later borrowed the name, as “tash” in the Turkic languages also translated as stone. Due to its favorable location, the city was considered one of the main points on the Silk Road.

In Tashkent, you can see historical monuments and modern mosques, stroll through the oriental bazaars, get acquainted with the thousand-year history and culture of the people in the capital’s museums, and, of course, relax in the parks, restaurants and nightlife of the city.

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Your Guide to Silk Road Travel in Central Asia: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan

Tashkent Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Tashkent is the bustling capital city of Uzbekistan and offers a unique experience for travelers to this Silk Road country. The city is a patchwork of culture and architecture woven over more than 2,000 years of history in which it has been shaped by Arab, Mongol, Timurid, Shaybānid, and Soviet influence.

If you’re planning a trip to the cities of Samarkand , Bukhara , or Khiva you can expect to experience centuries-old Islamic architecture characterized by intricate tilework and turquoise domes.

Tashkent however, offers a mishmash of Soviet apartment blocks, old Uzbek neighborhoods, wide tree-lined streets, green parks filled with young families, modern cafes, and the hustle and bustle of a busy, developing city.

Not to say that Tashkent doesn’t have its share of Islamic architecture and history. It’s home to what is claimed to be the oldest copy of the Koran in the world and it has a number of mosques and madrasas worthy of a visit.

As home to the largest number of museums, parks, and restaurants in Uzbekistan however, the city offers a much broader experience of a rapidly changing Central Asian hub.

If you’re visiting Uzbekistan then there’s a fair chance that you’ll enter the country through Tashkent International Airport. You might be wondering if Tashkent is worth a visit and if so then you’re in the right place .

In this Tashkent travel guide , we’ll introduce you to this overlooked city and share our reasons for visiting Tashkent in 2024. We also share tips for visiting the city such as what to do, where to eat, and where to stay.

We live here in Tashkent so we’d say we know a thing or two!

Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps me continue to provide valuable content. Thank you!

History of Tashkent

In order to understand Tashkent, it’s important to understand its history. We’re very poorly qualified historians but here’s our attempt at least.

Tashkent city is said to have been established somewhere between the 2nd or 1st century BCE and Islam was introduced to the region by the Arab conquerors in the 8th century.

In the 13th century, Tashkent became a part of the Mongol empire, led by the infamous Genghis Khan who destroyed much of the city in 1219 . Later in the 14th century the city was rebuilt under the rule of conqueror Amir Temur (also known as Tamerlane), who is today seen as a national hero in Uzbekistan and whose statue sits in the center of the city.

Tashkent then passed through the hands of various Turko-Mongol rulers including the Shaybānids who built much of Tashkent’s remaining Islamic architecture such as the Kukeldash Madrasah.

The city was later ruled by the Khanate of Kokand, based in the Fergana Valley , the Eastern region of Uzbekistan. Relative instability during this era allowed the Russian Empire to conquer Tashkent in 1865 and the city became the new capital of Russian Turkestan.

Uzbekistan officially became a Soviet state in 1924 and up to a half of all Islamic buildings in the city were demolished according to a tour guide we spoke to. Much of Tashkent’s skyline today is instead peppered with Soviet-style apartment blocks and Brutalist-style architecture.

In 1966, an earthquake devastated the city, demolishing buildings and displacing 300,000 people. A massive reconstruction effort swiftly rebuilt the city, drawing thousands of workers from various parts of the Soviet Union, altering the city’s ethnic diversity as many chose to stay.

Best Time to Visit Tashkent

Much like the rest of Uzbekistan, the ideal time of year to visit Tashkent is either in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry. The best months to visit are April through to early June or September to early November.

The worst time to visit Tashkent are the summer months of July and August. Average day time temperatures in July are 33.8°C/92.8°F but peak temperatures can easily surpass 40°C/104° in the afternoons, making it an uncomfortable time to visit.

Visiting Tashkent in the winter is definitely feasible as the winter weather is fairly mild. Bear in mind however that temperatures can fluctuate quite a lot and January 2023 saw temperatures plunge to -20°C/-4°F for several days.

The days are shorter and there may not be as much to do but if you’re looking for winter activities at least the ski slopes are open! You also get the added bonus of fewer tourists at this time of year.

Read more on the best time to visit Uzbekistan.

How Long to Spend in Tashkent

If you really want to get to know Tashkent, then spend at least 3 days in the city. This will give you time to explore its historical monuments, busy bazaars, museums, and leafy parks. You’ll also have enough time to sample plenty of Uzbek national food which differs in each region.

If you’re short on time however then Tashkent’s main attractions can be experienced in a day if using a taxi or the metro to move from place to place. We wrote a number of different Tashkent one day itineraries for different types of traveler.

If you’re really short on time and have to choose between spending time in Tashkent or one of Uzbekistan’s other tourist cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, or Khiva, then we’d suggest skipping Tashkent for a more traditional experience.

What to Wear in Tashkent

Despite being a Muslim country, Uzbekistan is relatively liberal and certainly doesn’t enforce a strict dress code. Tashkent being the most modern and multicultural city of Uzbekistan, is perhaps a little more forgiving than other cities in terms of dress code.

It is still a conservative country however, and visitors should be particularly mindful of clothing when visiting religious sites.

Loose-fitting clothes covering at least shoulders and knees are recommended for all visitors regardless of gender. Tank tops and short skirts for example are rarely seen in public.

When visiting religious sites, it’s advisable to cover up arms and legs for both men and women. Women are encouraged to cover their head with a head scarf or shawl and although this is not strictly enforced it is deemed to be more respectful.

Is Tashkent Safe?

Uzbekistan as a whole is a very safe place to visit with a low crime rate against foreigners. The country is deemed safe to visit by most governments including the USA who rank it in the top safety tier along with Finland and New Zealand.

The president and his family live in Tashkent and a large number of international conferences are held here resulting in a heavy police presence which you’ll notice almost immediately.

In order to stay safe, take normal precautions such as securing belongings and not walking around alone at night. Busy areas like Chorsu bazaar are completely safe to visit but just make sure your possessions are out of view and be wary of strangers befriending you.

Road safety is perhaps the biggest worry in Tashkent. Take extra care crossing roads and if ordering a taxi via an app, it’s worth it to spend more on a higher class as they tend to be more experienced drivers .

To be honest, having lived in Tashkent for a combined 35 years, we have few safety concerns here.

Read more about safety in Uzbekistan .

Getting Around Tashkent

If you plan on sightseeing in Tashkent then you’ll need a mode of transport as the city sprawls across a wide area. The central span from Navoi Opera to Amir Temur Square is quite walkable but you’ll need some form of transit if you plan on visiting attractions further out.

These days the most convenient way to travel around Tashkent city is by taxi ordered via an app like Yandex or MyTaxi. This way you won’t need to worry about language barriers or being ripped off on price.

Prices have increased recently but still remain incredibly cheap compared to most countries. As I write this, a 6 km taxi journey from Amir Temur Square to Chorsu Bazaar costs just 16,500 Som (~$1.30).

As a remnant of its former Soviet days, it’s legal for any driver in Tashkent to act as a taxi and pick up passengers on the street. You’ll need to negotiate a price and drivers will rarely speak English so it’s not the most practical option but it’s good to know just in case you get lost.

Tashkent Metro

Tashkent’s Metro is also an excellent way to travel around the city. With ticket prices fixed at 2,000 Som (~$0.16) regardless of your final destination, you can travel across the city for next to nothing!

There are 48 metro stations including many in popular tourist spots such as Independence Square, Chorsu Bazaar, and Amir Temur Square. Trains are very frequent with a new one arriving every few minutes so you won’t be waiting around long.

It even doubles up as a tourist attraction due to its unique and elaborately designed stations (see below). Even if you plan to use taxis to navigate the city, it’s worth riding the metro at least one time.

Tashkent’s bus system is very efficient and well organised but is not particularly tourist friendly due to the lack of information in English. A bus ticket is the same as the metro at 2,000 Som for a single journey.

Admittedly we rarely if ever use the bus as it’s not as convenient or practical as a taxi or the metro. You can use this website to plan a bus journey across Tashkent.

Things To Do in Tashkent

If you’re unsure on whether to visit, then knowing the best things to do in Tashkent might help you decide. We have a full article on this but here are some of the highlights.

Chorsu Bazaar

By far the biggest and busiest bazaar in the city, Chorsu is a must-visit if you want to sample daily life for many Uzbeks.

Selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to traditional Uzbek clothing, ceramics and gold. If you’re looking for souvenirs then Chorsu Bazaar is definitely worth a try.

If you want to sample Uzbek street food, this is one of the best places to do so. They have a street food area selling shashlik (meat skewers), hasip (liver sausage), and khanum , a steamed doughy meal served in tomato sauce.

Chorsu Bazaar can be a bit overwhelming however, so for a more relaxing bazaar experience try Alay Bazaar (Oloy Bozori) which is a smaller market place selling mainly fresh food. It’s also a great place to buy spices and dried fruit to take home.

Although it may sound strange for public transport to be listed as a tourist attraction, the Tashkent metro is quite unique. Construction of the metro began in 1972 by the Soviets, who made elaborate designs for each of its stations including mosaics, chandeliers, Soviet-era geometric art and more.

As the metro was also designed for use as a nuclear shelter, photography in the stations was banned until 2016 but visitors are now free to take snaps of this unique attraction.

The metro’s most popular stations are Kosmonavtlar, Alisher Navoi, and Mustakillik.

Hazrati Imam Complex

Also known as the Khast Imam square or ensemble, the Hazrati Imam Complex is Tashkent’s main Islamic cultural draw. Home to what is claimed to be the world’s oldest copy of the Koran, it is a must-visit for the culture vulture tourists.

The complex includes a number of religious sites including the Hazrati Imam Mosque, identified by its 50m high minarets, topped by turquoise domes typical of Uzbek Islamic design.

The 7th century Osman Koran is housed at the Moyie Mubarek Library Museum which is open to the public. No photography is allowed however.

Other buildings at this site include the 16th century Barak Khan Madrassah and the Tilla Sheikh Mosque which is one of Tashkent’s largest modern mosques.

Tashkent TV Tower

Renovated in 2022, this 375m high structure is one of the tallest towers in Central Asia and gives an excellent view of the city.

Head there just before sunset on a clear evening to see Tashkent at its finest. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience as the floor rotates, giving you a panoramic experience of the city elevated at 109m off the ground.

Read our review of Tashkent tower here .

Amir Temur Square

Amir Temur Square is a small area located in central Tashkent surrounded by government buildings, expensive restaurants, Temurid Museum, and the infamous Hotel Uzbekistan. The centerpiece of the square is a huge monument depicting the Uzbek conqueror Amir Temur astride a horse.

The square is a bit underwhelming to visit in the day time, especially when the weather is hot since there are so few people around. Head there in the evening when there are more people around and walk from there to Broadway Alley where you can pick up fast food and play street games.

Although Tashkent is lacking in ancient architecture, there are plenty of museums to visit. To be honest, many of the museums are a little disappointing due to their lack of sufficient content and information in English.

One of the most popular museums is the State Museum of the Temurids , located just off Amir Temur Square. The building itself is a landmark, identified by its circular white building with blue dome and surrounding fountains.

The museum acts as an introduction to the history of Uzbekistan, mainly dedicated to former ruler Amir Temur himself. You can visit the official site here .

Other museums worthy of note to tourists are the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan , the Museum of Applied Arts , the Museum of Victims of Political Repression , and the Railway Museum (if with children).

One thing that separates Tashkent from the other tourist cities of Uzbekistan is the number of parks and green spaces in the city.

Most parks in Tashkent are immaculate and are kept this way by large numbers of workers working around the clock. Some of the nicest parks include Alisher Navoi National Park , the Japanese Garden , and Tashkent City Park .

Try here for a full list of parks in Tashkent .

Many of the parks are also amusement parks with children’s rides such as merry-go-rounds, dodgems, go-karts and even some rollercoasters. If visiting with young children, try Tashkent’s Magic City .

For a full list of things to do in Tashkent for families read here.

RELATED ARTICLE: Best Things to Do in Tashkent for Tourists

Where To Stay in Tashkent

The best area for most visitors to Tashkent is in the center of the city , anywhere between Navoi Opera and Amir Temur Square. From here much of the center is within walking distance. See hotels around here .

For better value hotels , the Mirabad district has plenty of hotels for all types of travelers including families. See hotels around here .

There are a number of high-rated hotels and apartments for a reasonable price around Chorsu bazaar although there are fewer restaurants and attractions in this area. See hotels around here .

We wrote separate articles on the best areas in Tashkent for tourists and the best overall hotels in the city.

Best Cheap Hotels and Hostels in Tashkent

The two cheapest options are Topchan and Light Hostel which both offer incredibly cheap and cheerful dorm rooms from as little as $7 per night.

For high rated budget hotels try Anvar’s Guests near Kosmonatavlar station, popular Eco Art Boutique Hotel , or Chorsu’s Hotel Suzuk- Ota .

Read here for a comparison of Tashkent’s cheapest hotels .

5 Star Hotels in Tashkent

If you’re looking for more of a luxury stay, then Tashkent has three centrally located 5 star hotels.

The InterContinental was opened in 2023 and has the most to offer in terms of facilities, including huge indoor pool, gym and rooftop bar.

The Hyatt Hotel also has an indoor pool and the best hotel buffet breakfast in Tashkent ( yes, we’ve tried them all ).

We even stayed at the Hyatt for our wedding night!

The Hilton Hotel has the best views of the city, located in Tashkent City Park. It’s the best 5 star hotel for families and will be the perfect place for shoppers as soon as Tashkent City Mall opens.

Or read here for more 5 star luxury hotels in Tashkent .

Tashkent Tours

A general tour of Tashkent should include a mix of the city’s old and new including Chorsu Bazaar, the Tashkent metro, Khast Imam Complex and a stop off for lunch at the Plov Center.

This city tour is one of the highest rated tours of Tashkent and lasts a full day, including lunch and pick up from your hotel.

Alternatively, read our list of the best Tashkent tours and day trips including city tours , food tours , and day trips .

Where To Eat In Tashkent

If you’re a foodie then you’ll be glad to hear that Tashkent is home to the best restaurants and the widest choice of cuisine in the whole country. You’ll never be stuck for choices.

Uzbek Restaurants

For some of the best Uzbek cuisine, Afsona is a great choice. They offer all kinds of Uzbek cuisine and even have a vegan plov! It’s one of the fancier Uzbek restaurants and you can also order alcohol there.

The Plov Center (now known as Besh Qozon ) is very popular with tourists and serves up mountains of plov , Uzbekistan’s national rice dish. You can also walk into the cooking area and watch it being prepared. If you only eat plov once, this is the place to do it.

For excellent value for money and a wide choice of Uzbek national food , Rayhon is a chain of very affordable restaurants.

For some of the best shashlik in Tashkent , you can go to Chorsu or Alay Bazaar but if you prefer to watch dancing Uzbek grannies as you eat your meat skewers, then Bek restaurant is the place to go for food and music!

International Restaurants

If you’re looking for a broader set of options, Tashkent is home to dozens of different styles of cuisine including Turkish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Indian, Georgian and more. Although they come at a higher price than local Uzbek restaurants, they’re still reasonable compared to those in Western countries.

Our two favorite spots are fine dining Pan-Asian restaurant Hori and Georgian restaurant Gruzinski Dvorik .

For European food, Italian Basilic restaurant has been around for a long time and self-styled ‘cheese factory’ Syrovarnya is quite a popular place for all things fromage-related.

For cheaper restaurants selling a mix of international meals, try Bibigon for salads, pizza and Turkish breakfast, or Assorti for pan-Asian food including sushi and Korean food.

If you’re looking for a place for breakfast then Breadly, Chaykoff and the Swis Bakery are all good contenders.

Vegans and vegetarians visiting the city will find it tough but there are options such as the vegetarian Eco Cafe. Read on for a list of vegan-friendly restaurants in Tashkent .

We wrote a full article on the best restaurants in Tashkent .

Nightlife in Tashkent

If you’re planning on relaxing with a drink at the end of the day, there are plenty of bars, pubs and clubs dotted around the city. Tashkent is especially good for rooftop bars.

If you happen to be around Amir Temur Square, then Hotel Uzbekistan has a bar on the top floor with an excellent view not only of the square but of the surrounding city. Don’t expect any glamour here – just a down to Earth bar in an aging but fun spot!

If you’re looking for something fancier, then the Hyatt rooftop bar and restaurant is nice at sunset . For a great view of Navoi Theater, Lotte Hotel also has a rooftop bar with live music although it’s not the liveliest place in the city.

Eslewhere there’s the Irish Pub on Shevchenko Taras, modern style Kazakh bar Skandalist , and Studio Cafe which is great for a beer on the terrace in the sun.

If you’re looking for something a bit livelier however, Steam Bar is the best all around club with its eclectic mix of music and steampunk aesthetics. One More Bar is a late-opening club popular with a younger crowd but certainly pricey by local standards.

Read more about the best nightlife in Tashkent.

Tashkent Travel: Final Thoughts

If you’ve managed to read this far then perhaps you’re now considering a trip to Tashkent. Whether you’re staying for a few days or you’re on a quick trip to Samarkand, Bukhara or Khiva and you happen to be passing by Tashkent.

Having lived here as a foreigner for almost 2 years, I understand that Tashkent at first seems a little subdued. But delve beneath the surface and there’s plenty to see and do.

From historical monuments and bustling bazaars to family-friendly parks and quirky nightclubs, Tashkent offers a diverse list of things to do as well as some of the country’s best cuisine.

For more information on visiting Uzbekistan in 2024 read our full guide to travel in this unique Silk Road destination.

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Exploring Tashkent, Uzbekistan's Often Overlooked Capital

Uzbekistan is fast becoming a favourite among travellers wanting to discover Central Asia. Its capital, Tashkent, has no shortage of things to discover and do, from traditional teahouses to vibrant street art.

Tashkent is a severely underrated city. It may not have the spectacular Silk Road architecture and historical charm of Bukhara or Samarkand , but scratch the surface and Tashkent will reward you with warm hospitality and local culinary delicacies , as well as masterpieces of Modernist Soviet architecture and a taste of a unique culture that is both deeply historical and constantly evolving.

Taste fresh produce at Chorsu Bazaar

You could spend weeks wandering around Tashkent’s biggest market, Chorsu Bazaar, which sells everything from clothes and kitchenware to traditional handicrafts and fresh food. Check out the bread section and watch the expert bakers shaping the dough into rounds before using a long paddle to slap it onto the inside of a wood-fired oven, where it sticks to the walls and bakes upside down. Nearby is the fresh produce section, where sellers set out piles of fruits, vegetables and herbs; the sweet melons and grapes are a real treat. Ask to taste before you buy, and always haggle.

Speaking of herbs, a wander around central Tashkent might have you thinking that the city’s residents are obsessed with basil: every plant pot and flower bed seems to be overflowing with the stuff. Rumour has it that when President Shavkat Mirziyoyev came to power after the death of long-time ruler Islam Karimov in 2016, he mentioned his fondness for basil and the citizens responded by planting it just about everywhere.

Take part in a local pastime: tea

The choyxona (teahouse) has been an institution in Uzbekistan for centuries, and is the perfect place to chat, sip a cup of tea, read the paper or have a nap in the shade. While Tashkent lacks the historical teahouses of other ancient Silk Road cities, you’re never short of somewhere to get a stellar brew. There is a bustling street-food section of Chorsu Bazaar, which is the ideal people-watching spot, perfect for a snack and a pot of tea while you watch the cooks preparing their traditional dishes.

Explore the world of traditional decorative art

Tashkent isn’t short of museums and monuments, but the Museum of Applied Arts is worth singling out, less for its exhibits than for the gorgeous building that houses them. Dating from the early 1900s, it was once the home of imperial Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev, who had it grandly decorated in traditional Uzbek style, full of colour and intricate carvings. He was soon transferred elsewhere, so he never saw this vibrant building finished. His personal collection of handicrafts nonetheless makes up the bulk of the artefacts on show at the museum: carved wooden furniture, elaborate wall hangings, traditional instruments and ceramics.

See the oldest Quran in the world

The Khast-Imom complex is the old religious heart of Tashkent. It is home to the oldest Quran in the world – a colossal book on display at the Muyi Mubarak Library, allegedly stained with the blood of the Caliph Uthman, who was murdered while reading it in 656. It was acquired by Amir Timur in the 14th century and made its way back to Tashkent after a stint in St Petersburg. In fact, it may not really be the oldest Quran, as there is some doubt over when it was made and how it ended up in Tashkent, but hey, who’s going to let such details get in the way of a good story?

Discover Tashkent nightlife

Up until now, Tashkent has lacked the kind of hipster-cool nightlife that Moscow or Tbilisi is famous for, and young locals tend to hang out at each other’s apartments rather than hitting the town. That doesn’t mean there aren’t places to go after dark, though: enjoy an al fresco, house-brewed pilsner or unfiltered wheat beer on Cafe Dudek’s terrace, or party until dawn at La Terrasse. Steam Bar is known for its good cocktails, craft beers and live music.

Escape to the mountains

Tashkent can get very muggy in summer, and you may find yourself craving fresh air – the short drive towards the Chimgan skiing resort and the Tian Shan mountain range offers the perfect day trip. The tiny village of Beldersey has two rickety chairlifts that run all year, taking skiers in winter and walkers in summer up into the hills. Most people hang around at the top of the longer lift, but it’s worth packing a picnic and heading on for a hike, at least up to the abandoned weather station on top of the nearest peak. The stunning mountain scenery is well worth the walk!

While you’re in the area, the Lake Charvak reservoir is a must-see – an azure jewel surrounded by hills. It’s a favourite weekend destination in the summer, so be prepared for crowds down on the beach, but grab some shashlik and soak up the sun, try a variety of water sports or head up to the top of the cliff to have a go at paragliding and take in the scenery from the air.

Take a ride on the metro

Anyone who has been to Moscow will know that the Soviets took their metro stations seriously, building glittering halls of marble and underground colonnades for city commuters. Tashkent has its own ‘palaces for the people’, and for the ludicrously cheap price of a metro ticket (1,200 som or about £0.11) you can take in the amazing variety of architectural designs of stations all over the city. Highlights include the futuristic Kosmonavtlar, built in 1984; Alisher Navoi, named after the 15th-century poet, with spectacular domed ceilings; and cotton-themed Paxtakor with its blue, white and yellow mosaics.

Track down beautiful murals all over town

Generally speaking, the architecture of downtown Tashkent is nothing out of the ordinary. An earthquake destroyed much of the old city in 1966, and the government took the opportunity to replace the old mahallas (neighbourhoods) with wide boulevards and multistorey apartment blocks. However, there is beauty to be found in unexpected places, and many of these apartment buildings are decorated with huge, colourful murals depicting such diverse subjects as astronaut Yuri Gagarin , construction workers and 11th-century scientist Avicenna. Some of the most impressive can be found in the Mirobod and Mirzo Ulug’bek districts.

Try the favourite local food: plov

You can’t go to Tashkent without trying plov . Uzbeks are extremely proud of their national dish, and will argue at length over which regional variation of the recipe is best. Supermarkets even sell it ready-made in tins (though this is not necessarily recommended). For the uninitiated, plov is a dish of rice, carrots and melt-in-the-mouth lamb, gently spiced with cumin, and sometimes with raisins or other dried fruit, onions and boiled quail eggs to top it all off. Tourist guides insist that you go to the Central Asian Plov Centre, which does boast the biggest rice cauldrons that you will probably ever see, but the plov itself is nothing special; better to pop in to any of the countless cafés that have a huge pan of the stuff bubbling away on the street for a lunchtime plate.

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10 Top places to visit in Tashkent – A complete guide

By Joan Torres 9 Comments Last updated on April 9, 2024

Overlooked by most travelers in favor of the stunning Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a city filled with Islamic and Soviet architecture, home to more than 4 million people, making it the largest city in Central Asia.

With extremely wide avenues and plenty of modern restaurants and posh buildings, the surprisingly clean and fancy Tashkent is, definitely, quite different from the idea you have of a Central Asian city.

Tashkent is the cultural and economic center of Uzbekistan and one of the wealthiest cities in Central Asia.

For some reason, many people believe that Tashkent is a pretty new city but, in fact, its history dates back to the 4th century B.C., as suggested by the evidence found at the  ruins of Kanka , an archaeological site located 80km from Tashkent.

Furthermore, Tashkent has been an important place in the region for millennia, benefiting from its highly strategic location, on the way to Bukhara, Samarkand, and China.

For this reason, over the years, the capital of Uzbekistan has been targeted, sacked and invaded by many groups and civilizations, including the Russian Tsars and, of course, the Soviet Union.

Spare a couple of days to pay Tashkent the visit it deserves and I am pretty sure that it won’t disappoint you. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Tashkent plus a couple of accommodation suggestions and transportation tips.

Remember that, for practical information for traveling to Uzbekistan, including visas, transportation, etc, you should read: 75 Useful tips for traveling to Uzbekistan

In this Tashkent travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Things to do in Tashkent

Where to stay in Tashkent

• Transportation – How to move around Tashkent
• More Information

Travel insurance for Uzbekistan I recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your discount when buying through this link

Things to do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Tashkent tourist places  – map.

Chorsu Bazar

If you have just arrived in Central Asia for the first time, you should go straight to Chorsu Bazar, one of the most important markets in Central Asia and a fascinating place to get a vague feeling of what the ancient Silk Road trade used to be.

The market has been going for centuries, but it was the Soviets who constructed and covered it with the blue-domed building. All the locals come to the bazaar, which means that this is also a great place to observe the ethnic and cultural blend Tashkent is famous for.

From all kinds of fruit and meat to underwear and handicrafts, here you can find absolutely anything you want. I strongly recommend you buy  kurut,  a Central Asian snack which consists of dried cheese balls.

They are eaten all across the region but, here, you will find one hundred types of kurut , filled with all kinds of herbs and other ingredients. Chorsu Bazar is one of the best things to do in Tashkent.

Read: Backpacking in Uzbekistan: 1 to 3-week itinerary

Hotel Uzbekistan

One of the things I love the most about traveling to ex-Soviet countries is visiting Soviet buildings. They are massive, old-fashioned and made of concrete.

In Tashkent, my favorite Soviet building would be, definitely, Hotel Uzbekistan, whose size won’t leave you indifferent. I believe that each window must be a room.

Can you get an idea of its dimensions?

Tashkent Metro

In 1966, a 7.5 Richter-scale earthquake destroyed a significant part of Tashkent, especially the old part of the city.

The capital had to be completely restored and, as a consequence, architects and planners from all over the Soviet Union came to Tashkent with the sole objective of building a new city which, not surprisingly, followed the classic Soviet city model, consisting of wide roads, concrete buildings and plenty of parks.

Among all the projects, the metro was, perhaps, one of the most ambitious as, following the already constructed metro of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, they wanted the Tashkent metro to also be an artistic masterpiece.

Built extremely deep in the ground, almost every station of the Tashkent Metro is absolutely gorgeous, all very different from each other.

From beautiful mosaics to massive, goldish-candelabras, we spent many hours just going up and down on the metro, while stopping at its many gorgeous stations.

Definitely, one of the top places to visit in Tashkent.

Weird statues

Some places in Tashkent are filled with very strange things that seem like a joke. From statues of animals that look like they were stoned to creepy characters and the weird couple from below, I seriously wonder if they are aimed at unhappy kids or the artist was just completely high.

One interesting place to see these things is the park next to Gafur Gulom station.

Central Asian Plov Center

Plov is, perhaps, the most famous dish in Central Asia. Consisting of rice fried in lamb fat, with raisins, carrots and different kinds of meat, Uzbekistan is the country where it is eaten most often.

The locals consider it a real delicacy and, actually, they eat it practically every day.

The Central Asian Plov Center in Tashkent is believed to serve the best plov in the region.

They cook it in massive pans ( kozon ), which can feed hundreds of people. After 5 months of traveling through Central Asia , I came to the conclusion that I seriously hate plov, but many travelers love it and you want to come here for the experience, not for the food.

A plov meal costs from 10,000UZS to 15,000UZS (1.20USD to 1.80USD). If you want to see the chefs in action, try to go there before 12pm.

Tashkent TV tower

Five minutes walking from the Plov Center, you find a 375-meter TV tower, the highest building in Central Asia.

You can actually visit it, but the observation deck is at only 96 meters, even though you get a pretty good panoramic view of Tashkent’s skyline.

Price for foreigners is 15USD but I heard from a traveler who managed to pay the local price, which is 36,000UZS (4.30USD).

However, bear in mind that you are not allowed to take any photos and, actually, they force you to leave your phone downstairs.

It’s not really one of the top things to see in Tashkent but, if you can afford it, it’s a nice way to pass 2 hours.

Read: A guide for traveling to Tajikistan

Hazrat Imam Complex

This is the official religious center in the city and, of course, one of the top Tashkent tourist attractions.

Composed of mosques with turquoise domes, not very different from the ones in Samarkand, Hazrat Imam Complex is the main reason to visit Tashkent and the place where you will understand why this Central Asian metropolis had been such an important place.

Among all the buildings, Muyi Mubarak Library is the most important, as it contains the world’s oldest Quran and a relic which is nothing less than a hair from Prophet Muhammad, or at least that’s what they claim.

Kulkedash Madrassa

From being an old Islamic school in the 16th century to a caravanserai two hundred years later, a fortress and a place where public executions were held, Kulkedash madrassa is one of the most historic buildings in town.

Earthquakes damaged it very badly but it was beautifully reconstructed in the middle of the 20th century.

Inside the madrassa you will find a colorful courtyard.

Entrance fee: 5,000UZS (60¢). Another of the top tourist places in Tashkent.

The food scene

After my long journey through Kyrgyzstan , traveling the Pamir Highway , trekking the Fann Mountains and a short visit to the Fergana Valley , when we arrived in Tashkent and saw the large list of restaurants, offering all kinds of food, our lives suddenly changed for the better.

From pretty good Italian restaurants to pubs serving international food and good seafood restaurants, we really appreciated having a break from lagman , manty , and shashlik .

Timur and Independence Squares

Containing the most important monuments and political and cultural buildings, Timur and Independence Squares are some of the most important landmarks in town. Strolling these two squares is pretty pleasant, as they are filled with greenery and fountains.

The top highlights would be the Uzbekistan Independence monument and a 7-meter bronze statue of Amir Timur.

Backpacker hostel – Top Chan Hostel – This is the hostel that can arrange the Letter of Invitation needed to get your visa for Uzbekistan . We only stayed here for one night because it then was fully booked. It has several dorms and rooms and the only bad thing I would say is that the common area consists of only a large table, without many places to sit. Breakfast is included and, for what a dorm costs, it’s actually fair.

Budget Hotel – Star Hotel – We stayed here for the rest of the time and it was great. For just 2 extra USD, we had a super clean 3-bedroom and the best shower facilities we had in months. The location is great, on a street which has all kind of bars and restaurants where young local people hang out. I would definitely come back here if I ever return to Tashkent.

Mid-range hotel – Hotel Uzbekistan – For a real Soviet Union experience, staying here must be pretty cool. Not much has changed since it was this Soviet building was inaugurated and guests absolutely love the old-fashioned style it has. However, the internet is very slow apparently and people complain that some of the furniture and facilities urge to be renewed.

Top-end –  Ichan Qal’a Hotel – One of the top-rated hotels in Tashkent, people love this place because of its beautiful oriental design, pretty old-fashion but with so much taste at the same time. It may be slightly far away from the main monuments, but they within a very short taxi ride.

How to move around Tashkent

Metro – Depending on where you go, the metro is a fast way to travel around town. Nevertheless, bear in mind that distances in Tashkent are huge and there might be several kilometers between stations. That’s why, depending on where you plan to go, it might be better to take a cab.

Taxi –  In Tashkent, everybody is a taxi driver. Local people just stand on the road, as if they were hitchhiking and someone random always stops, as most taxi drivers are private cars without a license. I moved around Tashkent quite a lot, as I had to collect a few visas and do some personal staff, so I moved quite everywhere around the city and all trips costs me between 5,000 and 12,000UZS (60¢ – 1.40USD).

Marshrutka – They run regularly to everywhere in the city but, seriously, unless you really know where you are going, given the low price of a taxi ride or a metro ticket, I would not take a marshrutka because you will be wasting your time.

More information for visiting Tashkent

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Uzbekistan destination

• Travel Guide to Fergana Valley
• Travel Guide to Moynaq
• Travel Guide to Uzbekistan
• Tajikistan-Uzbekistan border crossing
• Uzbekistan Itinerary

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Muscat Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Dubai
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Baku Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
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• A City Guide to Mosul

An excellent article – thank you! We’re currently in Shymkent and are heading to Tashkent on Monday – will basically just follow your recommendations Have really enjoyed your other posts on Uzbekistan as well!

Cheers! Enjoy Uzbekistan 🙂 !

Currently staying in the Hotel Uzbekistan. This note is right about the HORRIBLE wi-fi! (hint – it is marginally better in the lobby, which has a different password, available at the desk.) Also no work table in the room – since I need to do some typing, I had to remove the TV from its small table and use that. But the bed is comfortabale, the water hot when required, the breakfast generous and varied. Not many places to eat visible from the hotel, and the coffee shopt is pretty limited. A good bet is a building behind the huge white marble block building across thes street from the hotel (built as an amazingy fancy speaking hall for the late president) – on the other side is a set of univeristy buildings, and one building has several restaurants and cafes. Search for the Book Cafe – which is itself quite nice, though probably not for a real meal – and just walk door to door to find something (incuding around the corner to the right of the Book Cafe).

Thanks for thr update! And yes, I remember about Book café. I went there to work for a few hours during my visit

Work while on a visit or Tourist visa is that acceptable because I did like to do same when I visit and least make some money spent back.

Hello Dear, Thank you for comprehensive information, it helped me a lot in my tour to Tashkent. Brova

Is really useful information , helped me a lot

Thanks publisher

Really useful information. I have recently been in Tashkent and want to mention one interesting place that I have discover, the local brands shop – Teplo Store (located near Oybek Metro, Nukus 31/2)

Very nice shop full of all the designers from Uzbekistan from clothes, scarfs, accessories to ceramics, home textile and etc. Staff is really nice and welcoming, recommend everyone to attend!

Their instagram and Facebook page: teplostore_2022

Thanks for the Reco!

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What To Know Before You Go To Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Published: November 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Nicole Beardsley

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan! Nestled in Central Asia, Tashkent is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern development. With its stunning architecture, bustling bazaars, and warm hospitality, Tashkent has become a must-visit city for travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

As you plan your trip to Tashkent, there are a few key things you should know to make the most of your visit. From visa requirements and currency exchange to transportation options and must-see attractions, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information to ensure a memorable and hassle-free trip.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in a different culture, Tashkent has something to offer everyone. From exploring the ancient Silk Road sites to savoring the flavorful Uzbek cuisine, you’ll find yourself captivated by the city’s charm and allure.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure to remember. This guide will take you through all the essential details you need to know before you go to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Let’s dive in and discover the wonders that await in this hidden gem of Central Asia.

Getting to Tashkent

Getting to Tashkent is relatively convenient, thanks to its well-connected international airport, the Tashkent International Airport (TAS). The airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, making it easily accessible from various destinations around the world. Multiple airlines, including Uzbekistan Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Aeroflot, operate regular flights to and from Tashkent.

If you’re traveling from neighboring countries, you also have the option of traveling by train. Tashkent is well-connected to cities like Moscow, Almaty, and Dushanbe, with comfortable overnight train services available.

Once you arrive at the airport or train station, you can easily reach the city center by taxi or public transportation. Taxis are readily available, and it’s advisable to use official taxis or arrange a taxi through your hotel. Public transportation, such as buses and the metro, is also a convenient and inexpensive option to get around the city.

For those who prefer to drive, it’s worth noting that renting a car can be a bit challenging for foreigners due to local regulations. However, if you’re comfortable with the idea of navigating the roads in Tashkent, several car rental agencies offer services at the airport and in the city center.

Overall, whether you choose to fly or take a train, getting to Tashkent is relatively straightforward, and once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the city’s warm hospitality and a myriad of remarkable experiences that await you.

Visa Requirements

Before traveling to Tashkent, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Uzbekistan. The visa policy of Uzbekistan varies depending on your nationality, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements for your country.

Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for a specified duration. As of 2021, citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union member states can enjoy visa-free travel for up to 30 days.

However, it’s crucial to note that visa regulations can change, so it’s recommended to consult the official website of the Embassy of Uzbekistan or your local consulate for the most up-to-date information before traveling.

If you require a visa, the process is relatively straightforward. You can apply for an e-visa online through the official Uzbekistan e-Visa portal. The e-visa application usually takes around three business days to process, and once approved, you will receive an electronic visa that you can print and present upon arrival.

For those who prefer to apply for a visa in person, you can do so at the Uzbekistan Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. It’s recommended to start the visa application process well in advance to ensure sufficient time for processing.

When applying for a visa or entering Uzbekistan, it’s important to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. It’s also advisable to carry a copy of your travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

By familiarizing yourself with the visa requirements and ensuring all necessary documents are in order, you can enter Tashkent with ease and focus on exploring and enjoying all that this incredible city has to offer.

Currency and Exchange

The official currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani som (UZS). When traveling to Tashkent, it’s important to exchange your currency for the local currency to ensure smooth transactions and convenience during your stay.

Exchanging money in Tashkent is relatively straightforward, as there are numerous exchange offices and banks located throughout the city. It’s recommended to exchange your currency at authorized exchange offices or banks to ensure fair rates and avoid counterfeit currency.

While US dollars and euros are widely accepted in some tourist areas, it’s advisable to have Uzbekistani som for day-to-day expenses and transactions. Keep in mind that smaller shops, local markets, and food stalls may only accept local currency.

It’s important to note that credit and debit cards are not widely accepted in Tashkent, especially outside of major hotels and upscale establishments. ATMs are available in the city, but it’s recommended to carry sufficient cash for your daily expenses, especially when traveling to more remote areas.

When exchanging money, be sure to check the exchange rates and fees to get the best value for your money. Additionally, it’s advisable to keep small denominations of banknotes, as some establishments may not be able to provide change for larger denominations.

Before leaving Tashkent, remember to convert any remaining Uzbekistani som back into your home currency or into a widely accepted currency like US dollars or euros. Some exchange offices may require you to show your original exchange receipts when converting your money back.

Overall, by being prepared with the appropriate currency and keeping some cash on hand, you’ll be able to navigate financial transactions in Tashkent with ease and enjoy a stress-free experience during your visit.

Language and Communication

The primary language spoken in Tashkent is Uzbek. However, due to the city’s multicultural nature, you’ll also find people who speak Russian and English, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

While it’s not necessary to become fluent in Uzbek before visiting Tashkent, learning a few basic phrases and greetings can go a long way in terms of cultural appreciation and making connections with locals. Simple greetings like “salam” (hello), “rahmat” (thank you), and “omad” (good luck) will be greatly appreciated by the locals.

If you’re more comfortable communicating in Russian, you’ll find that many residents of Tashkent are bilingual and can understand and converse in Russian. Street signs, menus, and other public information are often displayed in both Uzbek and Russian, making it easier for Russian speakers to navigate the city.

English is also becoming more widely spoken, especially in areas frequented by tourists. However, it’s still more common to encounter English-speaking staff in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions rather than in everyday interactions. It’s a good idea to carry a pocket-sized English-Uzbek or English-Russian phrasebook to assist with communication.

It’s worth noting that Tashkent has reliable mobile phone coverage and internet access. Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected during your visit. It’s also recommended to purchase a local SIM card for your mobile phone to have access to affordable local calls and data.

If you have any emergency situations or require immediate assistance, dial the local emergency number, 101, for police assistance, and 103 for medical emergencies.

Overall, while knowing a few phrases in Uzbek or Russian can enhance your experience, communication in Tashkent is manageable with a mix of English, Russian, and basic gestures, allowing you to navigate the city and interact with locals with relative ease.

Transportation in Tashkent

Getting around Tashkent is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation system that includes taxis, buses, and the metro.

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Tashkent. You can easily hail a taxi on the street, or you can opt for ride-hailing services like Yandex or Uber. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare or ensure the meter is used before starting the journey. Using registered taxis or those recommended by your hotel is generally safer and more reliable.

The bus system in Tashkent is extensive and covers most areas of the city. Buses are a budget-friendly option for getting around, but they can be crowded during peak times. Bus fares are usually paid in cash when boarding the bus, and it’s important to have small change for the fare.

The Tashkent Metro is a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city. It is known for its beautifully designed stations, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. Metro fares are relatively inexpensive, and you can purchase tokens from the ticket booths at the entrance of each station. The metro operates from early morning until late evening, with trains running at regular intervals.

For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, cycling is also an option in Tashkent. The city has bicycle lanes along certain streets, and some hotels or bike rental shops offer bicycle rentals for exploring the city at your own pace.

When using any mode of transportation, it’s important to keep in mind a few safety precautions. Make sure to buckle up if you’re taking a taxi or private car. Be cautious of your belongings and keep an eye on your valuables in crowded places. Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid traveling alone late at night and to use well-lit and populated areas.

With its range of transportation options, getting around Tashkent is convenient and allows you to explore the city’s many attractions and hidden gems with ease.

Accommodation Options

Tashkent offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, you’ll find a comfortable place to stay that fits your needs.

In the heart of Tashkent, you’ll find a selection of internationally renowned luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities, including spas, swimming pools, restaurants, and concierge services. These hotels cater to business travelers and tourists looking for a luxurious and pampering experience.

For those seeking a more boutique experience, there are charming guesthouses and bed and breakfasts available in residential areas of Tashkent. These accommodations provide a more intimate atmosphere, allowing you to get a glimpse of local life and interact with friendly hosts.

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also budget-friendly options including hostels and budget hotels. These accommodations provide affordable rates without compromising on comfort and cleanliness.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s advisable to consider the location and proximity to major attractions, public transportation, and dining options. Being closer to the city center or near metro stations can provide easier access to explore Tashkent.

Booking your accommodation in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Popular online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb offer a wide variety of options to choose from.

It’s important to note that when you check into your hotel or guesthouse, you will be asked to provide your passport for registration, as it is a requirement for all visitors.

Overall, with the range of accommodation options available in Tashkent, you’ll be able to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay that suits your budget and enhances your experience in this vibrant city.

Must-See Attractions in Tashkent

Tashkent is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some of the must-see attractions that you should not miss during your visit:

• Khast Imam Complex: This complex is not only a religious site but also a treasure trove of Islamic artifacts. It houses the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman, one of the oldest copies of the Quran in the world.
• Chorsu Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the oldest and largest markets in Tashkent. Explore the lively stalls selling spices, textiles, fresh produce, and traditional crafts.
• Amir Timur Museum: Learn about the life and achievements of the legendary conqueror, Amir Timur, at this museum. Admire the collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and heritage of Uzbekistan.
• Tashkent TV Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of this iconic tower. It offers a bird’s-eye view of Tashkent’s skyline and is particularly mesmerizing at sunset.
• Independence Square: Explore the heart of Tashkent at this grand square, adorned with fountains, statues, and government buildings. Take a stroll and admire the impressive architecture surrounding the square.
• Navoi Theater: Marvel at the beautiful architecture of the Navoi Theater, which hosts opera, ballet, and theater performances. Catch a show to experience the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan.
• Abdul Khasim Madrasah: Step back in time as you visit this historic madrasah, which dates back to the 19th century. Admire the intricate tile work and explore the small shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.
• Minor Mosque: Visit this stunning mosque, known for its turquoise dome and intricate tilework. Take some time for reflection and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this architectural masterpiece.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Tashkent has to offer. As you explore the city, you’ll discover hidden gems, beautiful parks, and charming neighborhoods that add to the unique charm of this Central Asian metropolis.

Remember to check the opening hours of attractions, as some may have specific visiting hours or days of the week when they are closed. Don’t forget your camera and be prepared to capture the beauty and history that Tashkent has to offer.

Local Cuisine and Dining Options

When it comes to culinary delights, Tashkent is a food lover’s paradise. The city boasts a rich and diverse culinary tradition, influenced by both Central Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and dining options to explore:

Plov: Considered the national dish of Uzbekistan, plov is a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and various spices. It’s a hearty and aromatic dish that showcases the culinary heritage of the region.

Samsa: Samsa is a savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. It is traditionally baked in a tandoor oven, resulting in a crispy and flavorful treat. Samsa is often enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer along with tea.

Laghman: Laghman is a popular noodle dish with Chinese and Central Asian influences. It typically consists of hand-pulled noodles served with a savory sauce, vegetables, and your choice of meat or tofu. Laghman is a filling and satisfying meal that is a favorite among locals.

Shashlik: Shashlik is a type of skewered meat, usually lamb or chicken, grilled over an open flame. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices and served with fresh bread and accompaniments like pickles and onions. It’s a popular street food option and a must-try for meat lovers.

Chaykhana (Teahouse): Tashkent is dotted with teahouses, known as chaykhanas, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of hot tea along with traditional snacks such as pastries, halva, and nuts. These teahouses offer a cozy atmosphere where you can unwind and soak in the local culture.

Restaurants: Tashkent is home to a wide range of restaurants that serve international cuisine as well as traditional Uzbek dishes. From upscale dining establishments offering a fusion of flavors to casual eateries specializing in local favorites, you’ll have plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

When dining in Tashkent, it’s customary to greet the staff and fellow diners with a friendly “Assalomu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and “Kuni chay” (have a good day) before and after the meal. Don’t hesitate to try new flavors and ask for recommendations from the locals or your hotel staff.

Be sure to try some locally brewed green tea or a refreshing glass of “ayran” (a salty yogurt-based drink) to complement your meal. And if you have a sweet tooth, indulge in traditional desserts like “halva” (a nutty confection) or “shirin qurut” (sweet cottage cheese).

Exploring the culinary offerings of Tashkent is a delightful experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the flavors and traditions of Uzbekistan.

Shopping in Tashkent

Shopping in Tashkent is a vibrant and diverse experience, offering a mix of traditional crafts, modern boutiques, and bustling markets. Here are some shopping options to explore during your visit:

Chorsu Bazaar: Located in the heart of Tashkent, Chorsu Bazaar is one of the oldest and most iconic markets in the city. Here, you’ll find a wide array of goods including spices, dried fruits, nuts, textiles, ceramics, and traditional crafts. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and practice your bargaining skills to snag some unique souvenirs.

Malls and Shopping Centers: Tashkent is home to several modern shopping malls and centers, offering a variety of international and local brands. Explore places like Samarqand Darvoza, Next Mall, and Mega Planet to find clothing, electronics, cosmetics, and more.

Abdulla Qodiriy Booksellers Street: If you’re a bookworm or appreciate literary treasures, a visit to Abdulla Qodiriy Booksellers Street is a must. This street is lined with bookshops selling a vast collection of books, including works by Uzbek authors, translated literature, and academic texts. It’s a haven for book lovers and a great place to discover new reads.

Art and Craft Shops: Tashkent is known for its rich artistic heritage. Explore the city’s art and craft shops to find intricate ceramics, handwoven textiles, traditional costumes, and intricate embroidery. These shops offer unique pieces that showcase the skill and talent of Uzbek artisans.

GUM Department Store: Located on Independence Square, GUM Department Store is a historic landmark that offers a mix of local and international brands. Browse through fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, and household goods in this elegant shopping destination.

Souvenir Shops: Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs to commemorate your time in Tashkent. Look for items like traditional embroidered textiles, hand-painted ceramics, miniature paintings, and intricately carved wooden crafts. Souvenir shops can be found in popular tourist areas and markets.

When shopping in Tashkent, it’s customary to bargain at local markets to get the best prices. However, in malls and branded stores, fixed prices are the norm. Keep in mind that some traditional items, such as antiques and archaeological artifacts, may require special permits for export.

Remember to bring cash as credit card acceptance may be limited, especially in smaller shops and markets. It’s also helpful to have small denominations, as it may be challenging to get change for large bills in certain places.

Shopping in Tashkent offers a unique opportunity to bring home authentic and culturally significant items that will serve as lasting reminders of your time in this vibrant city.

Cultural Etiquette and Customs

When visiting Tashkent, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and cultural etiquette to show respect and appreciation for Uzbek traditions. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Greetings and Respect: Uzbek culture places great importance on greetings and respect. When meeting someone, greet them with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Address older individuals and those in positions of authority with deference and respect.

Dress Modestly: Uzbekistan is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing and cover their shoulders and knees. A scarf or shawl may be required for women when entering mosques.

Shoes and Feet: It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, as well as in certain sacred places like mosques. Pay attention to cues from the locals and follow their lead when it comes to footwear.

Accepting and Giving Gifts: Uzbek hospitality is renowned, and it is customary to exchange gifts as a sign of goodwill. If invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift such as chocolates, sweets, or a token from your home country. When receiving a gift, accept it with both hands and express gratitude.

Respecting Religious Customs: Uzbekistan predominantly follows Islam, and it’s essential to respect religious customs and practices. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, dress modestly, remove your shoes, and be mindful of your behavior. It is also polite to ask for permission before taking photographs in places of worship.

Polite Gestures: Politeness is highly valued in Uzbek culture. Use “please” (“iltimos”) and “thank you” (“rahmat”) when interacting with locals. It’s customary to offer or accept tea or food when invited and to express appreciation for the hospitality.

Photography: When taking photographs of people, especially locals, it’s polite to ask for their permission beforehand. Some individuals may decline, and it’s important to respect their wishes. In certain places, like markets, it’s always a good practice to avoid taking photos if someone objects.

Language Etiquette: While English is becoming more widely spoken, it’s still appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn a few basic words or phrases in Uzbek or Russian. Locals will appreciate your attempts to communicate in their language.

By respecting the local customs and cultural traditions of Tashkent, you’ll not only have a more enjoyable experience but also foster positive connections with the locals and gain a deeper appreciation for Uzbekistan’s rich heritage.

Health and Safety Tips

Tashkent, like any other city, requires some precautionary measures to ensure your health and safety. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Medical Precautions: It’s advisable to check with your doctor before traveling to Tashkent to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date. Consider obtaining travel health insurance to cover any potential medical expenses during your trip.

Food and Water Safety: While Uzbek cuisine is delicious, it’s essential to choose food and beverages carefully to avoid foodborne illnesses. Stick to cooked foods, avoid street vendors with questionable hygiene practices, and drink only bottled water or water that has been properly purified.

Personal Safety: Tashkent is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take basic safety precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, particularly in less populated neighborhoods. Keep your valuable possessions secure and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places.

Scams and Petty Crime: As a tourist, be mindful of potential scams and petty crime. Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or trying to sell you counterfeit goods. Keep your personal belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Transportation Safety: When using taxis or public transportation, choose registered and reliable options. Confirm the fare or use the meter before getting into a taxi, and avoid sharing taxis with strangers. If you’re driving, follow traffic rules and be cautious of reckless drivers.

Weather Awareness: Tashkent experiences hot summers and cold winters. Dress accordingly and stay hydrated during the summer months. In winter, bundle up and wear appropriate footwear to avoid slips on icy surfaces.

Travel Documentation: Keep copies of your passport, visa, and other important travel documents in a safe place, separate from the originals. It’s also helpful to have electronic copies stored securely on your smartphone or cloud storage.

Emergency Services: Familiarize yourself with the local emergency contact numbers, such as 101 for police assistance and 103 for medical emergencies. Be aware of the location of the nearest hospital or healthcare facility in case of any urgent medical needs.

By following these health and safety tips, you can enjoy your time in Tashkent with peace of mind and focus on creating unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Tashkent experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Understanding the weather patterns will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in the city.

Summer (June to August): Tashkent’s summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The weather can be quite dry during this time, so be prepared for intense heat and carry sun protection. Despite the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit if you can handle the high temperatures.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings more moderate temperatures and pleasant weather to Tashkent. The days are warm with cooler nights, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s attractions. This season is considered by many as the best time to visit Tashkent due to the comfortable weather conditions.

Winter (December to February): Tashkent experiences cold winters, with temperatures dropping to below freezing. Snowfall is common, creating a beautiful winter landscape. If you enjoy a winter wonderland and colder temperatures, this can be a good time to visit. However, be prepared to bundle up and pack warm clothing.

Spring (March to May): Spring is another pleasant time to visit Tashkent, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers throughout the city. The weather starts to warm up gradually, and the city comes alive with vibrant colors. Spring is an excellent time for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying the beauty of Tashkent.

The best time to visit Tashkent ultimately depends on your preferences, with spring and autumn being the most popular seasons due to the comfortable temperatures. It’s worth noting that the city can get crowded with tourists during the peak travel seasons, so consider planning your visit during the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Regardless of the season, it’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or unexpected weather changes.

With its diverse climate, Tashkent offers unique experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, strolling through colorful bazaars, or enjoying cultural festivals, there is something to enjoy in every season.

Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and hospitality. From its ancient Silk Road heritage to its modern developments, Tashkent offers a unique experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

In this comprehensive guide, we have covered essential information to know before you go to Tashkent. We have discussed how to get to the city, visa requirements, currency exchange, language and communication, transportation options, accommodation choices, must-see attractions, local cuisine, shopping options, cultural etiquette, health and safety tips, and the best time to visit.

As you explore Tashkent, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, visit historic landmarks, indulge in traditional cuisine, and shop for unique local handicrafts. The warm hospitality of the Uzbek people will make you feel welcome and cherished.

While Tashkent has its own customs and cultural practices, embracing them will enhance your experience and show respect for the local traditions. Remember to greet locals with a smile, try a few words in Uzbek or Russian, and follow the dress code when visiting religious sites.

As with any destination, it’s important to prioritize your safety and take necessary precautions. Be mindful of your belongings, choose reliable transportation options, and take care of your health through proper hygiene practices and medical preparedness.

Whether you visit during the pleasant autumn, the snowy winters, the blooming springs, or the hot summers, Tashkent is guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery in Tashkent. Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that await you in this hidden gem of Central Asia. Don’t forget to savor the flavors of Uzbekistan, explore the bustling markets, and connect with the friendly locals.

Tashkent welcomes you with open arms. Get ready to create lifelong memories in this enchanting city!

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Traversing Through Uzbekistan’s Timeless Gem: Things to do in Tashkent (2024)

Tashkent was the first city that I visited in Uzbekistan. You may think that Tashkent is just like any other city, but this city has plenty of things to do and is perfect for all travelers. Before heading to Khiva and Samarkand , I spent a few days at Tashkent exploring the city. In this post, you will find the things to do in Tashkent.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Page Contents

Uzbekistan Travel Resources

For Best Hotels in Uzbekistan, use Booking.com For Hostels in Uzbekistan, use Hostelworld Use Skyscanner to get affordable tickets to Uzbekistan Viator and GetYourGuide are the best tour operators Rentalcars and Discover Cars are the best agencies to rent out cars at the lowest prices SafetyWing or WorldNomads for travel insurance Travel Blogs Traversing Through Uzbekistan’s Timeless Gem: Things to do in Tashkent Samarkand Travel Guide – The Pearl of the East What to see in Khiva? Journey through Uzbekistan’s living museum 5 Best Hotels in Tashkent

About Tashkent

Formerly known as Chach, Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan. Tashkent name is derived from Turkic words tash and kent, meaning Stone City or City of Stones. With many beautiful museums and landmarks, Tashkent has history dating back to Timurid dynasty .

History of Tashkent

Tashkent has a very diverse history. Dating back to the 5th to 3rd centuries, the city has come a long way till Uzbekistan gained its independence in 1991. The city was situated along the Silk Route that connected China and Mediterranean.

During the 8th century, the city came under the influence of Islam after it was conquered by the Arabs. Then the city was conquered by many rulers, including Persians, Turkic Karakhanids and Mongols. After which it was taken over by the Timurid dynasty where the city prospered.

During the 19th century, the city was again conquered and came under the Russian Empire. This is where the city developed and was modernised as it was the administrative centre of Russian Turkestan.

This too came to an end after the 1917 Russian Revolution where Tashkent became part of Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. With the dissolution of Soviet Union in 1991, Uzbekistan gained its independence to become Republic of Uzbekistan.

Best Time to Visit Tashkent

The best time to visit Tashkent is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September and October) seasons. Summer and Winter seasons have extreme temperatures. I visited Tashkent during July and it was extremely hot going up to 35 to 40 degrees centigrade. Note that the off season and the cheapest month to travel is in the month of November.

How many days are required for Tashkent?

I was in Tashkent for 2.5 days and I felt that was sufficient to explore the city. Even though there are many cultural things that you can see and spend time at, you can comfortably cover all of them within that 2.5 days. So, I suggest being in the city for 2 to 3 days.

How to get to Tashkent?

Tashkent has an international airport of its own. There is good connectivity at Tashkent International Airport and other airports around the world. Uzbekistan Airways operate direct flights out of Delhi in India. The flight journey is less than 3 hours and is very convenient.

Tashkent International Airport is just around 8 kilometres from the city centre and the journey by road takes a little over 30 minutes. Yandex Go is allowed at the airport and the fare from airport to city centre is less than USD 2.

Transportation within Tashkent

If you are comfortable, then you can easily hire a car at the airport. You will need a valid international driver’s licence and a credit card.

When you are in Tashkent, Yandex Go app is your friend to travel in the city. Yandex Go is similar to Uber or Ola, and is an affordable taxi service provider in Tashkent. You can book the rides on the app and pay either using your card or cash.

The city also has very good public transport. There are city buses that operate between 6 AM and 11 PM. There are apps such as MyBus Tashkent or 3TM to track these buses and you can purchase the fare from the bus conductor or driver.

For city tours, there are tourist buses. These buses take you around the landmarks and give you a lot of information about the places. They support 8 languages, including English.

ATM and Money Exchange in Tashkent

Tashkent is a blend of modern and traditional outlook. The city has plenty of ATMs and money exchange centres where you can convert your money. Note that Indian Rupees or Australian Dollars are not accepted at the money exchange centres and you need to use only US Dollars or Euros. However, the ATMs do accept any international Visa or Mastercard.

Where to stay in Tashkent?

I highly recommend staying close to City Centre and there are many best hotels in the city centre . If you stay at the city centre, then all the landmarks become closer. You can walk around and explore the city without the hassle of taking taxis or public transport.

Hotel Marwa Tashkent Pool and Spa

When I landed in Tashkent, I initially stayed at Hotel Marwa Tashkent Pool and Spa . The staff at the hotel were very friendly and the check-in process was smooth. My room was on the fourth floor which was really nice, spacious, and clean. The only drawback is that they do not have an in-house restaurant. They do serve breakfast which is part of your stay but nothing after that. For lunch, dinner or any snacks, you have to step out.

The Time Hotel

During my second visit to Tashkent, I stayed at The Time Hotel . Located closer to the airport, this hotel is ideal if you are there only for a night and using Tashkent as a transit stop. The rooms were spacious but it was not as fancy as the Hotel Marwa Tashkent Pool and Spa .

What to wear in Tashkent?

Unlike Muscat in Oman, Tashkent in Uzbekistan is more liberal when it comes to clothing. Tashkent is a very modern city and there are no dress code or restrictions in the city. You can wear shorts (knee length) and t-shirts without any issues. However, you need to dress modestly when you are entering any religious site. Also, do not wear too much of revealing clothes and respect the local culture and traditions there.

What to eat in Tashkent?

I will be honest, it was hard to find some vegetarian food options. The popular vegetarian food that you can get is either bread or salad. There are a few Indian restaurants where you can eat the Indian cuisine but note that they are very expensive when compared to the other food that you get around the city.

Some of the shopping malls have fast food joints where you can get veggie burgers. Just to beware that these veggie burgers do not have anything in them except some leaves and mustard sauce. However, you do have cafes such as Gloria Jeans where you can get coffee and light snacks.

Tip: If you are a hardcore vegetarian, ensure to carry some ready to eat food.

The city also has super markets where you can buy bread and other things if you do not get any vegetarian food.

Traversing Through Uzbekistan’s Timeless Gem: Things to do in Tashkent

There is so much to see in Tashkent. With spectacular mosques, madrasas, parks, museums, squares and metro stations, every corner looks pretty and beautiful.

Amir Temur Square

Located in the heart of the city, Amir Temur Square is a public park and space which is named after the Central Asian Rules and Conqueror Amir Timur from the Timurid dynasty in the 14th century.

The square is the national pride and an important landmark in Tashkent. It is very popular among the locals and the tourists. The statue of Amir Temur is surrounds by trees and green spaces, so you can take a stroll around the park.

Minor Mosque

Known for its detailed design, blue ceramic tiles, and unique architecture, the Minor Mosque is a beautiful mosque that must not be missed when you are in Tashkent.

Situated in Zangiota district, the Minor Mosque represents Uzbekistan’s rich heritage and pays homage to the architecture of the region, especially from the Timurid and Samanid periods.

The mosque is open to public throughout the day but can be closed during the prayer times that happen five times during the day.

Kukeldash Madrasa

Located in old town of Tashkent, close to Chorsu Bazaar, the Kukeldash Madrasa is a historical Islamic educational institute. Built in the 16th century during the reign of Abdullah Khan II, the Kukeldash Madrasa provides as a place for students to gather, and engage in religious activities.

The Madrasa is open to public between 9 AM and 5 PM, and you can see the architecture and courtyard. There is an entrance fee of Uzbekistani Som 10,000 (USD 1).

Chorsu Bazaar

Offering a vibrant and historical experience, the Chorsu Bazaar or the Chorsu Market is a commercial and social gathering place in the heart of Tashkent. It is one of the oldest markets in Uzbekistan. You can buy souvenirs and also the goods that reflect the Silk Road trading such as textiles, carpets, spices, ceramics, and more. The market also has local delicacies, dried fruits, vegetables among others.

The market is open for public every day between 5 AM and 8:15 PM (a few days till 9 PM).

State Museum of the Timurids

Established in 1996, the State Museum of Timurids is a museum that exhibits the artefacts and history of the Timurid dynasty. It was opened in honor of Amir Timur’s 660th anniversay. There are more than 3000 exhibits at the museum.

The museum is open to public every day (except Mondays) between 10 AM and 6 PM. There is an entrance fee of Uzbekistani Som 5,000 (USD 0.5).

Hazrati Imam Complex

With two mosques and a mausoleum, the Hazrati Imam Complex is a religious site in Tashkent. It houses one of the oldest copies of Quran in existence called the Usman Quran or Ottoman Quran. This copy is said to be around 1400 years old.

The complex is open for public every day between 9 AM and 9 PM. There is an entrance fee of Uzbekistani Som 15,000 (USD 1.5).

Metro Stations

Tashkent metro stations are art galleries in themselves. With spectacular art, architecture, and attractions, the metro stations are surely worth visiting. Each of the metro stations look like a museum exhibiting the tradition, history, culture and art. You must visit some of the below (if not all) metro stations when you are in Tashkent:

• Cosmonauts / Kasmonavtlar Station
• Amir Timur Square Station
• Tashkent / Toshkent Station
• Chorsu Station
• Hamid Alimjan / Khamid Alimdjan Station
• Pakhtokar Station
• Alisher Navoi Station
• Great Silk Road / Buyuk Ipak Yuli Station

Do not forget to look at the ceilings, columns, chandeliers and tiles at these stations.

Tashkent City Park

Centrally located in the heart of the city, Tashkent City Park serves as a recreational hub. It is a green space where locals and tourists visit to exercise, jog, cycle and have picnics.

The park is open to public every day between 11 AM and 11 PM.

Is Tashkent safe for solo female travelers?

Absolutely yes! Tashkent is very safe for solo female travelers. I traveled to the city alone and I did not have any issues whatsoever. The people are very friendly and nice. Even with the language barrier, they helped me whenever I needed help. But like any other city, be careful, especially at night.

Closing Notes

With a blend of both modern technology and traditions, this capital city must surely be on your bucket list. I had never imagined Tashkent to be so advanced and clean. I had a great time walking around this beautiful city and exploring its landmarks. Even though it was very hot when I visited, the city compensated by having so much of green space.

I hope this post has provided you with all the things to do in Tashkent and a guide to visit the city. If you have any questions, feel free to write me an email on [email protected] .

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Tashkent Attractions | 10 Amazing Places to visit in Tashkent

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by admin

Wondering if it is worth spending a few days in Tashkent before exploring other Silk Route cities of Uzbekistan? I say it is and this guide will help to plan to visit all the Tashkent attractions. Read this blog to know about all the places to visit in Tashkent and things to do in Tashkent.

The capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent is probably the first city to start a tour in Uzbekistan after arriving on an international flight. While most people use Tashkent as a transit point to get to other cities like Samarkand , Bukhara and Khiva , the capital needs much more attention as it is the melting pot where ancient history meets modern vibrancy.

Tashkent has been an important city historically due to its presence on the Silk Road. And currently, it functions as a cultural and economic hub in Central Asia.

Tashkent is a mix of urban and traditional landscapes, with these best destinations that include the bustling bazaars, historical monuments as well as the vibrant and modern architecture scattered across the city. It is also a very modern city with many parks and fountains, beautiful statues, cafes, restaurants and great nightlife in Tashkent.

Its robust metro system which is efficient, convenient and extremely affordable which also makes for an offbeat tourist destination.

Table of Contents

PRACTICAL TIPS ABOUT PLACES TO VISIT IN TASHKENT

Arriving in tashkent.

Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport is located in Tashkent city and most visitors are likely to fly here from other countries. Uzbekistan Airways is probably the flight you will fly.

By Shared Taxis

Tashkent can be reached by train and taxi from neighbouring countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Marshrutka or marshrutnoe taksi or routed taxicab, are shared taxis that connect Shymkent in Kazakhstan, Osh in Kyrgyzstan and Khujand in Tajikistan to Tashkent. These shared taxis drop visitors at border where after passport verification, they change into another taxi of the destination country.

Uzbekistan is well connected by train network across the country. There are trains that run from major cities within Uzbekistan such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Urgench. There is a train that connects Kazakhstan to Tashkent as well.

Best time to visit Tashkent

The best time to visit Tashkent is during fall months September- October or spring months April-May. Summer months (June to August) are extremely hot and uncomfortable. Walking around the historical sights becomes actually difficult and uncomfortable. And I am saying this even though I live in an Indian city that experiences 40 degrees summer for 3 months straight. The roads look deserted and everything kind of shuts down between 1-4pm.

Winter (December to February) months are extremely cold with chilly winds and it may snow.

How to get around in Tashkent | Tashkent Metro

Tashkent Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. One way ticket costs 1400 UZS ($0.15). The metro network is spread across the city and one can easily navigate it if you have the map handy. The instructions are spoken in Uzbek, however it is easy to understand the next stop. 

How to get around Tashkent in Yandex (taxi)

Taxis are incredibly cheap in Tashkent. While one can hail a cab but making the driver understand your destination could be a challenge. App based taxi called Yandex is the best rescue for this. On an average, a taxi ride would cost 25000 – 30000 UZS ($2 – 2.4) anywhere to get to Tashkent tourist attractions. The cars are clean with boot (in case you have luggage) and the drivers are very polite.

This is also the best way to get from Tashkent airport to the city centre as the local taxis will charge 2-3 times the money than Yandex. In case you have less luggage, best is to use the Yandex app rather than requesting your hotel for pick-up.

Tip: Download the Yandex Go app and complete the registration and phone verification in your home country in case you are relying on wi-fi. 

Where to stay in Tashkent

Tashkent offers a wide choice of hostels for budget travellers to top-end hotels for those who want to indulge in luxury. There are also homestays and airbnb in Tashkent. 

Hostels in Tashkent

I heard about this hostel from a lot of backpackers and they had great reviews about it. So I decided to stay here and it lived up to its promise. Tucked in a small alley in a residential area, it is a peaceful place. Metro station is 500 metres aways and there are a couple of banks and convenience stores near the hostel so it’s easy to get around. The hostel is clean and cosy.

They serve breakfast with a good variety of vegetarian options. Only disappointment was that they didn’t accept card payments. Cash is acceptable in SOM or USD.

Other options for Tashkent Hostels are

Mid-Range Hotel

Michelin Hotel

Located close to Art Hostel, I promised myself to stay here the next time. This 3-star hotel features a fitness centre, a restaurant and a bar. The premises also has an ATM. The accommodation features a concierge service, luggage storage space and currency exchange for guests. 

Other options of Mid-range hotels in Tashkent are

Hotel Uzbekistan

One of the most luxurious properties in Tashkent, the hotel is a landmark in itself. Located at the posh Amir Temur square, the property has a pool, spa and indoor game options. There are 2 restaurants that cook up quite a storm with lip-smackingly delicious Uzbek and global cuisine.

Other options of Luxurious hotels in Tashkent are

TASHKENT ATTRACTIONS

As international flights can be taxing on the body, I feel it is best to relax in Tashkent for a day or even two and get oriented towards the Uzbek culture, the breads and blue tiled architecture. Sightseeing in Tashkent can be quite rewarding as the city is full of gems catering to all kinds of travellers.

While the places to visit in Tashkent mentioned in this blog need 2 days, the highlights can be completed in one day.  

Hazrat Imam Complex

Situated in the heart of Tashkent, the Hazrat Imam Complex, also known as the Hast-Imam Ensemble or Khast Imam, is a great introduction to Uzbek heritage and architecture.

The complex is home to many beautiful architectural monuments, such as the Barak Khan Madrasah, the Tilla Sheikh Mosque and the mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi.

Each Madrasah has blue tiles arches at the entrance that opens into a square full of souvenir shops. While you may be tempted to buy the souvenirs here, being your first stop, I will suggest you to hold on.

The highlight of the Hazrat Imam Complex is the Muyi Muborak Library, which houses a library with oriental manuscripts and the Uthman Koran, which is claimed to be the world’s oldest Koran. The Hazrat Imam Complex is very peaceful throughout the day which makes it one of the best Tashkent attractions for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

Hazrat Imam Complex Timings: 9 am until 9 pm

Hazrat Imam Complex entrance fee: While the entrance to the complex is free, tourists have to pay 30,000 UZS (US$3) for entry to the library.

Amir Timur Square

One of the most popular places to visit in Tashkent amongst the tourists and locals, Amir Timur Square offers many things to do in Tashkent.

The square is actually a park that has a statue of Amir Timur on horseback. Timur or Tamerlane was a Turco-Mongol conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire in and around modern-day Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia, becoming the first ruler of the Timurid dynasty. He is Uzbekistan’s hero and there are a lot of places dedicated to him and his family around the entire country.

The square is surrounded by hotels, cafes, government buildings and monuments. The square especially comes alive with fountains in the gardens and people coming here for a walk and indulging in local increams.

The best part is that there is an underground Tashkent Metro which takes you directly to the square! Get out of Amir Temur metro station and walk to Amir Timur Square.  

Amir Timur Museum

Right across the Amir Timur Square is the Amir Timur Museum. Since I was walking aimlessly, I did not notice that there was a museum here but I got attracted to the beautiful exterior. 

I went in and was pleasantly surprised with the grandeur of the golden-domed ceiling. The museum has paintings and belongings of Amir Temur, a copy of the Quran and small-scale models of the important mosques around Uzbekistan.

Amir Timur Museum Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am until 5 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Amir Timur entrance fee: 20000 UZS ($2). Another 10000 UZS if you want to take photos.

Chorsu Bazaar

Local’s favourite Bazaar is now one of the major Tashkent attractions for its beautiful circular blue dome and buying local products. The bazaar is an indoor shopping mall with two storeys.

The outside of the dome sells fresh fruits, vegetables, ceramics and clothes. The ground floor stores majorly sells raw meat, cheeses and spices. While the first floor store sells dried fruits of all kinds!

Around Chorsu Bazaar are many streets and alleys selling jewellery, clothes, breads and souvenirs which ultimately leads to the main dome. The bazaar starts from the Chorsu Metro station up until the actual Chorsu Bazaar dome.

Chorsu Bazaar is one of the most affordable places in the entire country to buy souvenirs such as ceramics, painting, scarfs, stoles, jewellery, refrigerator magnets etc. 

Kukeldash Madrasah & Dzuma Mosque

Kukeldash Madrasah and Dzuma Mosque are right outside the Chorsu Bazaar and the Chorsu Metro. Just walk between the outdoor stalls in the direction of Beruniy Street and you will see the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical places in Tashkent.

Kukeldash is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and worth a visit during Tashkent Sightseeing.

Like all madrasahs in Uzbekistan, Kukeldash was a school imparting Islamic education but over a period of time, got converted to caravanserai for merchants, later a fortress of the Kokand rulers and even as a place of execution.

The most interesting thing about Kukeldash Madrasah is that it has survived several earthquakes and has repeatedly been repaired and restored. 

The Dzuma Mosque is right next to the Kukeldash Madrasah and worth a quick stop to admire the architecture.

Kukeldash Madrasah Timings: 8 am until 6 pm

Hazrat Imam Complex entrance fee: Tourists are allowed to enter the courtyard of the madrasah with a small entrance fee of 10000 UZS ($0.82).

Minor Mosque

The newest mosque in Tashkent is a strikingly beautiful monument. Built in 2014 on the banks of the Ankhor Canal, it is also known as Snow Mosque as it is made of white marble.

Kukeldash Madrasah Timings: Always Open

Kukeldash Madrasah entrance fee: Free

Tashkent TV Tower

One of the most popular Tashkent attractions is the TV tower. At a height of 375 metres, Tashkent Tower is the 11th tallest tower in the world. It can be seen from most tall buildings around the city.

There is a garden around the tower and visitors are allowed to go till the 6th floor which is the observation deck of the tower to enjoy the panoramic views of Tashkent city. There is also a restaurant on the 7th floor where visitors can have a meal overlooking the city views.

Tashkent TV Tower Timings: Monday to Sunday from 10 am until 8 pm. 

Tashkent TV Tower entrance fee: 40000 UZS ($3.25)

Note: Visitors wanting to go to the observation deck need to show their passport.

Tashkent Metro Stations

One of the best Tashkent attractions as well as one of offbeat things to do in Tashkent is the hop-on and hop-off at Metro stations. Almost every station has its own unique architectural features and artistic elements.

Some stations look like ballrooms with huge chandeliers hanging from the ceiling while others look like heritage sites.

There are 50 stations across 4 different lines. I took the Blue line and explored the following stations in an hour.

– Kosmonavtlar

– Uzbekistan

– Pakhtakor

– Gofur Gulom

– Tinchlik

I bought a ticket for 1400 UZS ($0.15) that is valid for one hour. I hopped on and off at each station to photograph it and got on the next upcoming train. I was in absolute awe of the beautiful stations and how nicely it was maintained.

Broadway Street

Broadway Street is a pedestrian street that unites the two most important squares of Tashkent: Amir Temur Square and Independence Square.

Originally known as Sailkogh street, the Broadway Boulevard is a very popular place for the locals as well as tourists to enjoy an evening walk or enjoy a cup of coffee.

The street also has many vendors selling street food, souvenirs, and art stalls.

State Museum of History

The State Museum of History of Uzbekistan gives a broad idea about Uzbekistan’s history. This museum has 2 floors with a range of exhibits showing the history of Uzbekistan spanning 2 millenia.

It’s built in the form of a cube,a modern take on blending a Soviet approach with oriental decorative patterns. 

State Museum of History timing : The museum is open daily, except on Mondays, from 10 am until 6 pm. 

State Museum of History Entrance fee: The entrance fee is 10000 UZS ($0.81) and another 15000 UZS ($1.2) for photography.

Lal Bahadur Shastri Monument

Being an Indian citizen, I had to visit and pay my respects to the former Prime Minister of India who died in Tashkent in 1966. A small statue, dedicated to him has been erected in central part of Tashkent.

The Government has named a road in his memory.

TASHKENT CITY TOURS | TASHKENT WALKING TOURS

There are several guided walking tours in Tashkent. There are several combinations to choose different routes and places that cover most of Tashkent attractions. The tours generally last for 2.5 – 3 hours and are conducted by an English speaking guide. Charges are $35 for a group of 3 people and $45 for 4-6 people.

I did not go on a walking tour and explored all the places by myself.

WHERE TO EAT IN TASHKENT | TASHKENT RESTAURANTS

Tashkent being the modern capital of Uzbekistan and a very important city in Central Asia, there are endless food options. From Uzbek cuisine to Korean, Mediterranean to Indian, Continental to Mexican there are options for everything. 

Uzbek cuisine as well as the restaurants serving food in Tashkent are meat heavy. If you are a vegetarian or vegan like me and wondering if there is vegetarian food in Uzbekistan , then read on!

I used an app called Happy Cow which helped me find a vegetarian or vegan restaurant in the area with directions, menu and phone numbers. It was a huge relief and I relied on that app heavily here.

Here are some of the restaurants I tried while in Tashkent.

Navaat Art Restaurant 

Navat was the first vegetarian option that popped up. It had great reviews and a diverse menu which is why I tried the food here. 

Navat offers a modern and vegetarian twist to many traditional Uzbek dishes. There are soups, salads, pizza and great options for a drink. It also has an outdoor bar and open club area which plays funky music at night.

Address: 9 Matbuotchilar Street, Tashkent 100012

Instagram: Navvat Art Restaurant

Caravan is another vegetarian restaurant in Tashkent that offers delicious traditional food, rustic decor, and live music. They have great manti (Central Asian dumplings ), salads, and Uzbek wine. 

Address: 22 Abdulla Kahhar Street, Tashkent

Eco cafe Tashkent

Suggested by the hostel where I was staying, I ordered food through Yandex Food App and got it delivered within 30 minutes. They have great vegan and vegetarian bowl options that are wholesome and healthy.

Address:Olmachi 37, Тashkent

Instagram: Eco Cafe

If you are looking for an upscale dining space then head over to Cafe 1991. The cafe offers Uzbek and Lebanese cuisine and has top notch dining reviews. From the ambience, service, and quality of food and beverages everything is amazing. It even features a separate vegetarian menu where the majority of the dishes are also vegan.

The best part is most staff can speak English so you discuss your food preferences and allergies with them.

The cafe is open till 1 am in case you want to dine in till late.

Address: 7 Mustaqillik shoh ko’chasi, Тashkent

Instagram: Cafe 1991

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT UZBEKISTAN

Is tashkent worth visiting.

Yes! While Tashkent is only used as a transit to visit other heritage cities in Uzbekistan, there are many Tashkent attractions such as historical monuments, incredible architecture, gardens and delicious food. The accommodation, local travel and food is extremely affordable. 

With a daily average travel budget of around $30-75 per day, travellers can enjoy all that the country has to offer without breaking their savings. 

Is travel to Tashkent safe?

Yes! Tashkent is considered a safe destination for tourists. Incidents of violence against tourists are rare. There are police in every tourist site and a helpline number specially for tourists which makes it very reassuring. I met many solo women travellers throughout my journey and everyone said they felt safe at all times.

I took a late night cab once or twice and did not ever feel unsafe.

I also found women taxi drivers in Tashkent making me feel absolutely safe.

How many days to spend in Tashkent?

While there are many things to do in Tashkent and places to visit in Tashkent, the city deserves atleast a 2 days’ visit. 

Do you need a guide in Tashkent?

There are guided walking tours in Tashkent that one may register to and join. There are English and Russian speaking guides available for singular monuments too around the ticketing area. 

Do you need Registration slips from hotels and hostels?

I read about this before going that there are random checks at immigration for registration slips. The registration slip is basically a paper given by the hostel/hotel claiming that you stayed with them. It has your name, date of stay and passport number.

I diligently collected it from all my accommodations but I was not asked to produce it at the immigration.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR VISITING TASHKENT ATTRACTIONS

• Carry your own refillable water bottle. Avoid purchasing PET water bottles unless absolutely necessary.
• Do not trash the heritage site with wrappers and uneaten food. Use designated areas and right-colored bins for disposing of waste.
• Be mindful of all the signs and follow them respectfully especially in mosques and mausoleums.
• Respect the ancient structures of mosques and other structures by not sitting on them.
• Respect the places which prohibit photography.
• Do not write on the pillars and walls of archeological sites and monuments.

I hope this guide on Tashkent attractions helps you plan a trip to this beautiful and underrated city in Uzbekistan. Do you have more questions? Write to me in the comment below and I will reply.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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Very useful tips. Thanks a lot. We intend to visit uzbekistan in second half of April. Can you pls suggest the kind of clothes needed there.

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The Best Places to Visit in Tashkent: a travel guide

This post is about the best places to visit in Tashkent. Tashkent might be the capital of Uzbekistan , but it receives little attention from tourists. It’s a city that travelers come through or where they start their journey, but often spend as little time as possible. They rather skip all the places to visit in Tashkent for the Silk Road attractions in Khiva , Bukhara and Samarkand . 

Are people right in doing so? Maybe. Tashkent is for sure no silk road city, despite its age. Modernization projects are changing Tashkent rapidly, for better and for worse. There is not much of the scenic neighbourhoods of old Tashkent left. And yet, I loved Tashkent.

Despite stories that there is nothing to see in Tashkent I wanted to give it a chance and I am glad I did. I was not only in Uzbekistan to see history, but also to get a sense of modern Uzbek culture. Tashkent was a great place to do so and there are in fact lots of interesting places to visit in Tashkent that makes the city a great start of any Uzbekistan itinerary .

Why visit Tashkent?

With almost two million people, Tashkent is the biggest city in central Asia. However, for its growing size, Tashkent remains a very pleasant and green city. Even though Almaty in Kazakhstan is still my favourite in this region, Tashkent is a close second. 

Tashkent might lack the impressive Islamic architecture you see elsewhere in Uzbekistan , but there are many great places to visit in Tashkent. The colourful bazaars, the pleasant parks, the interesting museums, the great restaurants and the Soviet era architecture. 

Although Uzbekistan has done much to erase their communist past, it still feels like a Soviet city in many places. This is not a surprise. When an earthquake destroyed Tashkent in 1966 the Soviets had a blast rebuilding the city. The result are some of the finest examples of brutalist architecture.

What I liked most is that Tashkent’s Soviet heritage is pretty unique and almost always has it’s own Uzbek twist to it. Tashkents metro being a great example where the beautiful stations are decorated with Uzbek symbols. 

What I also loved about Tashkent was the food. Whether you want traditional Uzbek cuisine or something else. Tashkent has the best restaurants in the region with a wide range of international kitchens available. That alone made me happy to stay here for almost a week exploring the best places to visit in Tashkent. 

The best places to visit in Tashkent

Tashkent metro.

One of my favourite places to visit in Tashkent were the Tashkent metro stations . Like many Soviet metro systems they have some of the most unique and ornate stations in the world.

For years it was forbidden to take pictures, but the new president realized the esthethical value of Tashkents historical metro stations. The Guardian was one of the first to show its beauty to the world and you can now happily snap away.

Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is a typical Soviet hotel. During the Soviet Union every big city had a state run hotel. Examples are the Hotel Kazakhstan in Almaty , the Cosmos hotel in Chisinau and the hotel Moldova in Iasi .

The architecture of these communist era hotels is impressive, but they are huge and often have a hard time finding enough clients these days. Hotel Uzbekistan has changed rather succesfully into one of the best up market hotels in Tashkent.

Insider tip : From the top floor you have a beautiful view over Amir Timur square.

Nearest metro station : Amir Timur Xiyoboni (red Chilonzor line)

Amir Timur square

Tashkents central square is one of the main places to visit in Tashkent. It was built in 1870 to become Tashkent’s central park.

Now the main monument in the park is Amir Timur on his horse, but several men have stood here before him. First it was Lenin, then Stalin, and finally Karl Marx untill Uzbekistan’s independence when Timur was reinstalled as hero of the past.

Most of the buildings you see have historical importance such as the Hotel Uzbekistan, The Law university, the Forum’s palace, the clock towers and the Amir Timur museum.

The large white International Congress hall is a recent addition from 2009 when the municipality also decided to remove the century old chinor trees. The result is a barren park. The men that used to play chess under the shadows of the trees have now moved elsewhere.

Romanov palace

In Tashkent you will find a rather modest and small palace of the Romanovs. It belonged to the first cousin of Tsar Nikolai the second, who after a scandalous affair with a prominent American lady was deported to Tashkent to mine gem stones. 

Nearest metro station : Mustaqilik Maydoni (red Chilonzor line)

Independence square

In Soviet times this square surrounded by important government buildings used to be called Lenin square and was the place for celebrations of important days like Labour day and Victory day. It is still used for this purpose, but has now become a symbol for Uzbekistan’s independence.

Lenin was removed and in its place is the independence monument . A globe with the current borders of Uzbekistan. The fountains and buildings were renovated. At the right bottom of Independence square you can still find the memorial area with the crying mother monument to remember the 400,000 Uzbek soldiers that died in the second World war.

State history museum

The State History museum is a great example of a Soviet building with an Uzbek influence. The latticework around the building made use of Pandzharas. The decorative pandzharas are traditionally used in Uzbekistan as a facade to provide shade. The architecture alone makes it worth a visit.

The museum already opened its doors in 1876 as the National Museum of Turkestan. In Soviet times it became the Lenin museum. Now the exhibitions focus on the history of Uzbekistan from ancient times to president Karimov’s time.

I am normally not that much into museums, but because it was raining that day I decided to have a look. I must say that for central Asia it is a pretty good museum showing the long and complex history of the country. For sure it gives more context and background information on the things you will see in Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand.

Alisher navoi opera & ballet theatre

For a night out in Tashkent you can head to the Alisher Navoi Opera & Ballet Theatre . Worth a visit for its high quality and value for money performances and its architecture.

Khast Imom complex

The Khast Imom complex is one of the best places to visit in Tashkent for Islamic architecture. It has been the religious center for Tashkent for centuries after the first imam of Tashkent was buried here.

Unfortunately, most of what you see today in the large empty square is the result of a modernization project in 2007. The Hazrat Imam mosque and the Muyi Mubarak library were constructed at that time. The library has a collection of ancient Qurans and claims to have the oldest Quran in the world.

For some of the older buildings you can visit the Tellya Sheikh mosque and the 16th century Barak Khan madrassah that is now full with souvenir shops. North of the madrasssah is the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Mohammed Kaffal Shashi , a scholar and poet from the tenth century. Legend goes that women who are unable to conceive should smear the dust of the tomb on their face for a succesful pregnancy.

Nearest metro station : Gafur Gulom (blue Ozbekiston line). As the Khast Imam complex is still rather far from the metro, it is better to take a taxi.

Tashkent Circus

The Tashkent circus is another great example of Soviet architecture and almost looks like a stranded blue UFO, much like the circus in Almaty and Chisinau . The Tashkent circus is still very popular and tickets often sell out.

Nearest metro station : Gafur Gulom (blue Ozbekiston line).

Chorsu bazaar

Chorsu bazaar is the commercial heart of Tashkent and the giant domed structure is a mayhem of merchants selling spices, meat, vegetables, dairy and other stuff. The beautiful oriental style dome was built after the earthquake in 1966, but there has been a market at this spot since at least the Mongol invasion.

Chorsu translates as four waters that was a symbol for the place where four neighbourhoods came together to trade. The four neighbourhoods were like four independent cities with the bazaar in the middle. The market now extends well beyond the dome with different sections all well worth exploring.

For foodies this is a heavenly place with lots of things to try. Bakeries sell fresh non bread straight out of the oven, barbecues have sizzling shaslycks on offer and in the dairy section you can buy different types of dried cheese and yoghurt ( kurut ). As souvenir you can bring back home plenty of spices or dried fruits and nuts .

Uzbek cuisine has its own specialities, but is also influenced by its neighbours and ethnic minorities. At Chorsu bazaar look out for the Uzbek Koreans that sell pickled vegetable salads . A visit to the meat section makes you understand why coronary heart disease is a major killer in Uzbekistan. The sheeps fat is a priced commodity and you have shops selling nothing but pure animal fat. Of course there is horse meat available as well.

Nearest metro station : Chorsu (blue Ozbekiston line).

Kukeldash Madrassah

The Kukeldash Madrassah was built in the 16th century. An earthquake in 1868 damaged the building and it was reconstructed into a caravanserai. During the Soviet times it became a museum of atheism and folk music untill Uzbekistan became independent and the building was used once again for its original purpose.

The Navoi Park is Tashkent’s largest park. There is lots of greenery, flowers and canals with a small lake as the cherry on top. It was founded by the Komsomol in 1932, but now has a new monument to Islamic poet Alisher Navoi in the centre. From there you can see the impressive dome of the Oliy Majilis or the parliament of Uzbekistan.

Nearest metro station : Miliy Bog (red chilonzor line).

Istiklol Palace

From the Navoi Park it is a pleasant walk to the Istiklol Palace. This is probably one of the best places in Tashkent for Soviet architecture and the brutalist design is impressive. The concrete facade was apparently supposed to represent the ancient desert fortresses in Khorezm , but I couldn’t see the similarities.

The palace of friendship of the peoples was the main concert and event venue for the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Now it is called the Istiklol Arts palace and still hosts cultural events and conferences. It overlooks a large public square with flowers.

Nearest metro station : Bunyodkor (red chilonzor line).

Museum of Applied Arts

Tashkent has some of the best museums in central Asia and the Museum of applied arts is another small gem with a nice collection of traditional Uzbek art. From ceramics, to jewellery and traditional clothes.

Nearest metro station : Kosmonavtlar (blue Ozbekiston line).

State Fine Arts museum

The State fine arts museum was another museum in Tashkent that I really enjoyed. In four floors you get to see the history of art in Uzbekistan starting from the 7th century onwards. There is also a collection of Russian art that belonged to the Romanov prince that was deported to Tashkent after an affair.

Insider tip: Because there is also a section with applied arts it is better to visit the state fine arts museum rather than the museum of applied arts.

Nearest metro station : Oybek (blue Ozbekiston line).

Russian orthodox church

Although many Russian people have left Uzbekistan after independence there is still a large Russian minority in Tashkent. The bright blue Holy Assumption Cathedral is the biggest Russian orthodox church in Tashkent and the religious centre for Uzbek Russians.

Nearest metro station : Toshkent (blue Ozbekiston line).

The Tashkent tv tower is the tallest in Central asia and an icon of the city. There are restaurants and an observation deck from where you have a beautiful view over the city. It is relatively nearby the Plov centre so it makes a great combination.

Nearest metro station : Shahriston (green Yunubod line).

The Best Places to visit near Tashkent

There are not a lot of day trips from Tashkent. Personally, I feel there are enough places to visit in Tashkent to occupy you for a couple of days. If you really want to escape the city your options are the beautiful Chimgan mountains in the Ugam Chatkal National Park.

Uzbekistan is not really known for its natural beauty. The neighbouring countries Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are much better at that. Except for a small mountainous part north of Tashkent.

Only 2 hours away you will find Tashkent’s favourite weekend get away. A ski resort in winter and a way to escape the heat in summer. More about the practicalities of visiting this part of Uzbekistan is in my post on the Chimgan mountains and Charvak lake .

The Beldersoy Soviet era chair lift is especially fun in winter when it is a ski resort. In summer, the views are still nice, but there is not much going on. Personally I was a bit hesitant with the ski lift as it didn’t look very safe and with my fear of heights I decided not to go.

Chimgan is the main town in the Uzbek part of the Ugam Chatkal National Park. Again, most of the activities are in the winter sports season from November till March. Outside of that, you can still go horse riding or quad biking and enjoy Chimgan’s scenic location.

Charvak Lake

Charvak lake was definetly the highlight of my day to the Ugam Chatkal National Park. Honestly, Beldersoy and Chimgan town were a bit of a disappointment and I wasn’t sure this area was worth the effort, especially considering the fact I was going to see more than enough mountains in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. That was untill I saw the bright blue Charvak Lake.

This artificial lake was created during the Soviet Union to provide cheap energy to Tashkent. Not everybody was happy with the new Charvak Hydro power station. Archeologists quickly researched and photographed a number of ancient petroglyphs that are now under water.

Insider tip : On your way from Charvak lake to Tashkent are several nice restaurants. We had a late lunch at 555 restaurant, that was absolutely delicious. 

Tashkent Travel Tips

The best places to eat in tashkent, national food.

Without doubt this is the best place to visit in Tashkent for cheap Uzbek food. It’s not your most cozy restaurant. Furthermore its chaotic and always busy, but so much worth the effort. The most difficult part is choosing what to eat. The menu is extensive and there is lots of stuff going on.

Outside women are stirring in huge kazans with haleem, a mixture of wheat, lentils and meat. Men are pouring water into shurpa clay pots with delicious lamb and vegetable stews. Inside there is a large table where ariound 20 women are preparing Naryn, a cold noodle salad with horse meat. The bakery works on full speed, handing out fresh breads from the oven by the dozen.

This restaurant goes far beyond the standard plov and it is an excellent place to try something else. The dolma and the Naryn I took were absolutely delicious. It shows that Uzbek cuisine is so much more than just plov and shaslyck.

Read more about this restaurant in my post on National Food in Tashkent .

Plov centre

Like National food, the Plov centre is low on decor, but high on local culture. It serves just one dish, plov. Uzbek’s most famous foood is popular all over central asia. The basic recipy is pretty simple with rice, carrots and meat cooked in sheeps fat. However, there are several varieties on this standard recipy.

The Plov centre has about 10 huge kazans with different types of plov. Most of them will be sold out by noon. When I arrived for lunch at 1 PM there were just three types left.

I was already one month in central Asia and felt I had enough plov, but I must say that they do a pretty good job and I did enjoy my plov here. This is not the overcooked mush you get in a lot of roadside restaurants. The meat was tender, the rice still had a bite and the nuts and barberries added a unique flavour.

Testo is the best place in Tashkent for all kinds of dumplings. From the central Asian manti’s to Russian pelmeni’s, Georgian khinkali and Italian Ravioli. They also serve good breakfasts and soups for lunch.

Meryam dessert house

The best place to visit in Tashkent for cake and pastries is the Meryam dessert house and cofee shop. They alse serve nice breakfasts and are a good place for lunch as well.

Best places to stay in Tashkent

Art hostel : Art Hostel is a good hostel in a nice neighbourhood of Tashkent. They have a good breakfast buffet and a swimming pool for those hot summer days. The staff is very helpful in giving tips and advice. 

When to visit Tashkent

Winters are cold and cloudy, while summers get unbearingly hot in the city. The best time to visit is either spring or autumn.

Spring runs from March till June and starts with Nauruz. A huge festival celebrating the end of winter with several activities in the capital around the 21st of March. It’s a wonderful time in Tashkent when the trees bloom and temperatures are pleasant.

Autumn has even better weather with clear blue skies. This is when the trees turn red and gold. It is also harvest season and Chorsu bazaar will be full with melons, apricots and plums.

How to travel to Tashkent

By plane : Tashkent has an international Airport. Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines and Air baltic have relatively cheap flights to Tashkent, but in general Tashkent is not the cheapest city to fly into the region. It is sometimes cheaper to fly into Almaty in Kazakhstan if you have the time to take the night train to Shymkent and Tashkent.

By train : Tashkent is connected by train to Almaty and Shymkent in Kazakhstan and even all the way to Moscow. There is a twice weekly overnight fast train between Almaty and Tashkent (24 hours) and some slower trains that take longer (28 hours). The journey to Moscow takes 66 hours.

Within Uzbekistan there are daily fast trains to Samarkand and Bukhara. Overnight trains run several times a week to Urgench and Nukus .

Read more about how to travel by train in Uzbekistan in my post about trains in Uzbekistan .

By bus : I travelled to Tashkent by Kaznetwork bus from Shymkent in Kazakhstan. There are daily buses between Shymkent and Tashkent and the journey takes 5 hours. The border is easy nowadays without too much hassle.

Sustainable travel in Tashkent

Tashkent sees more tourists every year. While Tourism is a welcome source of income it can also have negative consequences. Traveling sustainably in Tashkent, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community: You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, and restaurants. It is better to try Uzbek cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels. Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Tashkent has a well-developed public transportation system with shared taxis and marshrutkas. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Avoid plastics : To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter that you can refill at your accomodation. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Uzbekistan is an Islamic country that is just opening up to tourism. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This Tashkent travel guide with the best places to visit in Tashkent Uzbekistan contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

6 thoughts on “The Best Places to Visit in Tashkent: a travel guide”

I’ve been following your posts on Uzbekistan and they have definitely made me add this amazing country to our must visit list.

Uzbekistan’s nature is amazing. My husband and I have been planning to visit this summer but went to other destinations instead. Hopefully we’ll get to visit next year and I know whose guide I will be referring to 🙂 great post, Ellis!

Zaamin mountains are beautiful. Why didn’t you mentioned them too?

I haven’t heard of the Zaamin mountains before. I looked it up and it looks beautiful. I will definetly try to go there on my next visit to Tashkent

very perfect article thanks a lot

Thanks for informative blog

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Best places to visit in Tashkent

A deep impact in people’s lives was left by the severe earthquake of April 26, 1966. It caused massive damage and destruction in Tashkent, destroying many historical buildings, including more than half of the Old City, and leaving thousands of people homeless. After the disaster, the city was rebuilt and constructed in the Soviet architectural style. After the collapse of the USSR, Tashkent began to develop very fast. Nowadays, a special business district has been created with skyscrapers, chained-brand hotels, malls, shops and other entertainments. However, here are some of the best places to visit in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Chorsu Bazaar

Chorsu Bazaar is one of the most important markets in Central Asia and a fascinating place where you can see and feel the essence of the Silk Road. It is a very large market with open air stalls with hundreds of vendors. At its center is the covered, blue-domed building full of merchants selling various raw food products.

Here you will find absolutely anything you want – fruit, vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, meat, spices, cooked food, sweets, breads, souvenirs, handicrafts etc. Chorsu is a really cool place to wander around. This isn’t a tourist market, it’s mostly locals here, which gives it authenticity.

I highly recommend buying some souvenirs here as the prices are cheaper than Samarkand, Bukhara or Khiva.

Nearest Subway: Chorsu (on the blue ‘Uzbekistan’ line).

Kukeldash Madrasah

The Kukeldash Madrasah is just near the Chorsu Market. It is one of the most famous historical sites in Tashkent and one of the few buildings that survived the 1966 earthquake. This building has been used for many purposes. In the 18th century the madrasah was converted into a caravanserai for merchants trading in the local bazaars, then it served as a fortress. In the 20th century Kukeldash Madrasah was used for atheistic museum exhibitions, and later for folk music. In the 1990s, the building was made a madrasah again.

Generally, it is nothing special when compared to Bukhara and Samarkand, but if you are not planning to visit those cities then this is a must see.

Hazrati Imam (Khast Imam)

Hazrati Imam Complex is the largest place of worship in Tashkent, and it is a center of religious and cultural heritage. It is a complex of several architectural monuments of madrasas, mosques, mausoleum and museums. Among all the buildings, Moyie Mubarek Library Museum is probably the most important building in the Hazrati Imam complex, as it holds the oldest Quran in the world. Another impressive building is Hazrati Imam Mosque, built in 2007. The mosque is beautifully decorated with charming ornaments.

Another important structure in the Hazrati Imam Complex is the Barak Khan Madrasah. This 16th century building has a colourful facade, and it was the symbol of the greatness of the city’s history.

Nowadays, the classrooms have been transformed into small shops selling local souvenirs.

Hotel Uzbekistan

Hotel Uzbekistan is a typical massive Soviet hotel. It’s an enormous concrete building with an interesting facade. It’s absolutely impossible to miss it while you’re wandering around the city. The hotel has a superb location near to Amir Timur Museum and the Monument of Amir Temur.

There is a small coffee & beer bar on the top floor where you can have a stunning view over Amir Timur square.

Nearest Subway: Amir Timur Xiyoboni (red Chilonzor line).

Amir Temur Square

Amir Temur square and the surrounding park is a must visit place while in Tashkent. In the center of the square there is a large epic statue of the national hero and conqueror Amir Temur (sometimes spelled Timur). The large monument shows Timur on horseback, with shield and sword on his left, and upraised right hand. The monument pedestal is engraved with Amir Temur’s famous motto in four languages “Strength in Justice” . The park itself is beautiful with well-kept gardens.

On the edge of the square, you’ll find several other impressive buildings such as the famous Hotel Uzbekistan, the Palace of international Forums, Tashkent State University of Law, and the Amir Temur Museum. Broadway Alley, a pedestrian street, is also nearby.

State Museum of the Temurids (Amir Timur Museum)

The State Museum of the Temurids is one of the best places to visit in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. It was opened in 1996 in honour of the 660th anniversary of the warlord Amir Temur. The museum is dedicated to Amir Temur, great ruler of ancient Uzbekistan. Here you will find a lot of information and exhibits related to representatives of the Temurid dynasty. There are more than 5,000 artefacts in the museum, with more than 2,000 displayed in the exhibition halls.

Independence Square (Mustaqillik Maydoni)

Independence Square is the main square of the country. It used to be called Lenin Square during the Soviet era. It is a very nice and well-maintained area surrounded by gardens, parks, impressive public buildings, fountains, and several monuments. Here you can see the Arch of Independence and the Independence Monument. The silver arch with figures of storks marks the entrance to the Independence Square.

Unfortunately, some of the parts were inaccessible during my visit so I cannot comment much on this place.

Nearest Subway: Mustaqilik Maydoni (red Chilonzor line).

Tashkent Metro

Tashkent’s metro system was opened in 1977, built in the former USSR. Like many Soviet metro systems, they have some of the most unique and impressive stations and each of them is a work of art. Almost every station of the Tashkent Metro is absolutely stunning, each with its own theme.

My favourite Tashkent metro station is Kosmonavtlar. It is dedicated to the cosmonauts of the Soviet Union with space themed pillars and mosaics. The interior is decorated with blue ceramic medallions with portraits of famous Soviet cosmonauts like Valentina Tereshkova, Mirzo Ulugh Beg, Yuri Gagarin, and Vladimir Dzhanibekov, while the ceiling resembles the Milky Way, which shows glass stars.

Definitely, Tashkent Metro is one of the best places to visit in Tashkent.

Tashkent TV tower

The Tashkent TV tower is the tallest in Central Asia and the 12th tallest tower in the world. The entire structure stands 375-metre-high, while the observation deck is 97 metres above the ground. Don’t forget your passport as it is required for getting the ticket.

Nearest Subway: Shahriston (green Yunubod line).

Minor Mosque

Minor mosque is one of the newest attractions of Tashkent. It was built in 2014 on the initiative of Islam Karimov, the First President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The mosque has a special importance because of a rich blend of both modern and traditional architectural styles with its impressive white marble and large manicured gardens and fountain. Entrance is free. Definitely worth to see when in Tashkent.

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