Things to Do in Tashkent, Oʻzbekiston

Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture, Islamic heritage, and modern Central Asian culture. As the largest city in the region, it serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural hub, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both ancient Silk Road history and contemporary Uzbek life. The city's tree-lined boulevards, expansive squares, and impressive metro system reflect its Soviet past, while traditional bazaars, historic mosques, and madrasas showcase its rich Islamic heritage. Today's Tashkent is experiencing a renaissance, with new restaurants, cafes, and cultural spaces emerging alongside carefully preserved historical sites. The city's location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Uzbekistan's other legendary cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, while offering plenty of attractions in its own right. From the bustling Chorsu Bazaar to the serene Hazrat Imam Complex, Tashkent provides an authentic introduction to Central Asian culture, hospitality, and cuisine.

Top Things to Do in Tashkent

Explore Traditional Bazaars

Visit the iconic Chorsu Bazaar, housed under a distinctive blue dome, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. The bazaar offers an authentic sensory experience with the aroma of fresh bread, colorful displays of dried fruits and nuts, and the bustling atmosphere of daily Uzbek life. This is the perfect place to sample local delicacies, purchase souvenirs, and interact with friendly locals.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Bring cash in local currency (Uzbek som) and be prepared to bargain. Budget around $20-30 for souvenirs and snacks.

Discover Islamic Architecture and History

Explore the Hazrat Imam Complex, Tashkent's spiritual heart, which houses several beautiful madrasas, mosques, and the famous Othman Quran - one of the world's oldest Quran manuscripts. The complex showcases stunning Islamic architecture with intricate tilework, carved wooden details, and peaceful courtyards. The nearby Barak Khan Madrasa and Tillya Sheikh Mosque add to the area's religious and historical significance.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are minimal (around $1-2 per site). Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for photography. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and legs. Consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to learn about the historical significance.

Experience Soviet-Era Architecture

Take a tour of Tashkent's impressive Soviet-era landmarks, including the iconic Tashkent Metro with its ornately decorated stations featuring marble, chandeliers, and artistic mosaics. Visit Independence Square (formerly Lenin Square), one of the largest public squares in the former Soviet Union, and explore the distinctive Brutalist and Socialist Realist architecture throughout the city center.

Booking Tip: Metro rides cost less than $0.20 per trip. Photography in metro stations requires permission. Walking tours focusing on Soviet architecture typically cost $25-40 per person. Best experienced during weekdays when metro stations are less crowded.

Learn Traditional Uzbek Cooking

Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Uzbek dishes like plov (pilaf), manti (steamed dumplings), and lagman (hand-pulled noodles). These classes often include visits to local markets to select ingredients, followed by step-by-step instruction in preparing authentic recipes. Many classes conclude with sharing the meal you've prepared along with local tea and conversation.

Booking Tip: Book classes 2-3 days in advance, typically costing $30-50 per person including ingredients and meals. Morning classes often include market visits. Look for classes that offer recipe cards to take home and focus on multiple dishes rather than just plov.

Explore Museums and Cultural Sites

Visit the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan to learn about the country's rich past from ancient times through the Soviet era, featuring archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, and historical exhibits. The Applied Arts Museum showcases exquisite examples of traditional Uzbek craftsmanship including ceramics, textiles, and woodwork in a beautiful early 20th-century building that was once a Russian diplomat's residence.

Booking Tip: Museum entry fees range from $2-5. Most museums are closed on Mondays. Allow 2-3 hours per museum. Photography permits may cost an additional $1-2. Some museums offer English-speaking guides for $10-15.

Getting There

Tashkent is accessible via Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, which serves as Central Asia's main aviation hub with connections to major cities worldwide including Moscow, Istanbul, Dubai, Delhi, and Frankfurt. The airport is located about 12 kilometers from the city center, with taxis costing around $3-5 and airport shuttle buses available for under $1. Overland travel is possible from neighboring countries, with train connections from Moscow and bus services from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and other Central Asian nations, though these journeys can be lengthy and require proper visa documentation.

Getting Around

Tashkent has an efficient and affordable public transportation system anchored by its beautiful metro network, where rides cost less than $0.20 and trains run frequently throughout the day. The city also has an extensive bus and marshrutka (shared taxi) network covering areas not served by the metro. Taxis are widely available and inexpensive - use apps like MyTaxi or negotiate fares in advance, with most city rides costing $1-3. For longer stays, car rentals are available, though traffic can be heavy and parking challenging in the city center.

Where to Stay

Tashkent City Center

Amir Timur Square Area

Chorsu Bazaar District

Yunusabad District

Shaykhantakhur District

Near Tashkent International Airport

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene offers everything from traditional Uzbek cuisine to international fare, with the city's famous plov (pilaf) being a must-try dish best sampled at local oshkhanas (pilaf houses) or the Central Asian Plov Center. Traditional restaurants serve hearty dishes like shashlik (grilled meat), lagman noodles, and fresh nan bread, while modern cafes and restaurants offer fusion cuisine and international options. The city's teahouses (chaikhanas) provide a cultural dining experience where meals are enjoyed on traditional low tables called 'kursichalar.' For authentic experiences, visit family-run restaurants in residential areas, while the city center offers upscale dining options and international chains for familiar tastes.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing, ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Summers can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging, while winters are cold with occasional snow and temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring brings blooming trees and pleasant weather perfect for exploring outdoor sites, while autumn offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures ideal for walking tours and market visits.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian or Uzbek phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas and hotels

Always carry cash in Uzbek som as credit cards are not accepted everywhere, and exchange money at official exchange points for better rates

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and removing shoes when entering homes or certain traditional restaurants

Things to Do in Tashkent