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Tashkent, Oʻzbekiston - Things to Do in Tashkent

Things to Do in Tashkent

Tashkent, Oʻzbekiston - Complete Travel Guide

Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, seamlessly blends Soviet-era architecture with traditional Islamic culture and modern urban development. As Central Asia's largest city, it serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural heart, featuring wide boulevards, impressive metro stations adorned with local artwork, and bustling bazaars that have operated for centuries. The city's unique character stems from its reconstruction after the devastating 1966 earthquake, which led to a fascinating architectural mix of Soviet modernism alongside preserved historical districts. Today's Tashkent offers visitors an authentic Central Asian experience with world-class museums, beautiful madrasas and mosques, vibrant markets filled with spices and textiles, and a thriving culinary scene. The city serves as an excellent introduction to Uzbekistan's rich Silk Road heritage while providing modern amenities and infrastructure that make it comfortable for international travelers.

Top Things to Do in Tashkent

Explore Chorsu Bazaar and Old City

Dive into the heart of traditional Tashkent at the iconic Chorsu Bazaar, housed under a distinctive blue-tiled dome. This centuries-old market offers an authentic sensory experience with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. The surrounding old city area features narrow alleys, traditional mahallas (neighborhoods), and historic architecture.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. No advance booking needed, but bring cash in local currency (som). Consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to help navigate and translate.

Discover Tashkent Metro Art

Experience one of the world's most beautiful metro systems, where each station is a work of art featuring unique themes, chandeliers, marble columns, and local cultural motifs. The Soviet-era stations showcase everything from space exploration themes to traditional Uzbek patterns. Photography was historically restricted but is now permitted in most stations.

Booking Tip: Purchase a metro token for about $0.10 per ride at any station. Best visited during off-peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) for photography and exploration. Allow 2-3 hours to visit the most spectacular stations including Kosmonavtlar, Alisher Navoi, and Pakhtakor.

Visit Historic Madrasas and Mosques

Explore Tashkent's spiritual heritage at the Hazrat Imam Complex, home to the world's oldest Quran, and the beautiful Kukeldash Madrasa, the city's largest Islamic school. These sites offer insight into the region's Islamic architecture and religious traditions. The complex also includes several mosques, a mausoleum, and an Islamic institute.

Booking Tip: Entry fees range from $1-3 per site. Dress modestly (long sleeves, long pants, headscarves for women). Visit between 9 AM - 5 PM, avoiding Friday prayers. Photography inside religious buildings may require additional fees ($2-5).

Experience Uzbek Culinary Traditions

Immerse yourself in Uzbekistan's rich culinary heritage by learning to cook traditional dishes like plov (pilaf), manti (steamed dumplings), and fresh bread in a tandoor oven. Many experiences include visits to local markets to select ingredients and end with enjoying the meal you've prepared. This offers deep cultural insight beyond just sightseeing.

Booking Tip: Book cooking classes through local operators for $25-40 per person, typically lasting 3-4 hours including market visit and meal. Morning classes (9 AM start) are most popular. Look for experiences that include recipe cards and market tours.

Stroll Through Amir Timur Square and Independence Square

Walk through Tashkent's ceremonial heart at these two grand squares that showcase the city's modern identity and historical pride. Amir Timur Square features the iconic statue of the great conqueror surrounded by important government buildings and the famous Hotel Uzbekistan. Independence Square, one of the world's largest, commemorates Uzbekistan's sovereignty with impressive monuments and fountains.

Booking Tip: Free to visit anytime, but most impressive during daylight hours for photography. Evening visits offer beautiful lighting of the monuments. Allow 1-2 hours for both squares. Combine with nearby State Museum of History for a full morning or afternoon.

Getting There

Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, located about 12 kilometers from the city center, with direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and some Middle Eastern destinations. Uzbekistan Airways is the national carrier offering the most connections, while other airlines like Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot, and Air Astana provide convenient routing options. Overland travel is possible via train or bus from neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, though border procedures can be time-consuming and require advance visa arrangements.

Getting Around

Tashkent offers multiple transportation options with the metro system being the most efficient and tourist-friendly way to cover longer distances across the city. The extensive bus network is affordable but can be crowded and challenging for non-Russian speakers. Taxis are readily available through apps like Yandex Taxi or can be hailed on the street, with rides typically costing $1-5 within the city center. Many attractions in the old city area are within walking distance of each other, and the city center is quite pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and parks.

Where to Stay

Tashkent City Center
Amir Timur Square Area
Chorsu Bazaar District
Yunusabad District
Shaykhantaur District
Minor District

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene ranges from traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) serving authentic Uzbek cuisine to modern restaurants offering international fare. The city is famous for its plov, best experienced at traditional oshxona restaurants, while street food lovers should try samsa (baked meat pastries) and fresh bread from tandoor ovens. Upscale dining options have expanded significantly, with restaurants in hotels and the city center offering refined takes on local cuisine alongside international options. The Chorsu Bazaar area provides the most authentic local dining experiences, while the city center offers more contemporary restaurants and cafes catering to international tastes.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Uzbekistan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Besh Qozon

4.6 /5
(5749 reviews)

Forn Lebnen

4.6 /5
(393 reviews)
bakery bar store

Tanuki

4.5 /5
(292 reviews)
meal_delivery

AZUR - Terrace Garden

4.7 /5
(255 reviews)

Sushi Time

4.5 /5
(254 reviews)

Fillet Restaurant

4.8 /5
(232 reviews)

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). Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), making outdoor exploration challenging during midday hours. Winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures and occasional snow, but fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. Spring offers the added benefit of blooming trees and gardens throughout the city, while autumn provides clear skies and pleasant weather perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian phrases as it's more widely spoken than English, especially among older generations and service staff
Always carry cash in Uzbek som as many smaller establishments and markets don't accept cards, and ATMs can be limited in older parts of the city
Respect local customs by dressing conservatively when visiting religious sites and removing shoes when entering mosques or traditional homes

Explore Activities in Tashkent