I had the chance to visit Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, and I must say—it surprised me in the best way possible. From Soviet-era architecture to modern shopping centers, leafy boulevards, bustling bazaars, and deeply rooted Islamic history, Tashkent is a blend of old charm and contemporary spirit. Whether you’re just curious or planning a trip to Uzbekistan, this blog will give you a detailed idea of what to expect in Tashkent, what to do, and how to enjoy it to the fullest.

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Where is Tashkent?

Tashkent is the largest city in Central Asia and serves as the capital of Uzbekistan. It’s located close to the borders of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. It’s well connected by international flights and is often the first stop for travelers exploring the Silk Road.

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Why Visit Tashkent?

Many travelers overlook Tashkent for the more historical cities like Samarkand or Bukhara, but the capital has its own unique vibe. It’s clean, modern, safe, and full of cultural layers. Tashkent blends Soviet-style city planning with Islamic heritage and Central Asian hospitality, making it a perfect introduction to Uzbekistan.

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How to Reach Tashkent

• By Air: Tashkent International Airport (TAS) is well connected to major cities like Dubai, Istanbul, Delhi, and Moscow.
• By Train: If you’re coming from other Uzbek cities like Samarkand or Bukhara, high-speed trains like Afrosiyobmake traveling easy and comfortable.

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Where to Stay in Tashkent

Tashkent has accommodations for every budget:

• Luxury: Hyatt Regency, Hilton Tashkent City
• Mid-range: Wyndham, Shodlik Palace
• Budget: Green City Hotel, Topchan Hostel (popular among backpackers)

Choose something close to the metro or central areas like Amir Timur Square for easier access to attractions.

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Getting Around

• Metro: Tashkent’s metro system is not only efficient and cheap (around 1,400 UZS) but also beautiful! Each station is uniquely designed—almost like walking through a museum.
• Taxi: Yandex Go and local taxis are available. You can also bargain for short rides.
• Walking: Many key attractions are walkable if you’re staying in the city center.

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Top Things to Do in Tashkent

1. Amir Timur Square

The heart of modern Tashkent, this square is dedicated to the 14th-century conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane). The statue of Timur on a horse is one of the city’s iconic landmarks.

2. Chorsu Bazaar

A lively and colorful market under a turquoise dome. Great place to buy local spices, dried fruits, Uzbek bread (non), traditional clothes, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain!

3. Khast Imam Complex

This religious complex is home to the world’s oldest Quran, known as the Uthman Quran. It’s a spiritual and historical center, with beautiful Islamic architecture and peaceful surroundings.

4. Tashkent TV Tower

The tallest structure in Central Asia (375 meters). You can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

5. Museum of Applied Arts

A hidden gem that showcases traditional Uzbek textiles, ceramics, wood carvings, and embroidery inside a beautiful building with vibrant tiles.

6. Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre

Catch an affordable yet world-class performance in this elegant Soviet-era building. Tickets usually start from as low as $2–$5 USD.

7. Plov Center (Central Asian Plov Center)

Don’t leave Tashkent without trying plov, the national dish. At the Plov Center, they cook it in massive kazan (iron pots) and serve it fresh daily.

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What to Eat in Tashkent

• Plov: The national rice dish with meat, carrots, and spices.
• Samsa: Baked meat-filled pastries, often cooked in tandoor ovens.
• Lagman: Hand-pulled noodles in a rich broth with meat and vegetables.
• Shashlik: Grilled skewered meat, usually served with raw onions.
• Chay (Tea): Green or black tea is served everywhere and is a big part of local hospitality.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal. The weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
• Winter can be chilly and snowy, but the city looks beautiful. I visited in winter, and despite the cold, the experience was magical and peaceful without tourist crowds.

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Travel Tips

• Carry some Uzbek Soms (UZS) in cash—small shops and taxis often don’t take cards.
• Download Yandex Go for getting around.
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• English is not widely spoken—learning a few Russian or Uzbek phrases helps!
• Tashkent is very safe, even at night. Locals are friendly and helpful.

Tashkent might not be as ancient as Samarkand or as photogenic as Bukhara, but it has a charm of its own. It’s a perfect blend of past and present, full of cultural richness, welcoming people, and unique experiences. Whether you’re starting or ending your Uzbekistan trip here, Tashkent deserves a spot on your itinerary.

If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan and have any questions about Tashkent, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to help.

If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!

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