What to see in Tashkent
No matter what your reasons for visiting the capital of Uzbekistan, it will leave no one indifferent. A city with a thousand-year history, centuries-old temples, and captivating mountain landscapes that you will surely love. Here, they will gladly offer you real pilaf, treat you to pomegranates, and show you the way to the mosaic-decorated Minor Mosque. We'll tell you about the best places to ensure your impressions are truly unforgettable. So, shall we go?
How to get there
It's a pity that teleportation hasn't been invented yet, and you can't visit cool places with a snap of your fingers. Fortunately, we know a couple of ways to get to Tashkent without losing your travel mood.
By plane
The easiest and most accessible way is to fly. Moscow — Tashkent airline tickets are sold with enviable regularity. No matter what date you choose, you'll always find a flight, and there's even a chance to find a direct flight. So, let's go get tickets before they're all sold out!
By train
Miss the atmosphere of conversations in a compartment and the fleeting treetops passing by outside the window? Then we have good news: you can also get to Tashkent by land. Uzbekistan has regular train services with Moscow, and trains from Saratov and Ufa run once a week. If you choose this option, don't forget to pack food and plan entertainment for the four-day journey.
By car
Neither the first nor the second option suits you? You can always get there by car! The downsides include a journey of about 40 hours from Moscow to Tashkent, plus you'll have to cross the border with Kazakhstan twice. However, this option also has its advantages. For example, on the way, you can stop in Ryazan and get acquainted with the local culture or visit the Lermontov estate in Penza.
When to go
Tashkent is beautiful at any time of year: it's not cold at all in autumn, and not particularly rainy in spring. However, everything depends on your preferences. Let's figure out whether to bring a swimsuit or wrap yourself in something warmer.
Summer weather locals describe with one word — “chilla”. Unfortunately, it has nothing to do with the word “chill”. This is how the peoples of Central Asian countries refer to the exhausting heat that lasts forty, or even more, days. So, if you're not afraid of the scorching sun, this is a great option. And if you really want to spend summer in Uzbekistan, head to the mountains, closer to the waterfalls.
Autumn in Tashkent is famous for pleasant weather without precipitation. In September-October, the temperature does not rise above +30 degrees, and after November, it drops to +15.
In winter, people often go to ski resorts in Uzbekistan. There haven't been severe frosts there for a long time, and the temperature is pleasant: from –5 to +12 degrees.
Spring in Tashkent is captivating: apple trees bloom, flowers grow, everything awakens from winter hibernation. The temperature during this time of year does not rise above +30 degrees. Sometimes it rains, and it can get cooler towards evening. So, if you decide to go for a walk, don't forget to bring something warm.
Tashkent Attractions
A walk through Tashkent is not a 20-minute adventure. Rest assured, the capital of Uzbekistan will charm even a skeptic. Majestic mosques are located next to residential buildings here, and among the cathedrals, you can find those made in Gothic style. In short, let's figure out what to see.
Mustakillik Square
In other words, Independence Square. This is the center of Tashkent. Everything here is beautiful: fountains and monumental buildings with majestic arches. Right at the entrance, you'll be greeted by 16 marble columns with storks as sculptures. And if you go further, you can reach galleries restored in a modern style.
Tashkent Metro
The local metro, no kidding, can be considered one of Tashkent's attractions. It looks like an underground palace where everyone will feel like a true member of a royal family. And why not, it's not every day you're surrounded by impressive columns, painted ceilings, and mosaic floors. We highly recommend visiting a couple of stations to see for yourself:
- Alisher Navoi station;
- Beruni station;
- Badamzar station;
- Gafur Gulyam station;
- Friendship of Peoples station;
- Kosmonavtlar station or Cosmonauts Avenue;
- Yunus Rajabi station.
TV Tower
Sometimes you can spend a romantic evening with yourself, trying delicious dishes in front of a panoramic window. Where is this possible? On the top floor of the Tashkent TV Tower (by the way, the tallest in Central Asia, a full 375 meters!). Hundreds of people come here daily to be inspired by the opening views and take selfies against the city backdrop. How fortunate that you can travel to Uzbekistan without a visa. Grab your tickets and go, for beautiful photos and new experiences!
Hazrati Imam
Want to get closer to the spiritual history of Uzbekistan? Then the Hazrati Imam complex is a top option for what to see in Tashkent. The ensemble will take you through centuries of history and introduce you to local traditions. The square features:
- Tilla Sheikh Mosque;
- Mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi;
- Imam Al-Bukhari Islamic Institute.
Prince Romanov's Palace
Once, this was the palace of a Romanov representative, and currently, it is the residence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. You can admire the palace, but not touch it. You won't be able to go inside, but anyone can stroll in the garden outside. Sitting by the fountain opposite the Art Nouveau building — sounds atmospheric, doesn't it?
Minor Mosque
Emerald dome, marble trim, high arches... By the way, this is all about the youngest mosque in Tashkent. It appeared in 2014 and almost immediately received the status of an important spiritual center. Admission is free for tourists, but remember: your appearance must comply with local norms (shoulders and legs must be covered).
Alisher Navoi Park
Definitely a must-visit. Alisher Navoi Park is rich in attractions — from tree-lined tourist paths to a monument to the artist. Festivals and holidays are often held here, and some even celebrate weddings. In hot weather (especially if you're visiting in summer), you can stop by the fountains, and for vivid impressions, take a boat ride on the pond.
Chorsu Bazaar
As they say, you can't just go on vacation and come back without souvenirs. Especially when you can combine pleasant shopping with a small gastronomic tour. You ask, what kind of magical place is this? We'll tell you a secret: it's “Eski Juva”, in other words, Chorsu Bazaar. It is located in the very center of old Tashkent under a huge turquoise dome. During the Silk Road era, the market was a center of trade, and now... Well, it still is.
Outdoors, you can try local cuisine, and inside, enjoy a perfectionist's paradise. What is it? We won't tell you, because we recommend visiting in person. Plus, you can now enter Tashkent with just a foreign passport. Isn't that lovely?
Amir Temur Square
Long walk enthusiasts, we know how much you dislike stopping. So, we offer an option for you. You'll have to walk a long time, but you won't get bored. The picturesque Amir Temur Square was renovated in a modern style in 2009. Now there are eight alleys, which give rise to the same number of streets. If that's not enough for you, we hasten to delight you: there are a huge number of historically important buildings around. Here you'll find the Law University (formerly a women's gymnasium), the Tashkent Chimes, and the Amir Temur Museum. In short, there's definitely plenty to explore. Why aren't you there yet?
Museum of Applied Arts
Close your eyes and try to imagine an oriental fairy tale. Did it work? Oh, wait... How will you read the article then? Then another option: we suggest visiting the Museum of Applied Arts in Tashkent and seeing a real oriental fairy tale with your own eyes. All exhibits here are objects of applied art. They were created in our time, but using ancient canons. Not only the exhibition samples are impressive, but also the halls in which they are located: each has its own theme with unique specimens.
Museum of the History of Uzbekistan
For everyone who wants to get to know the country better, we suggest visiting the Museum of the History of Uzbekistan. The exterior and the contents of the halls will surely surprise you. The museum has four floors, each with a special purpose:
- all modern and temporary exhibitions are on the first floor. This is for those who want to be surprised by bold solutions and simply stay informed;
- the second floor will send you back in time, not just 30 years, but whole millennia. Here you can see the first tools, as well as exhibits of poetry and trade;
- you can learn about the period of the three khanates and their influence on the history of Uzbekistan on the third floor;
and on the fourth, the period of the Modern History of Uzbekistan (19th–21st centuries) is covered.
Broadway Alley
Ah, we were wrong, the teleport does exist after all, and it seems to be in Tashkent. Broadway Alley is no less impressive than New York's: street musicians, singers, artists, and even magicians fill the street. “But there are no neon lights here!” you might rightly point out. However, don't jump to conclusions: neon lights, restaurants, even fountains — everything is available and waiting just for you. They'll turn them on as soon as you arrive, honestly!
Kukeldash Madrasah
Rest assured, you'll notice the madrasah from afar. The building is impressive even from a hundred kilometers away. An imposing arch, columns, and even a small open-air garden. Sounds like a place you definitely should visit. Translated from Arabic as “place of learning,” it functions as a secondary school, annually admitting over a hundred students. By the way, the madrasah is located very close to Chorsu Bazaar. Convenient, isn't it?
Japanese Garden
A piece of East Asia right in the center of Tashkent. Where else can you see something like this? Everything here is as the Japanese intended: a tea house with a bell to ward off spirits, a drum to ensure communication with the gods. You'll even have to take off your shoes at the entrance, but don't worry — the carpets are clean and pleasant. And imagine your surprise when a real peacock comes out to greet you? In the Japanese Garden, you don't even need to imagine — these guys are regular residents there, and you, it turns out, are their guests.
Botanical Garden
For relaxed, chill walks, Tashkent's botanical garden is perfect. In the local greenhouses, you can find plants brought from Europe or the Caucasus mountains. And on hot days, the tree crowns can protect you from the sun's rays. I wonder if you'll be lucky enough to find a mandrake in the garden? You don't need to touch it, but just in case, cover your ears when you're near it.
What to see in one day
As we said, a non-stop tour of the capital of Uzbekistan won't work. There are many attractions, but only 24 hours in a day. However, nothing is impossible, especially for us. Exclusively for all readers: we will guide you through iconic places and tell you exactly where to go in Tashkent in just one day.
Important: wisely assess your strength. You'll have to walk quite a lot. Therefore, the distance between some objects can and should be shortened by metro. And don't forget to check maps. Let's not waste time, let's go!
Let's start with the Central Asian “Pilaf Center” (Chupon Ota Street, 35). Having a meal before a multi-hour walk won't be superfluous; on the contrary, it will add strength. Besides, visiting Tashkent without trying pilaf is a huge oversight. In short, enjoy your meal!
Next, head to the “Mirzo Ulugbek” metro station along Chupon Ota Street. It's no more than a 20-minute walk. By the way, you'll most likely pass by “Dream Park” — a small amusement park in Tashkent.
Caution, doors are closing. The next stop is “Cosmonauts Avenue” metro station. In short, go there. You'll be able to combine pleasure with utility: see one of the most beautiful stations and get to the Museum of Applied Arts on Rakatboshi Street, 15.
From there, walk through the Alisher Navoi State Theater to Amir Temur Square. There are a ton of attractions here: both the Tashkent Chimes and the State Museum of History. You definitely won't get bored. And if you're hungry, there's the “Kuranty” cafe (Amir Temur Ave, 1) a couple of minutes' walk away. There you can try traditional cuisine and admire the luxurious interior.
You can walk to the “Courage” monument (Yunusabad district), and a walk north will lead you to the Minor Mosque (Khurshid Street, 41). From here, you can turn onto Amir Temur Avenue to find yourself near the Japanese Garden (Amir Temur Ave, 107A). And if you walk along it, you'll reach the TV Tower (Amir Temur Ave, 109A). Both day and night, a simply magnificent view opens up from here. This is your prize for the kilometers walked.
To conclude your journey — Syrovarnya (Iftikhor Street, 64), to end the day with a hearty meal.
Where to eat
The cherry on top and the most delicious piece — Tashkent's cuisine. Where to eat, what to try, and how to fill your gastronomic adventure with vivid impressions — we'll tell you right now.
Central Asian “Pilaf Center” (Besh Qozon)
Tashkent without pilaf is not Tashkent. It's good that there's Besh Qozon, where, in addition to Uzbek national cuisine, you'll be offered pilaf for every taste and even color: wedding, chaykhana, and special (with some secret ingredient).
Koinot
The highest restaurant in Tashkent, and it's located right in the TV tower. Yes, the very one visible from anywhere in the city. Every Saturday there's live music, steaks are served for lunch, and drinks are offered closer to the evening.
“Karasaray Lagman”
The most delicious lagman is here. The chefs don't skimp on ingredients, and you'll be delighted by the portion size. In short, it's perfect after a tiring walk.
“Caravan”
You won't believe it, but in “Caravan,” a typical Uzbek family cooks for you. In the evening, there's live music, and during the day, you can enjoy an unforgettable atmosphere. Every detail in the interior is handmade, and the space is stylized with all cultural features in mind.
Gijduvon
A restaurant, bar, and coffee shop all in one. They offer both European and national cuisine. Gijduvon is located on a bustling street in Tashkent. So, while everyone is bustling outside the window, you can enjoy a calm atmosphere and delicious food.
Where to stay in Tashkent
Attractions are attractions, but rest is sacred. Especially when Tashkent offers such a diverse selection of hotels that you could lose your head. But don't rush to do that. After all, there's a whole walk through the capital of Uzbekistan ahead, and you'll definitely need your head. And to save you time searching for hotels, we've prepared several really good options for you:
- Hotel “Uzbekistan”. In the evenings, a buffet is served here, and in the morning you can warm up in the gym. Excellent views and proximity to attractions make this place desirable among tourists;
- Art Inn Hotel. A good option, especially after a long flight. You can get from the airport on your own in 10–15 minutes, and even faster by taxi. We guarantee that delicious breakfasts and friendly staff will be remembered for a long time;.
- Green Park Hotel. If environmental issues are important to you, we recommend this hotel. The owners and staff care about nature conservation. In addition, there are many parks nearby. They will gladly provide you with a bicycle for rent to make your walk easier and your impressions more pleasant;
- Mirzo Boutique Hotel. A hotel in traditional Uzbek style: with mosaics and a turquoise dome. Highly recommended for a full immersion in the country's culture;
- Wyndham Tashkent. Wyndham Tashkent holds the title of a popular place among vacationers for a reason. Here you'll find a swimming pool, a sauna, and a spa. In short, you can fully relax even within the hotel walls.
Where to go from Tashkent
To go or not to go — that is the question. Rest assured, sooner or later such a dilemma will appear in your head. You don't want to leave the city, but at the same time, the wanderlust doesn't let go. It's understandable, Uzbekistan captivates tourists. Is there anything similar left within the borders? Of course!
Bukhara
Bukhara is your personal guide to Eastern culture. Just a few hours' drive is enough to find yourself among cotton fields, gaze at kishlaks from afar, or be impressed by the local deserts.
The vendors here will gladly tell you about the city's history, recount legends, and suggest the easiest way to the attractions. And they'll do it much better than experienced guides.
Samarkand
One of the oldest cities, an attraction in itself. Once a key point on the Silk Road, where Amir Timur conquered the region. Nowadays, its monuments are included in the UNESCO list, and mosques, mausoleums, and madrasahs are located on its streets. For a more vivid experience, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the history of Samarkand before visiting.
Mountains
More and more people want to see the mountains of Uzbekistan every year. The inspiring landscapes of the Chimgan Mountains (also called “local Switzerland” due to their snow-white peaks) attract not only skiers. Or sunsets over Mount Kumbel, which is over 2,000 meters high, captivating at first sight. In short, if you're tired of the city bustle and want something more active, head to the mountains; they also have something to surprise you with.
It's impossible to get acquainted with the culture of Central Asia in just a couple of days. If you planned to visit Tashkent, we advise you not to put this desire off. Rest assured, Uzbekistan will leave no one indifferent. We wish you pleasant impressions, delicious pilaf, and fulfilled plans!
