I had seen a few photos and videos online of Uzbekistan, which is why I knew I had to visit. But there wasn’t too much on Tashkent itself, so I knew I was going to be surprised (and in a good way).
Most people I’d told about my trip couldn’t even place it on a map and honestly, that made me even more curious to see what this city was all about.
What I found completely surprised me. Tashkent is one of the cleanest, greenest, and most organised cities I’ve ever visited and a mix of Soviet-era architecture, Silk Road history, and modern parks.
The metro rides cost just a few cents, the food was hearty and full of flavour, and everywhere I went, locals were kind and curious.
If you’re visiting Uzbekistan or planning a stop before heading to Samarkand or Bukhara, don’t skip Tashkent. Give yourself at least two full days to explore and here’s what to see, eat, and do, plus some helpful tips from my visit.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Where to Stay on Your First Trip to Tashkent
($) Art Hostel Tashkent
($$) Wyndham Tashkent– I stayed here.
($$$) Hyatt Regency Tashkent
👉 Tour we recommend in Tashkent
– Historic Metro Tour
– Guided City Walking Tour
– Plov and Samsa Cooking Class in Tashkent
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Why Visit Tashkent?
Tashkent is the largest city in Central Asia and the gateway to Uzbekistan’s Silk Road region. It was largely rebuilt after a 1966 earthquake, giving it a rare mix of Soviet design and modern development.
You’ll find massive boulevards lined with trees, beautiful metro stations that feel like underground art galleries, and a food scene full of surprises from fresh bread stalls to high-end restaurants.
It’s also incredibly affordable. A metro ticket cost me less than 25 cents, and a full meal (plov with salad and a drink) was under $9 AUD.
Must-See Attractions in Tashkent
If there’s one thing you must do in Tashkent, it’s ride the metro and not just to get around, but to see the stations themselves.
Each station is uniquely designed with marble pillars, chandeliers, mosaics, and themed architecture. My favourites were:
- Kosmonavtlar Station (Red Line): Dedicated to Soviet astronauts, glowing in deep blue lights.
- Alisher Navoi Station (Blue Line): Elegant white marble and classic Uzbek patterns.
- Pakhtakor Station: A colourful transfer hub with Soviet-era mosaics.
Tip: Photography is now allowed (it wasn’t before). Tickets cost around 2,000 UZS (about $0.22 AUD).
👉 Visiting soon? Get a guided metro art tour for extra insights into the station designs.
Located in the city’s old quarter, this is Tashkent’s most important religious site. It’s home to the Muyi Mubarak Library, which houses one of the world’s oldest Qur’ans, said to date back to the 7th century.
The complex also includes:
- Barak Khan Madrasah
- Tilla Sheikh Mosque
- Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum
Dress modestly when visiting and be respectful. It’s still an active place of worship.
👉 Book a cultural city tour that includes Hazrat Imam and the metro stations.
The heart of old Tashkent, this bustling market has been operating for centuries and sits beneath a striking blue dome.
You’ll find locals selling spices, nuts, dried fruit, meat, bread, and fresh produce. Upstairs, you can sample traditional Uzbek dishes, such as samsa (meat pastries) and plov.
It’s busy, colourful, and full of energy but still feels authentic, not touristy.
Tip: Head to the upper level for the best views of the market dome.
Where to Stay on Your First Trip to Tashkent
($) Art Hostel Tashkent
($$) Wyndham Tashkent– I stayed here.
($$$) Hyatt Regency Tashkent
In the city centre, these two squares capture Tashkent’s historical and political heart.
At Amir Timur Square, you’ll see the equestrian statue of the national hero surrounded by fountains and gardens. Walk a little further to reach Independence Square, a large open area with arches, monuments, and eternal flames dedicated to Uzbekistan’s independence.
If you love Soviet architecture, Hotel Uzbekistan is a must-see. Built in the 1970s, its geometric façade makes it one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city. There’s even a rooftop bar on the 17th floor with a view over Amir Timur Square.
For an even higher view, visit the Tashkent TV Tower at 375 meters, it’s one of the tallest in the world. You can ride an elevator up to an observation deck and even dine in the rotating restaurant.
Tickets are around 40,000 UZS (~$5 AUD).
Tashkent has several fascinating museums worth visiting:
- State Museum of the Temurids: Dedicated to Amir Timur’s dynasty with historical artifacts and beautiful interiors.
- Museum of Applied Arts: Showcases Uzbek craftsmanship, ceramics, and textiles.
- State History Museum: A great place to learn about Uzbekistan’s past, from the Silk Road to modern independence.
If you enjoy art and history, spend a morning here before exploring Amir Timur Avenue.
Tashkent surprised me with how green it is. The city is full of spacious parks and tree-lined boulevards. Way more than I expected.
- Navoi Park is the largest, complete with canals and monuments.
- Broadway Boulevard (Sailgokh Street) is perfect for evening strolls, street art, and people-watching.
- Memorial to the Victims of Repression is a quiet, reflective spot with stunning architecture.
Food & Drink in Tashkent
You can’t leave without trying plov, Uzbekistan’s national dish Plov, a hearty mix of rice, meat, carrots, and spices.
The best place? The Plov Centre (Besh Qozon), where giant cauldrons cook up fresh servings daily.
Other great spots to eat include:
- Caravan: For a traditional setting and live music.
- National Food: Authentic Uzbek dishes at local prices.
- Vinaryba & SalSal: For modern twists and outdoor dining.
👉 Join a Tashkent food tour here to sample local favourites with a guide.
👉 If you’re short on time take a Samarkand One-Day Tour Departure from Tashkent!
Day Trips & Outdoor Adventures
If you have an extra day, head out of the city for some nature:
- Chimgan Mountains (2 hours away): Perfect for hiking, skiing, or just enjoying the alpine air.
- Charvak Lake: A turquoise reservoir surrounded by mountains. Great for swimming and boat rides in summer.
Travel Tips for Tashkent
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather.
- Getting Around: The metro is cheap and efficient. Yandex Go is the best taxi app and rides are usually under $2 AUD.
- Costs: Very affordable. Budget around $40–$60 AUD per day.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in religious sites.
- Money: Cash is king; ATMs are available but bring USD or EUR for easy exchange.
Simple 2 Day Tashkent Itinerary
Day 1:
Start with the metro art tour, visit Hazrat Imam Complex, and have lunch at Chorsu Bazaar. In the afternoon, explore Amir Timur Square and Hotel Uzbekistan, then end your day at the TV Tower for sunset views.
Day 2:
Begin at the State Museum of the Temurids, then relax in Navoi Park or Broadway Boulevard. Enjoy plov at the Plov Centre and spend your evening shopping at the Book Bazaar or trying a new restaurant.
👉 Prefer organised tours? View guided Tashkent city tour here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Tashkent
Absolutely, it’s safe, affordable, and full of culture, history, and modern charm.
Ideally, 2 days is enough to see the highlights without rushing.
Yes! I travelled solo and felt completely safe walking around, even at night.
Spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather. Summers can be very hot.
Around 2,000 UZS (≈ $0.22 AUD). Tokens or rechargeable cards are available at stations.
At Besh Qozon (Plov Centre). It’s an experience on its own.
Use the metro for sightseeing and Yandex Go for cheap rides.
Yes, you’ll find everything from boutique hotels in the old town to modern stays near Amir Timur Square.
Definitely, it’s one of the most affordable capitals in Asia.
Uzbek is the official, but many locals speak Russian. Young people often know some English too.
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