Things To Do
in Tashkent
Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant metropolis blending modern development and rich historical heritage, evident in its stunning Islamic architecture and Soviet-era buildings. It's a cultural hub, offering vast markets like Chorsu Bazaar, numerous museums, and the famed Tashkent Metro, known for its ornate stations.
Despite its bustling urban atmosphere, Tashkent also provides serene green spaces, such as the Alisher Navoi National Park, making it a diverse and appealing destination for visitors.
- "Salom" - Hello
- "Rahmat" - Thank you
- "Iltimos" - Please
- "Xush kelibsiz" - Welcome
- "Qanday yaxshisiz?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the iconic Khast Imam Complex to appreciate the stunning architecture. Don't forget to check out the Ustad Ismail Samani Mausoleum nearby.
Take a stroll through Chorsu Bazaar, where you can indulge in local food and purchase traditional handicrafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and engage with friendly vendors.
Relax at the beautiful Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre. Consider catching a performance or simply enjoy the picturesque setting.
Start your day at the Museum of Applied Arts, showcasing exquisite Uzbek crafts. It’s a great introduction to the country’s rich artistic heritage.
Visit the Amir Timur Museum for insights into the life of the legendary conqueror. Explore the nearby square for some beautiful photo opportunities.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional Uzbek dishes like plov and shashlik. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks such as the Khast Imam Complex and the Registan.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other cities.
- Developing infrastructure and improvements in public transport.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
- Diverse cuisine with unique flavor profiles and traditional dishes.
- Limited flight connections and sometimes challenging visa processes for travelers.
- Air pollution and traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Underdeveloped public services in some sectors.
- Language barrier as Russian and Uzbek are predominantly spoken, and English may not be widely understood.
- Hot climate in summer can be uncomfortable for some people.
Best Activities in Tashkent
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, skiing, and snowboarding in the mountains
Strolling, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty
Exploring the city and its surroundings on a bike
Tours
Uncover the best of Tashkent with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tashkent
Visit one of these nice places.
A prominent square in the heart of Tashkent, offering great views of the Amir Timur monument and the imposing Uzbekistan Hotel.
Provides panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, with photo opportunities of the city skyline and surrounding landscape.
Food in Tashkent
Tashkent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices. Must-try at Central Asian Plov Center or Cafe Silk Road.
Must-Try!
Noodle soup with vegetables and usually beef. Best at Lag'monchi or Tashkent Restaurant.
Flaky pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. Available at Samsa House or Mirzo Ulugbek Samsa House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tashkent better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic market offering a wide range of fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts, and street food stalls like Shashlik (kebabs) and non (bread).
Lively street in the city center known for its food stalls offering various kebabs, pastries, and local snacks like Kazy.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tashkent, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. It is also polite to address people by their titles and with formal language, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Tashkent. It is customary to show deference and respect to elders in both speech and behavior.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively. Women, in particular, are expected to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tashkent with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tashkent
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tashkent, it is customary to tip around 10-15% at restaurants and cafes if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated, but it's not mandatory.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Tashkent, and it's important to have local currency (Uzbekistani soʻm) on hand. Some establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash available. ATMs are widely available for currency exchange and withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tashkent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Tashkent as the weather is mild and the city is full of blooming flowers. Expect pleasant temperatures and colorful landscapes.
Summer in Tashkent can be very hot with temperatures reaching over 40°C (104°F). However, it's a good time to experience local festivals and events.
Autumn offers mild temperatures and is the perfect time to explore Tashkent's parks and gardens as the leaves start to change color.
Winter in Tashkent can be quite cold, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to experience a more peaceful and quieter side of the city.
Tashkent at Night
Hiking in Tashkent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Chimgan is a popular mountain resort located about 80 km from Tashkent. It offers beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and is ideal for outdoor activities.
Located near Chimgan, Beldersay is known for its stunning landscapes and challenging hiking trails, making it a favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Gazalkent is a quaint area with various hiking paths and a tranquil environment. It is easily accessible from Tashkent and is perfect for a day trip.
The Pskem River Valley features lush greenery and picturesque views, providing numerous trails for hiking and exploring nature.
Koksu Valley offers a more remote hiking experience with breathtaking views, rugged terrain, and the chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tashkent through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tashkent by plane.
The main international airport serving Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with flights to numerous destinations around the world.
Located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is about 300 km from Tashkent.
Situated in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, approximately 600 km from Tashkent, offering limited international services.
Located in Navoi, Uzbekistan, around 350 km from Tashkent, primarily serving as a cargo airport but also handles some passenger flights.
Located in Ferghana, Uzbekistan, about 350 km from Tashkent, serving both domestic and limited international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Tashkent, making up approximately 80% of the population.
A significant minority in Tashkent, historically present and making up around 5-7% of the population.
A smaller ethnic group, with a presence in Tashkent, accounting for about 2-3% of the population.
An ethnic group that is part of the broader Uzbek identity, comprising a small percentage of the population in Tashkent.
Includes groups such as Ukrainians, Koreans, and Jews, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
The Soul of Tashkent
Discover the essence of Tashkent through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tashkent, with a strong following and several professional teams, including FC Pakhtakor and FC Bunyodkor.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Tashkent, with many local clubs and a growing youth participation in the sport.
Tennis is widely played in Tashkent, with numerous clubs and facilities available for players of all levels.
Wrestling is a traditional sport in Uzbekistan, and Tashkent hosts many wrestling events and competitions, reflecting the country's strong wrestling culture.
Athletics has a solid presence in Tashkent, with various events and competitions helping to promote running and other athletic disciplines.
Boxing is a popular sport in Tashkent, with many local boxing gyms and a history of successful Uzbek boxers on the international stage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tashkent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Uzbek cuisine is meat-centric, vegetarian options like Achichuk salad, Manti (dumplings with pumpkin), and various vegetable-stuffed pastries can be found at most local restaurants.
Vegan options are more limited, but dishes like vegetable pilaf, fresh salads, and grilled vegetable kebabs can be sourced at accommodating restaurants.
Many traditional Uzbek dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as grilled meats, rice-based pilafs, and fresh fruits. Communication with chefs about dietary restrictions is advisable.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tashkent with these cultural adventures.
