Tashkent tours offer a unique experience by blending the vibrant pace of a modern capital with the historical depth of Central Asia. From the iconic Chorsu Bazaar to the colorful Khast-Imam complex, every stop reveals the soul of the city.

Exploring Tashkent means diving into a capital with an oriental heart. Its architectural contrasts — medieval buildings, Soviet-era structures, and modern glass towers — reflect Uzbekistan’s journey toward independence.

We recommend starting with a historical introduction to better appreciate the city's multicultural roots, art, architecture, and hospitality.

Tashkent is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia and was a key point on the Silk Road connecting China with Europe. The first written records of a settlement here date back to the 2nd century BC.

In ancient Chinese texts it was known as Yuni or Shi, the Persians called it Chach, and the Arabs referred to it as Shash. The name “Tashkent” appeared in Turkic sources between the 9th and 12th centuries.

Its strategic location and pleasant climate made Tashkent a vital commercial and cultural hub for caravan routes between Asia and Europe.

In the 14th and 15th centuries, it was part of the Timurid Empire, and in the 16th century it came under Sheybanid dynasty control. In 1865, it was conquered by Russian general Chernyaev and incorporated into the Russian Empire.

The city became the capital of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic in 1930. After independence, Tashkent evolved into a modern and vibrant metropolis that still preserves its historical soul.

The main tourist attractions in Tashkent are concentrated in the Old Town, one of the few areas that has preserved its traditional essence amid the city's rapid growth.

Among narrow streets, quiet courtyards, and traditional houses, you’ll find landmarks like the legendary Chorsu Bazaar and the religious Khast-Imam Complex, with its blue domes shining under the sun. This is also where mahallas (neighborhoods), tea houses, and artisan workshops abound.

One of Tashkent’s most unexpected gems is its metro system, the first in Central Asia. More than transportation, it's an underground art gallery: each of its 50 stations features unique architecture — from the space-themed Kosmonavtlar to poetic designs in Alisher Navoi.

Other must-see sites include the Tashkent TV Tower, the German Lutheran Church, the Polish Catholic Cathedral, Amir Timur Square with its famous clock, and Independence Square. Don’t miss the Prince Romanov residence, designed by architects Benois and Heinzelmann.

Just 15 km from the center lies the Zangiata Mausoleum, a revered pilgrimage site where the Muslim sage Sheikh Ay-Khodja and his wife Ambar Bibi are buried.

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Museums in Tashkent: As the country’s capital, Tashkent hosts Uzbekistan’s most important museums. Highlights include the State Museum of Arts, Timurid Museum, and the Railway Museum with a collection of historic locomotives.

The History Museum traces the nation’s past, while the Applied Arts Museum delights craft lovers with ceramics, textiles, and artisan design. You’ll also find house-museums dedicated to literary figures like Sergei Yesenin and Anna Akhmatova.

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Cultural Life and Theaters: Tashkent boasts a rich cultural scene. The Ilkhom Theater is known for avant-garde performances and festivals like Ilkhom Rock Fest.

The Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theater offers high-caliber programming in a majestic setting. The Russian Drama Theater is a classic venue for Russian-language plays and traditional performances.

In short, Tashkent is not just historically rich — it’s alive with art, culture, and creativity.

Tashkent offers a wide range of leisure activities for all preferences. From peaceful strolls in green spaces to exciting entertainment options, the capital has something for everyone.

Its parks are especially charming in spring and autumn. EcoPark, the city’s first ecological park, features sustainable design and a calm atmosphere—perfect for walking, yoga, or picnics surrounded by nature.

The Central Park (formerly Telman Park) now features modern European-style attractions for both kids and adults, including the first French carousel in Uzbekistan.

Ankhor Lokomotiv Park is home to the tallest Ferris wheel in the country. From 72 meters high, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

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If you’re into local-style shopping, don’t miss the traditional bazaars. Chorsu Bazaar is the most famous, with turquoise domes and a vast selection of fruits, spices, sweets, textiles, and more. It, along with Alay Bazaar, offers the full oriental market experience.

Prefer a modern experience? Visit shopping centers like Samarkand Darvoza, Mega Planet, Next, Kompas, and Parus. They all have food courts, cinemas, kids’ areas, and local and international shops.

Tashkent’s food scene is diverse and delicious. From European, Russian, and Caucasian dishes to Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, there’s something for every taste.

You’ll find chaikhanas (teahouses) and cafés everywhere serving classics like plov, manty, lagman, shurpa, samsa, and kebabs—all at great prices.

The famous "glutton's corner" in Chorsu Bazaar is a must for food lovers. Try authentic Uzbek food in a lively, friendly environment.

For the best plov in town, visit Plov Center (Osh Markazi), where huge cauldrons are emptied daily as locals gather for the national dish.

Vegetarian? Most places offer meat-free options. Tashkent is slowly adding more health-conscious menus and veggie-friendly cafés.

Coffee and bakery fans will love the city’s European-style cafés, with fresh croissants and artisan breads served alongside espresso.

Tashkent has an affordable and efficient urban transport system, perfect for exploring the city. Public transport operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with departures every 10–20 minutes.

Tickets cost 2000 UZS (approx. 0.16 USD) and can be paid with cash, transport cards, or international cards (Visa, Mastercard).

🚌 Buses & Minibuses: Cover the entire city and are widely used. Use the Yandex Go app to track routes in real time.

🚇 Metro: More than transportation, it’s a cultural attraction. Each of the 50+ stations features unique architecture. In peak hours, trains run every 2–3 minutes.

🚖 Taxis: Apps like Yandex Taxi, MyTaxi, Uklon, and Fasten are widely available. Some offer eco-friendly electric car options.

🚗 Car rentals: Can be arranged within an hour if booked in advance, especially during high season.

🚲 Other options: While bike lanes are limited, there are bicycle rentals and electric scooters for short trips downtown.

For a sustainable and quick commute, choose metro, electric buses, or shared scooters.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach Tashkent is by air. The Tashkent International Airport is connected to many capital cities and major urban centers worldwide.

Airlines serving the city include Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot, Air Astana, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Somon Air, and Nordwind Airlines. The national airline, Uzbekistan Airways, offers regular flights to destinations like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Seoul, Tel Aviv, New York, Beijing, Delhi, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

Traveling by train is also possible, especially from Russia or Kazakhstan. For domestic travel, the train is an excellent option, with lines connecting Tashkent to Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench, Nukus, and other major cities.

Whether by air or land, Tashkent is a well-connected city ready to welcome you.

The official language of Uzbekistan is Uzbek, although in Tashkent, Russian is also widely spoken, especially in public signage, restaurant menus, museums, and transportation.

English is not yet widely spoken, but more and more young people are learning it. In tourist-oriented places like hotels, museums, and restaurants, you can usually find someone who speaks English.

The local currency is the Uzbek som (UZS). The most commonly accepted foreign currencies for exchange are the US dollar and the euro. The Russian ruble is less common and usually has an unfavorable exchange rate.

You can find currency exchange offices in banks and hotels, and there are many ATMs that accept Visa and MasterCard. We recommend carrying some local cash for markets and public transport, although many shops already accept card payments.

Tashkent is a calm and safe city for solo travelers, families, and groups alike. The atmosphere in the streets is generally relaxed and welcoming, even at night.

In busy areas —such as metro stations, markets, shopping centers, and parks— there is a constant presence of security forces. You might occasionally be asked for identification, which is routine in Uzbekistan.

Nevertheless, basic precautions are recommended: don’t leave personal belongings unattended, avoid unfamiliar areas late at night, and stay informed about local customs. Overall, Tashkent is a safe and tourist-friendly capital.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach Tashkent is by air. The Tashkent International Airport is connected to many capital cities and major urban centers worldwide.

Airlines serving the city include Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot, Air Astana, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Somon Air, and Nordwind Airlines. The national airline, Uzbekistan Airways, offers regular flights to destinations like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Seoul, Tel Aviv, New York, Beijing, Delhi, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

Traveling by train is also possible, especially from Russia or Kazakhstan. For domestic travel, the train is an excellent option, with lines connecting Tashkent to Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench, Nukus, and other major cities.

Whether by air or land, Tashkent is a well-connected city ready to welcome you.

The official language of Uzbekistan is Uzbek, although in Tashkent, Russian is also widely spoken, especially in public signage, restaurant menus, museums, and transportation.

English is not yet widely spoken, but more and more young people are learning it. In tourist-oriented places like hotels, museums, and restaurants, you can usually find someone who speaks English.

The local currency is the Uzbek som (UZS). The most commonly accepted foreign currencies for exchange are the US dollar and the euro. The Russian ruble is less common and usually has an unfavorable exchange rate.

You can find currency exchange offices in banks and hotels, and there are many ATMs that accept Visa and MasterCard. We recommend carrying some local cash for markets and public transport, although many shops already accept card payments.

Tashkent is a calm and safe city for solo travelers, families, and groups alike. The atmosphere in the streets is generally relaxed and welcoming, even at night.

In busy areas —such as metro stations, markets, shopping centers, and parks— there is a constant presence of security forces. You might occasionally be asked for identification, which is routine in Uzbekistan.

Nevertheless, basic precautions are recommended: don’t leave personal belongings unattended, avoid unfamiliar areas late at night, and stay informed about local customs. Overall, Tashkent is a safe and tourist-friendly capital.