Things to Do in Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, Oʻzbekiston

Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture, ancient Islamic heritage, and modern Central Asian culture. The city serves as the country's cultural and economic hub, home to the magnificent Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, one of the finest performing arts venues in Central Asia. This grand theater, built in the 1940s with help from Japanese prisoners of war, stands as a testament to Tashkent's rich artistic tradition and cultural sophistication. Beyond its world-class opera house, Tashkent offers visitors a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan's layered history through its bustling bazaars, beautiful madrasas, and tree-lined Soviet boulevards. The city's location along the ancient Silk Road has left it with an incredibly diverse architectural landscape, from medieval Islamic monuments in the old town to imposing Soviet structures and gleaming modern developments. With its warm hospitality, excellent cuisine, and growing reputation as a cultural destination, Tashkent provides an ideal introduction to the wonders of Central Asia.

Top Things to Do in Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre

Attend a Performance at Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre

Experience world-class opera, ballet, or classical music performances in this stunning venue that rivals Europe's greatest opera houses. The theater's opulent interior features crystal chandeliers, marble columns, and intricate decorative details that create an unforgettable atmosphere for any performance. The resident companies present both international classics and works by Uzbek composers, offering a unique cultural experience.

Booking Tip: Tickets range from $5-30 USD and can be purchased at the box office or online. Book in advance for popular performances, especially during the September-May season. Dress formally and arrive early to admire the architecture.

Explore Chorsu Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Central Asia's largest traditional market, housed under a distinctive turquoise dome. This centuries-old bazaar offers everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market provides an authentic glimpse into daily Uzbek life and is perfect for sampling local delicacies and practicing your bargaining skills.

Booking Tip: Free to enter, but bring cash in local currency (som) for purchases. Visit early morning for the freshest produce and cooler temperatures. Expect to bargain - start at 30-50% of the asking price.

Visit the Old City and Khast Imam Complex

Discover Tashkent's spiritual heart at this beautifully restored Islamic complex featuring ancient madrasas, mosques, and the world-famous Othman Quran. The complex houses one of the oldest Quran manuscripts in existence, dating back to the 7th century and believed to have belonged to Caliph Othman. The surrounding old city offers a peaceful contrast to modern Tashkent with its traditional architecture and quiet courtyards.

Booking Tip: Entry to most buildings costs $2-5 USD per site. Hire a local guide for $20-30 for detailed historical context. Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering religious buildings.

Ride the Tashkent Metro

Take a journey through underground palaces on one of the world's most beautiful subway systems, featuring stations decorated with marble, chandeliers, and intricate mosaics. Each station tells a different story of Uzbek history and culture through its unique artistic design. The metro is not only a practical way to get around but also a tourist attraction in its own right.

Booking Tip: Single rides cost about $0.10 USD - use plastic tokens purchased at stations. Photography was recently allowed but ask permission from station staff. Visit Kosmonavtlar, Alisher Navoi, and Pakhtakor stations for the most impressive designs.

Experience Traditional Uzbek Cuisine

Savor the rich flavors of Central Asian cuisine through cooking classes or food tours that introduce you to dishes like plov (pilaf), manti (steamed dumplings), and fresh nan bread. Many experiences include visits to local homes or traditional restaurants where you can learn about the cultural significance of food in Uzbek society. These culinary adventures often feature multiple courses paired with traditional tea ceremonies.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes cost $30-50 USD per person and typically last 3-4 hours including the meal. Book through reputable tour operators or hotels. Vegetarian options are available but inform organizers in advance.

Getting There

Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS), located about 12 kilometers from the city center. The airport receives direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and Russia, with Uzbekistan Airways being the national carrier. Most visitors require a visa, though Uzbekistan offers visa-free entry for many nationalities for stays up to 30 days. From the airport, taxis cost around $5-10 USD to the city center, or you can take the more affordable airport bus service that connects to the metro system.

Getting Around

Tashkent has an excellent public transportation system centered around its beautiful Soviet-era metro, which is both practical and a tourist attraction itself. The metro covers most major areas of interest and costs just a few cents per ride. Taxis are abundant and affordable - use ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi for convenience and fair pricing, with most city rides costing $2-5 USD. For longer distances or day trips, consider hiring a private driver, which typically costs $30-50 USD per day including fuel.

Where to Stay

Amir Timur Square area

Broadway pedestrian street

Yunusabad district

Chilanzar district

Mirzo Ulugbek district

Old City (Eski Shahar)

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene ranges from traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) serving authentic Uzbek cuisine to upscale restaurants offering international fare. The city is famous for its plov (pilaf), best experienced at local oshxonas (plov centers) that serve this national dish fresh every morning. For a more refined experience, try restaurants like Caravan or Central Asian Plov Center, while the Chorsu Bazaar area offers excellent street food and traditional sweets. Don't miss trying fresh nan bread, manti dumplings, and the local green tea culture that accompanies every meal.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable and the city's many trees provide beautiful scenery. These seasons also coincide with the opera and ballet season at the Navoi Theatre. Summer can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), while winter can be quite cold with occasional snow. Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, while autumn offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Russian or Uzbek phrases - while younger people may speak English, older generations primarily speak Russian or Uzbek

Always carry cash as many smaller establishments don't accept cards, and ATMs dispensing US dollars can be limited

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and removing shoes when entering homes or certain buildings

Things to Do in Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre