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Amir Timur Square, Oʻzbekiston - Things to Do in Amir Timur Square

Things to Do in Amir Timur Square

Amir Timur Square, Oʻzbekiston - Complete Travel Guide

Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture and traditional Central Asian culture. At its heart lies Amir Timur Square, the city's main ceremonial plaza named after the legendary 14th-century conqueror Tamerlane. This grand square serves as the perfect introduction to Tashkent's unique character, surrounded by important government buildings, hotels, and cultural institutions that showcase the country's rich history and modern aspirations. The city offers visitors an authentic taste of Central Asian hospitality while serving as the gateway to Uzbekistan's famous Silk Road cities. From bustling bazaars filled with colorful textiles and spices to magnificent Islamic architecture and world-class museums, Tashkent provides an excellent base for exploring both urban attractions and the broader cultural treasures of this historically significant region.

Top Things to Do in Amir Timur Square

Explore Chorsu Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tashkent's oldest and largest traditional market. This iconic domed bazaar offers everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts, textiles, and local delicacies, providing an authentic glimpse into daily Uzbek life.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest products and cooler temperatures. No advance booking needed, but bring cash in local currency (som) as most vendors don't accept cards. Expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring.

Visit the State Museum of History

Discover Uzbekistan's rich heritage through extensive collections spanning from ancient civilizations to modern times. The museum houses impressive archaeological finds, traditional costumes, and exhibits on the Silk Road's impact on Central Asian culture.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $3-5 USD with additional fees for photography. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM-5 PM. Consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to fully appreciate the historical context of the exhibits.

Experience Tashkent Metro Art Tour

Journey through one of the world's most beautiful subway systems, featuring stations decorated with marble, ceramics, and stunning Soviet-era artwork. Each station tells a unique story through its architectural design and artistic elements.

Booking Tip: Metro tokens cost less than $1 USD. Photography was historically restricted but rules have relaxed - still ask permission. Best visited during off-peak hours (10 AM-4 PM) to avoid crowds and get better photos.

Stroll Through Old City (Eski Shahar)

Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional mud-brick houses, artisan workshops, and historic madrasas. This atmospheric district preserves the authentic feel of pre-Soviet Tashkent with its traditional architecture and local craftsmen.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot, but consider joining a walking tour ($20-30) to access private courtyards and workshops. Best visited in late afternoon when artisans are active and temperatures are cooler.

Sample Traditional Uzbek Cuisine

Indulge in authentic plov (pilaf), fresh nan bread, and other Central Asian specialties at traditional restaurants and local eateries. Experience the communal dining culture and learn about the significance of food in Uzbek hospitality.

Booking Tip: Traditional restaurants range from $5-15 per person for a full meal. Plov is typically served only at lunch (12-3 PM). Look for places popular with locals and don't miss trying fresh bread from neighborhood bakeries.

Getting There

Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, located about 12 km from the city center, with direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Most visitors require a visa, though many nationalities can now obtain e-visas online. From the airport, official taxis cost around $5-10 USD to reach Amir Timur Square, or you can take the more economical airport bus service. The city is also accessible by train from other Central Asian countries and Russia, with the main railway station conveniently located near the city center.

Getting Around

Tashkent has an excellent and affordable public transportation system, with the metro being the fastest and most convenient option for reaching major attractions around Amir Timur Square. Metro tokens cost less than $1 USD and trains run frequently throughout the day. Taxis are widely available through apps like Yandex Taxi, with rides across the city typically costing $2-5 USD. For shorter distances, marshrutkas (shared minibuses) offer a local experience for under $1 per ride. Walking is pleasant in the city center, especially around the square and nearby attractions, with wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Where to Stay

Amir Timur Square area
Yunusobod district
Mirzo Ulugbek district
Shaykhantakhur district
Chilanzar district
Old City (Eski Shahar)

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene ranges from traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) serving authentic Uzbek cuisine to modern restaurants offering international fare. The area around Amir Timur Square features upscale establishments, while the Old City and Chorsu Bazaar area offer more traditional and budget-friendly options. Don't miss trying the national dish plov (only served at lunch), fresh nan bread from local bakeries, and traditional sweets like halva. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating in courtyards, perfect for enjoying the pleasant evening atmosphere while sampling local specialties like lagman noodles, shashlik, and traditional dairy products.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Tashkent

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Pro.Khinkali

4.8 /5
(1103 reviews)

Syrovarnya

4.6 /5
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Roni Pizza Napoletana

4.8 /5
(703 reviews)
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RONI Pizza Napoletana

4.7 /5
(620 reviews)
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Yuzhanin

4.7 /5
(515 reviews)

QUADRO

4.5 /5
(277 reviews)
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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tashkent and Amir Timur Square is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor exploration challenging during midday hours. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and occasional snow, but many attractions remain open and hotel rates are lower. Spring is particularly beautiful with blooming trees throughout the city, while autumn offers pleasant weather perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and it enhances your cultural experience
Always carry cash in local som currency as many smaller establishments don't accept cards, and exchange money at official banks or licensed exchange points for the best rates
Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and removing shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments

Explore Activities in Amir Timur Square