Things to Do in State Museum of Applied Arts
State Museum of Applied Arts, Oʻzbekiston - Complete Travel Guide
Tashkent, the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture, ancient Islamic heritage, and modern Central Asian culture. Home to over 2.5 million people, this cosmopolitan city serves as the cultural and economic heart of Uzbekistan, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the country's rich artistic traditions through institutions like the State Museum of Applied Arts. The city's tree-lined streets, bustling bazaars, and impressive museums create an atmosphere where centuries of craftsmanship and cultural exchange come alive.
The State Museum of Applied Arts stands as one of Tashkent's cultural crown jewels, showcasing the extraordinary artistic heritage of Uzbekistan and Central Asia. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, the museum displays an impressive collection of traditional crafts including intricate suzani embroideries, hand-woven carpets, carved woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork that represent centuries of artistic mastery. Beyond this remarkable institution, Tashkent offers visitors ancient madrasas, vibrant markets, Soviet monuments, and a thriving contemporary arts scene that makes it an essential destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Top Things to Do in State Museum of Applied Arts
Explore Traditional Craft Museums and Cultural Sites
Visit Tashkent's exceptional museums showcasing Central Asian applied arts, including collections of suzani textiles, ceramics, and traditional crafts. The city's cultural institutions offer deep insights into Uzbekistan's artistic heritage spanning centuries of Islamic and nomadic influences.
Booking Tip: Most museums charge 10,000-20,000 UZS ($1-2) entry fees. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography. Many museums close on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Wander Through Chorsu Bazaar
Experience one of Central Asia's most vibrant traditional markets, where vendors sell everything from spices and dried fruits to handcrafted textiles and ceramics. The bazaar's distinctive blue dome and bustling atmosphere provide an authentic taste of Uzbek commercial culture.
Booking Tip: Best visited in early morning (8-10 AM) when produce is freshest and crowds are manageable. Bring cash in small denominations and practice basic bargaining skills. Guided food tours cost $30-50 per person.
Discover Old City Historical Quarter
Explore the historic Eski Shahar district with its narrow alleys, traditional mahallas (neighborhoods), and ancient Islamic architecture. Visit the Khast Imam Complex, home to one of the world's oldest Quran manuscripts and beautiful madrasas.
Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $25-40 per person for 3-4 hours. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting and cooler temperatures. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Experience Soviet-Era Architecture Tour
Discover Tashkent's unique Soviet legacy through its impressive metro stations, monumental squares, and Brutalist buildings. The city's post-earthquake reconstruction created one of Central Asia's most distinctive Soviet architectural landscapes.
Booking Tip: Metro day passes cost about $1. Photography in metro stations requires special permission. Private architecture tours range from $40-80 per day. Best combined with walking tours of the city center.
Take Day Trips to Surrounding Mountains and Sites
Venture beyond the city to explore the nearby Chimgan Mountains, ancient petroglyphs, or traditional craft workshops in surrounding villages. These excursions offer stunning natural scenery and insights into rural Uzbek life.
Booking Tip: Day trips cost $60-120 per person including transportation and guide. Book through reputable operators with good vehicles for mountain roads. Spring and autumn offer the best weather conditions.
Getting There
Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS), located about 12km from the city center, with direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and some Middle Eastern destinations. The airport is modern and efficient, with visa-on-arrival available for many nationalities. Taxi services to the city center cost approximately $5-8, while the airport express bus is a budget-friendly option at under $1. Overland travel is possible from neighboring countries via bus or shared taxi, though border crossings can be time-consuming and require advance visa arrangements for most visitors.
Getting Around
Tashkent boasts Central Asia's first and most extensive metro system, featuring ornately decorated stations that are attractions in themselves, with rides costing just a few cents. The city also has an extensive bus network, though routes can be confusing for visitors. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, with ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi offering convenient service in English. For maximum flexibility, many visitors opt for private drivers for day trips or longer explorations, which can be arranged through hotels or tour operators at reasonable rates. Walking is pleasant in the city center and old town areas, where many attractions are concentrated.
Where to Stay
Amir Timur Square Area
Old City (Eski Shahar)
Yunusabad District
Mirzo Ulugbek District
Chilanzar District
Shaykhantaur District
Food & Dining
Tashkent's dining scene ranges from traditional chaikhanas (teahouses) serving authentic plov (pilaf) and manti (steamed dumplings) to upscale restaurants offering refined takes on Uzbek cuisine. The city center features numerous establishments where you can sample regional specialties like lagman noodles, shashlik kebabs, and fresh non bread baked in traditional tandoor ovens. For an authentic experience, visit local markets and street food stalls, or dine at family-run restaurants in the old city where recipes have been passed down through generations. International cuisine is also available, with growing numbers of cafes and restaurants catering to diverse tastes, particularly in the modern business districts.
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal. These seasons offer pleasant weather for walking tours and outdoor exploration, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), though this is when many cultural events take place. Winter (December-February) is cold but manageable, with occasional snow and temperatures around 0-5°C (32-41°F), making it a good time for museum visits and indoor cultural activities, plus fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.
Insider Tips
Learn basic Russian or Uzbek phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas, and download a translation app for smoother interactions with locals and vendors.
Always carry cash (Uzbek som) as credit cards are not accepted everywhere, and exchange money at official banks or licensed exchange points for the best rates.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and remove shoes when entering mosques or traditional homes if invited.