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Tashkent Metro, Uzbekistan - Things to Do in Tashkent Metro

Things to Do in Tashkent Metro

Tashkent Metro, Uzbekistan - Complete Travel Guide

Tashkent has ~4 million people. This Central Asian giant mixes Soviet concrete blocks with shiny new towers and traditional markets that smell like cumin and leather. The city wears its messy history proudly—Russian street signs compete with Uzbek, and the metro system doubles as an art museum nobody talks about.

Top Things to Do in Tashkent Metro

Chorsu Bazaar

This massive domed marketplace beats any shopping mall. Vendors pack everything from hand-woven carpets to pyramids of fresh pomegranates under the famous blue-tiled dome that appears on half the city's postcards. Negotiating for spices and dried fruits here feels authentic. The energy never stops.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed - arrive early morning (8-9 AM) for the freshest produce and liveliest atmosphere. Bring cash in small denominations and expect to bargain. Friday mornings tend to be busiest with locals doing weekly shopping.

Tashkent Metro Art Tour

Each station showcases different artwork. Soviet planners built this system as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War, which explains the impressive depth and marble everywhere. Stations like Kosmonavtlar celebrate space exploration with mosaics. Alisher Navoi features intricate tilework that rivals any mosque in the city.

Booking Tip: Purchase a metro token for around 1,400 som (about $0.12) at any station. Photography was restricted until recently, so ask permission or look for signs. Visit during off-peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) for better photo opportunities and less crowding.

Hast Imam Complex

The world's oldest Quran lives here. Known as the Othman Quran, this 7th-century manuscript carries bloodstains from the third Caliph and draws pilgrims from across Central Asia. The Barak Khan Madrasa and Kafal Shashi Mausoleum anchor the complex. Peaceful courtyards offer relief from the traffic outside.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but guided tours cost around $10-15 and provide valuable historical context. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and long pants. The complex is most photogenic in late afternoon light, around 4-5 PM.

Independence Square and Amir Timur Square

Independence Square sprawls impressively. Fountains, gardens, and monuments celebrating Uzbek culture fill the space, while Amir Timur Square centers on a statue of the medieval conqueror. Evening brings families out. Children splash in fountains while adults gather on benches, and the surrounding government buildings light up after dark.

Booking Tip: Free to visit anytime, though evening visits (6-8 PM) offer the best atmosphere when the fountains are illuminated and locals are out socializing. Bring a camera for the impressive architecture surrounding both squares.

Plov Center and Traditional Cuisine

Plov defines the city. The Plov Center serves what locals call the definitive version, but plenty of neighborhood spots compete fiercely for that title. Lagman noodles and samsa pastries round out most meals. Traditional tapchan seating means carpeted platforms, shared dishes, and endless green tea—the pace here rewards patience.

Booking Tip: The Plov Center operates Thursday through Sunday, serving from large kazan pots until sold out (usually by 2 PM). Expect to pay 15,000-25,000 som ($1.50-2.50) per portion. For other restaurants, lunch service typically runs 12-3 PM with dinner starting around 6 PM.

Getting There

Most international flights land here. Islam Karimov International Airport connects to major European cities, Moscow, Istanbul, and key Asian destinations through Uzbekistan Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Aeroflot. Overland routes exist from Kazakhstan by train. Shared taxis cross borders from neighboring countries, but flights beat bumpy roads every time.

Getting Around

The metro works best. Three lines connect major districts and tourist sites, running 5 AM to midnight with trains every 2-4 minutes during rush hour. Taxis cost 10,000-20,000 som for most trips. Use MyTaxi or negotiate upfront—drivers appreciate directness, and you'll avoid the tourist tax that way.

Where to Stay

Tashkent City Center
Old Town (Eski Shahar)
Amir Timur Square area
Yunusabad district
Mirabad district
Near Chorsu Bazaar

Food & Dining

Plov rules everything here. The famous Plov Center serves the gold standard, but neighborhood chaikhanas often beat it for authenticity and atmosphere. Traditional restaurants feature live music after dark. Street vendors sell fresh tandoor bread, grilled kebabs, and samsa pastries that beat most sit-down meals for flavor and price.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Tashkent

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

View all food guides →

Pro.Khinkali

4.8 /5
(1103 reviews)

Syrovarnya

4.6 /5
(822 reviews)

Roni Pizza Napoletana

4.8 /5
(703 reviews)
meal_delivery

RONI Pizza Napoletana

4.7 /5
(620 reviews)
meal_delivery

Yuzhanin

4.7 /5
(515 reviews)

QUADRO

4.5 /5
(277 reviews)
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When to Visit

Spring and fall work best. April-May and September-October bring mild temperatures and clear skies perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets. Summer hits 40°C regularly. Winter brings cold weather and fewer crowds, plus snow occasionally covers the Soviet monuments—worth seeing if you can handle the chill.

Insider Tips

Photography rules change frequently. Some older metro guards still object to cameras, so ask politely and check current regulations before shooting.
Restaurants close between services. Many shut down 3-6 PM between lunch and dinner, so plan accordingly or you'll find locked doors.
Russian beats English here. Learn basic Russian phrases alongside Uzbek—you'll get further with "spasibo" than "thank you" in most situations.

Explore Activities in Tashkent Metro

Continue Planning Your Trip

Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for Tashkent Metro

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Tashkent Metro

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Tashkent Metro

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Tashkent Metro

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