Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower, Oʻzbekiston

Tashkent, the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of ancient Silk Road heritage and Soviet-era architecture, creating a unique Central Asian metropolis. The city serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural center, home to over 2.5 million people and featuring tree-lined boulevards, grand squares, and an efficient metro system adorned with stunning mosaics and marble. The Tashkent TV Tower, standing at 375 meters tall, is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling urban landscape. Built in 1985, this telecommunications tower features an observation deck and revolving restaurant, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking spectacular views of the Tian Shan mountains and the vast Central Asian steppe beyond the city limits.

Top Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower

Explore the Historic Old Town (Eski Shahar)

Wander through Tashkent's atmospheric old quarter, where narrow alleyways lead to traditional madrasas, mosques, and bustling bazaars. The area showcases authentic Uzbek architecture and culture, offering a stark contrast to the modern city center.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Consider hiring a local guide for $20-30 for deeper historical insights.

Visit Chorsu Bazaar

Experience Central Asia's largest and most vibrant traditional market, housed under a distinctive blue-domed building. Browse through spices, dried fruits, textiles, and local handicrafts while soaking in the authentic atmosphere of Uzbek commerce.

Booking Tip: Free entry, bring cash for purchases. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for freshest produce and cooler temperatures. Bargaining is expected - start at 50% of asking price.

Ride the Tashkent Metro

Journey through one of the world's most beautiful subway systems, featuring stations decorated with marble, mosaics, and crystal chandeliers. Each station tells a story of Uzbek history and Soviet architectural grandeur, making it both transportation and tourist attraction.

Booking Tip: Extremely affordable at around $0.10 per ride. Photography was restricted until recently - check current rules. Rush hours are 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM.

Discover Islamic Architecture

Visit the magnificent Hazrat Imam Complex, featuring the world's oldest Quran, and explore other architectural gems like the Kukeldash Madrasa. These sites showcase the rich Islamic heritage and stunning tilework characteristic of Central Asian religious architecture.

Booking Tip: Most sites charge $2-5 entrance fees. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Best photographed in golden hour light. Some sites close during prayer times.

Experience Traditional Uzbek Culture

Participate in hands-on cultural activities like plov cooking classes, traditional craft workshops, or folk music and dance performances. These experiences provide deep insights into Uzbek traditions, hospitality, and artistic heritage.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes cost $30-50 per person including meal. Book through hotels or cultural centers. Evening performances often include dinner for $25-40. Reserve 2-3 days in advance.

Getting There

Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, located about 12 kilometers from the city center. The airport connects to major cities across Asia, Europe, and Russia, with Uzbekistan Airways as the national carrier. Visitors can reach the city center via taxi (30-45 minutes, $5-10), airport shuttle bus, or the convenient Airport Express train. Overland travel is possible from neighboring countries, with good rail connections to Kazakhstan and bus services to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, though border crossings can be time-consuming.

Getting Around

Tashkent offers excellent public transportation, with the crown jewel being its ornate metro system connecting major districts for just a few cents per ride. The city also has an extensive bus and marshrutka (shared taxi) network covering areas not served by metro. Taxis are abundant and affordable, with ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi providing convenient service. For longer stays, car rental is available, though traffic can be heavy and parking challenging in the city center. Walking is pleasant in the historic areas and along the tree-lined boulevards.

Where to Stay

Amir Temur Square area

Broadway pedestrian zone

Old Town (Eski Shahar)

Yunusabad district

Mirzo Ulugbek district

Near Chorsu Bazaar

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene revolves around hearty Uzbek cuisine, with plov (pilaf) being the national dish served at countless local restaurants and street stalls. The city offers everything from traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) serving lagman noodles and manti dumplings to upscale restaurants featuring refined Central Asian cuisine. International options are increasingly available, including Russian, Korean, Turkish, and Italian restaurants. Don't miss trying fresh nan bread from neighborhood bakeries, seasonal fruits from street vendors, and the famous Uzbek hospitality at family-run establishments throughout the city.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities uncomfortable, while winters are cold but generally sunny. Spring brings blooming trees and comfortable weather perfect for exploring the city on foot, while autumn offers clear skies ideal for photography and visiting the TV Tower's observation deck. Avoid July and August unless you can handle intense heat, and note that some attractions may have reduced hours during winter months.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian or Uzbek phrases as English isn't widely spoken outside tourist areas

Always carry cash as card acceptance is limited, especially at markets and local restaurants

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and remove shoes when entering homes or some traditional restaurants

Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower