Tashkent TV Tower, Oʻzbekiston - Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower

Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower

Tashkent TV Tower, Oʻzbekiston - Complete Travel Guide

Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, stands as Central Asia's largest metropolis and a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture and modern urban development. The city serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural heart, featuring wide boulevards, expansive parks, and an impressive skyline dominated by the iconic Tashkent TV Tower. This cosmopolitan hub offers visitors a unique glimpse into post-Soviet Central Asian life while maintaining strong connections to its Silk Road heritage. The Tashkent TV Tower, standing at 375 meters tall, represents one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling urban landscape. Built in the 1980s, this telecommunications tower features observation decks and a revolving restaurant, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals. The surrounding area showcases modern Tashkent's development, with nearby parks, shopping centers, and residential complexes creating a dynamic urban environment that perfectly encapsulates the city's rapid modernization.

Top Things to Do in Tashkent TV Tower

Visit Tashkent TV Tower Observation Deck

Ascend to the observation decks of Central Asia's tallest structure for spectacular 360-degree views of Tashkent and the surrounding mountains. The tower features multiple viewing levels and a unique revolving restaurant that completes a full rotation every hour. This iconic landmark provides the perfect introduction to the city's layout and scale.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around $3-5 USD and can be purchased on-site. Visit during sunset hours (6-8 PM) for the most dramatic views and photo opportunities. Check weather conditions beforehand as the upper decks may close during high winds.

Explore Chorsu Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Tashkent's largest traditional market, housed under a distinctive blue dome. This centuries-old bazaar offers everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. The market provides an authentic glimpse into local daily life and Uzbek commercial culture.

Booking Tip: Free to enter, but bring cash for purchases as most vendors don't accept cards. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Bargaining is expected, so start at about 50% of the asking price.

Tour the Tashkent Metro System

Discover one of the world's most beautiful metro systems, featuring ornate stations decorated with marble, chandeliers, and intricate mosaics. Each station tells a story of Uzbek history and culture through its unique architectural design. The metro serves as both functional transportation and an underground art gallery.

Booking Tip: Single rides cost less than $0.20 USD using rechargeable cards available at stations. Photography was recently permitted, but ask station attendants for current rules. Visit during off-peak hours (10 AM-4 PM) for better photo opportunities and less crowding.

Visit Kukeldash Madrasah and Old City

Explore the historic heart of Tashkent at this 16th-century Islamic school, one of the few surviving pre-earthquake structures. The surrounding old city area features traditional architecture, artisan workshops, and small museums. This area provides a stark contrast to modern Tashkent's Soviet-era buildings.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are minimal (around $1-2 USD). Combine with nearby Khast Imam Complex for a comprehensive historical experience. Best visited in the morning when workshops are active and lighting is ideal for photography.

Experience Uzbek Cuisine Food Tour

Sample authentic Uzbek dishes including plov (pilaf), manti (steamed dumplings), and fresh bread from traditional tandoor ovens. Local restaurants and street food vendors offer diverse regional specialties that reflect the country's Silk Road heritage. Many establishments feature live music and traditional décor enhancing the dining experience.

Booking Tip: Meals typically cost $5-15 USD per person at mid-range restaurants. Try local favorites like Caravan or Central Asian Plov Center for authentic experiences. Lunch hours (12-2 PM) often feature fresher preparations and more active kitchen atmospheres.

Getting There

Tashkent is accessible via Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, located about 12 kilometers from the city center, which receives flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Uzbekistan Airways serves as the national carrier with connections to destinations like Moscow, Istanbul, Dubai, and Seoul. Overland travel is possible via train connections from Kazakhstan and bus services from neighboring Central Asian countries, though air travel remains the most convenient option for international visitors. Airport transfers include official taxis (around $5-8 USD), ride-sharing apps, and public buses, with the journey to downtown taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Tashkent features an extensive public transportation network anchored by its famous metro system, which connects major districts and attractions for less than $0.20 USD per ride. The city also operates numerous bus routes and marshrutkas (shared minivans) that provide comprehensive coverage, though they can be crowded during peak hours. Taxis are abundant and affordable, with ride-sharing apps like Yandex Taxi offering convenient booking and transparent pricing, typically costing $2-5 USD for most city trips. For greater flexibility, car rentals are available, though traffic can be heavy and parking challenging in central areas, making public transport often more efficient for sightseeing.

Where to Stay

Yunusabad District
Mirzo Ulugbek District
Shaykhantakhur District
Chilanzar District
Yakkasaray District
Mirobod District

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene celebrates traditional Uzbek cuisine alongside international options, with plov (pilaf) serving as the national dish available at countless local establishments. The city features everything from street food vendors selling fresh samsa (baked pastries) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers) to upscale restaurants offering refined takes on Central Asian classics. Traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) provide cultural dining experiences with live music and authentic atmospheres, while modern cafes and international restaurants cater to diverse tastes. Local markets like Chorsu Bazaar offer fresh ingredients and prepared foods, allowing visitors to experience authentic flavors at budget-friendly prices, typically ranging from $3-15 USD per meal depending on the venue.

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
(822 reviews)

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 optimal time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing, typically ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), making outdoor activities challenging during midday hours, though early mornings and evenings remain pleasant. Winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures and occasional snow, but also fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, making it suitable for budget travelers who don't mind bundling up. Spring offers the additional benefit of blooming parks and gardens, while autumn provides clear skies ideal for photography and panoramic views from the TV Tower.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian phrases as it's widely spoken alongside Uzbek, especially in service industries and among older residents
Carry cash (Uzbek som) as many local establishments don't accept international cards, though ATMs are increasingly available in central areas
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove shoes before entering mosques, with women advised to carry a headscarf for mosque visits

Explore Activities in Tashkent TV Tower