Two Weeks in Tashkent: Ancient Silk Road Meets Modern Central Asia
A Complete Journey Through Uzbekistan's Vibrant Capital
Trip Overview
This comprehensive 14-day itinerary immerses you in Tashkent, where Soviet-era architecture stands alongside ancient Islamic monuments and bustling bazaars. You'll explore the city's rich Silk Road heritage, discover world-class museums, wander through expansive parks and gardens, and experience authentic Uzbek culture. The pace balances cultural exploration with relaxation, allowing time to savor the local cuisine, engage with friendly locals, and discover hidden corners of this fascinating city. From the vibrant chaos of Chorsu Bazaar to the serene beauty of botanical gardens, from Soviet monuments to modern entertainment complexes, this itinerary reveals all facets of Tashkent while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries and leisurely afternoons in traditional teahouses.
Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$40-70 per day
Best Seasons
April to June and September to October for pleasant weather; avoid July-August heat
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Central Asia, History and culture enthusiasts, Architecture lovers, Solo travelers, Couples seeking cultural immersion, Photography enthusiasts
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & First Impressions
Central Tashkent
Settle into Tashkent with a gentle introduction to the city's layout, exploring the iconic Amir Temur Square and surrounding area.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Tashkent International Airport, clear customs, and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Take time to rest and freshen up after your journey. Exchange some currency and get a local SIM card if needed. Orient yourself with the neighborhood around your hotel and pick up a city map.
Pre-arrange airport pickup through your hotel for easier arrival
Lunch
A traditional Uzbek restaurant near your hotel
Afternoon
Amir Temur Square exploration
Visit the magnificent Amir Temur Square, the heart of modern Tashkent. Admire the statue of the great conqueror Amir Temur on horseback, surrounded by beautiful fountains and gardens. Walk around the square to appreciate the impressive surrounding buildings including the Hotel Uzbekistan and various government structures. This is Tashkent's most iconic landmark and perfect for your first afternoon.
Evening
Gentle evening stroll and dinner
Walk along Amir Temur Xiyoboni boulevard, enjoying the tree-lined avenue and local atmosphere. Have dinner at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Uzbek cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent near Amir Temur Square (Mid-range hotel in the city center)
Central location provides easy access to metro, restaurants, and major attractions for your first days
Download the Yandex Metro app for easy navigation of Tashkent's beautiful metro system, where photography is now permitted
Day 1 Budget: $45-65
2
Soviet Heritage & Memorial Sites
Central and Northern Tashkent
Discover Tashkent's Soviet past and pay respects at important memorial sites that tell the city's complex 20th-century history.
Morning
Monument "Courage" and earthquake memorial
Visit the Monument "Courage", a powerful memorial commemorating the devastating 1966 earthquake that destroyed much of old Tashkent. The monument features a cube with a clock stopped at 5:24 AM, the moment the earthquake struck, alongside sculptures of people helping each other. The surrounding area includes beautiful fountains and gardens, making it a contemplative space to understand this pivotal moment in the city's history.
Lunch
A local cafe serving shashlik and lagman noodles
Afternoon
Memorial to the Victims of Repression in Tashkent
Visit this somber and important memorial dedicated to victims of Soviet-era political repression. The site features stark monuments and plaques commemorating those who suffered during Stalin's purges. The memorial provides crucial context for understanding Uzbekistan's Soviet period and honors the memory of countless victims. The peaceful grounds encourage reflection on this difficult chapter of history.
Evening
Tashkent Chimes viewing and dinner
Visit the famous Tashkent Chimes, a clock tower relocated from Germany after WWII. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving European-influenced cuisine nearby
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel as Day 1)
Continuing to stay centrally allows easy metro access to various parts of the city
The metro stations themselves are attractions - Kosmonavtlar and Alisher Navoi stations feature stunning Soviet-era mosaics and chandeliers
Day 2 Budget: $35-55
3
Timurids Dynasty Deep Dive
Museum District
Immerse yourself in the golden age of Central Asian history at Tashkent's premier museum dedicated to the Timurid dynasty.
Morning
State Museum of the Temurids
Spend your morning exploring this magnificent museum dedicated to the Timurid dynasty and Amir Temur's legacy. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece with a distinctive blue dome. Inside, discover extensive collections of medieval manuscripts, weapons, ceramics, jewelry, and historical artifacts. The museum provides essential context for understanding Uzbekistan's golden age and the Silk Road era through well-curated exhibits and detailed explanations.
Arrive early to avoid tour groups; consider hiring an English-speaking guide at the entrance
Lunch
A traditional teahouse serving chuchvara dumplings
Afternoon
Palace of Grand Duke Nicholas Constantinovich
Explore this fascinating palace built for the exiled Russian Grand Duke in the late 19th century. The building showcases beautiful European architecture transplanted to Central Asia, with ornate interiors and historical exhibits about the Grand Duke's life in Tashkent. The palace now houses diplomatic receptions and cultural exhibitions, offering insight into Tashkent's pre-Soviet imperial period and the intersection of Russian and Central Asian cultures.
Check opening hours in advance as the palace occasionally closes for official events
Evening
Relaxing evening in National Park
Stroll through the National Park of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi, enjoying the green spaces and local families. Have dinner at a nearby restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Maintaining your base for easy exploration
Many museums offer combined photography tickets - purchase if you want to take photos inside
Day 3 Budget: $40-60
4
Bazaar Culture & Local Life
Old Town area
Experience the vibrant chaos of Tashkent's most famous bazaar and discover authentic local life in the traditional quarters.
Morning
Chorsu Bazaar exploration
Dive into the sensory overload of Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent's largest and most atmospheric market housed under a distinctive turquoise dome. Navigate through sections selling fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts, spices, traditional bread, meats, and dairy products. Watch local life unfold as vendors call out their wares and shoppers haggle over prices. The bazaar is the heart of old Tashkent and offers unparalleled people-watching and photography opportunities.
Lunch
One of the traditional eateries inside or around Chorsu Bazaar
Afternoon
Old Town wandering and Holy Assumption Cathedral Church
Explore the narrow streets around Chorsu Bazaar, discovering traditional mahallas (neighborhoods) with their distinctive architecture. Visit the Holy Assumption Cathedral Church, a beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral with striking blue domes and white walls. The cathedral serves Tashkent's Orthodox community and represents the city's religious diversity. The interior features impressive iconostasis and religious artwork.
Evening
Traditional dinner and cultural evening
Enjoy a special dinner at a restaurant featuring live traditional Uzbek music and dance performances
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Convenient base continues to work well
Arrive at Chorsu Bazaar early morning (7-8 AM) to see it at its most vibrant and avoid afternoon heat
Day 4 Budget: $45-70
5
Parks & Gardens Escape
Green Tashkent
Take a break from monuments and museums to enjoy Tashkent's beautiful green spaces and botanical collections.
Morning
Tashkent Botanical Garden
Spend a peaceful morning exploring the Tashkent Botanical Garden, one of the largest in Central Asia. Wander through diverse sections featuring local flora, exotic plants, rose gardens, and greenhouses. The garden provides a tranquil escape from the city's bustle with shaded pathways, small ponds, and benches perfect for relaxation. Spring and early summer offer the most spectacular blooms, but the garden remains pleasant year-round.
Lunch
A cafe near the botanical garden with outdoor seating
Afternoon
National Park of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi
Explore this expansive park named after the famous Uzbek poet. The park features tree-lined walkways, fountains, monuments, and open spaces where locals gather for picnics and leisure. You'll find families enjoying the playgrounds, couples strolling the paths, and elderly playing chess under the trees. The park offers insight into how Tashkent residents spend their leisure time and provides excellent people-watching opportunities.
Evening
Sunset at Eco Park
Visit Eco Park for evening relaxation, enjoying the modern recreational space with walking paths and green areas. Have dinner at a nearby casual restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Central location remains ideal
Bring sunscreen and water - Tashkent's parks have limited shade in some areas during summer months
Day 5 Budget: $30-50
6
Family Fun & Entertainment
Entertainment districts
Discover Tashkent's lighter side with visits to amusement parks and modern entertainment venues.
Morning
Tashkent Zoo exploration
Visit the Tashkent Zoo, home to diverse animal species from Central Asia and around the world. The zoo has been modernizing its facilities and provides a pleasant morning activity. See native species like snow leopards and Przewalski's horses alongside elephants, big cats, and various birds. The zoo offers shaded pathways and rest areas, making it an enjoyable experience especially if you're traveling with family or want a relaxed morning.
Lunch
A family-friendly restaurant near the zoo
Afternoon
Tashkentland amusement park
Experience Tashkentland, a modern amusement park offering various rides and attractions. The park features roller coasters, family rides, carnival games, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Even if you don't ride the attractions, the park provides an interesting glimpse into local leisure culture and how Tashkent families spend weekends. The atmosphere is lively and the park is well-maintained with food stalls and rest areas throughout.
Evening
Casual evening and early rest
Have a relaxed dinner at a nearby casual restaurant and return to your hotel for an early evening after an active day
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Maintaining your established base
Visit amusement parks on weekdays if possible to avoid weekend crowds
Day 6 Budget: $40-65
7
Panoramic Views & Leisure
Northern Tashkent
Get a bird's eye view of the sprawling capital and enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace.
Morning
Tashkent Television Tower
Ascend the iconic Tashkent Television Tower, one of the tallest structures in Central Asia at 375 meters. Take the elevator to the observation deck for spectacular 360-degree views of Tashkent sprawling across the plains with mountains visible in the distance on clear days. The tower also features a rotating restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the panorama. This is the best way to appreciate Tashkent's vast scale and layout.
Visit on a clear day for best visibility; mornings typically offer clearer views than afternoons
Lunch
The rotating restaurant in the television tower or a nearby cafe
Afternoon
Central Park Tashkent relaxation
Spend a leisurely afternoon at Central Park Tashkent, one of the city's most popular recreational spaces. The park offers walking paths, small lakes, rental boats, cafes, and plenty of shaded areas perfect for relaxation. Observe local life as families picnic, children play, and couples stroll. This is an ideal afternoon to slow down, read a book, or simply enjoy the atmosphere without a strict schedule.
Evening
Reflection evening and special dinner
As you reach the midpoint of your journey, enjoy a special dinner at an upscale restaurant reflecting on your first week in Tashkent
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Your familiar base continues to serve well
The television tower is particularly beautiful when illuminated at night - view it from ground level in the evening
Day 7 Budget: $50-75
8
Amusement & Recreation
Western Tashkent
Enjoy more of Tashkent's recreational facilities and discover different entertainment venues across the city.
Morning
Lokomotiv Amusement Park
Visit Lokomotiv Amusement Park for a fun-filled morning of rides and entertainment. This park offers various attractions including roller coasters, carousel rides, and family-friendly activities. The park is popular with locals and provides an authentic glimpse into how Tashkent residents enjoy leisure time. The well-maintained grounds include food vendors, rest areas, and shaded spots for breaks between attractions.
Lunch
Food stalls within the park or a nearby casual eatery
Afternoon
Anhor Lokomotiv area exploration
Explore the Anhor Lokomotiv area, a recreational zone featuring sports facilities, walking paths, and green spaces. This area is popular with local athletes and families, offering a more residential glimpse of Tashkent life away from tourist centers. Walk along the canal, observe local sports activities, and enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere. The area provides a contrast to the city center's formality.
Evening
Neighborhood dinner experience
Find a local neighborhood restaurant away from tourist areas for an authentic dining experience with local families
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Central base remains most practical
Strike up conversations with locals at parks - Uzbeks are famously hospitable and often happy to share recommendations
Day 8 Budget: $35-55
9
Modern Tashkent & Water Features
Modern districts
Discover contemporary Tashkent through its modern developments, fountains, and public spaces.
Morning
Mustakillik Fountain and Independence Square area
Visit the impressive Mustakillik Fountain, one of Tashkent's most beautiful water features. The fountain area represents modern Uzbekistan with its grand scale and contemporary design. Explore the surrounding Independence Square area, featuring wide boulevards, government buildings, and monuments celebrating Uzbekistan's independence. The fountains are particularly impressive when operating at full capacity, creating a spectacular display of water and light.
Lunch
A modern cafe in the new city area
Afternoon
Dream park exploration
Spend your afternoon at Dream park, a modern recreational space offering various activities and entertainment. The park features contemporary landscaping, walking paths, recreational facilities, and spaces for relaxation. It represents Tashkent's modern development and provides a pleasant environment for leisure. The park is especially popular with younger crowds and families seeking modern amenities in a green setting.
Evening
Evening fountain show
Return to Mustakillik Fountain area for evening illumination and any musical fountain shows. Dinner at a nearby modern restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Continuing your established base
Fountains typically operate on schedules - check locally for the best viewing times, usually late afternoon and evening
Day 9 Budget: $40-60
10
Cultural Immersion Day
Various neighborhoods
Dedicate this day to deeper cultural experiences, visiting local workshops and traditional neighborhoods.
Morning
Traditional crafts exploration near Chorsu Bazaar
Return to the Chorsu Bazaar area to explore surrounding streets where traditional craftsmen work. Seek out workshops producing ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. Many artisans welcome visitors to observe their techniques passed down through generations. This area offers opportunities to purchase authentic handicrafts directly from makers and learn about traditional Uzbek artistic traditions. The experience provides deeper insight into cultural heritage beyond what museums can offer.
Lunch
A traditional chaikhana (teahouse) serving authentic local dishes
Afternoon
Residential mahalla walking tour
Explore traditional residential neighborhoods (mahallas) to understand local community life. These neighborhoods feature distinctive architecture with courtyards, communal spaces, and close-knit communities. Observe daily life, children playing in streets, elderly gathering for tea, and the rhythm of residential Tashkent. The mahallas represent authentic Uzbek urban culture and social organization that has persisted through various political changes.
Evening
Traditional music performance
Seek out a venue offering traditional Uzbek music performances, or visit a restaurant with live cultural entertainment
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Maintaining your base
Learn a few Uzbek phrases - locals greatly appreciate any effort to speak the language, even just greetings
Day 10 Budget: $45-70
11
Architectural Heritage Walk
Historic and Soviet districts
Take a walking tour focusing on Tashkent's diverse architectural heritage from different eras.
Morning
Soviet architecture walking tour
Embark on a self-guided walking tour of Tashkent's impressive Soviet-era architecture. Start near Amir Temur Square and explore the surrounding buildings showcasing Soviet modernist and constructivist styles. Visit metro stations known for their elaborate decoration - each station is unique with mosaics, chandeliers, and themed designs. The architecture tells the story of post-earthquake reconstruction and Soviet urban planning ambitions.
Lunch
A cafe in a historic building
Afternoon
Amir Temur Xiyoboni boulevard stroll
Walk the length of Amir Temur Xiyoboni, one of Tashkent's grandest boulevards. This tree-lined avenue features impressive buildings, monuments, and public spaces. The boulevard connects major landmarks and provides excellent people-watching opportunities. Notice the mix of architectural styles, the carefully maintained landscaping, and the way locals use the public space. Stop at cafes along the way and observe the flow of city life.
Evening
Architectural photography evening
Return to favorite architectural sites during golden hour for photography, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant in a historic building
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Central location continues to be ideal
Download an offline map app - it helps navigate the sprawling city and locate specific architectural landmarks
Day 11 Budget: $35-55
12
Leisurely Exploration & Shopping
Shopping districts and markets
A relaxed day for souvenir shopping, revisiting favorite spots, and enjoying Tashkent at your own pace.
Morning
Souvenir shopping expedition
Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and gifts. Return to Chorsu Bazaar for spices, dried fruits, traditional textiles, and ceramics. Explore other markets and shops around the city for suzani embroidery, miniature paintings, traditional instruments, and local crafts. Take time to compare prices and quality, bargaining respectfully. This is your opportunity to bring home authentic pieces of Uzbek culture and support local artisans.
Lunch
Revisit your favorite restaurant from the trip
Afternoon
Personal choice exploration
Use this afternoon to revisit any favorite locations from your trip, explore areas you missed, or simply relax at a park or cafe. This flexible time allows you to follow your interests - perhaps return to a museum for deeper exploration, discover a new neighborhood, or enjoy a traditional hammam experience. The unscheduled afternoon provides balance after days of structured sightseeing.
Evening
Farewell dinner preparation
Organize your purchases and prepare for departure. Enjoy a special farewell dinner at an upscale restaurant celebrating your Tashkent experience
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Final nights in your familiar base
Keep receipts for valuable purchases - customs may require documentation for antiques or expensive items
Day 12 Budget: $60-120
13
Final Discoveries
Remaining attractions
Visit any remaining attractions on your list and soak in final impressions of Tashkent.
Morning
Final park visits and relaxation
Spend a peaceful morning visiting any parks you haven't fully explored or returning to favorite green spaces. Consider Eco Park if you haven't spent much time there, or revisit the National Park of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi for a leisurely final morning. Use this time for reflection, journaling, or simply observing the rhythm of Tashkent life one last time before departure.
Lunch
A final traditional Uzbek meal at a favorite spot
Afternoon
Last-minute exploration and packing
Take a final walk through your favorite neighborhood, perhaps picking up last-minute items or gifts. Return to your hotel to organize and pack your belongings, ensuring souvenirs are properly wrapped for travel. Leave time for a final stroll around your hotel area, saying goodbye to shopkeepers and places that became familiar during your stay. Prepare for departure with enough time to avoid rushing.
Evening
Final evening in Tashkent
Enjoy a memorable final dinner, perhaps returning to a restaurant with traditional music. Take an evening walk to see illuminated landmarks one last time
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Tashkent (Same hotel)
Final night before departure
Confirm your departure transportation the evening before and know your flight departure time well in advance
Day 13 Budget: $40-65
14
Departure Day
Hotel and Airport
Final morning in Tashkent before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.
Morning
Hotel checkout and final moments
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe. Complete checkout procedures, ensuring you haven't left anything behind. If your flight is later in the day, store your luggage at the hotel and take a final short walk around the immediate area. Exchange any remaining som currency if needed, though keep some for airport purchases. Reflect on your two-week journey through Tashkent as you prepare to depart.
Lunch
Light meal at hotel or airport depending on departure time
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Tashkent International Airport, allowing plenty of time for check-in, security, and any duty-free shopping. International flights typically require arrival 3 hours before departure. The airport has cafes and shops where you can spend final som currency. Reflect on your comprehensive exploration of Tashkent as you prepare for your journey home, carrying memories of this fascinating Central Asian capital.
Confirm airport transfer the previous evening
Evening
Departure
Depart Tashkent with comprehensive knowledge of the city and memories of its culture, history, and warm hospitality
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Save a few som for airport snacks or last-minute souvenirs - the airport has good options for final purchases
Day 14 Budget: $25-40
Practical Information
Getting Around
Tashkent has an excellent, inexpensive metro system with beautifully decorated stations - purchase tokens for single rides or a rechargeable card. Taxis are affordable; use apps like Yandex Taxi for transparent pricing. Buses serve areas not covered by metro but can be crowded. Most central attractions are within reasonable walking distance of each other. The metro is the most efficient way to travel longer distances. Consider occasional taxi use for convenience, especially when carrying shopping or visiting areas without metro access.
Book Ahead
Book accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (April-June, September-October). No advance booking typically needed for most attractions, though the Tashkent Television Tower may require reservation for the restaurant. Consider pre-booking airport transfers for arrival and departure for convenience and peace of mind.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), light layers for air-conditioned spaces, power adapter (Type C/F, 220V), small daypack, reusable water bottle, basic first-aid kit, photocopies of passport and visa
Total Budget
$560-910 for 14 days (excluding international flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in budget guesthouses or hostels ($10-20/night), eat primarily at local cafes and bazaar eateries, use only metro and buses for transport, focus on free attractions like parks and monuments, skip paid entertainment venues, shop only at bazaars for best prices. Prepare for spending around $25-35 daily. Cook occasional meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities. Join free walking tours if available.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at premium hotels like Hyatt Regency or Wyndham ($100-200/night), hire private guides for personalized tours, dine at upscale restaurants featuring refined Uzbek cuisine, arrange private car and driver for all transportation, book spa treatments and hammam experiences, purchase high-end crafts from specialized galleries, enjoy VIP experiences at attractions. Budget $150-250 daily for elevated comfort and exclusive experiences.
Family-Friendly
Focus more time on parks, zoos, and amusement facilities. Stay in family-friendly hotels with larger rooms or apartments. Choose restaurants with diverse menus accommodating children. Break days into shorter segments with rest time at hotel. Visit Dream park, Tashkentland, and Lokomotiv Amusement Park on separate days. Pack snacks and entertainment for children. Consider morning visits to museums when kids are fresher. Allow flexible scheduling for children's needs and energy levels.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Tashkent