Discovering Tashkent
Tashkent (in Uzbek Toshkent, "City of Stone") is with 2.9 million inhabitants the largest city in Central Asia — and the most underrated. Most travelers rush through on their way to Samarkand. A mistake. Tashkent deserves at least 2 days.
The city was 80% destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1966 and rebuilt in Soviet style. The result is a city with hardly any historic old town, but with wide boulevards, monumental buildings, huge squares, and a metro that looks like an underground palace. Between the Soviet blocks hide oriental bazaars, ancient mosques, and mahallas (traditional residential quarters).
Tashkent is also the most modern city in Uzbekistan: here you will find the best restaurants, trendy cafés, craft beer bars, and a nightlife that Samarkand or Bukhara do not have. The city is changing rapidly — new venues and boutique hotels open every year.
Orientation
Tashkent is sprawling and not easily explored on foot. The metro is your best friend. The main districts:
- Old Town (Eski Shahar): Around the Chorsu Bazaar and the Khast-Imam Mosque. Narrow alleys, mahallas, craftsmen, teahouses. The most authentic part of the city.
- Center (Markaz): Around Amir Timur Square and Navoi Street. Here are most hotels, theaters, and Soviet magnificent buildings.
- Tashkent City: The new business and skyscraper district. Glass towers, shopping malls, modern restaurants. Uzbekistan's attempt at a "Dubai skyline".
- Mirzo-Ulugbek District: Around the TV Tower. Parks, the State Art Museum, and the university.
