Attractions
Tashkent Metro — Underground Palaces
The Tashkent Metro (opened in 1977) is one of the most beautiful subways in the world — and until 2018, photography was strictly forbidden (security concerns from Soviet times). Today it is one of Uzbekistan's most photographed attractions. Each station has an individual theme: Cosmos (Kosmonavtlar Station), Cotton (Pakhtakor Station), Uzbek literature (Alisher Navoi Station). Particularly impressive: Alisher Navoi (blue tiles in Timurid style) and Kosmonavtlar (space theme with cosmic mosaics). A ride costs only 0.10€.
Chorsu Bazaar
The Chorsu Bazaar (also Eski Juva Bozor) is Tashkent's largest and oldest market — and a sensory firework. Under a massive green-blue dome and in the surrounding halls are piled: mountains of spices (cumin, saffron, dried dill), dried fruits and nuts, fresh flatbread in dozens of variations, meat, cheese, honey, and the most beautiful fruit pyramids you've ever seen. In the back area: shashlik stands, plov cauldrons, and samsa ovens. Plan at least 2 hours — and come hungry.
Khast-Imam Complex
The religious center of Tashkent: an ensemble of mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums around a well-kept square in the old town. The centerpiece is the library with the Quran of Caliph Uthman (7th century) — one of the oldest Quran copies in the world. The newly built Khast-Imam Mosque (Minor Mosque, 2014) impresses with white marble and delicate carvings. Entrance: 2€.
Amir Timur Square & Surroundings
The central square of Tashkent with the equestrian statue of Timur (Tamerlane) in the center. Surrounded by magnificent buildings: the Hotel Uzbekistan (pure Soviet brutalism), the Timur Museum, and the Legal Congress Palace. Beautifully illuminated at dusk.
Tashkent TV Tower & Japanese Garden
The Tashkent TV Tower (375 m) is the tallest structure in Central Asia. The observation deck offers a 360° view over the city to the Chimgan Mountains. Right next to it: the Japanese Garden, a surprisingly peaceful oasis with ponds, bridges, and cherry blossoms in spring. Tower entrance: 3€.
