Our final days in Uzbekistan were spent exploring the vibrant capital city of Tashkent. From modern architecture and bustling bazaars to insightful museums and delightful cuisine, these days offered a rich blend of experiences that showcased the dynamic spirit of this Central Asian metropolis.

Day 13: Arrival and Initial Impressions

Morning: Arrival in Tashkent

We arrived at Tashkent South Station at 11 am after a restful night on the train. The Old Tashkent Hotel, our accommodation for the next two nights, was clean, modern, and well-equipped with amenities like a spa, pool, and a rooftop restaurant that served a sumptuous breakfast.

Afternoon: Korean Cuisine and Modernist Architecture

After settling in, we decided to try some Korean food for lunch, given Tashkent’s sizeable Korean minority—a legacy of Soviet-era forced population movements. Miga restaurant offered a refreshing change from the typical Uzbek fare, providing an enjoyable culinary experience.

In the afternoon, we explored Tashkent’s modernist architecture. As a major tier-2 city of the former Soviet empire, Tashkent features a unique blend of socialist charm and contemporary design. The metro system, in particular, stood out for its grandeur and artistic flair, making it a must-see for any visitor.

Evening: Museum of Political Repression

Our last stop for the day was the Museum of Political Repression, located in the north of the city. The museum provided a comprehensive overview of the Russian expansion into Central Asia and the brutal methods used by the Soviets to squash any nationalistic movements. While the museum highlighted Stalin’s terror, it notably avoided discussing the repression under Uzbekistan’s own leaders.

We recommend doing the English tour, which sadly feels quite superficial but is still better than being stuck with Russian written explanations.

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Day 14: Bazaars and One Last Dance

Morning: Chorsu Bazaar

On our final day, we headed to Chorsu Bazaar, one of Tashkent’s most famous markets. The bazaar was a sensory overload, with stalls packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices. We wandered through the market, sampling local street food and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The sheer variety of produce and the lively hustle and bustle made it a highlight of our trip.

Afternoon: Tashkent Metro and a 7D Ride

We spent the afternoon exploring more of the Tashkent Metro. Each station is uniquely designed, featuring stunning mosaics, intricate tile work, and grand chandeliers. It was both a practical and aesthetic journey, offering insights into the city’s cultural and historical narratives.

Before venturing out for a farewell dinner, we had one final stop: Tashkent City, a business center and adjacent shopping mall meant to showcase modern Uzbekistan. This was, of course, not the real reason for our visit, as we would soon again have plenty of soulless malls to choose from back in Europe. It was adrenaline we were after, as Tashkent City Park, the greenspace at the heart of the whole enterprise, boasts a 7D cinema. Flying Theater Tashkent, our film of choice, takes visitors on a VR flight over Tashkent; a slightly tacky but supremely fun experience.

Evening: Farewell Dinner and Live Music

Our last evening in Tashkent was spent enjoying a farewell dinner at a Turkish restaurant near our hotel. The meal was a perfect blend of familiar and exotic flavors, strengthening our appreciation for the region’s diverse culinary influences. After dinner, we crossed the road to Dudek, a brewery-cum-music venue where a very groovy cover band played slightly Easternized renditions of 90s hits. It was a fun and lively way to conclude our journey, celebrating the vibrant culture and dynamic spirit of Tashkent.

Practical Tip 💡

For navigating Taskent, the metro is the best way to get around Tashkent. It’s not only efficient but also a cultural experience in itself. Peak hours are very crowded, quite to the contrary of what some travel guides claimed.

Taxis on the other hand are almost impossible to hail by the roadside. You really need the Yandex app to book a taxi in Tashkent.