3-Day Tashkent, Uzbekistan Travel Itinerary

Introduction:

Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, is a dynamic blend of Soviet-era architecture, Islamic heritage, and modern development. As the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent is known for its leafy boulevards, historical mosques, bustling bazaars, and world-class metro stations. A 3-day itinerary in Tashkent offers travelers a comprehensive cultural experience—from ancient Madrasahs to Soviet monuments and contemporary cafes. The city is often overlooked, but its calm atmosphere and rich history make it a rewarding destination for curious travelers.

Places to Visit:

1. Khast Imam Complex (Hazrati Imam Ensemble): This is Tashkent’s spiritual heart and features the world-renowned Uthman Quran, the oldest known Quran in existence.
2. Chorsu Bazaar: This is a vibrant and massive marketplace where locals buy spices, fruits, bread, and traditional crafts under a bright blue dome.
3. Amir Temur Square: This is a central square featuring a statue of Timur (Tamerlane), surrounded by fountains and the famous Hotel Uzbekistan.
4. Tashkent Metro: This is not just public transport but an art gallery underground, with each station uniquely decorated in Soviet and Islamic styles.
5. Museum of Applied Arts: This museum is located in a traditional house and displays Uzbek embroidery, ceramics, and textiles.
6. Navoi Theater: This is a beautiful opera house built by Japanese prisoners of war and offers live ballet and music performances.
7. Independence Square: This is Uzbekistan’s national symbol, with fountains, gardens, and the Monument of Independence and Humanism.
8. State Museum of History of Uzbekistan: This museum offers detailed exhibits from prehistoric times to the Soviet era and modern independence.
9. TV Tower of Tashkent: This is the tallest structure in Central Asia with an observation deck and panoramic views of the city.
10. Minor Mosque: This is a modern and peaceful mosque made from white marble, located beside the Ankhor River, and open to tourists.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Historic Heart and Local Flavors

• 9:00 AM: Begin at Khast Imam Complex, located in the old town. Explore Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheikh Mosque, and view the Uthman Quran (1.5 hours).
• 10:30 AM: Walk or take a short 10-minute drive to Chorsu Bazaar. Shop for local goods and taste traditional snacks like non (Uzbek bread) and samsa (1.5 hours).
• 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at National Food Restaurant, known for its authentic plov (Uzbek rice dish) (1 hour).
• 1:30 PM: Head to Museum of Applied Arts by taxi (15 minutes). Admire the detailed wood carvings and ikat fabrics (1 hour).
• 3:00 PM: Visit the nearby Navoi Theater, a 10-minute drive. Check out the building and, if possible, book tickets for a performance (30 minutes).
• 4:00 PM: Take a walk in Independence Square, located 10 minutes away. Explore the fountains and monuments (1 hour).
• 6:00 PM: Dinner at Caravan Restaurant, a popular spot with a traditional Uzbek ambiance (1.5 hours).

Day 2: Soviet Art and Panoramic Views

• 9:00 AM: Ride the Tashkent Metro and stop at beautiful stations like Kosmonavtlar and Alisher Navoi (1 hour).
• 10:30 AM: Visit the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, just a short metro or taxi ride away (1.5 hours).
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Afsona, a modern Uzbek restaurant offering creative takes on traditional dishes (1 hour).
• 1:30 PM: Head to Amir Timur Square, about a 10-minute walk. Relax by the fountains and take photos with the Tamerlane statue (45 minutes).
• 2:30 PM: Visit Hotel Uzbekistan’s rooftop café, which offers an excellent view of central Tashkent (1 hour).
• 4:00 PM: Take a taxi to the TV Tower of Tashkent (20 minutes). Go up to the observation deck and enjoy views of the entire city (1 hour).
• 6:00 PM: Dinner at Besh Qozon, famous for its massive servings of plov (1.5 hours).

Day 3: Modern Spirituality and Cultural Discovery

• 9:00 AM: Start your morning at the Minor Mosque, located 10 minutes by car from the city center. Its white marble design and riverside location make it a peaceful visit (45 minutes).
• 10:00 AM: Walk along the Ankhor River Park, a pleasant and green space for photos and relaxation (1 hour).
• 11:30 AM: Visit Tashkent City Park, a modern development with cafes, sculptures, and shops (1 hour).
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Anor Restaurant, located nearby and offering local and international cuisine (1 hour).
• 2:30 PM: Return to Chorsu Bazaar or explore Samarqand Darvoza Mall for last-minute shopping and souvenirs (1.5 hours).
• 5:00 PM: Enjoy your farewell dinner at Plov Center, the most iconic place for traditional rice dishes (1.5 hours).

See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)

Best Time To Go:

The best time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor visits. Summers (July to August) can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winters (December to February) are cold but manageable, especially if you plan to enjoy indoor museums and cozy cafés.

Activities To Do:

• Eat Plov at the Plov Center: This is Tashkent’s most iconic dish, and the Plov Center serves it in a massive cauldron with eggs and horse meat.
• Explore the Tashkent Metro Stations: Each metro station is uniquely themed with chandeliers, mosaics, or Soviet motifs—perfect for Instagram.
• Shop at Chorsu Bazaar: This market is the soul of Tashkent’s trade and culture, selling everything from spices to handmade pottery.
• Watch a Ballet at Navoi Theater: Performances are affordable and offer a window into Uzbekistan’s Soviet-era love of classical arts.
• Visit the Khast Imam Complex (Hazrati Imam Ensemble): This is where religion, architecture, and ancient texts come together for a deep cultural experience.

Accommodations:

• Hyatt Regency Tashkent: A luxury hotel with elegant rooms, an indoor pool, and fine dining. Centrally located.

• International Hotel Tashkent: Offers premium services with spa, business facilities, and proximity to the National Expo Center.

• Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace: A historic hotel near Navoi Theater with spacious rooms and a rooftop pool.

• City Palace Hotel: A reliable mid-range option with clean rooms, a gym, and easy access to major attractions.

• Wyndham Tashkent: Offers a blend of business and leisure amenities including sauna, bar, and multilingual staff.

• Art Hostel Tashkent: A traveler-friendly hostel offering dorms and private rooms with a communal kitchen.

• Topchan Hostel: Known for its relaxed vibe, affordable rates, and warm hospitality, great for backpackers.

Transportation Options:

• Tashkent Metro: This is the cheapest and most beautiful way to get around, costing less than $0.15 per ride.
• Buses and Trolleybuses: These are available throughout the city, though schedules can be irregular.
• Taxis: Taxis are affordable, especially when booked via apps like Yandex Go or MyTaxi Uzbekistan.
• Private Cars: Many locals offer informal taxi services; always agree on a price beforehand.
• Car Rentals: Available but not recommended unless you’re planning road trips beyond Tashkent.
• Walking: The city center is walkable, especially areas like Amir Timur Square, Independence Square, and Chorsu Bazaar.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis or hotel shuttles are the most convenient way to get from Tashkent International Airport to the city center.

Tips:

• Dress modestly: Uzbekistan is a conservative country, so modest attire is appreciated, especially in mosques.
• Carry cash: While credit cards are accepted in major places, most small shops and taxis prefer Uzbek soms.
• Learn basic Russian phrases: Russian is widely spoken and can be useful for directions and shopping.
• Buy souvenirs at Chorsu Bazaar: Items like suzanis (embroidered fabrics), ceramics, and dried fruits make great gifts.
• Use ride-hailing apps: Apps like Yandex Go offer safe and cheap taxi rides with upfront pricing in English.

Tashkent is a unique destination that combines ancient Islamic culture with modern Soviet and contemporary influences. A 3-day visit reveals the city’s diverse history, flavorful cuisine, artistic metro, and the warmth of Uzbek hospitality. Whether you’re exploring majestic mosques, tasting traditional plov, or admiring intricate crafts at local museums, Tashkent, Uzbekistan offers a well-rounded, authentic, and memorable travel experience in the heart of Central Asia.