Transit Through Tashkent: 24 Hours in the City
What to do with a 24-hour layover in Tashkent: where to leave luggage, what to see in the centre, whether the mountains are worth it and how to reach the airport on time.
A day between flights in Tashkent is not lost time but a chance to see the capital of Uzbekistan without rushing. The airport is a few kilometres from the centre, and the city has a metro and taxis, so in one day you can see the essentials and still sleep. Here is how to structure the 24 hours so you get back for your flight calmly.
First, sort out luggage and entry
On arrival the first job is to check whether you need a visa. Citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry or a simplified e-visa obtained online, so check the current rules on official sites in advance. If your bags are checked through to your final destination, you only need hand luggage. If not, leave your suitcase in the airport or railway station left-luggage office, or at the hotel where you booked the night. Check conditions and fees on the spot.
Morning: the city centre
Start at Amir Temur Square. The monument to the conqueror, the park with fountains and the surrounding buildings give a sense of the modern face of the capital. From here Mustaqillik Square and Independence Park are not far. For a feel of history, step into the old town: the Hast-Imam complex, with an old library and madrasas that house the ancient Uthman Quran, is considered the spiritual centre of the city.
Then head to the Chorsu bazaar. A big bowl-shaped dome covers rows selling spices, dried fruit, bread, honey and nuts. For a hungry traveller it is the perfect breakfast or brunch spot: fresh samsa, hot flatbread and tea.
Midday: the metro and lunch
The Tashkent metro is an attraction in its own right. Stations are decorated with marble, mosaics and chandeliers, an approach rarely found in other cities of the region. Fares are low, so riding a couple of stations just for pleasure makes sense. For lunch order plov: the city has a famous centre where it is cooked in giant cauldrons, and many people come for a portion before noon. Plan lunch early, because by evening the dish sometimes runs out.
Evening: a stroll and dinner
In the evening choose the Broadway boulevard, the Ankhor canal embankment or the area near the TV tower. Sunset over the city is beautiful and the streets cool down. For dinner you can pick a teahouse or a restaurant serving national cuisine.
The mountain option: can you fit it in
If you have the full 24 hours and do not mind early starts, you can escape the city for half a day. The nearest mountains begin near Chirchik, about 40 kilometres from the centre, while the Chimgan resort is 80 kilometres away. It is an hour or two on a good road. Details: Tashkent — Chirchik. Still, such a trip eats time, and if your flight is in the morning, do not risk it. With an evening flight it is quite realistic, but leave a two-hour buffer for the return.
A sample 24-hour plan
| Time | What to do |
|---|---|
| 08:00 | Breakfast, drop luggage |
| 09:30 | Amir Temur Square, walk through the centre |
| 11:30 | Hast-Imam and the old town |
| 13:00 | Chorsu bazaar and lunch |
| 15:00 | Metro, rest |
| 18:00 | Ankhor embankment, dinner |
| 21:00 | Collect luggage, transfer to the airport |
Getting back to the airport on time
- For an international flight arrive at least three hours before departure.
- Find out how long the drive takes from your area: rush hour traffic is noticeable.
- Book a car in advance rather than at the last moment.
- Check which terminal you need: domestic and international flights may be served in different buildings.
- Do not leave shopping to the last minute, as choice in the departure zone is limited.
If you need to travel to another city
If your layover involves continuing across the country, consider intercity rides. For short distances, for example to Chirchik and beyond, a shared ride is handy: you book a seat on Yo'ldosh with a driver who is already heading your way. It is cheaper than a taxi and the departure time is known in advance. All directions are collected on the all routes page, and the for passengers section explains how everything works for visitors.
Quick tips
- Carry cash in som for markets and small cafes, as cards are not accepted everywhere.
- Dress for the weather: hot in summer, damp and cold in winter.
- Save an offline map of the city.
- Do not photograph government or military sites.
- Prices for services and food are approximate, so check on the spot.
Cover photo: Otabekjon, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.
