7 Free Things to Do in Tashkent

As a digital nomad, exploring a new city while managing work can be both exhilarating and challenging. Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, offers a unique blend of Soviet architecture, Islamic history, and modern amenities. It's a city where you can immerse yourself in the local culture without breaking the bank. Here are nine free things to do in Tashkent that range from popular attractions to lesser-known gems, ensuring you make the most of your stay in this vibrant city.

Amir Timur Square

Amir Timur Square is the heart of Tashkent and a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. Dominated by a statue of the 14th-century conqueror Amir Timur on horseback, the square is surrounded by impressive architecture, including the Amir Timur Museum, Tashkent’s Hotel Uzbekistan, and various government buildings. It's a great place to people-watch, relax, and soak up the city's atmosphere.

Location: Amir Timur Square, Tashkent. Centrally located, it's a hub that connects to many of the city's main avenues.

Travel Tip: The square is beautifully lit up at night, making for a serene evening walk after the hustle and bustle of the day.

Nearby: Visit the Plov Centre nearby for a taste of Uzbekistan's national dish, plov, a hearty rice dish with meat and vegetables.

Chorsu Bazaar

The Chorsu Bazaar is an explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. This traditional market is where locals come to shop for everything from fresh produce to spices, meat, and traditional Uzbek bread. It's a fantastic place to experience local life and culture, and even if you're not buying anything, the atmosphere is worth the visit.

Location: Navoi Ave, Tashkent. Situated in the old town, it's easily accessible from most parts of the city.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the dome-shaped building at the center of the bazaar, which houses an array of spices and sweets.

Nearby: After exploring the bazaar, enjoy a cup of traditional Uzbek tea at a nearby chaikhana (tea house).

Tashkent Metro

The Tashkent Metro is not only a means of transportation but also a work of art. Each station has its own unique design, featuring intricate mosaics, chandeliers, and murals. It's one of the most beautiful and ornate metro systems in the world, and since photography was recently allowed, it's become a popular spot for Instagrammers and photography enthusiasts.

Location: Stations across Tashkent. The metro covers various parts of the city, making it easy to hop on and off to explore different neighborhoods.

Travel Tip: Alisher Navoi station is particularly stunning, with its literary-themed decorations paying homage to the Uzbek poet.

Nearby: Step out at Kosmonavtlar station and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the nearby Alisher Navoi National Park.

Independence Square (Mustaqillik Maydoni)

Independence Square, or Mustaqillik Maydoni, is the largest city square in Tashkent. It's a symbol of Uzbekistan's independence and features several monuments and fountains. The square is beautifully landscaped with walking paths and is a peaceful place to take a break from work or enjoy a picnic on a sunny day.

Location: Independence Square, Tashkent. It's located in the administrative heart of the city, surrounded by government buildings.

Travel Tip: Visit during a national holiday to see the square come alive with celebrations and parades.

Nearby: The Tashkent Gallery of Modern Art is a short walk away and offers a quiet retreat with its collection of contemporary Uzbek art.

Earthquake Memorial

The Earthquake Memorial is a poignant reminder of the massive 1966 earthquake that devastated Tashkent. The monument is a tribute to the resilience of the city's inhabitants and the international help received to rebuild Tashkent. It's a lesser-known site that offers a moment of reflection and an insight into the city's recent history.

Location: Near the intersection of Navoi Street and Amir Temur Avenue, Tashkent.

Travel Tip: The memorial is particularly moving at dusk when the day's fading light casts a solemn glow over the monument.

Nearby: The nearby Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and, if you're willing to spend a bit, a performance.

Botanical Garden

Tashkent's Botanical Garden is a lush oasis in the middle of the city. It's the perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the urban environment. With over 4,500 species of plants, the gardens offer a beautiful setting for a leisurely walk or a quiet place to catch up on work outdoors.

Location: Botanical Garden, Tashkent. Located in the northeastern part of the city, it's a green haven amidst the urban landscape.

Travel Tip: Spring is particularly beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, creating a picturesque scene.

Nearby: Enjoy a refreshing drink or a light meal at the nearby Green Café, nestled within the garden's grounds.

TV Tower Viewing Platform

While there's a fee to go up to the observation deck of the Tashkent TV Tower, the viewing platform at the base is free and offers a unique perspective of the tower itself and the surrounding area. It's a great place to take photos and appreciate the tower's architectural design, which is the tallest structure in Central Asia.

Location: 109, Amir Temur Avenue, Tashkent. The TV Tower is easily recognizable and a landmark of the city.

Travel Tip: Visit during the evening when the tower is lit up to enjoy the vibrant light display.

Nearby: Sample some local cuisine at the nearby Caravan restaurant, known for its traditional Uzbek dishes and live music.

Navoi Literary Museum

Dedicated to the famous Uzbek poet Alisher Navoi, the Navoi Literary Museum is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the rich literary history of Uzbekistan. The museum showcases manuscripts, books, and personal belongings of the poet, and it's a quiet spot to learn about the cultural heritage of the country.

Location: Navoi Literary Museum, Tashkent. It's situated in a quieter part of the city, away from the main tourist areas.

Travel Tip: Take advantage of the museum's serene courtyard, which is a lovely place to sit and read or reflect.

Nearby: The nearby Silk Road Tea House offers a variety of teas and traditional Uzbek snacks in a cozy setting.

Zangiata Mausoleum

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Zangiata Mausoleum, located just outside Tashkent. This historical complex is the final resting place of a Sufi saint and his wife and is an important pilgrimage site. The mausoleum is surrounded by a quiet cemetery and offers a peaceful environment to explore.

Location: Zangiata district, just outside Tashkent. It's a short drive from the city center and offers a glimpse into the rural areas around Tashkent.

Travel Tip: Dress modestly out of respect for the religious significance of the site, and try to visit during non-peak hours for a more personal experience.

Nearby: On your way back to the city, stop by the Chorsu Bazaar to pick up some fresh fruits or snacks for the journey.