5 Things to Do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Soviet-era subway stations built like ornate underground palaces, each with a distinct theme rendered in marble, chandeliers, and mosaic — photography was banned for decades but is now permitted, making this one of the world's most unusual transit-system attractions.

Good to know: Ride several stops rather than just one station — different stations have completely different themed designs, and it's worth comparing a few.

A massive domed traditional bazaar and one of Central Asia's great markets, with spice, dried fruit, and bread vendors arranged in a sprawling, still-functioning trading complex.

Good to know: The dried fruit and nut stalls are a genuine local specialty — Uzbekistan's dried apricots and almonds are considered some of the region's best.

A religious complex housing the Uthman Quran, believed to be one of the oldest Quran manuscripts in the world, alongside working mosques and madrasas.

Good to know: The complex is an active religious site, not just a museum — dress modestly.

An ornately blue-domed museum dedicated to Amir Timur (Tamerlane), founder of the Timurid empire and a central figure in Uzbek national identity.

Good to know: The building's interior dome and decoration are as much the draw as the historical exhibits themselves.

Tashkent's central civic square, with fountains and the Crying Mother Monument commemorating Uzbek soldiers lost in WWII.

Good to know: The square is especially pleasant in the evening when the fountains are lit.