Tashkent

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, offers a fascinating blend of Soviet-era planning, Islamic architecture, and a growing sense of contemporary style. The city’s history as a key post along the ancient Silk Road is still visible in its older quarters, where you’ll find striking sites like the Khast Imam complex, home to one of the world’s oldest Qurans. Meanwhile, the Chorsu Bazaar, covered by a vast turquoise dome, remains a hive of daily life, trade, and local character. The city’s metro stations are architectural landmarks in themselves, each uniquely designed with mosaics, marble, and chandeliers — reflecting a time when public spaces were built to impress.

Culturally, Tashkent is a city of layers. Museums such as the State Museum of History and the Museum of Applied Arts shed light on the region’s complex past and creative traditions. Theatre and opera are highly regarded here, with the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre regularly staging both Uzbek and international performances. For something more modern, local galleries and cultural centres increasingly support younger artists, musicians and designers — giving a fresh face to an ancient city. Visitors interested in photography, textiles or ceramics will find plenty to explore in Tashkent’s creative circles.

Food in Tashkent is all about bold flavours and generous portions. Traditional Uzbek dishes such as plov (a rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots and spices), shashlik (skewered meats), and lagman (hand-pulled noodle soup) are central to most menus. Local markets and chaikhanas (teahouses) serve freshly baked non (bread), hearty stews, and plates of seasonal fruit. International dining options are increasing, but it’s the warm, fragrant street food — often grilled or fried on open stalls — that captures the city’s essence best. Whether you’re stopping for a quick samsa or lingering over green tea in a shaded courtyard, food in Tashkent is deeply tied to hospitality and rhythm of local life.