Tashkent is where most journeys through Uzbekistan begin and end, and it's worth more than a layover. The Tashkent Metro doubles as an underground art gallery, each station themed around a different piece of the country's history. Chorsu Bazaar's blue-domed hall is one of the best places in the country to see Uzbek daily life up close, and the Museum of Applied Arts gives useful context before heading out to Samarkand or Bukhara.
The ancient Persian New Year celebration. Witness sumalak cooking, buzkashi matches, and citywide festivities across Uzbekistan.
Tashkent's emerging contemporary art scene on display. Gallery openings, installations, and talks across the capital.
Loved the food nearby just as much as the sights themselves.
Quieter than we expected for how well-known it is. Early morning is the way to go.