Tashkent is the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan and the most populous city in Central Asia, a place shaped by the Silk Road, by Russian and Soviet rebuilding, and by the 1966 earthquake that destroyed much of it before it was rebuilt as a model Soviet city. For a visitor, that layered history shows up in the contrast between the old quarters around the bazaars and the wide, planned avenues and metro stations of the modern centre.
Most of what you will want to see sits along a fairly compact central spine, with the metro linking the main squares, the bazaars and the hotel districts. This guide covers which areas make a practical base, what kind of accommodation you find in each, and how the different price levels compare. It does not recommend individual properties.
Best areas to stay in Tashkent
1. Amir Temur Xiyoboni / Yunus Rajabiy
This is the central hotel district, around the Amir Temur Xiyoboni and Yunus Rajabiy metro stations. It suits first-time visitors who want to be within walking distance of the main central sights and to have straightforward metro connections in every direction.
You find large, established hotels here, including Soviet-era buildings and newer chain properties. The trade-off is that some of the older buildings show their age, and rooms facing busy streets can pick up noise.
2. Ming Orik / Mirabad
Mirabad is a quieter, more residential part of the centre, served by the Ming Orik metro station. It suits travellers who want calm at night but still want to be close to the middle of the city, and it works for business visitors as well as leisure travellers.
Accommodation here ranges from small hotels to larger business-oriented properties. Because it is a quieter area, you are less likely to be kept awake by traffic or nightlife, but you will rely on the metro or a taxi for some sights.
3. Chorsu
The area around Chorsu Bazaar, on the Chorsu metro line, is the most atmospheric base in the city. It suits budget travellers and anyone who wants to be next to the bazaar and the older parts of Tashkent rather than in the modern hotel quarter.
You find small guesthouses here rather than large hotels. The metro makes it easy to reach the centre, so staying here does not cut you off from the rest of the city.
4. Bodomzor
Bodomzor, on the metro of the same name, is a modern district near the Expo grounds. It suits visitors who prefer newer buildings and a less crowded setting, and it is convenient if your trip involves the exhibition centre.
This is where you find modern international chain hotels. It is further from the historic core, so plan on using the metro to get to the central sights.
5. Pakhtakor / Alisher Navoiy
The Pakhtakor and Alisher Navoiy metro area is another central option, close to the main avenues. It suits visitors who want a central location with good metro access and do not mind staying in older, characterful buildings.
The accommodation here is dominated by large Soviet-era hotels, which are central and convenient but dated. Street noise is a consideration in some rooms.
6. Tinchlik
Tinchlik, on the metro of the same name, is a suburban area further from the centre. It suits budget travellers who are happy to trade a central location for a quieter, more local setting.
You find small guesthouses here. The metro connects you to the centre, but you should expect to travel for most sights rather than walk to them.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: small guesthouses and modest hotels, often in the bazaar districts or the suburbs, typically with breakfast included and simple rooms.
- Mid-range: larger hotels in the central districts, some with pools or saunas, ranging from well-maintained to dated Soviet-era buildings.
- Splurge: international chain and business hotels, mostly in the central hotel district and around Bodomzor, with a wider range of facilities and more consistent service.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself around Amir Temur Xiyoboni and Yunus Rajabiy. It puts you in the middle of the central sights, with two metro stations serving the area and the widest choice of accommodation at every price level. You can walk to much of the centre and reach everything else easily by metro.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I want to be near the bazaar?
Chorsu, around Chorsu Bazaar on the Chorsu metro line, is the obvious choice. It is also the best area for budget guesthouses.
Where should I stay if I want a quiet area?
Mirabad, around the Ming Orik metro station, is a quieter residential district with a mix of small hotels and larger business properties. Some suburban areas such as Tinchlik are also quiet but further from the centre.
Which areas have good metro access?
The central hotel district is served by the Amir Temur Xiyoboni and Yunus Rajabiy stations, while Pakhtakor and Alisher Navoiy, Ming Orik, Chorsu, Bodomzor and Tinchlik each have their own stations. Staying near any of these keeps the city within easy reach.
Is it worth staying outside the centre?
It can be, particularly for budget travellers. Suburban guesthouses are quieter and cheaper, and the metro still connects you to the central sights, though you will travel more each day.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.