Getting from the Airport to the City
Tashkent International Airport is located approximately 8 km south of the city center. There are several ways to reach the city from the international terminal (T2):
- Ride-Hailing: Using the Yandex Go app is a reliable way to secure a ride. It provides a fixed price, and the journey typically takes about 10 minutes.
- Official Taxis: There is an official taxi rank located just outside the T2 terminal. Visitors are advised to ignore independent touts and use the official rank or pre-arranged transport through their accommodation.
- Public Bus: A dedicated "Uzport" transfer bus runs hourly, while city bus 11 runs every 20 minutes. Note that bus 11 travels north toward the city center and south toward the domestic terminal (T3).
Navigating the City by Metro
The metro is a fast, safe, and inexpensive way to travel within Tashkent. While it does not reach the airport or the main bus terminal, it serves as an excellent way to navigate the urban core.
- Network: The system features four lines (Red, Blue, Green, and a Gold "Circle" line) with several downtown interchanges that allow for easy transfers between lines.
- Experience: The stations are known for their distinct Soviet-era architecture and rich themes.
- Tickets: You can purchase paper tickets with QR codes from station cashiers using cash or card, or you can use an ATTO card or major credit cards at the gates. Trains typically run every 3 to 10 minutes until 23:30.
Buses and Trams
The city's primary surface transport network consists of lime green buses. While trams were removed from the city in 2016, many former tram routes have been converted into bus lanes.
- Payment: The bus system is cashless; passengers can pay using major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) or an ATTO transport card.
- Planning: Because of the extensive network, travelers can use online maps to track live bus movements and plan routes between specific locations.
Rail Travel
Tashkent serves as a major rail hub with two primary stations:
- Tashkent Central (Tashkent Pass Tsentral): This is the main terminus for most trains. It features amenities such as ticket booths, a waiting hall, and dining options, but it does not have an ATM or bank.
- South Station: This station handles slower overnight trains from regions like Khiva and Termez. It is connected to the city via buses and is located near the Chilonzor metro station.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
For point-to-point travel, taxis are a common option. To ensure fair pricing and avoid negotiations with street touts, it is recommended to use ride-hailing applications like Yandex Go, which provide fixed rates for the journey.