Tashkent Metro Guide 2026: The Underground Museum You Can Ride 🚇
Welcome to the most beautiful metro system in the world (sorry, Moscow!). Built in 1977, the Tashkent Metro is not just public transport; it's an art gallery, a bomb shelter, and a masterpiece of Soviet architecture. For just 1,700 UZS ($0.13), you can take a tour of history.
📸 Can I Take Photos?
YES! Since 2018, photography is completely legal. You will see tourists (and locals) taking selfies everywhere. Don't be shy!
🗺️ The Self-Guided Metro Tour (Must-See Stations)
If you have 1 hour, follow this route to see the absolute best stations. Start on the Blue Line (Uzbekistan Line).
1. Kosmonavtlar (Cosmonauts) 🚀
The Space Station Dedicated to Soviet space exploration. The walls fade from blue to black (like Earth's atmosphere) and feature portraits of Gagarin and Tereshkova. It feels like walking inside a spaceship.
2. Alisher Navoi 🕌
The Mosque Station Transfer to the Red Line (Chilonzor Line) here. This is the crown jewel. With its high domes and intricate Islamic patterns, it looks like a 15th-century madrasah, not a subway station.
3. Paxtakor (Cotton Picker) 🌿
The Mosaic Station Named after Uzbekistan's most famous crop. The walls are covered in stunning green and blue mosaics depicting cotton plants. It’s colorful, vibrant, and uniquely Uzbek.
4. Mustaqillik Maydoni (Independence Square) ✨
The Marble Palace One of the first stations built. It features massive marble columns and chandeliers that look like frozen fireworks. Pure elegance.
5. Bodomzor 🌳
The Modern Twist On the Green Line (Yunusabad Line). It looks like a futuristic garden with ceramic ceramic discs on the ceiling representing almonds (bodom).
🎫 How to Pay & Use
It's incredibly cheap and easy.
- Price: Flat rate of 1,700 Sum ($0.13) for any distance.
- Payment:
- Contactless Card: Just tap your Visa/Mastercard directly at the turnstile (easiest!).
- QR Code: Buy a paper QR ticket at the "Kassa" window.
- ATTO Card: Transport card for locals (not needed for short trips).
🕒 Operating Hours
- Open: 05:00 AM
- Close: 00:00 AM (Midnight)
- Frequency: Every 3-5 minutes (peak), 8-10 minutes (late night).
⚠️ Safety & Etiquette
- Bag Checks: Police at every entrance will check large bags. It's routine security, takes 10 seconds. Just open your bag and smile.
- Give Up Your Seat: Uzbek culture is very respectful. IF you see an elderly person, pregnant woman, or mother with child, stand up immediately. It is expected.
- Escalators: Stand on the right, walk on the left.
Why You Must Visit
In summer, it's the coolest place in the city (literally—natural air conditioning). In winter, it's warm. And year-round, it's the most beautiful $0.13 you will ever spend.
Pro Tip: Avoid rush hour (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) if you want good photos without crowds!
Experience Tashkent Like an Insider
Licensed, English-speaking local guides for Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Tashkent. Pay directly — no agency fees. Reply in under 1 hour.