Tashkent Was NOTHING Like We Expected — A Family Travel Surprise
When we planned our trip to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, we weren’t sure what to expect.
First Impressions: Clean, Calm, and Unexpectedly Cool
Like many travelers, we had images of dusty desert cities or hard-to-navigate streets in our minds. What we found instead was a city that completely surprised us — not just as tourists, but as a family exploring somewhere entirely new together.
From the moment we stepped out into the streets of Tashkent, something felt different.
People talk about Central Asia as a place that feels raw or rugged — but Tashkent felt balanced. The city is incredibly clean, with wide boulevards and well-kept public spaces that made walking around with kids easier than we anticipated
A Blend of Modern Life and Soviet-Era Legacy
One of the most striking things about Tashkent was how beautifully it blends modern design with its Soviet past.
Around every corner we saw:
- Charming Soviet-era architecture that’s now part of the city’s character
- Sleek, updated public buildings and transport systems
- Modern cafes and family-friendly restaurants
It felt like old and new coexist — not in conflict, but in harmony.
For our kids, this meant a city that was interesting to explore rather than intimidating or dull.
Family-Friendly Vibes Everywhere
As a family, one of our biggest concerns before traveling was: “Will our kids be comfortable here?”
Tashkent answered with a resounding yes.
- Clean sidewalks and parks made long walks pleasant
- Helpful locals often went out of their way to greet us
- Public transport felt accessible even with children in tow
The vibe in Tashkent was relaxed, welcoming, and — most importantly — stress-free for a family on the move.
Food, Markets, and Real Uzbek Culture
We loved diving into the local food scene. Uzbekistan’s rich culinary culture came alive in every meal:
- Fresh breads and pastries that the kids couldn’t get enough of
- Traditionally spiced stews and kebabs that showed us why Uzbek food is beloved
- Bustling markets filled with colors, textures, and friendly vendors
The markets weren’t just tourist hotspots — they were real community spaces where locals shopped, chatted, and greeted each other with warmth.
What We Learned From Tashkent
Looking back, our trip taught us something meaningful about travel and assumptions:
- ✨ Never underestimate a city before seeing it with your own eyes
- 🌍 First impressions can be entirely different from reality
- 👣 Traveling with kids can open your eyes to places that are even more accessible than you thought
Tashkent wasn’t what we expected — it was better.
Check out our YouTube video on this trip to Tashkent, UzbekistanBack to our main blog page
