Chorsu Bazaar
An 800-year-old historic bazaar in Tashkent, famous for its turquoise dome, vibrant produce, spices, and handicrafts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant local atmosphere
Chorsu Bazaar
Best Time
Vibrant local atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 800-year-old historic bazaar in Tashkent, famous for its turquoise dome, vibrant produce, spices, and handicrafts.
"Absolute must-see in Tashkent! Vibrant, bustling market full of life and color."
Negotiate Prices Politely
Prices aren't always displayed. Bargain respectfully, especially for souvenirs. :moneybag:
Carry Uzbek Som
Most vendors prefer local currency. Discreet money changers are available nearby. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Dome
Central building
Iconic turquoise dome housing diverse food stalls. A true sensory overload!

Spice & Nut Stalls
Second floor
Aromatic mountains of spices, dried fruits, and nuts. Perfect for culinary explorers.

Handicraft Alley
Outer market area
Discover unique Uzbek crafts, textiles, and souvenirs at competitive prices.

Fresh Produce Paradise
Circular layout surrounding central building
Vibrant displays of fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. A feast for the eyes!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Bazaar
Authenticity & Currency
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent Uzbekistan
Negotiate Prices Politely
Prices aren't always displayed. Bargain respectfully, especially for souvenirs. :moneybag:
Carry Uzbek Som
Most vendors prefer local currency. Discreet money changers are available nearby. :moneywithwings:
Saw these at Chorsu Bazaar. What are they?
Best bazaars for jewelry
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! The bazaar is vast. :athletic_shoe:
Try Local Street Food
Sample delicious Uzbek snacks and dishes from the food stalls. :food:
Uzbek Street Food in Tashkent's CHORSU Bazaar. Everything We Ate Was Delicious in This Food Market.
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Prices Politely
Prices aren't always displayed. Bargain respectfully, especially for souvenirs. :moneybag:
Carry Uzbek Som
Most vendors prefer local currency. Discreet money changers are available nearby. :moneywithwings:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! The bazaar is vast. :athletic_shoe:
Try Local Street Food
Sample delicious Uzbek snacks and dishes from the food stalls. :food:
Authenticity Check
For souvenirs, look for unique craftsmanship. Some items may be imported. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chorsu Bazaar is a highly recommended, vibrant, and historic market offering an authentic taste of Uzbek culture. Visitors praise its immense variety of goods, from fresh produce to unique handicrafts, and its lively atmosphere. Some find the lack of displayed prices and language barriers a slight challenge, and a few mention pushy dried fruit sellers, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and fascinating.
"A very, very large market with an 800-year history—although the current building itself is only about 60 years old. But the market is far bigger than just the main structure.
On the ground floor inside the building, you’ll find meat, dairy products, and other meat-based goods. The second floor is more earthy, offering spices, dried herbs, and nuts.
Surrounding the central building in a circular layout is a massive market full of fruits, vegetables, and fresh produce. There’s an incredible abundance and variety at different price points.
One challenge you may face as a tourist is that prices are usually not displayed on the goods. Many of the vendors also don’t speak English, which can make buying a bit tricky. The lack of clear pricing might give you a slight sense of insecurity—making you wonder if you’re being quoted a different price just because you’re a tourist.
Still, overall, it’s a very exciting and fascinating experience.
Be cautious with the dried fruit and nut sellers—they’re the most insistent and pushy, which gave me a sense of discomfort.
The market is full of energy, movement, and life. It’s truly a sight to see.
If you explore even further beyond the fresh produce area, you’ll find lots of beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs—and I’d say the prices here are cheaper than in Samarkand or Bukhara.too!"
Matin Dehghan
"Absolute must-see in Tashkent! Vibrant, bustling market full of life and color. You can find everything from fresh produce to spices, local handicrafts, and delicious street food. You really get a taste of local culture. Atmosphere is lively, and the people are so friendly - it feels like you’re part of the community. If you’re in Tashkent, definitely stop by for a true Uzbek experience."
Rahul Alex
"Visited this market twice during my short time in Tashkent. This place has so much character. If you dont have enough Som to buy items from the market, go to the front of the market ask for money changer. There would be many offering their services. Negotiate and get a good rate. I find this rather humorous as these money changers as also trying to be discreet. The market is not only clean, doesnt have strong meat smell but also has space for flower pots with blooming flowers in it. How wonderful an Asian market is this !"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chorsu Bazaar is easily accessible via the Tashkent Metro. Take the line to the 'Chorsu' station, and the market is just a short walk away. Many visitors find this the most convenient way to reach the bazaar, avoiding traffic.
Yes, Chorsu Bazaar is conveniently located near other Tashkent landmarks like the Hazrati Imam Mosque complex, making it easy to combine visits.
Taxis are readily available in Tashkent. You can use ride-sharing apps or hail one. Be sure to agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Walking is the best way to experience the full scale of Chorsu Bazaar. The central dome is impressive, but the surrounding stalls offer a wealth of goods and local life.
Parking can be challenging due to the market's popularity and central location. Using the metro is generally recommended to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Chorsu Bazaar is free. You can wander through the market and soak in the atmosphere without any admission fee.
The bazaar is generally open daily from morning until around 9 PM, though some shops may close earlier. It's busiest on Sundays.
Weekdays, especially in the afternoon, tend to be less crowded than weekends. Early mornings can also offer a more relaxed experience before the peak hours.
Yes, the bazaar is typically open on public holidays, often with a lively atmosphere as locals shop. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific holiday closures.
No, all sections of Chorsu Bazaar are open to the public without separate entrance fees. The experience is about exploring the vast market freely.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Authenticity can vary. While many beautiful handicrafts are made locally in Uzbekistan, some items might be imported. Look for unique craftsmanship and ask vendors if you're unsure.
You can find a wide array of souvenirs, including traditional textiles like suzani, ceramics, wood carvings, spices, dried fruits, nuts, and local clothing. Prices are often better than in Samarkand or Bukhara.
Yes, bargaining is a common practice. Vendors expect it, especially for handicrafts and non-food items. Approach it with a friendly attitude and a smile.
Don't miss the spices, dried fruits, and nuts for culinary souvenirs. Handcrafted items like ceramics and textiles are also excellent choices.
You'll find discreet money changers operating near the main entrance of the bazaar. Negotiate a good rate for your currency exchange.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The bazaar offers a fantastic variety of local foods. On the ground floor, you'll find meat and dairy. The second floor has spices and nuts, while the outer areas offer fresh produce and street food.
Yes, the abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits provides plenty of vegetarian options. You can also find bread and some cooked dishes.
Generally, the street food is safe and delicious. Opt for stalls that are busy, as this indicates fresh preparation. The market is also noted for being clean.
Try the fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of dried fruits and nuts, and local bread. You might also find samsa (savory pastries) or other cooked dishes.
While the bazaar itself is focused on market stalls, there are often small cafes and eateries within or immediately surrounding the market area where you can sit and enjoy a meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods, especially if they seem hesitant.
The iconic turquoise dome, the vibrant displays of spices and produce, and the bustling crowds offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the energy of the market.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the vibrant colors of the produce. Late afternoon can offer interesting shadows and a golden glow.
While generally permitted, avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals without their consent. Some vendors might prefer not to be photographed.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A wider lens can also be useful for the grand scale of the bazaar.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Keep a close eye on children in crowded areas. Consider bringing snacks or water, though plenty of fresh options are available for purchase. The experience of seeing such a bustling, traditional market can be a memorable educational moment for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key Strategy: Master the art of polite bargaining for handicrafts. Also, consider eating at the bazaar for delicious and inexpensive local meals. Exchanging currency discreetly near the entrance will also help stretch your Som further.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Pro-Tip: Be respectful when photographing people. Always ask for permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their goods. A versatile lens that can capture both wide market scenes and intricate details will serve you well.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Culture
The bazaar is a microcosm of Uzbek life. You'll see everything from daily necessities to artisanal crafts, reflecting the diverse needs and talents of the local population. The energy is palpable, with vendors calling out, shoppers bartering, and the aroma of spices and freshly baked bread filling the air. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of Tashkent and witness the vibrant tapestry of its culture unfold before your eyes.
Navigating the Market's Layout
Surrounding this central hub in a vast, circular layout are countless stalls overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables. This area is a riot of color and abundance, showcasing the region's agricultural bounty. Venture further out from the main dome, and you'll find areas dedicated to handicrafts and souvenirs, where you can find unique Uzbek treasures. Be prepared to wander; the true charm lies in discovering hidden gems as you explore its expansive grounds.
The Art of Bargaining and Currency
For all your purchases, it's essential to have Uzbek Som (UZS). While some larger establishments might accept cards, cash is king at the bazaar. If you arrive with foreign currency, don't worry. You'll find discreet money changers operating near the market's entrance. They offer competitive rates, but it's always wise to compare a couple before settling. This ensures you get the best value for your money as you shop for treasures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit