1,400 Uzbek Som (£0.10, $0.13), price of a token to ride the Tashkent Metro 

A defining crux of exploring a great city is the availability of decent public transport; whether that’s by bus, tram, metro or even boat. To reach iconic status amongst visitors, these modes need an added aspect, that memorable x-factor. Think of London’s red bus, Istanbul’s Bosphorus ferry, and San Francisco’s vintage tram. On occasion, even the stations and buildings themselves may deserve such recognition, Tashkent’s metro system is a perfect example. 

Underneath Uzbekistan’s capital city lies an extraordinary collection of stations. Masterpieces of architectural grandeur and artistic beauty. Residents and visitors merge, as they navigate through the city to countless destinations. The wonder of Tashkent’s metro system is an inspired vision to be a history lesson and art gallery for those travelling through its halls and chambers. 

Themed stations highlight the utility of art through both classical and contemporary forms. Pass through Alisher Navoi - a homage to the renowned poet - for geometric motifs on grand domed ceilings. Pakhtakor takes us through a decorative mural history of cotton in Uzbekistan. Our favourite is Kosmonavtlar, with its delightful cosmonaut theme, including portraits of Yuri Gagarin and Valentina Tereshkova, the first man and woman in space. 

It couldn’t be simpler to experience the joy of the Tashkent Metro. After descending from street level, look out for the ‘Kassa’ counter and buy your token or the preferred option of a contactless payment card, before heading through the turnstiles to begin your illuminating journey.