It’s no surprise that Uzbekistan is a country full of prosperous history, making this sunny land a fun place to shop for souvenirs. Of course, there are always key chains and magnets that you can find at airports, but browsing through the addresses shown below (provided by a local tour guide,) provides an added authentic flair. Here are some of the best places to go shopping in Tashkent, without falling right into tourist traps.

 

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In general, there’s no shortage to souvenirs in Uzbekistan that also make beautiful home goods. One place to go shopping in Tashkent while learning about local art is at Rakhimov’s Ceramic Studio, where the Rakhimov family has been fostering the traditions of Uzbek ceramic culture for generations.

The studio is also a gallery where the family of ceramicists began in Soviet Union with works exported to the UK and France. The man in charge, Akbar, even joins archeological expeditions for both research and inspiration. 

Shopping in Tashkent doesn’t always require strolling by touristic stalls next to a famous monument. Inside Teplo Store, travelers can admire an alluring curation of Uzbek craftsmanship, through clothing to accessories that will surely beautify homes. There’s also a modern take on local designs, reflected upon items shown on sleek shelves.

Belgium might be the world’s best destination for chocolates, but while in Tashkent, chocoholics must have a taste inside Qand, known for handmade treats infused with natural ingredients like traditional Uzbek dried fruits, including: apricots, pistachios, walnuts, raisin…and so much more. Since Uzbekistan is known as a region producing high-quality dried fruits, Qand has been striving to be the ultimate chocolaterie in Uzbekistan since its inception in 2017. PS. the gift box makes a tasty and sweet present for family and friends back home.