Samarkand - Discovering Uzbekistan

Travelling to Samarkand

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Samarkand, a pretty good destination in Uzbekistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Samarkand and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Samarkand, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uzbekistan, here's everything to know about Samarkand for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Samarkand

Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, located in northeastern Uzbekistan. The city has a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC and was a major cultural, religious, and economic center along the Silk Road. Today, Samarkand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural wonders, including the Registan, Shah-i-Zinda, and the Gur-e Amir mausoleum. The city features a mix of traditional Uzbek culture and modern amenities, making it a popular tourist destination. The best time to visit Samarkand is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

What to visit in Samarkand

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Samarkand: 1. Registan Square: This is the heart of Samarkand and one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Uzbekistan. The square is surrounded by three madrasahs that were built in the 15th and 17th centuries. The intricate tile work and colorful domes make for some breathtaking photos.
2. Bibi-Khanym Mosque: This mosque was built in the 15th century by Timur and named after his favorite wife. Although it has undergone significant restoration work over the years, it remains an impressive example of medieval architecture in the region.
3. Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis: This is a complex of tombs and mausoleums that dates back to the 11th century. The structures are adorned with intricate tile work and calligraphy, and the overall effect is stunning.
4. Ulugh Beg Observatory: This was one of the most advanced observatories of its time, built in the 15th century by the famous astronomer Ulugh Beg. Although only a small section of the original structure remains, visitors can still appreciate its impressive size and learn about its history.
5. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of Timur himself, as well as several of his descendants. The blue dome and intricate tile work make it one of the most visually striking monuments in Samarkand.
6. Siab Bazaar: This bustling market is a great place to get a taste of local life in Samarkand, and to pick up some souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from spices and dried fruits to traditional handicrafts.
Overall, Samarkand is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks, and these are just a few of the many attractions that the city has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uzbekistan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Samarkand.

When to go on holiday to Samarkand

The best time to visit Samarkand is between March and May, and September and November. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. The summer months between June and August can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The winter months between December and February can be cold, especially during the night when temperatures may drop below freezing. However, if you are interested in attending the famous Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival, which takes place every two years in August, then visiting Samarkand during that time would be your best option.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Samarkand

There are several ways to reach Samarkand, Uzbekistan: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Samarkand is the Samarkand International Airport which is well-connected with major cities of the world such as Moscow, Istanbul, and Tashkent. You can take a flight to either Tashkent or Istanbul and then take a connecting flight to Samarkand.
2. By Train: Samarkand is well-connected by rail to Tashkent and Bukhara. The journey from Tashkent takes around 4 hours, while from Bukhara it takes around 2.5 hours.
3. By Bus: There are regular buses from Tashkent to Samarkand which takes around 4-5 hours.
4. By Car: You can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Samarkand from Tashkent or other nearby cities. The journey takes around 4-5 hours depending on the traffic.
I recommend checking the schedules and prices of each option before deciding which one to take.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Samarkand, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Samarkand

Here are some typical foods of Samarkand with a short description: 1. Plov - A flavorful rice dish with meat, vegetables, and spices cooked in a large pot called "Kazan". It's considered one of Uzbekistan's national dishes.
2. Lagman - A soup made with noodles, meat, and vegetables. It's a hearty meal and often served during the colder months.
3. Shashlik - A skewered meat dish, usually made with lamb, and cooked on an open flame grill. It's a popular street food in Uzbekistan.
4. Samsa - A pastry filled with meat, potatoes, onions, and spices. These small, triangular-shaped pastries are typically enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
5. Manti - Similar to dumplings, manti are filled with spiced meat and steamed. They're often served with sour cream or yogurt.
6. Naan - A baked bread often served as a side dish. It's a staple food in Uzbekistan and can be found in many restaurants and markets.
7. Halva - A sweet dish made with ground nuts or seeds, sugar, and sometimes honey. It's a popular dessert in Uzbekistan and other parts of Central Asia.
8. Chak-chak - A sweet, crunchy dessert made from dough balls that are deep-fried and then soaked in honey or syrup.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uzbekistan here.

Is Samarkand an expensive destination for tourists?

Samarkand can be an expensive destination for tourists compared to other places in Uzbekistan. However, it still relatively has a moderate cost of living. Prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, food, and activities you choose. In general, prices for tours, entrance fees to tourist attractions, and souvenirs can be relatively expensive. But, you can still find budget-friendly options for accommodation, street food, and local transportation. It is always a good idea to do research and budgeting before traveling to any destination to make sure you have enough funds for your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Samarkand

If you are planning to visit Samarkand, the best area to stay in is the Registan area. This is where you will find the famous Registan square and many other historic sites such as the Ulugh Beg Observatory, Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, and the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum. Additionally, staying in the Registan area allows you to be close to many restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops within walking distance. Another good option is to stay in the area around the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, which is located a bit further from the Registan area but still within walking distance of many of the city's attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Samarkand here:
Booking.com

Is Samarkand a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally speaking, Samarkand, Uzbekistan is considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and it is generally safe to walk around during the day. However, like any other destination, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local customs to avoid any unintentional offenses. Overall, Samarkand is a beautiful city with plenty of historical and cultural sites to explore, and by taking basic precautions, you can enjoy your trip there safely.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uzbekistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Samarkand.

What type of travelers will enjoy Samarkand the most?

Samarkand is a city with a rich history and many ancient monuments, making it a great destination for travelers interested in culture and history. It is also a great place for families who enjoy exploring new cultures. Couples looking for a romantic atmosphere will also appreciate this city's beautiful architecture. However, young people seeking nightlife and entertainment may not find this city as lively as other destinations. Overall, Samarkand is a destination suited for travelers who want to learn more about the ancient Silk Road routes and visit historical sites.

How to get around Samarkand

In Samarkand, Uzbekistan, there are different modes of transportation that can be used to move around, including: 1. Taxis: Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Samarkand. You can flag down a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps to book a ride.
2. Buses: The city has bus routes that run around the city, and it's an inexpensive way to get around.
3. Shared taxis: Shared taxis are a cheaper option than regular taxis, and they usually pick up passengers at specific locations.
4. Walking: Walking is an excellent way to explore Samarkand's many historical sites and attractions, especially in the old city center.
5. Cycling: If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace.

What to see around Samarkand

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Samarkand: 1. Shakhrisabz: The birthplace of the great ruler, Timur, Shakhrisabz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts impressive monuments such as the Ak-Saray Palace and the Kok Gumbaz Mosque.
2. Afrasiyab: Located just 5km from Samarkand, Afrasiyab is an ancient city that dates back to the 7th century BC. Here, you can marvel at the impressive ruins of the old city, including the ancient walls and citadel.
3. Ulugbek Observatory: Built in the 15th century by Ulugbek, a Timurid ruler and astronomer, the observatory features remarkable astronomical instruments and provides a glimpse into the scientific achievements of medieval Islamic civilization.
4. Gijduvan: A small town located about 40km from Samarkand, Gijduvan is known for its ceramics and pottery. You can visit local workshops and see the artisans at work, and pick up some unique souvenirs to take home.
5. Shah-i-Zinda: This ancient necropolis is located on the outskirts of Samarkand and features stunningly beautiful blue-tiled mausoleums spanning several centuries. It's a truly breathtaking sight and a must-see for any visitor to the Samarkand region.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Uzbekistan you can click here.

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