Things to Do, See, and Experience in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

by Gaia | Nov 4, 2025 | Samarkand, Blog, Uzbekistan

If you’re traveling solo on a budget and wondering whether Samarkand is worth the detour, absolutely yes. I only had two days in Samarkand—but what a two days they were. Two days that completely shifted my perspective on what travel can be.

This isn’t just another stop on the map; it’s the crown jewel of the Silk Road, where camel caravans once paused on their way from China to Europe, and where you can still feel that hum of exchange between worlds.

Samarkand’s turquoise domes shine in the sunlight just as they did in Timur’s day, and its mix of Persian, Arabic, Turkic, and Mongol influences creates a cultural cocktail you won’t find anywhere else. Locals call it The Garden of the Soul, Pearl of the East, and Mirror of the World—names that might sound dramatic until you’re standing in Registan Square at sunset, feeling the centuries press close.

What’s even better? You can see the world’s most magnificent Islamic architecture, eat incredible meals for under $5, and stay in decent accommodation without breaking the bank. The best part? This isn’t luxury travel—it’s something better. It’s real.

From Tashkent to Samarkand Options

The journey from Tashkent to Samarkand is straightforward, with several options available to cover the 300km distance.

Option 1 Trains: We took the Tashkent to Samarkand train—specifically the modern Sharq departing around 12:30 PM—which took roughly 2.5 hours and cost about €10-15.
Option 2 Planes: If you prefer flying, it takes 50 minutes but costs significantly more when you factor in airport transfers.
Option 3 Buses: This is the cheapest option (€5-8) but takes 5-6 hours and isn’t particularly comfortable.
Option 4: Shared Taxis: This option costs €15-20 per person and takes approximately 4 hours; however, please note that the driving style may be aggressive.

Book train tickets a few days ahead through the Uzbekistan Railways website or at the station—trains fill up during peak season.

Afrosiyob (High-Speed Train) in Samarkand Station

Is Samarkand Worth Visiting for Tourists?

Absolutely, without question! Samarkand is often considered the single most spectacular destination in all of Central Asia and the highlight of any Uzbekistan itinerary. This is the Uzbekistan that travelers dream of—the true glory of the Silk Road days brought to life through architectural masterpieces that seem to defy both time and imagination.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable (20-30°C) and the lighting is perfect for photography, especially during the golden hours at sunrise and sunset.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tashkent?

The best time to visit Tashkent is between March and June, when temperatures range from 15 °C to 30°C, making it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, scenic parks, and vibrant bazaars. Summer months can be quite hot, while winters are mild but can be cool in the evenings.

Samarkand Must-See Attractions: My Recommendation

Samarkand’s attractions represent the pinnacle of Islamic architecture and Timurid artistic achievement. Each monument tells a story of empire, ambition, and artistic genius that shaped the course of history.

Registan Square – The world’s most magnificent public square framed by three stunning madrasahs (Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, Tilya-Kori) with intricate tilework and soaring minarets
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis – Stunning avenue of mausoleums containing some of the richest tilework in the Muslim world, known as the “Living King”
Bibi-Khanym Mosque – Once one of the Islamic world’s largest mosques, built by Timur from the spoils of his Indian campaign, with a massive 41m high cupola
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – “Tomb of the King” where Timur himself is buried, featuring exquisite interior decoration with gold leaf and precious stones
Ulugbek Observatory – Remains of the medieval world’s largest astronomical instrument, built by Timur’s astronomer grandson
Afrosiab Museum – Built around important 7th-century Sogdian frescoes showing Samarkand’s pre-Islamic history
Siab Bazaar – Traditional market next to Bibi-Khanym offering spices, dried fruits, nuts, and the famous Samarkand bread
Hazrat-Khizr Mosque – Historic mosque on a hill overlooking the ancient Afrosiab site, where Uzbekistan’s first president is buried
Rukhabad Mausoleum – Simple yet elegant 14th-century tomb, possibly the city’s oldest surviving monument
Jewish Quarter Synagogue – Working 19th-century synagogue built in 1891 representing Samarkand’s diverse cultural heritage
Samarkand Wine Factory – Historic Hovrenko Winery established in 1927, producing acclaimed dessert wines from local grape varieties
Regional Studies Museum – Housed in an old Jewish merchant’s house with extensive exhibits on the city’s multicultural history.

Silk Road Heritage Sites

Samarkand’s position as the heart of the Silk Road trade network for over two millennia has left an extraordinary legacy of cultural exchange and architectural achievement, representing the pinnacle of medieval Islamic civilization.

Registan Square – The Ultimate Silk Road Monument

The Registan, meaning “sandy place” in Persian, was the medieval center of commerce in Samarkand, where the plaza was likely a wall-to-wall bazaar. All the main roads of the Silk Road led to this square, making it the beating heart of international trade. The three madrasahs that frame the square represent different periods of Samarkand’s glory:

Ulugbek Madrasah (1417-1420) – The original madrasah built by Timur’s astronomer grandson, where Ulugbek himself taught subjects including mathematics, astronomy, theology, and philosophy.
Sher-Dor Madrasah (1619-1636) – “Lion-Bearing” madrasah decorated with roaring felines that violate Islamic artistic conventions, showing Persian cultural influence.
Tilya-Kori Madrasah (1646-1660) – “Gold-Covered” madrasah featuring a mosque with intricate blue and gold decoration symbolizing Samarkand’s wealth, with a flat ceiling designed to look domed from inside.

Ancient Afrosiab – Pre-Islamic Silk Road Capital

The archaeological site of Afrosiab in northeast Samarkand preserves the remains of the original city founded in the 7th century BC. This was ancient Maracanda, conquered by Alexander the Great in 329 BC, who reportedly said it was “more beautiful than I expected.”

Historical Significance: Capital of the powerful Sogdian kingdom, whose merchants served as the primary intermediaries in Silk Road trade between China and Persia. The Sogdians were renowned as the world’s most skilled international traders.
Afrosiab Museum: Built around a remarkable 7th-century fresco showing King Varkhuman receiving diplomatic missions from China, Iran, and India—a unique depiction of Silk Road diplomacy.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque – Monument to Silk Road Wealth

Timur built this colossal mosque from the spoils of his invasion of India (1398-1399) and represents the ultimate expression of Silk Road wealth transformed into architectural grandeur. At its completion, it was one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world.

Silk Road Connection: The mosque’s construction materials and artisans were gathered from across Timur’s empire—200 stonemasons from conquered countries, precious stones from India, and 100 elephants to transport materials.
Architectural Innovation: Featured the revolutionary double-dome construction where the internal dome differs completely from the external dome, allowing for both perfect interior proportions and maximum external visual impact.

Bibi-Khanym Mausoleum in front of the mosque

Shah-i-Zinda – Silk Road Necropolis

This stunning avenue of mausoleums represents a virtual catalog of Islamic architectural evolution from the 11th to 19th centuries. The name means “Living King” and refers to Qusam ibn Abbas, cousin of Prophet Muhammad, whose tomb attracts pilgrims from across the Islamic world.

Three Groups:

Upper group: Oldest tombs from 11th-13th centuries
Middle group: 14th-15th century mausoleums of Timur’s relatives and nobles
Lower group: 15th-19th century tombs showing architectural evolution

Modern Silk Road Legacy

Samarkand continues its historic role as a crossroads through:

High-speed Afrosiyob train connecting Tashkent and Bukhara
Silk Road Samarkand – New international resort complex recreating the ancient city atmosphere
Traditional craft workshops in old madrasahs continue centuries-old techniques
International festivals celebrating Silk Road cultural heritage

Timurid Empire Legacy

Samarkand reached its greatest glory under Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants from 1370 to 1507, when it served as the capital of an empire stretching from Turkey to China. This period created most of the monuments visitors see today.

Timur’s Vision

Timur envisioned Samarkand as the most magnificent city in the world, commissioning architectural projects that pushed the boundaries of medieval engineering and artistry. His motto was “If you want to know about us, see our buildings.” Here are some notable architectural innovations:

Double dome construction allowing different interior and exterior designs
Massive scale that dwarfed all contemporary Islamic architecture
Integration of spoils from conquered territories into building decoration
Advanced engineering to resist the region’s frequent earthquakes

Ulugbek’s Scientific Legacy

Timur’s grandson Ulugbek (1394-1449) transformed Samarkand into a center of learning and scientific achievement. His astronomical observations were among the most accurate before the invention of the telescope.

Ulugbek Observatory: Once housed the world’s largest astronomical instrument—a massive sextant with a 40-meter radius. His star catalog remained the most accurate for centuries.
Educational Reforms: Ulugbek personally taught mathematics and astronomy at his madrasah, making Samarkand a university city that rivaled medieval Baghdad or Córdoba.

Architectural Elements and Symbolism

Timurid architecture developed a distinctive style combining:

Persian artistic traditions with Central Asian building techniques
Geometric patterns representing the Islamic cosmic order
Calligraphy integrating Quranic verses with decorative elements
Color symbolism using turquoise (representing sky/heaven) and gold (representing earth/prosperity)

Historical Places and Landmarks

Samarkand’s historical monuments span over two millennia, creating an unparalleled architectural timeline from ancient Sogdian remains to Timurid masterpieces.

Registan Square

The “Sandy Place” that served as Samarkand’s heart for centuries, surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs representing the pinnacle of Islamic educational architecture. The square was used for royal proclamations, public executions, and served as a massive marketplace where goods from across the known world were traded.

Photography tip: Visit during golden hour (sunrise/sunset) for the best lighting and fewer crowds
Sound and light show: Free evening projection mapping when large groups book performances

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

“Tomb of the King” in Persian, this mausoleum houses Timur himself along with his sons and grandsons. Originally built for Timur’s grandson Muhammad Sultan, it became the family tomb when Timur died unexpectedly in 1405 while marching toward China.

Interior highlights: Jade tombstone over Timur’s grave, intricate geometric patterns, gold leaf decoration
Historical significance: Inspired the design of the Taj Mahal in India

Rukhabad Mausoleum

This brick mausoleum, dated 1380 and possibly the city’s oldest surviving monument, was renovated in 2015 and now serves as a souvenir and craft shop. The simple yet elegant structure represents the early Timurid architectural style.

Historical significance: Possibly the city’s oldest surviving monument from the Timurid period
Current use: Functions as a traditional craft shop and cultural site

Most Beautiful Churches/Mosques & Religious Landmarks

Samarkand’s religious architecture reflects its role as a crossroads of faiths, featuring magnificent Islamic monuments alongside the places of worship of smaller communities.

Hazrat-Khizr Mosque

Perched on a hill overlooking the ancient Afrosiab site, this historic mosque dates to the 8th century and holds special significance as the first mosque of Samarkand. The current structure reflects various periods of reconstruction.

Historical importance: Site of the first Islamic conversion in Samarkand
Presidential tomb: Final resting place of Uzbekistan’s first president Islam Karimov
Views: Panoramic vistas over the ancient Afrosiab archaeological site

Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex

Located 25 kilometers from Samarkand, this modern complex honors one of Islam’s most important scholars, the compiler of the most authentic collection of the Prophet Muhammad’s sayings (hadith).

Significance: Major pilgrimage site for Muslims worldwide
Architecture: Modern interpretation of traditional Islamic design
Pilgrimage: Significant for religious tourism
Transportation: Accessible by bus from Shah-i-Zinda

Jewish Quarter Synagogue

This working 19th-century synagogue, built in 1891, represents Samarkand’s historically diverse religious community. Hidden in the old Jewish quarter, it serves the small remaining Jewish population.

Architecture: Traditional Central Asian style adapted for Jewish worship
Community: Serves descendants of Bukharian Jews who settled in Samarkand
Cultural significance: Symbol of Samarkand’s multicultural heritage
Location: Hidden on unmarked Denau Street in the Old Town

Best Museums and Cultural Sites

Samarkand’s museums provide in-depth insights into the city’s important role as a crossroads of civilizations, from ancient Sogdian culture to the Timurid Empire. We ran out of time to explore them properly—there’s only so much you can pack into a few days when you’re chasing Soviet mosaics and getting lost in bazaars—but these museums are worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Afrosiab Museum

Built around one of Samarkand’s most important archaeological discoveries, this museum showcases a remarkable 7th-century fresco depicting Sogdian King Varkhuman receiving diplomatic missions from across the known world.

Highlights: Original Sogdian wall paintings showing Silk Road diplomacy, artifacts from pre-Islamic Samarkand
Historical context: Evidence of Samarkand’s role as a diplomatic center before the Islamic conquest
Archaeological significance: One of the finest examples of Sogdian art in existence

Regional Studies Museum

Housed in a former Jewish merchant’s mansion, this museum offers comprehensive coverage of Samarkand’s multicultural history, with a particular focus on the city’s Jewish heritage.

Collections: Jewish history wing with old photographs, ethnographic exhibits, and cultural artifacts
Architecture: Traditional merchant’s house showcasing residential architecture
Cultural focus: Emphasis on Samarkand’s diverse religious and ethnic communities

Ulugbek Observatory Museum

The remains of the medieval world’s most advanced astronomical facility, built by Timur’s grandson Ulugbek in the 1420s. The observatory’s massive underground sextant was the largest astronomical instrument of its time.

Scientific achievement: Ulugbek’s star catalog remained the most accurate for centuries
Astronomical instrument: Remains of a 40-meter radius sextant used for celestial observations
Historical impact: Contributed significantly to medieval Islamic astronomy
Educational role: Demonstrates the scientific achievements of the Timurid period

Astronomical instrument: Remains of a 40-meter radius sextant used for celestial observations

Samarkand Wine Factory (Hovrenko Winery)

Established in 1927, this historic winery produces internationally awarded dessert wines from local grape varieties, including Gulyakandoz, Shirin, Aleatiko, and Cabernet dessert wines.

Wine tasting: Eight wines, balzams, and cognacs available for sampling
Historical significance: Oldest and most famous winery in Uzbekistan
Local varieties: Unique Central Asian grape cultivars adapted to the local climate
International recognition: Wines exported to Russia and Central Asian countries

Samarkand Wine Factory (Hovrenko Winery)

Samarkand’s Soviet Architecture and Heritage

Unlike Tashkent, which features impressive Soviet modernist architecture such as the metro system, Hotel Uzbekistan, and many brutalist buildings, Samarkand’s Soviet influence is more subtle and mainly seen in residential neighborhoods, urban planning, and infrastructure. The city has always focused on preserving its Silk Road heritage rather than highlighting Soviet modernism. Still, we noticed some notable residential districts, apartment buildings, and murals.

Industrial Progress Soviet Mosaic

We found this enormous Soviet-era mosaic at the former Samarkand House-Building Plant (DSK Samarkand)—and “massive” doesn’t even do it justice. This golden-colored mural, covering an entire building wall, celebrates industrial progress with images of construction workers, engineers, cotton fields, and Soviet vehicles, all created with thousands of tiny ceramic tiles. While locals claim it’s one of the largest Soviet mosaics ever made, the size is truly impressive—standing in front of it, we felt tiny in comparison to this grand vision of socialist modernization.

It’s classic Soviet propaganda art: optimistic, larger-than-life, and depicting the story of industrialization through labor and technology. Unlike the well-preserved Silk Road monuments, this mosaic is gradually fading and cracking, located in an industrial area most tourists never visit—making it an authentic piece of Samarkand’s Soviet history that’s slowly disappearing.

Soviet Residential Buildings in Beruniy Street

Beyond the tourist trail, Samarkand’s Soviet-era residential neighborhoods tell a very different story. We wandered through streets lined with prefabricated apartment blocks—the typical Soviet housing that was mass-produced across the USSR from the 1960s to the 1980s. These aren’t architectural landmarks like Tashkent’s decorated buildings, but they offer authentic glimpses of Soviet urban planning. Wide boulevards, concrete apartment buildings, corner shops, and the occasional faded mosaic panel—this is where most Samarkand residents actually live, in a city shaped as much by Soviet planners as by Timurid emperors. The contrast is clear: turn one corner and you’re facing turquoise Islamic domes; turn another and you’re in a purely Soviet residential area that could be anywhere from Minsk to Vladivostok.

Soviet Residential Buildings in Narpay Street

Haydar’s Antique Shop & Flea Market

If you want to see what Soviet Samarkand left behind, beyond crumbling mosaics and apartment blocks, find Haydar’s Antique Shop. Located in a private courtyard and home, this chaotic thrift-style shop is a treasure trove of Soviet memorabilia—medals, enamelware, old textiles, and even vintage bottles of Georgian wine hidden among the jumble. We spent nearly an hour sifting through boxes of Soviet badges, propaganda posters, and household items that tell the story of everyday life under the USSR. It’s not organized or polished (half the charm is the treasure hunt through stacked boxes and cluttered shelves), but that’s exactly what makes it special. This is where Soviet nostalgia endures in dusty boxes and forgotten corners, a true time capsule run by collectors rather than curated for Instagram.

Facade of the Water Management Department of the Samarkand Region

We nearly walked past this towering Soviet-era relief sculpture before looking up and realizing what we’d found—a massive concrete figure of a muscular worker in traditional Uzbek dress, arms raised in a gesture of triumph and labor. This is classic Soviet monumental propaganda: the idealized working man, strong and proud, built on a scale meant to inspire awe and obedience.

Soviet Mural on UZTelecom’s Building (Mirzo Ulugbek Street)

Hidden on the facade of UZTelecom’s building on Mirzo Ulugbek Street, this striking Soviet-era mosaic celebrates the space race and technological progress that shaped the USSR’s identity. The blue and gold tiles show a cosmonaut or astronaut floating through space, surrounded by satellites and celestial imagery—highlighting the Soviet focus on space exploration after Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight in 1961. The mosaic’s color scheme is distinctly Soviet: deep blues, golds, and that characteristic iridescent quality of glass tiles that shimmer as you walk past.

Unique Experiences and Guided Tours

Discover Samarkand through specialized experiences that reveal layers of history, culture, and artistic achievement beyond standard sightseeing.

Registan Evening Photography Tours – Professional guided sessions capturing the square’s transformation from day to illuminated night, with tips for avoiding tourist crowds
Shah-i-Zinda Spiritual Walks – Guided tours focusing on the necropolis’s religious significance and pilgrimage traditions with local Islamic scholars
Traditional Bread-Making Workshops – Learn to bake legendary Samarkand bread in traditional tandoor ovens with master bakers
Silk Road History Tours – Comprehensive walks tracing ancient trade routes and visiting sites connected to historical merchants and diplomats
Sogdian Culture Explorations – Specialized tours of Afrosiab and the museum focusing on pre-Islamic Samarkand and Sogdian merchant culture
Timurid Architecture Masterclasses – Expert-led tours explaining Islamic architectural techniques, symbolism, and artistic innovations
Traditional Craft Workshops – Visits to artisan workshops in old madrasahs where craftsmen continue centuries-old techniques in ceramics, textiles, and metalwork
Wine and Culture Tours – Combined tastings at Hovrenko Winery with cultural discussions about Samarkand’s role in ancient trade.

Booking: Local tour operators or certified travel agencies, plus convenient online platforms like GetYourGuide, Headout, and Tiqets for advance booking with instant confirmation, flexible cancellation, and often skip-the-line access to popular attractions
Duration: Range from 2-hour specialized walks to full-day comprehensive experiences

Free Things to Do

Experience Samarkand’s magnificence without spending a som through these free activities that showcase the city’s architectural and cultural treasures.

Explore Registan Square exterior – Marvel at the three madrasahs from the public square, though entry inside requires tickets (the exterior views are spectacular)
Wander the Old Town Jewish Quarter – Discover hidden mosques, traditional architecture, and glimpses of multicultural Samarkand
Visit Hazrat-Khizr Mosque surroundings – Enjoy panoramic views over Afrosiab archaeological site and the city beyond
Browse Siab Bazaar atmosphere – Experience traditional market life, sample dried fruits, and see traditional bread-making (buying optional)
Walk the ancient Afrosiab site – Explore the archaeological remains of pre-Islamic Samarkand where the original city stood
Photograph Soviet-era mosaics – Hunt for beautiful Soviet murals and architectural elements scattered around the city center
Enjoy evening Registan illumination – Watch the monuments light up at sunset, sometimes with free sound and light shows
Explore residential neighborhoods – Walk through traditional mahallas (neighborhoods) to see daily life and traditional architecture
University Boulevard strolls – Modern tree-lined avenue perfect for evening walks and people-watching

Outdoor Activities and Nature

While Samarkand is primarily known for its architectural wonders, the surrounding region offers several outdoor experiences and natural attractions.

Nurota Mountains day trips – Ancient petroglyphs, natural springs, and hiking trails in the mountains 2 hours from Samarkand
Aydarkul Lake excursions – Large artificial lake offering fishing, swimming, and desert camping experiences
Zaamin National Park visits – Mountain park with hiking trails, juniper forests, and cooler climate for escaping summer heat
Traditional horse riding – Explore the countryside around Samarkand on horseback, following ancient caravan routes
Desert camping near Kyzylkum – Overnight experiences in the vast Kyzylkum Desert with traditional yurt accommodation
Botanical garden walks – Peaceful gardens perfect for relaxation and escaping the intensity of monument visiting
Cycling tours – Guided bike tours through rural areas and traditional villages surrounding the city
Photography expeditions – Sunrise and sunset shoots at optimal viewpoints around the city and surrounding landscape

Best seasons: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for comfortable outdoor temperatures

Best Neighborhoods to Explore

Each district of Samarkand offers different perspectives on the city’s rich history and contemporary life.

Old Town (Historic Center) – UNESCO World Heritage area containing Registan, Bibi-Khanym, and traditional residential quarters with centuries-old architecture
Afrosiab District – Archaeological area with museum and remains of ancient pre-Islamic Samarkand, offering insights into Sogdian civilization
Siab Bazaar Area – Traditional market quarter showcasing authentic daily life, food culture, and traditional commerce continuing ancient bazaar traditions
Jewish Quarter – Historic neighborhood with traditional architecture, working synagogue, and glimpses of Samarkand’s multicultural past
University District – Modern area with educational institutions, parks, and contemporary Uzbek urban planning
Russian Quarter – Area developed during the colonial period with different architectural styles and restaurant scene
Airport Road (Modern Samarkand) – Contemporary business district showing the city’s modern development and international connections

Getting around: Most historic sites within walking distance; taxis and marshrutkas for longer distances

Best Panoramic Viewpoints in Samarkand

Experience Samarkand’s architectural magnificence from these spectacular vantage points offering sweeping views of the historic city.

Hazrat-Khizr Mosque hilltop – Panoramic views over the Afrosiab archaeological site and the historic city center, with Registan visible in the distance
Registan viewing platform – Free elevated platform providing perfect views of all three madrasahs and the famous square from above
Shah-i-Zinda upper terraces – Views down the sacred avenue of mausoleums and across the city from the necropolis’s highest points
Bibi-Khanym Mosque entrance – Elevated position offering views of the massive mosque complex and the surrounding old town
Modern hotel rooftops – Several hotels offer rooftop restaurants and bars with views over the historic monuments
Afrosiab Museum surroundings – Elevated archaeological site providing views over both ancient and modern Samarkand
University Boulevard bridges – Modern vantage points offering different perspectives on the city’s layout and development

Best times: Golden hour (one hour before sunset) for optimal lighting and dramatic shadows across the monuments

Traditional Uzbek Souvenirs and Where to Buy Them

Take home authentic pieces of Samarkand’s artistic heritage through traditional crafts that continue centuries-old techniques.

Samarkand ceramics – Traditional blue and white pottery, decorative plates, and tilework replicas (Siab Bazaar, workshop cooperatives in old madrasahs)
Silk suzani embroidery – Handwoven decorative wall hangings with traditional patterns unique to Samarkand region (Registan area shops, traditional craft centers)
Samarkand paper products – Made from mulberry bark using 10th-11th century techniques at Meros paper mill (Meros factory shop, cultural centers)
Traditional musical instruments – Handcrafted doira drums, rubab string instruments (Music instrument workshops, cultural centers)
Samarkand bread (non) – Famous flatbread that allegedly never goes stale, perfect for gifts (Siab Bazaar, traditional bakeries)
Miniature architectural models – Detailed replicas of Registan, Gur-e-Amir, and other monuments (Souvenir shops around major monuments)
Traditional textiles – Handwoven fabrics, traditional clothing, and accessories (Traditional workshops in old madrasahs)
Local wine and spirits – Hovrenko Winery products, traditional fruit wines (Samarkand Wine Factory, specialized shops)

Best shopping areas: Siab Bazaar for an authentic market experience, Registan area for quality crafts, and old madrasahs for traditional workshops
Bargaining: Expected in bazaars, fixed prices in official shops, and cooperatives

Bonus: Traditional Food & Drink + Best Places

Samarkand’s cuisine represents the pinnacle of Uzbek culinary traditions, influenced by the city’s position as a crossroads of cultures and enhanced by local specialties.

Must-Try Traditional Dishes

Samarkand Plov – The legendary version where ingredients are layered rather than mixed during cooking, resulting in distinct strata of rice, meat, and carrots. Served with a choice of how much meat and vegetables you want
Samarkand Non (Bread) – Legendary flatbread that reportedly never goes stale or moldy, with distinctive patterns and sesame seeds baked in traditional tandoor ovens
Karakhan – Mysterious local specialty of lamb cubes stewed with dried apricots and served with rice, found nowhere else in Uzbekistan
Samsa – Samarkand’s version of the traditional pastry filled with meat and onions, baked in tandoor ovens rather than fried
Mastava – Traditional soup with rice, vegetables, and meat, perfect for cooler weather
Shurpa – Hearty soup with large pieces of mutton, vegetables, and fresh herbs
Manti – Large steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions, often served with sour cream
Lagman – Hand-pulled noodles in rich broth with meat and vegetables, showing Chinese Silk Road influence

Best Traditional Restaurants

Samarqand Osh Markazi N1 – Widely regarded as having the best plov in the city, located halfway between Shah-i-Zinda and the airport. Portions range from 40,000-70,000 som, with half portions recommended per person
Platan – One of Samarkand’s most famous restaurants serving traditional Uzbek cuisine in romantic surroundings with traditional decor. Known for excellent atmospher,e but can have slow service
Old City Restaurant – Rare find offering robust vegetarian options alongside traditional dishes, including excellent pumpkin manti
Shokhrukh Nur – Near Registan Square, serving authentic Uzbek fare without premium tourist pricing, excellent for traditional lagman and shashlik
Registan Restaurant – Directly across from the Registan, surprisingly good quality despite tourist location, known for traditional dishes and friendly service
Karimbek – Popular option in the newer Russian quarter offering both Uzbek and international cuisine with outdoor seating and private dining areas.

Traditional Drinks

Green tea (kok choy) – Essential part of every meal, served in small ceramic bowls (piyola) throughout the day
Samarkand wine – Hovrenko Winery’s acclaimed dessert wines made from local grape varieties like Gulyakandoz and Shirin
Shoh Tut – Fresh mulberry juice, considered healthy for blood circulation
Ayran – Refreshing salted yogurt drink perfect for hot weather
Traditional fruit compotes – Made from dried apricots, raisins, and local fruits

Food culture tips: Meals are communal experiences with shared dishes, bread is sacred and never wasted, and the tea ceremony is a central part of Uzbek hospitality. Traditional restaurants are very affordable, with hearty meals costing 50,000-100,000 som per person.

FAQs: The Answers I Needed Before Planning My Trip

How many days do I need in Samarkand?

A minimum of 2 days is required for the main attractions, but 3-4 days is ideal for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. Two days lets you see Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, Gur-e-Amir, and Bibi-Khanym Mosque, plus have time for Siab Bazaar and Ulugbek Observatory. With 3-4 days, you can also do day trips to Shakhrisabz or simply enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace with time for wine tasting and traditional craft workshops.

What's the best time to visit Samarkand?

April and May, as well as September and October, offer the best weather, with comfortable temperatures (20-30°C) and perfect lighting for photography.
Spring (April-May) brings blooming flowers and longer daylight hours, while autumn (September-October) has pleasant temperatures after the summer heat subsides.
Winter (November-March) is ideal for budget travelers—fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and flight savings, plus most attractions remain open year-round with rare snowfall.

How much does it cost to visit Samarkand per day?

Samarkand is incredibly budget-friendly. Total daily budget: $30-40 for budget travelers, including everything:

Accommodation: $25-35/night for guesthouses, $50-80/night for mid-range hotels
Food: $6-15/day total (breakfast $5, lunch $5-8, dinner $8-12)
Attraction tickets: $3-5 each (40,000-60,000 UZS) – Registan Square costs about $5
Transportation: $2-5/day for taxis via the Yandex app
Drinks: Beer $1.50, soft drinks $0.70

Is Samarkand expensive?

No, Samarkand is one of Asia’s most affordable destinations. You get incredible value—world-class UNESCO World Heritage architecture, amazing meals under $8, and decent accommodation without breaking the bank. Compared to European or other Asian historic cities, Samarkand offers luxury experiences at budget prices. Even 5-star hotels cost around $80 to $ 150/night.

Is Samarkand safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely yes, including for solo female travelers. Uzbekistan has introduced tourist police at major attractions, locals are helpful and friendly, and crime against tourists is extremely rare. I traveled solo as a woman and felt completely safe. The city center is well-lit and patrolled, most younger locals speak English, and there’s a strong culture of hospitality. Standard travel precautions apply, but safety shouldn’t be a concern.

Is it easy to travel independently in Samarkand?

Yes, independent travel is straightforward. Key tips:

Download the Yandex taxi app for reliable, affordable transportation
Most major attractions have English signage and information
Maps.me works better than Google Maps offline in Uzbekistan
Shared taxis cost about 50 cents per seat for local routes
Main attractions are within walking distance of each other in the historic center

How do I get around Samarkand?

Multiple budget-friendly options:

Yandex Taxi: Most convenient, about $2 for 5km rides with upfront pricing
Shared taxis: 50 cents per seat, depart when full from taxi stands near stations
Walking: Most historic attractions are within 15-20 minutes of each other
Local buses: Very cheap but can be crowded and confusing for tourists

The historic center is compact enough to explore on foot.

Can I pay with credit cards in Samarkand?

Mostly a cash economy, but getting easier. Visa cards are most widely accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants. ATMs available at major hotels and banks dispensing both US dollars and Uzbek som. Bring cash for:

Siab Bazaar and street vendors
Small restaurants and cafes
Attraction entrance fees
Taxi drivers (though Yandex accepts cards)

Exchange US dollars for the best rates, and you can now pay with US dollars or Euros at many shops and restaurants.

Is Samarkand worth visiting? Is it better than Bukhara?

Absolutely worth visiting—it’s the crown jewel of the Silk Road. Samarkand offers:

More impressive architecture than Bukhara with grander scale monuments
The famous Registan Square – arguably Central Asia’s most iconic sight
Better preservation of major monuments (though some feel over-restored)
More international atmosphere with diverse dining and accommodation options

Bukhara feels more authentic with its living old town, while Samarkand is more spectacular architecturally. If you only visit one, choose Samarkand for the “wow factor.”

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?

Recommended for mid-range and upscale hotels, especially during peak season (April-May, September-October). Budget options like guesthouses are sometimes available for walk-ins, but don’t risk it during:

Spring (April-May) – Peak tourist season
Major holidays – Navruz (March), Eid celebrations
Weekends – Friday-Saturday are busiest

Book platforms: Local guesthouses, international chains, or travel agencies. Winter travel (November-March) offers more flexibility and lower rates.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Samarkand

Samarkand isn’t just a destination—it’s a revelation. Standing in Registan Square as the call to prayer echoes off those turquoise domes, you’ll understand why this place has captivated travelers for over two millennia. Yes, it’s touristy now, and yes, much has been restored, but the magic remains utterly real. For solo budget travelers, it offers something precious: the chance to witness humanity’s greatest architectural achievements without breaking the bank. Two days here changed how I see travel—and I’m confident it’ll do the same for you. Samarkand delivers on every promise the Silk Road ever made.

Hello, I’m Gaia, the Armenian traveler behind “Explore with Gaia.” Since 2014, I’ve explored over 30 countries, mostly as a solo, budget-friendly adventurer. My travel philosophy proves you can balance a regular 9-to-5 life with incredible journeys.

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or just beginning, join me at “Explore with Gaia” for reliable travel guides, tips and recommendations, and endless inspiration to discover the world, one unforgettable trip at a time.