Things to Do in Samarkand, Oʻzbekiston

Samarkand, one of Central Asia's most legendary cities, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the ancient Silk Road. This UNESCO World Heritage site in Uzbekistan captivates visitors with its stunning Islamic architecture, featuring intricate tilework, soaring minarets, and magnificent madrasas that have survived centuries of history. The city served as the capital of Tamerlane's vast empire in the 14th century, leaving behind architectural masterpieces that rival anything found in Istanbul or Isfahan. Today's Samarkand seamlessly blends its illustrious past with modern Uzbek culture, offering travelers an authentic Central Asian experience. The city's crown jewel, Registan Square, showcases three magnificent madrasas adorned with geometric patterns and azure domes that seem to glow against the desert sky. Beyond the famous monuments, visitors can explore bustling bazaars, sample traditional Uzbek cuisine, and witness the continuation of ancient crafts like silk weaving and ceramic making that have been practiced here for over a millennium.

Top Things to Do in Samarkand

Explore Historic Islamic Architecture

Marvel at the breathtaking Registan Square with its three stunning madrasas, visit the massive Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and discover the intricate tilework of Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. These architectural wonders showcase the pinnacle of Islamic art and represent some of the world's finest examples of medieval Central Asian craftsmanship.

Booking Tip: Entry fees range from $2-5 USD per site, with combination tickets available for $15-20. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Hire a licensed guide for $20-30 per day to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural details.

Shop at Traditional Bazaars

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Siab Bazaar and other local markets where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. The bazaars offer an authentic glimpse into daily Uzbek life and provide excellent opportunities to purchase handmade souvenirs like silk scarves, ceramics, and dried fruits.

Booking Tip: No booking required - markets are open daily except Mondays. Bring small bills in Uzbek som for easier transactions. Bargaining is expected and prices can often be reduced by 20-30%. Best selection and atmosphere in the morning hours.

Experience Traditional Uzbek Cuisine

Savor authentic Uzbek dishes like plov (pilaf), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and fresh nan bread at traditional restaurants and local eateries. Many establishments offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare these dishes yourself while gaining insight into Uzbek culinary traditions and hospitality.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes cost $25-40 per person and should be booked 1-2 days in advance. Traditional restaurants don't require reservations but popular spots fill up during lunch (12-2 PM). Budget $10-20 per meal at mid-range restaurants.

Visit Ulugh Beg Observatory

Explore the ruins of this 15th-century astronomical observatory built by Tamerlane's grandson, Ulugh Beg, who was both a ruler and renowned astronomer. The site includes a museum showcasing medieval Islamic astronomy and the remains of a massive marble sextant that was once used to map the stars with remarkable accuracy.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is approximately $3 USD. The site is open daily 9 AM-6 PM with reduced hours in winter. Combine with nearby Afrasiyab Museum for a half-day historical tour. Audio guides available for $5 or hire a guide for detailed explanations of astronomical instruments.

Take Day Trips to Surrounding Sites

Venture beyond the city to explore nearby attractions like the ancient settlement of Afrasiyab with its archaeological museum, or take longer excursions to Shakhrisabz (Tamerlane's birthplace) or the traditional craft villages where artisans still practice centuries-old techniques in ceramics, silk weaving, and paper making.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Shakhrisabz cost $40-60 including transport and guide. Local craft village visits can be arranged for $20-30. Book through your hotel or local tour operators 1 day in advance. Private car hire costs $30-50 per day depending on distance.

Getting There

Samarkand is accessible by high-speed train from Tashkent (2.5 hours, $15-25 USD) with several daily departures, making it the most convenient option for most travelers. The city also has a domestic airport with flights from Tashkent (1 hour, $50-80 USD) and limited international connections. Overland travel by shared taxi or bus from other Central Asian cities is possible but requires border crossings and takes significantly longer. Most international visitors fly into Tashkent first and then take the comfortable Afrosiyob high-speed train to Samarkand.

Getting Around

Samarkand's main historical sites are concentrated in the city center and can be explored on foot, though distances between major attractions like Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda can be substantial in hot weather. Taxis are abundant and inexpensive ($2-5 USD for most rides within the city), and ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi are widely used. For longer distances or day trips, hiring a private driver costs $20-40 per day. Public buses are available but can be crowded and confusing for visitors. Many hotels offer bicycle rentals for $5-10 per day, which is pleasant for exploring the old town areas.

Where to Stay

Old Town near Registan Square

City Center around Amir Temur Street

Near Siab Bazaar

Afrosiyob Train Station area

University District

Residential Mirzo Ulugbek area

Food & Dining

Samarkand's dining scene centers around traditional Uzbek cuisine, with excellent plov (considered among the best in Uzbekistan) available at local osh houses and upscale restaurants alike. The area around Registan Square offers several tourist-friendly restaurants serving traditional dishes alongside international options, while Siab Bazaar and surrounding streets provide authentic local eateries where meals cost $3-8 USD. Traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) offer a cultural dining experience with low tables and carpeted floors. For special occasions, seek out restaurants offering live traditional music and dance performances, typically costing $15-25 per person for a complete cultural dining experience.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Samarkand is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant (20-25°C/68-77°F) and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C/104°F, making sightseeing uncomfortable, though this is also when the city sees fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices. Winter (December-February) brings cool temperatures and occasional snow, but most attractions remain open and the city takes on a different charm, plus hotel rates are at their lowest. Avoid visiting during major holidays like Navruz (March 21) when attractions may be crowded and accommodations fully booked.

Insider Tips

Purchase a photography permit ($5-10) at major sites if you want to take photos inside mausoleums and madrasas, as rules are strictly enforced

Visit Shah-i-Zinda necropolis in the late afternoon when the setting sun illuminates the intricate tilework most beautifully

Learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas, and locals greatly appreciate the effort

Things to Do in Samarkand