Обязательные места
Updated May 2026 · Verify hours and ticket prices on arrival — UZS rates change with inflation.
Registan
Three grand madrasahs framing the most photographed square in Central Asia. Go at sunrise or after 4 pm for golden light; evening illuminations in season.
Shah-i-Zinda
Avenue of mausoleums with stunning tilework — allow time to walk slowly and read the inscriptions. Modest dress required.
Gur-e-Amir
Tamerlane’s mausoleum — deep blue dome and quiet courtyard. Often combined with Registan on foot in one afternoon.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Once among the largest mosques in the Islamic world — vast portal and bazaar street behind. Best in morning before tour groups peak.
Ulugbek Observatory
15th-century astronomical marvel on a hill above the city — quiet museum and panoramic views over Samarkand.
Siab Bazaar
Working market for bread, spices, dried fruit, and nuts — taste non (flatbread) warm from the tandoor. Free to wander; cash for samples.
2-day Samarkand itinerary
- Day 1 — Old city core Registan (morning) → Gur-e-Amir → Siab Bazaar lunch → Shah-i-Zinda (late afternoon light). Dinner at a chaikhana near the historic center.
- Day 2 — Mosques & science Bibi-Khanym → Hazrat Khizr mosque viewpoint → Ulugbek Observatory → optional Konigil paper workshop or Eternal City cultural complex (evening).
Getting there
Afrosiyob high-speed train from Tashkent (~2 h) or Bukhara (~1.5 h). Book on railway.uz or via your hotel. Samarkand airport (SKD) has regional flights.
Best season
Apr–May and Sep–Oct — clear skies and comfortable walking weather. Jul–Aug is hot; start sights before 10 am. Navruz (21 Mar) brings festivals and crowds.
Practical tips
Download our free app for offline POI maps, dress-code notes, and emergency 1173. Carry cash for bazaars; cards work at larger hotels.
Туры с гидом по Самарканд
Every classic Uzbekistan route includes Samarkand. Our partners run licensed guides, Afrosiyob transfers, and bazaar food stops — quote within 24 hours, no payment on this website.
Silk Road Classic — 6 days from $599 All 11 tour packages
Useful planning guides
Use these practical guides before booking your route.
Visa requirements Transport guide SIM card guide Money guide Shah-i-Zinda hours 2026