Planning to visit Samarkand? This travel guide covers everything you need to know to explore Uzbekistan’s most iconic Silk Road city.
I’d been looking forward to visiting for years. Ever since I travelled through Iran and started reading more about the great cities of the Silk Road, Samarkand stood out. And when I finally arrived, it didn’t disappoint.
In this article you’ll find tips on what to see and do in Samarkand, how to get there and around, where to stay, where to eat, and how much time to spend here. I’ve also included day trip ideas and practical travel tips, all based on my own time exploring this unforgettable city.
Also read: Uzbekistan Itinerary | 10 Days Of Silk Road Cities & The Aral Sea
A Short History of Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history stretching back more than 2,500 years. Its strategic location along the Silk Road made it a cultural and commercial bridge between China, Persia, and the Mediterranean.
- Ancient beginnings | Originally known as Afrasiyab, the city was founded by the Sogdians and later conquered by Alexander the Great in 329 BC. He reportedly said, “Everything I have heard about Marakanda is true — except it is more beautiful than I ever imagined.”
- Mongol invasion | Samarkand was destroyed by Genghis Khan in the 13th century, but its greatest revival came under the rule of Timur (Amir Temur) in the 14th century.
- Timurid glory | Timur made Samarkand the capital of his empire and brought architects, scholars, and artisans from across his realm to turn it into a dazzling centre of Islamic culture. Many of the city’s most striking monuments — including Registan Square and the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum — date from this period.
- Scientific heritage | Under Timur’s grandson Ulugh Beg, Samarkand became a centre of astronomy and learning. His observatory was among the most advanced in the medieval world.
Today, walking through Samarkand feels like tracing the layers of this rich history — where Persian, Turkic, and Islamic influences mix into something uniquely Uzbek.
How Many Days Do You Need in Samarkand?
If you’re mainly visiting Samarkand to explore its incredible Silk Road architecture and historical sights, two full days is the perfect amount of time. You’ll have enough time to visit Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, the bazaar and the observatory.
Samarkand is very walkable, and with a bit of planning (and the occasional Yandex ride), you won’t need more time to see the essentials.
We had around 1.5 days and were still able to visit all of the things to do in this article in a comfortable pace. That said, if you’re a slower traveller or want time to relax, a third day wouldn’t hurt. You can also use that extra day to go an a day trip out of town.
Tip: Make sure to spend at least two nights, so you can enjoy the night-time shows on Registan Square. These shows vary, so do return!
Where to Stay in Samarkand
Samarkand offers a mix of traditional guesthouses and modern hotels, from courtyard stays full of Uzbek character to more international comfort.
We stayed at Jahongir Guesthouse, just a few minutes’ walk from Registan Square. This quiet guesthouse has rooms arranged around a leafy courtyard. The colourful decor, great breakfast, and friendly hosts made it a really pleasant base.
Other options worth checking out:
- Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel | A stylish boutique stay near the Registan with traditional touches and its own restaurant.
- Hilton Garden Inn Samarkand | A modern hotel with a pool, perfect for summer visits and just a short taxi ride to the airport and the train station.
Also read: For more hotel recommendations in Samarkand and across the country, see my full guide to Where to Stay in Uzbekistan.
Things to Do in Samarkand
Okay, so now let’s get to the good stuff. What can you actually see and do in Samarkand? As one of the crown jewels of the Silk Road, it was once considered the richest city in Central Asia. And even today, its monuments don’t disappoint.
Registan Square
The heart of Samarkand and the most iconic site in Uzbekistan, Registan Square was once the centre of public life — a stage for royal decrees and celebrations. Today, it’s a place to marvel at Timurid architecture and feel the weight of history.
The Madrasahs of Registan
Registan is framed by three majestic madrasahs, each with its own architectural flair.
- Ulugh Beg Madrasah (1417–1420) is the oldest of the three. Its signature star-studded facade reflects the interests of its founder, Ulugh Beg — a ruler, astronomer, and scholar. His love for science led to the construction of the Ulugh Beg Observatory just outside the city. Inside the madrasah, you’ll find peaceful courtyards and souvenir stalls. But also some of the finest tilework from the early Timurid era.
- Sher-Dor Madrasah (1619–1636), built opposite Ulugh Beg’s, mirrors the structure but not the restraint. Its entrance features roaring tigers with rising suns — a controversial image in Islamic art — symbolising power and renewal.
- Tilya-Kori Madrasah (1646–1660) is the jewel of the three. Inside its mosque, a gold-leaf ceiling on deep cobalt blue totally stunned me. This is where the name “Tilya-Kori” — meaning “gilded” — becomes clear. The central dome is breathtaking, and the entire interior glows in warm, regal tones.
Secret Tip: Climbing the Minaret
It’s not an official activity — and certainly not for those with a fear of heights — but near the entrance to Registan you might encounter someone offering access to the Ulugh Beg minaret for a small fee (around 60,000 UZS).
The climb is steep and narrow, and it’s best not to go with more than two people at once. But the payoff is worth it: panoramic views over the square! Especially beautiful during golden hour when the sun hits Sher-Dor’s facade just right.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Tomb of Timur)
This turquoise-domed structure is the final resting place of Amir Temur (Tamerlane), the powerful 14th-century conqueror who made Samarkand the capital of his empire.
Gur-e-Amir, meaning “Tomb of the King,” is the architectural blueprint for later Mughal mausoleums — including the Taj Mahal.
Inside, the mausoleum is richly decorated with gold and azure tones. The tombs are symbolic — Timur’s actual grave lies in a crypt beneath the floor. If you’re visiting in the evening, the lighting adds even more drama to the shimmering interior.
Hidden Gem: Ak-Saray Mausoleum
Just a short stroll through Samarkand’s “Russian Town”, tucked away behind Gur-e-Amir, is the Ak-Saray Mausoleum. Its plain brick exterior makes it easy to overlook. However, once you step inside you’ll see one of the most stunning ceilings in Samarkand.
What really made this visit unique, though, was the experience. When we found the door locked, the mausoleum’s caretaker quietly appeared, asked for a modest 10,000 UZS, and let us in. He didn’t stop there though.
At the end of our visit, the caretaker offered to take photos and even videos using our phones — placing them on a rotating device positioned directly under the dome.
The result? A hypnotic, kaleidoscopic video that looked like something out of a digital art installation. You can see it in my Instragram story highlights under ‘Uzbekistan 1’.
Amir Temur Statue | A Symbol of Uzbek National Identity
Just a few minutes’ walk from the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, you’ll find one of the largest statues of Amir Temur in Uzbekistan. There are many across the country, but this particular one is hard to miss.
It serves as a symbolic reminder of the role Amir Temur played in shaping Samarkand — and, by extension, Uzbekistan’s identity. Worth a quick photo stop while you’re nearby.
Shah-i-Zinda
Few places in Uzbekistan feel as visually overwhelming — in the best possible way — as Shah-i-Zinda. This hillside necropolis is one of the most important religious sites in the country, and an absolute must-see in any Samarkand itinerary.
It’s a bit of a climb in the heat, but the payoff is immediate. Row after row of brilliantly tiled mausoleums form a narrow, winding corridor of colour, detail, and reverence.
The decoration isn’t limited to the facades either — many of the interiors are just as elaborate, some even more so.
It was also the busiest place we visited in all of Uzbekistan — a real pilgrimage site for locals. But don’t let the crowds discourage you. It’s one of the highlights of Samarkand, and easily one of the most beautiful places in the country.
Tip: The official entrance is on Shah-i-Zinda Street. We originally tried entering from the other side via the Jewish cemetery, but that gate now appears closed.
Hazrat-Khizr Mosque
Set on a small hill just behind Shah-i-Zinda, the Hazrat-Khizr Mosque is one of the most picturesque spots in Samarkand — and one of its most spiritually significant.
Rebuilt in the 19th century on much older foundations, this elegant mosque with its delicate wooden columns and colourful tiled iwan is a peaceful place of worship, still actively used today.
What truly sets it apart though is the view. From the elevated courtyard, you get a beautiful panorama over the city and especially the turquoise dome of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
the Mausoleum of Islam Karimov
Next to the mosque is the Mausoleum of Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan’s first president. Built after his death in 2016, the mausoleum is guarded and closed to visitors, but you can admire its white marble and blue-tiled exterior from the path leading to the mosque.
Whether or not you agree with Karimov’s legacy, the location — next to one of Samarkand’s most revered mosques — shows just how symbolic this hilltop site is.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque | Once the Largest in the Islamic World
Built in the 15th century by Amir Temur, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was once one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the Islamic world.
While the building suffered partial collapse and neglect for centuries, it has been carefully restored in recent years and remains a commanding presence on any Samarkand travel itinerary.
The grand courtyard, monumental portal, and oversized dome make it one of the most photogenic landmarks in Uzbekistan.
Tip: The restaurant at Bibikhanum Hotel (right next door) offers a fantastic rooftop view of the mosque. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s a great place to cool down, have lunch, or sip a drink while enjoying panoramic views.
Siob Bazaar | Great for Local Snacks and Uzbek Hats
Just steps from the Bibi-Khanym Mosque sits Siob Bazaar, Samarkand’s main market. It may look like many others across Uzbekistan, but it’s one of the best places to shop for high-quality Uzbek hats. Including traditional tubeteikas (skullcaps) and fur-lined karakul hats.
You’ll also find stalls stacked with nuts, dried fruits, sweets, and spices — perfect if you want to bring home a taste of Uzbekistan. The atmosphere is lively, especially in the mornings.
Afrosiyob Museum | Optional Stop for History Buffs
Near the observatory and Hazrat Khizr Mosque, the Afrosiyob Museum covers the ancient city that predated modern Samarkand. It houses artefacts from over 2,000 years ago, including pottery, weapons, and a famous mural of a Sogdian diplomatic mission.
If you’re deeply interested in pre-Islamic Silk Road history, it might be worth a stop. But truth be told, we skipped it. Museum displays in Uzbekistan can be hit or miss, and many of the items here are similar to what you’ll have seen elsewhere in the country.
Ulugh Beg Observatory | Modest Ruins with a Big Story
Ulugh Beg was not just a ruler — he was one of the greatest astronomers of his time. The Ulugh Beg Observatory once housed a giant sextant and helped calculate the length of the year with astonishing accuracy.
While there’s not much left of the original structure today, the museum onsite offers fascinating insight into Ulugh Beg’s scientific legacy. You can see a model reconstruction of the observatory and learn more about the historical context that made it possible.
Admittedly, the physical remains may not match expectations, but the significance of the site and the figure it honours still make it a worthwhile stop — especially if you’re already intrigued by Ulugh Beg’s connection to the Registan.
Map of Places to Visit in Samarkand
To get a better understanding of the lay-out of the city and where the sights are located, take a look at this handy map:
Day Trips from Samarkand
If you have more than two days in Samarkand, you might want to explore beyond the city. Here are two worthwhile day trips:
Shahrisabz | The Birthplace of Amir Temur
Located about 90 km south of Samarkand, Shahrisabz is known as the birthplace of Amir Temur. The city is home to the ruins of the once-grand Ak-Saray Palace, built to showcase Timurid power. Today, only the massive entrance gate remains, but it gives a strong sense of the scale and ambition behind the project.
You’ll also find several mausoleums and mosques in a pedestrianised centre. While much of the old town has been cleared for redevelopment, the views from the hillside drive there and back make this trip worth the effort.
It’s best to visit with a driver or as part of an organised tour, as public transport options are limited.
Seven Lakes (Tajikistan) | Nature Just Across the Border
Looking for fresh air and mountain scenery? A trip to the Seven Lakes in Tajikistan could be a unique addition to your Uzbekistan itinerary. Known as the Haft Kul, these mountain lakes each have a different colour and lie scattered in the Fann Mountains.
Trips usually depart from Samarkand and cross the border near Panjakent. You’ll need your passport and possibly a Tajik e-visa, depending on your nationality. The journey is long, but the scenery is stunning, and you’ll likely stop in traditional villages along the way.
This trip isn’t for everyone, but if you want a break from mosques and madrasahs, it’s a great change of pace. I recommend to book this highly rated organised tour.
Where to Eat & Drink in Samarkand
Uzbek cuisine is hearty, flavourful, and perfect after a long day of sightseeing. We had lunch and dinner in the following places that we highly recommend.
- Labi G’or | This charming restaurant served our first Uzbek manti, along with delicious lagman and juicy kebabs. The food was tasty, portions generous, and the interior was warm and inviting. You’ll find it just a short walk from Registan Square, making it a convenient place to wind down after sunset.
- Istiqlol | This place is located between Shah-i-Zinda and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. It’s a perfect midday break while walking between the two sights. The food was fresh, prices were fair, and they have a nice shaded terrace.
- Doppio Specialty Coffee | While Uzbekistan is very much a tea-drinking country, I was thrilled to find this specialty coffee shop in Samarkand. It’s the only place I came across that served genuinely excellent coffee from a proper espresso machine.
If you’re staying longer or looking to try more spots, here are a few other restaurants that come recommended:
- Platan | A popular choice for both locals and tourists, with a wide-ranging menu that includes both Uzbek and European options.
- Bibikhanum Teahouse | Just next to the mosque, this teahouse is a relaxed place for lunch or a late afternoon snack.
- Samarkand Restaurant | A more upscale venue with traditional decor and occasional live music performances.
For more food tips across the country, including what dishes to try, check out my Uzbekistan Food Guide.
Getting to Samarkand and Getting Around
Samarkand is well-connected to other major cities in Uzbekistan, making it an easy stop on any itinerary.
By train | The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Samarkand is by the Afrosiyob high-speed train, which connects Tashkent, Bukhara, and Samarkand in just a few hours.
Trains are modern, punctual, and often sell out — so it’s best to book tickets in advance through the official railway website (or app) or a booking agent.
Also read: Uzbekistan Train Travel Guide | What To Know Before You Go
By plane | Samarkand also has a newly renovated international airport with flights from Tashkent and select destinations abroad. It’s useful if you’re arriving from elsewhere in Central Asia or want to start or end your Uzbekistan trip here.
By shared taxi or private car | If you prefer overland travel at your own pace, shared taxis and private drivers are widely available and easy to arrange through hotels or taxi apps.
Getting around the city | Samarkand’s main sights are surprisingly walkable — most lie along a gentle east–west route between Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda.
That said, the city is more spread out than Bukhara or Khiva. For longer distances, especially to or from the train station or airport, Yandex Go is the easiest way to get around. It’s reliable and affordable.
Tip: Download Yandex Go before you arrive — it works like Uber and avoids the hassle of negotiating taxi fares.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Samarkand
Samarkand is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. The blue-tiled domes, monumental squares, and centuries of Silk Road history all leave a strong impression — but it’s the little moments that really made the trip for me.
Watching the Registan light up in the evening, finding the perfect cup of coffee after days of tea, and wandering through the quiet courtyards of old madrasahs.
Have questions about your trip? Or a favourite spot in Samarkand I didn’t mention? Then leave a comment below or send me a message on Instagram — I’d love to hear from you.
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Planning a trip to Uzbekistan? Samarkand deserves at least two days. The city will leave you speechless and it’s a must-visit on any Uzbekistan itinerary. Continue planning your trip with my latest articles on Central Asia and Uzbekistan:
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- Uzbekistan Train Travel Guide | What to Know Before You Go
- Visiting the Aral Sea & Karakalpakstan | A 2-Day Trip from Khiva
- What to Do in Khiva | Exploring Uzbekistan’s Open-Air Museum
- What to Do in Bukhara | A Guide To The Soul Of The Silk Road
- Samarkand Travel Guide | Uzbekistan’s Stunning Silk Road City
- What to See and Do in Tashkent | One Day in Uzbekistan’s Capital
- Where to Stay in Uzbekistan | My Favourite Hotels & Guesthouses
- Uzbekistan Itinerary | 10 Days of Silk Road Cities & the Aral Sea
- Uzbekistan Travel Tips | What You Need to Know Before You Go
