Map of Samarkand, Uzbekistan

🏰 What to do in Samarkand

Immerse yourself in the captivating history and culture of Samarkand through a variety of enriching activities. From exploring ancient architectural wonders to sampling traditional handicrafts, this city offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.

• Best Budget Activity in Samarkand:

  Registan Square Visit: Wander through the iconic Registan Square, marveling at the stunning madrasahs and intricate tile work without breaking the bank.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Samarkand:

  Siab Bazaar Exploration: Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Siab Bazaar, where you can haggle for souvenirs, spices, and local produce while soaking in the local culture.

• Best Luxury Activity in Samarkand:

  Ulugh Beg Observatory Tour: Embark on a guided tour of the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an ancient site of astronomical study, offering a luxurious and educational experience.

🍽️ Where to eat in Samarkand

Indulge in a culinary journey through Samarkand, a city renowned for its rich flavors and traditional dishes. Don't miss out on trying the authentic plov, shashlik, and sumptuous bread straight from the tandoor ovens.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Samarkand:

  Chaikhona Lag'mon•$ - $$:

  Cuisine specialty: Uzbek cuisine

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Samarkand:

  Platan•$$ - $$$:

  Cuisine specialty: European and Uzbek fusion

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Samarkand:

  Samarkand Skver•$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining Uzbek cuisine

• Best Budget Bar in Samarkand:

  Kafe Bar Bibisara•$ - $$:

  Local beer and snacks

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Samarkand:

  Bar Khorezm•$$ - $$$:

  Signature cocktails and bar bites

• Best Luxury Bar in Samarkand:

  Orient Star Rooftop Bar•$$$$:

  Premium wines with a breathtaking view

🕌 What to see in Samarkand

Samarkand is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and historical landmarks, each with a story deeply rooted in the city's ancient past. Explore the stunning monuments and majestic structures that define the unique charm of this enchanting destination.

• Registan Square:

  The heart of Samarkand, Registan Square boasts three grand madrasahs adorned with intricate tile work and stunning architecture, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

• Gur-e Amir Mausoleum:

  Pay homage to the tomb of the great conqueror Tamerlane at Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Timurid architecture adorned with intricate mosaics and domed ceilings.

• Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis:

  Wander through the enchanting alley of mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda, a sacred site housing beautifully decorated tombs and shrines dating back centuries.

• Bibi-Khanym Mosque:

  Marvel at the colossal Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, featuring stunning blue domes and intricate tile work.

• Ulugh Beg Observatory:

  Visit the ancient Ulugh Beg Observatory, a testament to Samarkand's rich scientific history, where you can explore the remains of an astronomical observatory built in the 15th century by the renowned astronomer Ulugh Beg.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Samarkand

Experience the vibrant tapestry of colors, textures, and crafts in the bustling markets and shops of Samarkand. From exquisite textiles to intricate ceramics, shopping in Samarkand offers a unique opportunity to indulge in local craftsmanship and culture.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Samarkand:

  Siab Bazaar: Dive into the lively ambiance of Siab Bazaar, where you can find a variety of local products such as spices, dried fruits, and textiles at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Samarkand:

  Tim Abdulla: Explore Tim Abdulla, a traditional market offering a selection of rugs, fabrics, and ceramics, perfect for those seeking quality handicrafts at reasonable prices.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Samarkand:

  Ulugbek Silk Road Shop: Indulge in luxury shopping at Ulugbek Silk Road Shop, known for its exquisite silk scarves, intricate embroideries, and high-end traditional garments.

🚌 Getting Around Samarkand

• Public Transport

  In Samarkand, the primary mode of public transport is buses. These buses cover various routes within the city and surrounding areas. Prices are typically affordable, ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 Uzbekistani som, depending on the distance traveled. Bus schedules vary, but they generally operate from early morning until late at night to accommodate commuters and tourists. Additionally, there is no metro system in Samarkand, so buses are the main option for public transportation.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Train Station: Samarkand Railway Station serves as a major transportation hub in the city, connecting it to other parts of Uzbekistan. The station is well-equipped with facilities and services for travelers. - Bus Terminals: The main bus terminal in Samarkand is centrally located, making it convenient for passengers to access different bus routes within the city.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate in Samarkand, offering a variety of vehicles for tourists to explore the city and its surroundings. Prices can start from 50,000 Uzbekistani som per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly and adventurous way to get around, bicycle rentals are available in Samarkand. Renting a bicycle can cost around 10,000 Uzbekistani som per hour.