Samarkand Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

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Samarkand is one of the crown jewels of the Silk Road, with Registan Square serving as the breathtaking centrepiece of a city filled with incredible architecture, history, and culture. If you're travelling through Uzbekistan, Samarkand is a destination that simply can't be missed.


Registan Square

How Long Should You Spend in Samarkand?


Although Samarkand is packed with incredible sights, it's actually quite compact.


We spent 2 nights (almost 48 hours) in the city and comfortably visited everything we wanted without feeling rushed. If you enjoy taking things slowly or love diving into the history of a destination, you could easily stretch your stay to 3 nights.


Siyob Bozori



Any longer than that, however, we'd recommend spending the extra time exploring Tashkent or Bukhara.


👉 Read our guide to Tashkent here:
A Quick Guide to Tashkent



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How to Get To Samarkand


Most people arriving in Samarkand will have come from Tashkent or Bukhara, as they are the popular neighbouring cities.  No matter where in Uzbekistan you have come from, the train is definitely the best option.  


I recommend booking through 12go, as we found this much easier than using the UZRail website or app.


There is also an international airport in Samarkand if you want to start or end your time in Uzbekistan from here.

Best Things to Do in Samarkand


Registan Square is the city's most famous attraction, but there's plenty more to explore. This is the order we'd recommend visiting everything in one day:


  • Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis (arrive for the 7:00am opening if possible)
  • Siyob Bozori (closed Mondays)
  • Bibi Khanym Mosque
  • Registan Square
  • Amir Temur Mausoleum
  • Explore the back streets south of Registan Square
  • Registan Square Light Show (seasonal times — you can watch for free from outside after sunset)

Most attractions (except Siyob Bozori) charge a small entrance fee, generally under 100,000 som. If you're travelling on a budget and have already visited several historical sites throughout Uzbekistan, you may choose to skip a few.  You will need cash for entry for everything besides Registan Square.


If we had to pick just two highlights, they would absolutely be Shah-i-Zinda and Registan Square.


Shah-I-Zinda Necropolis Samarkand



How to Get Around Samarkand


Most of Samarkand's main attractions are within walking distance of each other. We walked almost everywhere during our stay, using Yandex Go for a couple of longer trips at the start of the day to then walk back in the direction of everything else. 


Taxis are extremely affordable in Uzbekistan and usually cost just a few dollars, but you will need cash.  If you're staying near Registan Square, you'll rarely need transport.



Where to Eat in Samarkand


We only ate out three times during our stay, but every meal was excellent.


  • Sayqali Samarkand Chayhana – Great Uzbek food in a convenient central location.
  • Shirin Gold – A lovely bakery with delicious pastries for breakfast.
  • Emirhan Restaurant – A rooftop terrace overlooking Registan Square. Perfect for dinner at sunset.
Terrace view of Registan Square

Where to Stay in Samarkand


We stayed at Samarkand Amira and really enjoyed our stay.


While accommodation in Samarkand generally isn't luxurious, you'll find that it's comfortable, welcoming, and full of friendly hosts.


We highly recommend staying within walking distance of Registan Square, allowing you to explore the city on foot.


Check prices for Samarkand Amira here.


Registan Square


Is Samarkand Worth Visiting? Our Honest Opinion


Absolutely.


Even if you only have one night in your Uzbekistan itinerary, Samarkand is worth visiting just to experience Registan Square.


The architecture is unlike anything we've seen elsewhere, and learning a little about the Silk Road before your visit makes the experience even more memorable.


Enjoy one of the most beautiful cities in Central Asia—and prepare to fall in love with the famous Uzbekistan blue.

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