Things to Do in Samarkand

About Samarkand

Samarkand whispers tales of ancient caravans and conquering empires through every azure dome and weathered stone. This jewel of the Silk Road enchants visitors with its impressive architectural symphony, where Islamic artistry reaches celestial heights in the turquoise mosaics of Registan Square. Walking these timeless streets feels like stepping through a portal where Tamerlane's ambitions crystallized into eternal beauty. The city pulses with living history—craftsmen still practice age-old techniques in workshops tucked behind medieval walls, while the aroma of fresh bread and spices drifts from bustling bazaars. As golden hour bathes the magnificent madrasas in warm light, Samarkand reveals why it captivated Alexander the Great and Marco Polo alike. Here, every sunset transforms the city into a dreamscape of shadows and shimmering tiles, where the boundary between reality and legend dissolves into pure wonder.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book high-speed Afrosiyob train tickets from Tashkent in advance online or at stations. Within Samarkand, use official taxis with meters or negotiate prices beforehand. Download Yandex.Taxi app for reliable rides. Walking is ideal for the historic center.

Money: Bring US dollars (crisp, new bills) to exchange for Uzbek som at official exchange points offering better rates than banks. ATMs are limited and often empty. Budget $30-50 daily for comfortable travel including meals and attractions.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and mausoleums—cover shoulders, knees, and head for women. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas. Ask permission before photographing locals. Avoid public displays of affection and pointing feet toward people.

Food Safety: Eat at busy local restaurants with high turnover for freshest meals. Try plov, shashlik, and fresh bread from tandoor ovens. Drink bottled water and avoid tap water. Street food is generally safe if cooked fresh and served hot.

When to Visit

Samarkand shines brightest during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures hover between 15-25°C with minimal rainfall (20-40mm monthly). These peak seasons offer perfect weather but expect 40-50% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions. Summer (June-August) brings scorching heat up to 40°C with intense sunshine—ideal for early morning and evening exploration but challenging midday sightseeing. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures drop to 0-10°C with occasional snow, offering 30-40% savings and fewer crowds, though some outdoor activities become less appealing. The magical Navruz celebration (March 21) transforms the city with traditional festivities, while Ramadan (dates vary) provides unique cultural insights but limited daytime dining. Shoulder months like November and March offer excellent value with mild weather (10-20°C) and 20% lower prices. Photography enthusiasts should visit October-November for golden light and clear skies. Budget travelers benefit most from January-February visits, while luxury seekers should choose April-May when gardens bloom and weather perfects. Book accommodations early for Navruz and September-October peak periods.