Samarkand 🕌 Travel Guide, Top Attractions & 1–2 Day Itinerary
Samarkand 🇺🇿 – attractions, things to do, and a 1–2 day itinerary
This guide brings together the main Samarkand attractions in one place: Registan Square, the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siab Bazaar, Afrasiab, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, and Konigil village. The aim is to give clear answers to “What to see in Samarkand?”, help you build a Samarkand itinerary for 1–2 days, and explain how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and what a realistic daily budget looks like. If you prefer an organised trip, you can also look at our Uzbekistan tours including Samarkand and simply choose the route that fits your travel style.
Why is Samarkand so special and worth visiting?
For centuries, Samarkand has been one of the most important cities on the Silk Road. It served as the capital of the Timurid Empire, and landmarks such as Registan Square make the city feel like an open-air museum. While Tashkent shows you modern Uzbekistan, Samarkand offers a concentrated mix of history, architecture, and classic “Silk Road” atmosphere.
Most classic Uzbekistan tours start in Tashkent, then continue to Samarkand by Afrosiyob high-speed train. A Samarkand city tour over 1–2 days is ideal both for first-time visitors interested in history and for travellers who mainly want beautiful photos and an authentic Silk Road feeling.
Where is Samarkand and how do you get there?
Samarkand is one of the most famous cities in Uzbekistan and on the Silk Road. It lies in the Zerafshan Valley in the south-east of the country and has been a meeting point for caravans, scholars and travellers for many centuries. Today, Samarkand is a key stop in most Uzbekistan travel itineraries, and one of the first questions many travellers ask is “How do I get to Samarkand?”
- Afrosiyob high-speed trains connect Tashkent and Samarkand in about 2–2.5 hours.
- Trains between Bukhara and Samarkand are convenient if you follow the classic Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara route.
- Samarkand International Airport (SKD) receives international and domestic flights, depending on season and airline schedules. It can be combined with train travel to other cities in Uzbekistan.
Quick answers
Where is Samarkand?
In south-eastern Uzbekistan, in the Zerafshan Valley, on the historical Silk Road.
What is the easiest way to reach Samarkand?
The most convenient option for many travellers is the
Afrosiyob high-speed train from Tashkent; you can also use domestic flights or
travel by car.
How many days do you need in Samarkand?
You can see the main highlights in one full day, but
2 days in Samarkand is ideal if you want a relaxed pace, time for photos,
and a short side trip to Konigil village.
Samarkand Airport (SKD) – flight options
Samarkand International Airport (IATA: SKD) has been extensively modernised in recent years: a new terminal has been built and the infrastructure improved. Depending on the season and airlines, Samarkand can be reached via international routes and domestic connections within Uzbekistan. Many travellers combine flights to Tashkent with the high-speed train to Samarkand.
From Europe, Asia and the Middle East
- Many travellers fly into Uzbekistan via regional hubs and then connect to Samarkand or Tashkent.
- Depending on the season, there may be direct or connecting flights to Samarkand.
- For some routes it is more convenient to fly to Tashkent and continue by Afrosiyob train.
Airline schedules and routes change over time, so it is best to check current options with airlines or booking platforms when planning your trip to Samarkand.
Domestic connections within Uzbekistan
- Flights can connect Samarkand with other Uzbek cities, depending on the timetable.
- High-speed and regular trains link Samarkand with Tashkent and Bukhara.
A popular option is to fly into Tashkent, spend a day or two there, and then continue to Samarkand by Afrosiyob train. This combination gives both modern city life and Silk Road heritage in one trip.
Distance from the airport to the city centre
- Samarkand Airport is located a short drive from the city centre.
- Depending on traffic and hotel location, the transfer usually takes about 15–20 minutes.
The easiest option is to book a Samarkand airport transfer in advance or use a trusted taxi app.
Practical tips for flights
- In high season, book international flights and trains as early as possible.
- Allow some buffer time if you plan same-day flight + train combinations.
A balanced option for many travellers is to start in Tashkent, continue to Samarkand and Bukhara by train, and then fly out from the most convenient airport.
Quick answers
Does Samarkand have an international airport?
Yes, Samarkand International Airport (SKD) serves international and domestic flights depending on
schedules and season.
How far is Samarkand Airport from the city centre?
The airport is a short drive away; in normal traffic many hotels can be reached in about 15–20 minutes.
What is better – flying to Samarkand or taking a train?
If you are already in Uzbekistan, the Afrosiyob high-speed train is very convenient
for travel between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. Flights can be a good option for international
arrivals and longer routes.
Why is Samarkand worth visiting?
Showcase of the Silk Road
Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda and Bibi-Khanym Mosque together make Samarkand feel like a huge open-air museum. Every courtyard and arch tells a story about merchants and scholars. This is why lists of “things to do in Samarkand” are rarely short – there is a lot to see and photograph within walking distance.
History, faith and science in one place
The Timurid Empire, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, Afrasiab, the mausoleums of Maturidi and Daniyar (Daniel) – all of this gives Samarkand unusual depth. It is not only a “postcard city”, but also a place where you can feel the historical connections between science, religion and culture along the Silk Road.
Compact yet very rich in sights
Most key Samarkand sights are located within a relatively compact area: Registan, Siab Bazaar, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Shah-i-Zinda and Gur-Emir are linked by short walks or brief transfers. This makes it easy to build a 1–2 day Samarkand itinerary with plenty of highlights and a clear, simple route.
Samarkand – short questions & quick answers
Can you explore Samarkand on foot?
Yes. Registan, Gur-Emir, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siab Bazaar and Shah-i-Zinda can be combined into a comfortable walking itinerary. You only need a short taxi or transfer for Afrasiab, the observatory and Konigil village.
Samarkand or Bukhara – which is better?
They offer different experiences: Samarkand is more monumental and “grand”, while Bukhara feels more intimate and atmospheric. The best option is to visit both and include them in the same Uzbekistan trip.
Is Samarkand expensive?
Compared with major European cities, Samarkand is generally affordable. Public transport and taxis are good value, and local cafés are not expensive. High-speed train tickets and entrance fees to main monuments are often the largest items in a daily budget.
What is there to do in Samarkand in the evening?
Popular ideas include seeing Registan in the evening lights, enjoying tea in a chaikhana, walking around the historic centre and taking night photos. The main tourist areas are lively and feel comfortable to walk in after dark.
Where are the best photo spots in Samarkand?
Registan Square (especially at sunrise and in the evening), the alley of mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda, the view from Hazrat Khizr Mosque, Bibi-Khanym Mosque courtyard and the surroundings of Siab Bazaar are among the best photo locations in Samarkand.
Is Samarkand safe for tourists?
The historic centre and main tourist routes in Samarkand are generally considered safe and welcoming. Normal travel precautions still apply: keep an eye on valuables and use reliable taxis or pre-booked transfers.
Do I need a visa to visit Samarkand?
Visa rules depend on your citizenship. Many nationalities have visa-free entry for a limited period or can obtain an e-visa for Uzbekistan. It is important to check current entry rules for your passport before travelling.
Is public transport easy to use?
Public transport exists, but for most visitors the simplest and most time-efficient option is to use taxi apps or pre-arranged transfers. Samarkand is compact, so rides are usually short and reasonably priced.
When is the best time to visit Samarkand?
The most comfortable months are generally April–May and September–October: warm days, pleasant evenings and soft light for photography. Summer can be hot in the daytime, while winter is quieter and more atmospheric.
Samarkand attractions – main sights you should not miss
Historic centre and Silk Road landmarks
Registan Square
This is the most iconic place in the city and often the starting point for any Samarkand sightseeing tour. Three madrasahs – Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor and Tilya-Kori – form a breathtaking ensemble. By day you can study the details of the tilework; in the evening the square is beautifully lit. A guided tour of Registan helps you understand the stories and symbolism behind its architecture.
Registan-focused city tour →Gur-Emir Mausoleum
The burial place of Timur (Tamerlane) and members of his dynasty, Gur-Emir impresses both outside and inside: a turquoise dome, elegant inscriptions and an intimate, almost contemplative atmosphere. The mausoleum is one of the must-see Samarkand attractions, especially in the soft light of late afternoon or evening.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, Bibi-Khanym Mosque remains an important symbol of Samarkand. The monumental gateway, courtyard and blue domes create a powerful skyline. The mosque is ideally combined with a visit to Siab Bazaar, which is located just a short walk away.
Hazrat Khizr Mosque & city panorama
Situated on a hill, Hazrat Khizr Mosque offers one of the best viewpoints over Samarkand. It is a pleasant stop to take a breath, enjoy the view of Registan and the old city and take photos, especially in the late afternoon or at sunset.
Shah-i-Zinda, Afrasiab and sacred sites
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
A narrow alley lined with richly decorated mausoleums, Shah-i-Zinda is one of the most impressive sacred sites in Central Asia. Turquoise and blue tilework, high walls and a special atmosphere make it a highlight for both pilgrims and photographers. Early morning is the quietest and most comfortable time to visit.
Afrasiab Hill & Museum
Afrasiab represents the ancient settlement that existed before modern Samarkand. The Afrasiab Museum displays archaeological finds and famous wall paintings. If you are interested in the deeper history of Samarkand, this is a very valuable stop on your itinerary.
Maturidi & Khoja Daniyar (Daniel) Mausoleums
The mausoleum of Abu Mansur al-Maturidi, an important Islamic theologian, and the mausoleum of Khoja Daniyar (Daniel), venerated in different religious traditions, show the spiritual diversity of Samarkand. These sites are especially meaningful for travellers interested in religious history and interfaith connections.
Ulugh Beg Observatory and crafts
Ulugh Beg Observatory
Built in the 15th century, the Ulugh Beg Observatory was one of the most advanced astronomical centres of its time. Today you can see the remains of the huge sextant and a small museum explaining the achievements of Ulugh Beg and his team. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of science along the Silk Road.
Samarkand–Bukhara Silk Carpet Workshop
In the silk carpet workshop you can watch how hand-woven silk carpets are made, learn about natural dyes, patterns and knot density, and talk with the artisans. For many visitors this is one of the most memorable parts of their Samarkand city tour, as it offers a direct connection to traditional craftsmanship.
Suggested 1–2 day itineraries for Samarkand
What to do in Samarkand in one day
Morning: start at the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, then walk to Registan Square and spend enough time there to explore the three madrasahs. Midday: lunch near Registan and a visit to Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Siab Bazaar. Afternoon: continue to Shah-i-Zinda and then finish at Hazrat Khizr Mosque with a panoramic view of the city.
This route is suitable if you travel to Samarkand for the day from Tashkent by Afrosiyob train and want to see the main Samarkand attractions in a single, intensive visit.
Request a 1-day city tourRelaxed 2-day Samarkand itinerary
Day 1: Registan, Gur-Emir, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siab Bazaar, and evening photos at Registan. Day 2: Shah-i-Zinda, Afrasiab Museum, Maturidi and Daniyar mausoleums, then Konigil village and its traditional paper workshop in the afternoon, with time to enjoy the riverside setting before returning to the city.
This plan allows you to experience Samarkand without rushing, combining history, everyday life and crafts. It is especially recommended for travellers who enjoy photography and cultural detail.
Get a tailored 2-day planSamarkand map and city layout
Most places to visit in Samarkand can be grouped into three main zones: the Registan – Gur-Emir area; the Bibi-Khanym – Siab Bazaar – Shah-i-Zinda axis; and the outer belt including Afrasiab, the Ulugh Beg Observatory and Konigil village.
If you divide the city in this way in your mind – historic centre (Registan, Gur-Emir), sacred sites (Shah-i-Zinda, mausoleums, Siab Bazaar area), outer ring and viewpoints (Afrasiab, observatory, Konigil) – it becomes much easier to design a logical Samarkand itinerary.
Open Samarkand in Google MapsPractical information for visiting Samarkand
Best time to visit
In general the most comfortable months to visit Samarkand are April–May and September–October. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, evenings are mild and the light is excellent for photography. Summer can be hot in open areas, while winter is quieter and has its own charm.
Currency and payments
The local currency is the Uzbek sum (UZS). Many hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, but it is wise to carry some cash for bazaars, small cafés and taxis. Ticket offices for major sights usually accept the local currency.
Dress code and respect
Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are the best choice for walking. When visiting mosques and mausoleums, it is appropriate to cover shoulders and knees. When taking photos in active places of worship, avoid disturbing people who are praying and ask for permission if needed.
Prices in Samarkand and a sample daily budget
Overall, Samarkand is considered a budget-friendly destination compared with major European capitals. When planning your Samarkand travel budget, it helps to think in terms of transport, food, entrance fees and, if you wish, tours and day trips in Samarkand.
Transport costs
- Taxi apps and local taxis are generally inexpensive for short rides.
- Transfers between station/airport and the centre are short and reasonably priced.
- Afrosiyob high-speed train tickets vary by season and class; early booking is useful.
Food & drinks
- Local chaikhanas and simple restaurants offer filling meals at good value.
- Restaurants around Registan may be slightly more expensive due to location.
- Cafés and dessert places are usually cheaper than in Western Europe.
Budget ranges
- Budget: guesthouses or simple hotels, local food, mostly walking and short taxis.
- Mid-range: 3–4★ Samarkand hotels, comfortable dining, all entrance fees.
- Comfort: boutique hotels, private transfers and guided tours – still usually less expensive than similar trips in Western Europe.
Where to stay in Samarkand – best areas
Hotels in Samarkand are mostly boutique properties and modern 3–4★ hotels. The area you choose has a strong impact on how easy your daily Samarkand itinerary feels and how often you can walk instead of taking a taxi.
Registan & Gur-Emir area
The most popular choice. After sightseeing you can quickly walk back to your hotel, and in the evening it is easy to return to Registan to enjoy the lights. This area is ideal for those who want to “live inside the postcard”.
Around Siab Bazaar & Bibi-Khanym
A more “local life” feeling: morning market sounds, the smell of freshly baked bread, and proximity to Shah-i-Zinda. Good for travellers who want to experience everyday Samarkand as well as the main sights.
Modern Samarkand & main avenues
Here you find broader avenues, newer hotels and modern cafés. This works well for business travellers who also want to add a Samarkand sightseeing tour to their schedule.
What to eat in Samarkand
Samarkand plov & tandoor bread
Every city in Uzbekistan has its own version of plov (pilaf), and Samarkand plov is definitely worth trying. Near Siab Bazaar you can find places serving plov together with fresh tandoor bread (non), nuts and dried fruits – a classic local combination.
Shashlik, soups and manti
Meat lovers can try beef and lamb shashlik, hearty local soups and manti (steamed dumplings). Many restaurants prepare flavours that are quite familiar to travellers from Europe and Asia, making it easy to enjoy the cuisine even on a short Samarkand tour.
Tea culture and sweets
Green tea is a staple drink in Samarkand. It is often served with nuts, dried apricots and light sweets. In the Registan area you can also find modern cafés with desserts and coffee – a pleasant contrast to traditional chaikhanas.
How to travel to Samarkand from Tashkent and Bukhara
The classic route for many travellers is Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara. For this reason, the question “How to get to Samarkand?” often means how to connect these three cities in a practical way. Below is a simple overview of the main options.
Tashkent → Samarkand
The most comfortable option is the Afrosiyob high-speed train, with a travel time of about 2–2.5 hours. This works well for both day trips and 1–2 night stays in Samarkand. Tickets for popular dates can sell out in advance, so early booking is recommended. You can buy tickets safely online via the railway page: train tickets.
Bukhara → Samarkand
Trains between Bukhara and Samarkand include both high-speed and regular services. Journey times usually range from about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the train. This makes it possible to leave Bukhara in the morning and start your Samarkand sightseeing in the afternoon. Tickets can also be booked online at the railway page.
Private car and transfers
For families, small groups or photographers, a private car with driver is often a good choice. It allows for more stops and flexibility along the way. For airport and station journeys you can also use our Samarkand transfer services to keep logistics simple.
Samarkand airport & train station transfers
After a long flight or train ride, many travellers prefer to go straight to their hotel without negotiating with taxi drivers. For this reason, pre-booked transfers in Samarkand are a practical option.
Airport → hotel transfer
With a pre-arranged airport transfer, a driver meets you in the arrivals area with a name sign, helps with luggage and takes you directly to your hotel, guesthouse or apartment.
This is especially convenient for early-morning and late-evening flights or if you are visiting Samarkand for the first time.
View transfer optionsTrain station → hotel transfer
If you arrive in Samarkand by Afrosiyob or regular train, a pre-booked transfer from the station helps you avoid delays and makes the start of your visit smoother.
This is useful for busy travel days, families with children and travellers carrying bulky luggage.
Book station transferBuying train tickets for Samarkand
For travel between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, the Afrosiyob high-speed trains are usually the fastest and most comfortable option. Seats on popular dates and times can sell out, so many travellers buy tickets in advance:
Train tickets →Quick answers
How do I get from Samarkand Airport to the city centre?
The easiest way is a pre-booked transfer; travel time is usually about 15–20 minutes.
Where can I buy Afrosiyob tickets?
You can check schedules and buy tickets online on the
railway tickets page.
Are local taxis safe at the station or airport?
Many travellers prefer pre-arranged transfers or taxi apps because they offer
clear prices and avoid negotiation after a long journey.
Shopping and bazaars in Samarkand
Samarkand is known not only for architecture, but also for its bazaars, workshops and souvenirs. A Samarkand city tour usually includes at least one stop at a market or craft centre.
What to buy
- Hand-woven silk and wool carpets
- Decorative ceramic plates and bowls
- Suzani textiles and embroidered wall hangings
- Spices, nuts and dried fruits
- Traditional bread stamps and small wooden items
Prices & bargaining
A polite, moderate level of bargaining is normal in many markets. For larger purchases such as carpets or ceramics, it makes sense to compare offers in several shops. Shops just outside the most touristy streets can sometimes offer better prices.
Siab Bazaar
Siab Bazaar, located near Bibi-Khanym Mosque, is the main market in Samarkand. It is an excellent place not only for buying food and souvenirs, but also for watching local life: bakers carrying fresh bread, fruit sellers and families doing their daily shopping.
Practical travel tips for Samarkand
Language & communication
Uzbek and Russian are the main local languages. In the tourism sector, English is increasingly used, especially in hotels, restaurants and with guides. Learning a few basic words in Uzbek is appreciated but not required for a successful visit.
Photos & social media
Registan and Shah-i-Zinda are the most photographed places in Samarkand, but Gur-Emir, the view from Hazrat Khizr and the streets near Siab Bazaar are also excellent for pictures. Early morning and late afternoon usually offer the best light and fewer crowds.
Pace & planning
If you arrive late at night, it can be wise to plan a lighter first day and keep a full Samarkand tour for the second day. Many travellers find that 2 nights in Samarkand is the most comfortable balance before continuing to Bukhara.
Samarkand city tours and guided experiences
If your time is limited, a Samarkand city tour with a local guide is often the most efficient way to see the highlights and understand the stories behind them. A good guide also helps with practical questions, timing and photography spots.
Classic full-day Samarkand city tour
A typical 6–7 hour tour covers Gur-Emir, Registan, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siab Bazaar, Shah-i-Zinda and Hazrat Khizr Mosque. This is ideal for first-time visitors who want to complete the main Samarkand must-see list in one day.
Classic Samarkand tourSamarkand + Konigil village & crafts
This option combines the historic centre in the morning with Konigil village in the afternoon, focusing on traditional paper-making and a calmer green setting. It is a good choice for travellers who like a mix of history, nature and handicrafts.
Request a tour proposalYou can also browse the full list of Uzbekistan tours that include Samarkand as part of a longer itinerary.
Guest impressions of Samarkand
Ekaterina & Alexey, Europe
Route: Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara
“Registan looked impressive in photos, but in real life it was even more powerful. We saw it by day and then again in the evening with the lights. Shah-i-Zinda and the atmosphere at Siab Bazaar made Samarkand our favourite stop on the trip.”
Marco, Italy
Short Uzbekistan tour
“We spent two nights in Samarkand: history and walks by day, tea and photos in the evening. I especially liked the Ulugh Beg Observatory and Konigil village. The city was more compact than I expected and very pleasant to explore on foot.”
Why travel to Samarkand and Uzbekistan with CAJ?
This Samarkand travel guide is based on on-the-ground experience from the CAJ (caj.uz) team, headquartered in Tashkent. For more than 15 years the company has been organising trips across Samarkand, Tashkent, Bukhara, Khiva, the Fergana Valley and the Aral Sea region, as well as combined Central Asia itineraries.
The suggested timings, Samarkand itineraries, transfer times and visiting hours presented here are based on repeated testing with real groups and individual travellers. This means you get a reliable, structured and practical guide to Samarkand in English instead of a random collection of tips from different sources.
Specialisation: Uzbekistan & Central Asia tours
Experience: 15+ years of on-the-ground work with travellers
Uzbekistan tours including Samarkand
Ready-made itineraries with Samarkand included
If you prefer an organised trip rather than planning everything yourself, you can choose from several ready-made routes that include Samarkand:
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Samarkand
What are the must-see attractions in Samarkand?
For a first visit, the main Samarkand attractions are Registan Square, the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, Shah-i-Zinda, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siab Bazaar, Hazrat Khizr Mosque, Afrasiab and the Ulugh Beg Observatory.
Is Samarkand really worth visiting?
Yes. Samarkand is one of the most impressive cities in Uzbekistan, with a high concentration of historic monuments and unique architecture. The combination of Registan, Shah-i-Zinda and everyday life around Siab Bazaar makes it a highlight of many journeys.
How many days do I need in Samarkand?
At least one full day is recommended to see the main sights. Two days allow you to explore at a more relaxed pace, visit Konigil village and enjoy the city both by day and evening.
Is Samarkand suitable for families with children?
Yes, if you plan your pace carefully. Distances between major sights are not large, and the tilework, domes and markets can be very engaging for children. It is important to consider the season and temperatures when planning walking time.
What is the best way to travel from Tashkent to Samarkand?
The most convenient way is the Afrosiyob high-speed train, which normally takes around 2–2.5 hours. Alternatively, there are regular trains and private car options. You can check schedules and buy tickets online at the railway tickets page.
