Home to some of the most beautiful Islamic architecture in Central Asia, Samarkand is the city that convinced me Uzbekistan deserves far more attention from travellers! I spent two days here after travelling from Tashkent and was honestly blown away by just how impressive the city’s historic monuments are in person. If you’re planning a trip, these are the best things to do in Samarkand, along with where I stayed, how to get here and a few tips I wish I’d known before visiting.
Quick Answer
| 🇺🇿 Is Samarkand worth visiting? | Absolutely |
| ⏰ Recommended stay | 2 days |
| 🚆 Easy from Tashkent? | Yes – the high-speed train is the easiest option |
| 💰 Budget | Moderate |
| ⭐ Best for | History, architecture, photography and Silk Road history |
Why Visit Samarkand?
If you only visit one city in Uzbekistan, I’d make it Samarkand.
While I really enjoyed Tashkent for its cafes, parks and Soviet architecture, Samarkand feels like stepping into the Silk Road you’ve probably imagined in books and documentaries. Massive turquoise domes, intricate mosaic-covered buildings and centuries of history make it one of the country’s biggest highlights.
Most of the main attractions are relatively close together too, making it easy to explore over a couple of days.
How to Get to Samarkand
The good news is that Samarkand is one of the easiest cities to reach in Uzbekistan.
🚆 High-speed train (Recommended)
The Afrosiyob high-speed train connects Tashkent and Samarkand in around two hours and is the option I’d recommend if you’re travelling independently.
🚐 Shared van (What I did)
I travelled to Samarkand as part of a small group tour in a shared van. It takes longer than the train (around 4–5 hours depending on traffic), but it was an easy option since all the transport was organised for us.
✈️ Flying
Domestic flights are available but generally aren’t worth it unless you’re connecting from elsewhere.
🚌 Bus
Buses are usually the cheapest option, although they’re slower and less comfortable than the train.
Planning a trip?
👉 Book trains
👉 Samarkand day tours
👉 Uzbekistan multi-day tours
Best Things to Do in Samarkand
1. Explore Registan Square ⭐
If you’ve seen a photo of Uzbekistan before, there’s a good chance it was taken here.
Registan Square is easily the most famous attraction in Samarkand, surrounded by three spectacular madrassas covered in intricate blue tiles and mosaics. Even after seeing hundreds of photos beforehand, it was still far more impressive in person.
If you can, visit both during the day and again after sunset when the buildings are illuminated.
2. Wander Through Shah-i-Zinda
This was probably my favourite place in Samarkand.
The narrow walkway is lined with beautifully decorated mausoleums covered almost entirely in different shades of blue tilework. Every corner seemed even more impressive than the last and it ended up being one of the most photogenic places I visited in Uzbekistan.
I’d recommend allowing plenty of time here rather than rushing through.
3. Visit Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
The Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is the final resting place of Amir Temur (Tamerlane), one of Central Asia’s most influential rulers.
The outside is beautiful, but don’t skip going inside—the gold and blue interior is just as impressive as the famous dome.
4. Discover Ulugh Beg Observatory
Built during the 15th century, Ulugh Beg Observatory was one of the world’s most advanced astronomical centres.
Although only part of the original observatory survives today, it’s fascinating to see how significant Samarkand once was for scientific discovery as well as trade.
5. Watch a Performance at El Merosi Theatre
One of the more unique experiences in Samarkand, El Merosi Theatre showcases traditional Uzbek costumes, music and dance in a colourful performance.
It was a nice change from sightseeing and gave a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s cultural traditions beyond its historic buildings.
6. Stay Near Registan Square
Rather than staying on the outskirts of the city, I’d recommend booking accommodation within walking distance of Registan Square if your budget allows.
It makes exploring much easier, especially if you want to visit the square early in the morning or again after dark.
Where I stayed
I stayed at SandHill Hotel Samarkand and found it to be a comfortable base for my two nights in the city. It was clean, quiet and convenient for visiting the main attractions.
7. Try Traditional Uzbek Food
One of the restaurants I visited was Labi G’or, where I tried local Uzbek dishes after a day of sightseeing.
If it’s your first time visiting Uzbekistan, make sure you also try:
- Plov
- Shashlik
- Samsa
- Lagman
8. Join a Guided Walking Tour (Recommended)
Although I explored Samarkand as part of a tour, I’d happily recommend a walking tour if you’re travelling independently.
Having a guide helps bring the city’s history to life and gives much more context than simply wandering between monuments.
→ GetYourGuide Samarkand: Walking Tour with Coffee Break & Local Snacks
Where to Stay in Samarkand
If you’re only visiting for one or two nights, I’d stay close to Registan Square.
Most of Samarkand’s major attractions are nearby, making it easy to explore on foot and reducing the need for taxis.
Budget: Salomat guest house
Mid-range: SandHill Hotel Samarkand ⭐ (where I stayed)
Luxury: Mövenpick Samarkand
Is Samarkand Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
I visited Samarkand as a solo female traveller and felt comfortable throughout my stay.
Like anywhere, it’s worth taking normal precautions, but I found locals to be welcoming and the main tourist areas felt safe during the day and evening.
Final Thoughts
Samarkand felt so iconic and was well worth a visit in Uzbekistan!
Between the incredible architecture, fascinating Silk Road history and relaxed atmosphere, it’s somewhere I’d recommend to almost anyone visiting Central Asia. While Tashkent makes a great starting point, Samarkand is a destination that really showcases why Uzbekistan has become one of my favourite countries I’ve travelled to.
If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend spending at least two days here before continuing on to Bukhara or Khiva!
Alexx
Planning Your Uzbekistan Trip?
If you’re still putting together your itinerary, these guides might help:
- Wondering if the capital is worth your time? Read my guide to Is Tashkent Worth Visiting?
- Have a few days in the capital? Here are the Best Things to Do in Tashkent.
- Not sure which area to book? Check out my guide on Where to Stay in Tashkent.
- Visiting more of Uzbekistan? See my guides on the best things to do in Bukhara and Khiva!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tours, hotels and services that I’ve personally used or genuinely believe will add value to your trip.
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