Unmissable Things to Do in Samarkand: The Heart of the Silk Road

Samarkand is a non-negotiable addition to your Uzbekistan itinerary as Uzbekistan’s most famous Silk Road city. Due to main sights such as the Registan and Shahi Zinda, Samarkand is most popular with tourists. Furthermore, Samarkand can easily be reached from many places with direct international flights from Istanbul. Also, Samarkand is next to Tashkent the largest city of Uzbekistan and the vibe cannot be compared to Khiva or Bukhara.

In this article, we will take you along the best things to do in Samarkand. Let’s see!

Glimpse The Wonders of Samarkand

When to visit

For warm weather and perfect temperatures for touring, visit Samarkand in either spring (April to June) or fall (September to early November). July is extremely hot and the winters get bitingly cold. March 21st is the Persian New Year which is fun to celebrate. Also, check when Ramadan is each year, as many residents will be fasting during the day, but there will still be restaurants open for tourists.

Getting around

Taxis are the way to go in Samarkand, but make sure that you’re ready to bargain. Your driver will probably start with a request for at least double what it really should cost, so bear that in mind. Yandex ridesharing app often works and is cheap, too. There’s also a slow but cost-effective tram that runs from the train station, so give this a try if you’re not in a hurry and want to do some people-watching.

The Registan Square is a popular tourist attraction in Central Asia 

Things To Do in Samarkand

1. Marvel at the Majestic Registan Square

Registan Square is one of the places to see in Samarkand for travelers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Timurid era's architectural excellence. Registan Square is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and Samarkand's most famous landmark. The square features beautiful arches, turquoise domes, and intricate mosaics. It is home to three grand madrasahs: Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori.

You should visit early in the morning in order to avoid crowds and see the facades illuminated by the golden sunlight. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the interiors, where you'll find delicate tilework, soaring domes, and ancient study rooms that echo the scholarly legacy of the Majestic Registan Square.

2. Discover the Ancient Splendor of Shah-i-Zinda

The magnificent necropolis known as Shah-i-Zinda, or "The Living King," is home to several mausoleums. The location displays some of the best craftsmanship in Central Asia and provides a visual feast of cobalt and azure tiles.

Each tomb tells a story, with many dedicated to prominent figures from Samarkand’s history. Strolling through its narrow, serene alleys feels like stepping into a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual and artistic heritage.

Ancient Splendor of Shah-i-Zinda decorated by blue tiles with designs

3. Visit Gur-e-Amir: The Mausoleum of Tamerlane

The Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is one of the must-visit places to see in Samarkand. It is the final resting place of Timur, the legendary conqueror who transformed Samarkand into the heart of his vast empire. The mausoleum’s stunning blue dome, surrounded by intricately decorated walls, serves as a powerful symbol of Timur’s ambition and lasting legacy.

The inside of the Tamerlane Mausoleum is serene and contemplative. It gives guests an opportunity to enjoy both its historical significance and beauty. Spend some time studying the intricate carvings and inscriptions. These characteristics offer insight into the Timurid era's architectural style as well as the magnificence of this extraordinary ruler's vision.

The Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is one of the must-visit places to see in Samarkand 

4. Wander Through Siab Bazaar

Exploring the vibrant ambiance of Samarkand’s busy marketplaces is one of the best things to do in Samarkand. The Siab Bazaar is a great place to start. Conveniently located close to the famous Bibi-Khanym Mosque, this lively bazaar is a sensory experience. It offers a riot of color, enticing scents, and the upbeat voices of neighborhood merchants.

Here, you can savor fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and the famous Uzbek bread known as non, a staple of the local diet. As you wander through the bazaar, take the opportunity to browse and purchase handcrafted souvenirs, aromatic spices, and beautifully woven textiles. These treasures allow you to bring a piece of Samarkand's unique charm and cultural heritage back home with you.

Exploring the vibrant ambiance of Samarkand’s busy marketplaces is one of the best things to do in Samarkand 

5. Admire the Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Built in the fifteenth century, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was once one of the biggest and most exquisite mosques in the Islamic world. Its immense scale and intricate decorative details make it a breathtaking architectural marvel that continues to awe visitors to this day.

According to legend, the mosque was commissioned by Timur as a tribute to his beloved wife. This reflects his deep affection and admiration for her. Despite suffering damage over the centuries, the mosque's grandeur remains unmistakable. Its towering minarets, expansive courtyard, and elaborately adorned portal stand as enduring symbols of the architectural brilliance of the Timurid era.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque was once one of the biggest and most exquisite mosques in the Islamic world 

6. Enjoy Traditional Uzbek Cuisine

The culinary culture of Samarkand provides a delightful exploration of tastes and customs, mirroring the city's diverse and extensive past. Enjoy traditional dishes like plov, which is a delightful and substantial rice dish served with tender meat and a variety of vegetables.  Manty is another treat that you simply must sample when you visit Samarkand. Shaslik, which are delicious marinated beef skewers that are barbecued, are another staple of Uzbek cuisine.

Chak-chak is a great option for people who have a sweet craving. This delicious pastry is a simple yet delicious treat, made with sweet honey and crispy fried dough. We highly recommend you enjoy ayran, a tart yogurt-based beverage that perfectly counterbalances the dish's rich flavors, or a calming cup of fragrant green tea with your dinner.

The culinary culture of Samarkand provides a delightful exploration of tastes and customs 

7. Experience Samarkand’s Silk Road Legacy

Exploring Samarkand's past as a significant Silk Road hub is one of the most enriching things to do in Samarkand. Visit workshops dedicated to preserving traditional crafts like papermaking, pottery, and silk weaving. The Konigil Paper Mill is a noteworthy destination where craftspeople use age-old methods to create Samarkand's renowned handmade silk paper. Watching the process in action is both fascinating and instructive.

Samarkand always captivates its visitors with its charm. Among the many things to do in Samarkand, exploring its landmarks reveals a glorious past, and the city has its own unique story to share. Moreover, Samarkand offers lifelong experiences, whether you're exploring its historic buildings, indulging in its delicious food, or just taking in its classic ambiance.