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Samarkand travel guide

Uzbekistan

Basics

CountryUzbekistan

Time zoneAsia/Samarkand

CurrencyUZS

Official language(s)Uzbek

Be sure to try the local traditional dishes during your visit.

Places to visit

Afrasiab

A vast archaeological area preserving the remains of ancient Samarkand. It is a must-see for travelers interested in the city’s origins and early history.

HoursDaily 09:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipPair it with the Afrasiab Museum to understand the site better.

Afrasiab Museum

A museum displaying finds from the ancient Afrasiab site of Samarkand. It is especially useful for understanding Sogdian history through artifacts and wall paintings.

HoursDaily 09:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipVisit together with the Afrasiab ruins for the best context.

Gur-e Amir Mausoleum

Samarkand’s iconic mausoleum, known as the tomb of Timur. Its blue dome and intricate ornamentation are especially striking.

LocationGur-e Amir Mausoleum, Samarkand

Nearest stationSamarkand Railway Station

HoursDaily 08:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipTake your time inside to appreciate the details of the interior decoration and the space beneath the dome.

Samarqand Park

A popular park among locals, ideal for family picnics.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt's best to visit during off-peak hours.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

A historic mosque known for its magnificent intricate designs.

Hours09:00 - 17:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipDon't miss the beauty inside the mosque.

Shah-i-Zinda

A complex of Islamic mausoleums, a spiritual site for many visitors.

Hours08:00 - 19:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipYou can admire many beautiful tombstones here.

Ulugh Beg Astronomical Observatory

A historic observatory built in the 15th century, known for its stellar observations.

Hours10:00 - 17:00

Admission12,000 UZS

Travel tipThe view from the observatory is truly beautiful.

Food to try

Manti and somsa near Siyob Bazaar

Manti, somsa, and fresh bread around Siyob Bazaar are a classic Samarkand street-food experience. It is a quick and affordable way to taste local flavors.

LocationAround Siyob Bazaar, Samarkand

Nearest stationSamarkand Railway Station

HoursUsually daily 07:00–18:00

AdmissionAbout 10,000–30,000 UZS each

Travel tipPopular stalls sell out early, so it is best to go in the morning.

Siab Bazaar

A market selling traditional Uzbek food and various goods.

Hours06:00 - 19:00

AdmissionVaried price range

Travel tipIt's recommended to taste the local food.

Events

Nowruz Spring Celebrations

The New Year and spring festival celebrated across Uzbekistan. In Samarkand, it often includes performances, traditional games, and food events.

WhenEvery year, late March to early April

LocationVarious parks and squares in Samarkand

Nearest stationSamarkand Railway Station

HoursVaries by event schedule

AdmissionMostly free

Travel tipCity squares and parks host many family-friendly events, making it a great way to feel the local atmosphere.

Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival

Samarkand’s signature international music festival, blending traditional music with performances from around the world. Its setting among historic monuments is a major attraction.

WhenAround September to October each year

LocationAround Registan Square, Samarkand

Nearest stationSamarkand Railway Station

HoursOperates at scheduled times during the festival period

AdmissionTicketed

Travel tipHotels can fill up quickly during the festival, so book ahead.

Uzbek Traditional Dance Performance

Traditional dance performances held during the summer.

WhenUzbek Traditional Dance Performance (summer)

Travel tipCheck the schedule for performances in advance.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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