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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: UZS
- Languages: Uzbek, Russian, Tajik, English
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: Asia/Tashkent
- Population: Approximately 540,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit:
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can obtain an e-visa online before arrival or enter visa-free for short stays depending on nationality. Visa on arrival is limited and generally not available for most tourists. It is recommended to check the latest requirements before travel, as Uzbekistan has simplified visa rules to encourage tourism.
About Samarkand
Samarkand is one of Central Asia’s most historic and culturally rich cities, famed for its stunning Islamic architecture and its pivotal role on the ancient Silk Road. Its unique blend of Persian, Turkic, and Mongol influences is visible in its grand madrasahs, mausoleums, and bustling bazaars. Visitors are drawn to Samarkand for its timeless charm, where history comes alive through magnificent monuments like Registan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a captivating journey through centuries of art, science, and religion, making it a must-visit for travelers interested in culture and history. Beyond its architectural wonders, Samarkand’s vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality provide an authentic experience of Uzbek life. Its location as a crossroads of civilizations makes it a fascinating destination for those seeking to explore the heart of Central Asia.
Top Attractions
1. Registan Square – The iconic heart of Samarkand, featuring three majestic madrasahs adorned with intricate tilework and towering minarets. 2. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – The tomb of Timur (Tamerlane), an architectural masterpiece with a striking blue dome and detailed mosaics. 3. Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble – A necropolis with a series of beautifully decorated mausoleums, showcasing exquisite tile art and spiritual significance. 4. Bibi-Khanym Mosque – Once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, known for its grand scale and impressive architecture. 5. Ulugh Beg Observatory – The remains of a 15th-century astronomical observatory built by the Timurid ruler and scientist Ulugh Beg.
Popular Activities
Visitors can explore Samarkand’s rich history through guided tours of its monuments and museums. Shopping in traditional bazaars offers a chance to buy local crafts such as silk, ceramics, and carpets. Cultural experiences include attending folk music performances and tasting traditional tea ceremonies. For adventure seekers, day trips to nearby natural sites or the historic Silk Road caravanserais provide a blend of exploration and discovery. Culinary tours and cooking classes are also popular to immerse in Uzbek cuisine.
Samarkand Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Central Uzbekistan
- Duration Range: Visitors can explore Samarkand’s rich history through guided tours of its monuments and museums. Shopping in traditional bazaars offers a chance to buy local crafts such as silk, ceramics, and carpets. Cultural experiences include attending folk music performances and tasting traditional tea ceremonies. For adventure seekers, day trips to nearby natural sites or the historic Silk Road caravanserais provide a blend of exploration and discovery. Culinary tours and cooking classes are also popular to immerse in Uzbek cuisine.
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The ideal visiting months are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack light layers, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking. Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases. Carry some cash as card acceptance may be limited. Stay hydrated and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Always have a copy of your passport and visa documents.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $180
101 Available Tour Excursions in Samarkand
We are one of the leading tour operators in Uzbekistan, offering first-hand, affordable tours without any middlemen. With two years of experience and over 1,000 satisfied clients, we specialize in organizing authentic excursions that showcase the true beauty and culture of our region. Our dedicated team ensures that every journey is unique, enriching, and memorable
Price: $175.00
Duration: 11 hours
Embark on an extraordinary one-day journey from Samarkand into the heart of Tajikistan. Traverse the legendary Fann Mountains and marvel at seven pristine lakes, set against a backdrop of towering peaks (up to 4000m), rushing waterfalls, and vibrant rural landscapes. This carefully paced tour ensures you capture breathtaking views at every stop without feeling rushed. Your adventure continues in Panjakent, where you’ll explore the lively Bazaar, visit ancient mosque and madrasah, discover the 5500-year-old ruins of Sarazm—a true window into Central Asia’s rich past. The tour is meticulously designed to offer a maximized experience without the stress of a rushed itinerary. Every stop is thoughtfully scheduled, ensuring that you have ample time to fully appreciate the unique beauty of each location. Embrace the adventure, connect with ancient legacies, and let the vibrant soul of Tajikistan lead you into a story that is as enduring as the mountains themselves in one unforgettable day.
Price: $170.00
Duration: 9 hours
You will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of Samarkand with wonderful memories by Hot air balloon. The driver will pick up all travelers from hotels in Samarkand and transfer to Samarkand ancient city. You will meet your pilot and board hot air balloon for take off. You will fly in a hot air balloon over one of the most spectacular city during 10 - 15 minutes. After your fun - filled adventure, get taken back to where you checked in. Transfer to your hotel.
Price: $75.00
Duration: 1 hours
Scenery and Highlights Panoramic Views: The pass is situated in the Zarafshan Range, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you can see vast expanses of rugged terrain dotted with patches of greenery. Landscape Diversity: The landscape changes dramatically as you ascend and descend the pass. You’ll see rocky cliffs, rolling hills, and sometimes, in spring and early summer, vibrant wildflowers. Photographic Opportunities: There are several points along the pass where you can stop and take photographs. These spots provide perfect backdrops for capturing the natural beauty of Uzbekistan. Local Villages: As you descend towards Shakhrisabz, you might pass through or near small villages. These can be interesting to observe for a glimpse of local life. The sightseeing in Shakhrisabz -"The Palace Complex of Ak-Saray" -"Kok-Gumbaz Mosque"
Price: $55.00
Duration: 7 hours
Uzbekistan is not only the heart of Central Asia but also a true reflection of culture, beauty, historical heritage, and national values at their finest. The rich history of our nation has been carefully preserved in Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent, and other cities. We offer you an authentic journey through time, introducing you to our history, traditions, and local charm with guided tours to the most significant historical and cultural sites. Our tour package includes accommodations in 3-4* hotels, breakfast, train tickets, transfers, transportation services, excursions, and entrance tickets to the historical monuments. However, what truly sets us apart is our flexibility—we customize tours based on travelers' preferences, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your plans and requirements. We prioritize the desires of our guests, providing high-quality, comfortable, and authentic travel experiences. Visit Uzbekistan and explore its wonders with Assalam Travel!
Price: $1,155.00
Duration: 144 hours
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Seven Lakes on a day tour from Samarkand! This unique journey takes you deep into the heart of Tajikistan's serene landscapes, where each lake boasts its own vibrant color and charm. Enjoy the comfort of expert guides, local insights, and an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s natural wonders. Perfect for adventurers looking to explore beyond the usual routes—book your spot today!
Price: $109.00
Duration: 8-9 hours
Discover the timeless beauty of Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road, on this guided tour. With a knowledgeable local guide, and a customizable itinerary, this tour offers an unforgettable experience of Samarkand’s top sights in just one day. Day 1. Amir Timur stature, Gur emir mausoleum, Registan square, Sherdor madrassa, Ulugbek madrassa, Tillya kori madrassa, Islam Karimov stature, Bibikhanum mosque, Siyab Bazaar (closes on Monday), Khazrati khizir mosque, Islam Karimov mausoleum, Shakhi Zinda necropolis. Exclusive Samarkand tour led by a professional guide Comprehensive tour of the city Explore the local streets on a guided tour of the city Customize the itinerary according to your schedule
Price: $15.00
Duration: 5-6 hours
Spend a day with a local family during your visit to Samarkand. Gain authentic insights into the local culture, traditions, and daily life. Interact with locals, learn about their stories, share meals, and perhaps even participate in their daily activities. Begin your day at Siyob Bazaar, the bustling heart of Samarkand. Stroll through colorful stalls, chat with vendors, and witness the lively exchange of goods. It's the perfect place to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere. Join a local family in their home and learn the secrets of Uzbek cuisine. Roll up your sleeves and prepare traditional dishes like plov (rice pilaf), shashlik (grilled meat), and samsa (savory pastries). Discover the flavors that have been passed down through generations. For vegetarians, special foods can be cooked. Spend the day with a warm-hearted local family. Share stories, laughter, and perhaps even a game of chess. Learn about their daily routines, customs, and traditions.
Price: $65.00
Duration: 6 hours
Penjikent is an ancient city in Tajikistan. The last ancient city of the Sogdians 5-8cc ad in Zerafshan Valley with very ancient background along the Great Silk Road, which was ruined by Arabs invasion 7-8 cc ad. Hometown of Rudaki, the first great modern Tajik poet in 10th Century. In this day trip you will visit Ancient Sarazm (world heritage site of UNESCO, bronze age- 5500 y ), ruins of Ancient Panjakent, local market and Visit of Rudaki museum.
Price: $160.00
Duration: 7-8 hours
Embark on an unforgettable one-day journey from Samarkand to Tajikistan, where history and nature blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure in Panjakent, an ancient city rich in Sogdian heritage, vibrant bazaars, and fascinating archaeological ruins. Explore its historic streets and discover the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. Next, venture into the breathtaking Seven Lakes, a series of crystal-clear mountain lakes, each boasting a unique color and charm. Nestled within the Fann Mountains, these lakes offer mesmerizing landscapes, fresh mountain air, and serene beauty. Capture stunning views, enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the hospitality of the local people.
Price: $180.00
Duration: 7-8 hours
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Tajikistan's Fann Mountains . Two Days Private Tour from Samarkand. Just a short drive from the ancient city of Samarkand, you will discover one of the most stunning mountain lakes in the world, nestled in the heart of the Fann Mountains. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of crystal-clear lakes, flowing rivers, and majestic mountains that will leave you in awe. Seven Lakes in the Fann Mountains are more than a pleasant mountain destination – they’re some of the most exquisite lakes of Tajikistan, steeped in history and legend that provide poignant insights into local culture. Iskanderkul Lake in northern Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains is considered one of the most gorgeous lakes in the former Soviet Union, and one glance at its calm, pristine waters will leave you convinced of this claim.
Price: $300.00
Duration: 48 hours
Discover the Muhammad Bashoro mosque and the Central Bazaar in Panjakent and see 6 lakes in Tajikistan on this day trip that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Explore some of the highlights of a Tajikistan on cross-boarder day trip. Shop like a local with a visit to the bustling Central Bazaar in Panjakent. Step back in time as you marvel at the entrance to the Muhammad Bashoro mosque. Capture pictures to share friends and family with stops at 6 spectacular lakes. Enjoy the convenience of transfers to/from your accommodation in Samarkand
Price: $140.00
Duration: 14 hours
In this excursion you will get acquainted with: nature, culture, history, customs and, of course, cuisine of Shakhrisbz. You will see from the filming locations of the movie "Apache" through the mountains to the hometown of the great Amir Timur in one day.
Price: $69.00
Duration: 6-8 hours
Join a local Uzbek host for an authentic Plov cooking experience. Explore Siyob Bazaar, handpick fresh ingredients, and cook in a traditional qozon. Learn centuries-old techniques, enjoy cultural exchanges, and share a homemade meal in a welcoming Uzbek home. A true taste of Samarkand’s rich culinary heritage.
Price: $55.00
Duration: 4 hours
Avoid the hassle of renting a car to see a beautiful landscape and historical monuments beyond Samarkand with help from 7 hours a day tour which includes transport from Samarkand, local guide in Shakhrisabz and entrance tickets to the monuments. Beyond Samarkand, the road to the south, through Zarafshan Range, a Pamiri spur, towards the Takhtakaracha Pass. Along this major Silk Road branch marched the armies of the Greats, Alexander and Amir Temur, en route to India. In 1395 Amir Temur ordered a palace and garden built here, between his imperial capital and his birthplace Shakhrisabz, 90 kilometers south. The road passes through villages, resting in the shade of white acacias, Persian walnut, pine and plane trees. The peak of the pass is more than 1620 meters in elevation and in a clear day after the peak of the pass there is a spot of fine panorama of the town Kitob of Kashkadarya province.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 7 hours
This circuit is unique and exceptional in several respects: You discover a former kolkhoz - Soviet collective farm. You walk through the cotton fields with the possibility of assisting in the work. You meet the ex-kolkhozians, simple village people but with a heart full of warmth. You discover local life in rural areas. You share pleasant moments with them during a lunch together. You walk along the banks of the Zeravchan River and discover its dry basin allowing you to understand the water problems in Central Asia. You visit fish and bee farms taking advantage of local production. For French-speaking travelers, we can organize a meeting with students who are learning French. You can discover seasonal activities depending on the season (April-May) silkworm breeding, (September) cotton picking etc.
Price: $90.00
Duration: 10-11 hours
Take a guided tour to explore Samarkand— a fairy tale city along the ancient Silk Road. Transportation is included through the tour. Learn the technique how in VIII century people in Samarkand made a silk paper from mulberry. Travel back in time in a famous Registan square of Samarkand. Go at your own pace on this private tour. Feel free to customize this tour based on the interests of your private group.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 6-7 hours
Discover the rich history of Samarkand on a private guided tour! Explore iconic landmarks like Registan Square, the stunning Shah-i-Zinda complex, and the majestic Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum. With personalized insights from a knowledgeable local guide, dive deep into the ancient Silk Road city's culture, architecture, and heritage. Book your unforgettable experience today!
Price: $74.50
Duration: 6 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Samarkand.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Samarkand’s cuisine is a flavorful mix of Central Asian traditions. Signature dishes include plov (rice pilaf with meat and vegetables), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and samsa (savory pastries). Local breads like non are staples, often enjoyed with tea. Dining customs emphasize hospitality and sharing meals. Noteworthy restaurants include those serving traditional Uzbek fare in historic settings, offering an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
Getting Around
Samarkand is accessible by air via Samarkand International Airport, with connections to major cities in Uzbekistan and neighboring countries. The city also has good rail and road links. Within Samarkand, taxis and minibuses are common for getting around. Walking is practical in the historic center. Transportation costs are generally affordable, with taxis offering fixed or meter-based fares.
Travel Tips
The ideal visiting months are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack light layers, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking. Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases. Carry some cash as card acceptance may be limited. Stay hydrated and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Always have a copy of your passport and visa documents.
Culture & Customs
Samarkand’s culture is deeply influenced by Islamic traditions and Uzbek hospitality. Social customs include greeting with a handshake or slight bow, and removing shoes before entering homes or mosques. Festivals like Navruz (Persian New Year) are celebrated with music, dance, and special foods. Visitors should show respect at religious sites and avoid public displays of affection. Gift-giving and polite conversation are appreciated in social interactions.
