Samarkand Uzbekistan 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Enchanting City of Samarkand

This itinerary focuses on exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Samarkand while leaving room for relaxation and personal exploration.

Things to know:

  • Currency: Uzbek Sum (UZS). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so bring cash or use local ATMs.
  • Language: Uzbek is the official language but Russian is also widely spoken. English is less common but you’ll find some speakers in tourist areas.
  • Visa: Check visa requirements for your nationality as they vary. Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, while others need to apply beforehand.

Day 1: Arrival and Registan Square Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Samarkand International Airport (SKD). Take a taxi to your hotel in the city center.

    • Transportation: Taxis are readily available at the airport and within the city. Negotiate prices beforehand, as they are not metered.

  • Afternoon: Visit Registan Square, the heart of Samarkand.

    • Registan Square: Marvel at the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to three magnificent madrasahs: Ulugh Beg Madrasah (15th century), Sher-Dor Madrasah (1630s) and Tilya-Kori Madrasah (17th century).
      • What to see:
        • Ulugh Beg Madrasah: Explore the intricate tilework and calligraphy of this stunning 16th-century structure.
        • Sher-Dor Madrasah: Admire the breathtaking courtyard and the majestic facade adorned with its famous “golden” glazed tiles.
        • Sher-Dor Madrasah: Observe the religious significance of the building’s architecture.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner at Samarkand Restaurant, known for its delicious plov (a rice dish) and lamb shashlik.

Day 2: Historical Journey through Mausoleums and Mosques

  • Morning:

    • Gur-e Amir Mausoleum: Explore the magnificent mausoleum of Timur, the founder of the Timurid Empire, who is buried here alongside his descendants. Learn about the history of the empire and its influence on the region.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world.
    • Explore the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning complex of mausoleums adorned with turquoise, blue and green tiles.
    • Activity: Spend the afternoon wandering through the intricate tombs and mausoleums of the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis.

Day 3: Exploring the Past and Present

  • Morning: Visit the Samarkand Museum of History and Culture, showcasing artifacts from the ancient Sogdian civilization to the Soviet era.

  • Afternoon: Relax at a traditional teahouse like Chaikhana “Shahrisabz”. Enjoy a cup of green tea and savor local treats while experiencing the city’s vibrant tea culture.

    • Activity: Explore the bustling Siyob Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest bazaars in Uzbekistan.
      • Taxis: Available from anywhere in the city.

  • Dinner: Experience a delightful dinner at Samarkand Restaurant. Try their traditional Plov (a local rice dish) or Shashlik (grilled meat skewers).

Day 4: Exploring the City’s Soul

  • Morning:

    • Taxis:
      • Taxis are available for hire throughout the day.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Observatory of Ulugh Beg, a fascinating glimpse into ancient astronomical knowledge.

  • Enjoy traditional Uzbek cuisine and music at “Silk Road Teahouse” while learning about the history of Samarkand’s role as a major trading hub on the Silk Road.

  • Transportation:

    • Take a taxi to the train station.

Day 4: Evening:

  • Depart from Samarkand Train Station.

Day Trip:

  • Visit the ancient city of Shahrisabz, Timur’s birthplace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Things to do in Shahrisabz:

  • Explore the ruins of Timur’s Mausoleum (Ak Saray)

  • Discover the architectural wonders of Timur’s legacy.

  • Enjoy the traditional atmosphere and local delicacies, and try the delicious “Shashlik”.

  • Enjoy a meal at a local home-stay, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Uzbek culture.

Things to consider:

  • Accommodation:

    • Budget:
      • Consider staying in a hostel like “Samarkand Hostel” or a “guesthouse like “Silk Road Oasis” for affordable and social options.

  • Accommodation:

    • The Registan Plaza Hotel, located near the historic site, offers convenient access to the city’s main attractions and comfortable amenities.

  • Places to eat:

    • Tandoor Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Uzbek plov (rice) in a traditional setting.

  • Cultural immersion:

    • Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Samarkand by exploring the ruins of ancient Samarkand, including the ancient city of Afrasiab.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum

  • Enjoy the traditional music: Samarkand is known for its rich musical traditions, particularly in the realm of classical Uzbek and Central Asian music.

  • Experience a cultural performance: Traditional Uzbek music and dance are often performed at local restaurants and hotels near the Registan (Teahouses and restaurants)

    • Explore the local cuisine:

Enjoy traditional Uzbek dishes and experience the richness of the local culture.

  • Transportation:

  • Local transportation:

  • Public transport:

  • Bus: The cheapest and most readily available option, but routes can be confusing.

  • Taxis:

  • Teahouse hopping:

    • “Teahouses” are a common sight in Samarkand, offering a unique opportunity to sample the local cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere of these traditional gathering places.

Enjoy a unique culinary journey with a traditional “Teahouse” experience.

  • Things to do:
    • Try the delicious “pilaf” (a staple dish in Uzbekistan) or enjoy a refreshing cup of “chai” (tea) and fresh fruits.