About Samarkand
Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, is a jewel of Uzbekistan renowned for its majestic Islamic architecture and Silk Road history. The city’s iconic Registan Square, shimmering blue domes, and ancient madrasahs reflect a rich cultural legacy.
Major Attractions in Samarkand
Registan Square
The iconic heart of Samarkand — one of the most beautiful squares in the Islamic world. Lit up at night — absolutely magical!
Registan Square
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
The final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane) — the conqueror who made Samarkand his capital.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
A breathtaking row of over 20 richly decorated mausoleums and tombs on a hillside.
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, built by Timur to impress anyone who visited his capital.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Siab Bazaar
A great place to taste fresh non (bread), dried fruits, nuts, halva, spices, and local sweets. Perfect for people-watching and photos of daily life.
Siab Bazaar
Ulugh Beg Observatory
The remains include a huge underground sextant once used to chart the stars with amazing accuracy for its time.
Ulugh Beg Observatory
Afrosiab Ancient Settlement & Museum
The on-site museum displays beautiful Sogdian frescoes, coins, pottery, and relics.
Afrosiab Ancient Settlement & Museum
Silk Paper Workshop
See how ancient Samarkand silk paper is made by hand using mulberry bark — a craft that dates back over a thousand years.
Silk Paper Workshop
Adventure and Activities in Samarkand
Silk Road Cycling Tours
Ride from Registan to Shah-i-Zinda and Bibi-Khanym Mosque through local neighborhoods.
Silk Road Cycling Tours
Hiking & Village Walks
While Samarkand itself is mostly urban, nearby Konigil Village offers walking trails,Enjoy a rustic picnic with fresh Uzbek non (bread) and tea.
Hiking & Village Walks
Hot-Air Balloon Rides
Some local companies now offer hot-air balloon experiences near Samarkand in good weather.
Hot-Air Balloon Rides
Samarkand Wine Tasting
Not an adrenaline sport — but a special local experience. Great add-on to an afternoon of sightseeing.
Samarkand Wine Tasting
Cooking Classes with Local Families
Learn to make traditional Samarkand plov, samsa, or hand-pulled noodles.Fun, hands-on, and delicious — plus you’ll eat what you make.
Cooking Classes with Local Families
Horseback Riding in the Outskirts
Ride through orchards, farms, and along riverbanks — perfect for beginners.
Best in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
Horseback Riding in the Outskirts
Day Trips to Nuratau Mountains
If you want real hiking: Do a day trip or overnight to the Nuratau Mountains (~2–3 hours from Samarkand).
Day Trips to Nuratau Mountains
Most popular hotels in Samarkand
Hilton Samarkand Regency
Hilton Samarkand Regency
Silk Road by Minyoun
Silk Road by Minyoun
Lia! by Minyoun
Lia! by Minyoun
Mövenpick Samarkand
Mövenpick Samarkand
