Walking Tour of Samarkand with Local Guide
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5h
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Paper ticket only accepted
About this experience
This walking tour of Samarkand offers an authentic and close experience, guided by a local expert who knows the history, culture and traditions of the city.Unlike the massive tours, the group is small, allowing personalized attention and time for questions. We visit the must-see places, such as Bibikhaym Mosque, Siyob Bazaar and Shah-i-Zinda complex, while discovering stories, legends and details that do not appear in the guides.The pace is calm and flexible, ideal for enjoying, taking photos and understanding the Samarkand era.
Available options
Standard rate
What's included
Professional local guide, historical explanations, accompaniment during the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Our Spanish-speaking guide is waiting for you at the Amir Temur mausoleum. In total 5 places are included in our trip. It is an interior tour, so you enter together with the guide in each of the monuments and I was going to know the history of these sites.
2
Stop 2
Here we will see together a magnificent square from all over the world! We are going to visit three madrassas and I tell you their stories.
3
Stop 3
The Mosque of Bibi-Khonim is one of the greatest monuments in Samarkand and one of the most monumental mosques in the medieval Islamic world. It was built at the end of the 14th century on Tamerlan's orders following his campaign in India, with the aim of creating a temple symbolizing the power, wealth and greatness of the Timurid Empire.
4
Siyob Bazaar is the largest and liveliest traditional market in Samarkand, and one of the most authentic places to get to know the daily life of the city. Located next to the Bibi-Khonim Mosque, this bazaar has for centuries been an important trading center on the Silk Road.
5
Shah-i-Zinda is one of the most impressive and spiritual architectural complexes in Samarkand. It is a unique necropolis, made up of a series of richly decorated mausoleums dating mainly from the 11th to the 15th centuries, the time of the Timurid splendor.
What's not included
Entrance fee for historical monuments visited during the tour (not included in the price), the marked price is not fixed because the price of tickets are often raised
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
See you on the edge of the steps of the Amir Temur mausoleum. Eye! Don't confuse with Amir Temur's status!
About Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, known for its rich history and stunning Islamic architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks that reflect the city's status as a hub on the ancient Silk Road.
Top Attractions
Registan Square
Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, featuring three stunning madrasahs (Islamic schools) with intricate tile work and towering minarets. It's one of the most iconic sights in Central Asia.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
This mausoleum is the burial place of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. It's known for its stunning blue tile work and intricate design.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
This ancient necropolis is a collection of stunning mausoleums and tombs, known for their intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
This grand mosque was built by Timur in honor of his favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. It's one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world and features stunning architecture and tile work.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Siab Bazaar
This bustling bazaar is a great place to experience local life and sample traditional Uzbek food. It's a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and sounds.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, budget for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plov
Plov is a rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is often served at celebrations.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Lagman
Lagman is a noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for colder weather.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Samsa
Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices. They're a popular street food and are often sold at bazaars.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Non
Non is a traditional Uzbek bread, often baked in a tandoor oven. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is served with most meals.
Bread
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Exploring historic sites
Horseback riding
Visiting tea houses
Enjoying a traditional hammam (bathhouse)
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Uzbek
- Widely spoken: Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
Time Zone
UTC+5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Samarkand is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets and scams
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
Getting there
By air
- Samarkand International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Samarkand Railway Station
By bus
Samarkand Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded but are a good way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Afrosiab
Kuk-Saroy
Day trips
Shakhrisabz
90 km from Samarkand • Full day
Shakhrisabz is a historic city known for its stunning architecture and ties to Timur (Tamerlane). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with several impressive ruins and monuments.
Penjikent
120 km from Samarkand • Full day
Penjikent is a charming town in Tajikistan, known for its historic ruins and natural beauty. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and the outdoors.
Ulugbek's Observatory
5 km from Samarkand • Half day
Ulugbek's Observatory is a historic site dedicated to the astronomical work of Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy and science in Central Asia.
Festivals
Silk and Spices Festival • May
Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the city's many historic sites
- Visit the bazaars early in the morning for the best selection and atmosphere
- Try local specialties like plov, lagman, and samsa at traditional restaurants and street food stalls
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay for a more local and authentic experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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