Samarkand Full Day Tour of Iconic Monuments and Hidden Gems
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step back in time on a guided Samarkand tour. Explore the stunning Registan, ancient mausoleums, and vibrant bazaars while uncovering the stories behind this Silk Road city. A perfect blend of history, culture, and local insights—experience Samarkand like a true insider!
Or
Discover Shakhrisabz on a day trip from Samarkand, featuring historic sites, scenic views, and local insights
Available options
Samarkand: Full-Day Tour of Iconic Monuments and Hidden Gems
Samarkand: Full-Day Car Tour
Sedan<br/>Pickup included
Shakhrisabz Day Tour
Shakhrisabz Day Trip: Full-day guided excursion from Samarkand to Shakhrisabz, including transportation, sightseeing, and historical highlights<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Samarkand-Shakhrisabz-Samarkan: Scenic drive through the mountains to Shakhrisabz with visits to key historical sites, then return to Samarkand<br/>Sedan<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Service of a professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore Registan Square with a local guide, discovering the history, architecture, and symbolism of Samarkand’s most famous landmark and its three iconic madrasahs
2
Stop 2
Discover the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, burial place of Amir Timur, and explore the history, architecture, and legends of the Timurid Empire with a local guide
3
Stop 3
Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, a monumental Timurid landmark, and hear the stories behind its scale, history, and restoration
4
Walk through Siab Bazaar with your guide, the liveliest market in Samarkand. Discover local flavors, traditional bread, dried fruits, spices, and everyday life of the city
5
Stop 5
Shah-i-Zinda, a stunning complex of ancient mausoleums known for its exquisite blue tiles and religious importance.
6
Discover the Ulugh Beg Observatory, where one of the world’s greatest medieval astronomers studied the stars. Learn about ancient science and the giant sextant used for precise calculations
What's not included
Lunch
Entrance fees to monuments are optional and paid on-site by travelers if they choose to enter
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The guide will be waiting for you with a sign with the lead travelers name
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
