Samarkand, Uzbekistan-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning

  • Arrive in Samarkand and check-in at Hotel Dilshoda (budget-friendly option) or Hotel Malika (mid-range option)
  • Visit the Registan Square, one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Asia
    • Marvel at the beautiful architecture and history of the square
    • Take a stroll around the surrounding streets to get a feel for the city

Afternoon

  • Head to the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane)
    • Learn about the history and significance of the mausoleum
    • Take in the stunning architecture and tile work

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Caravan Café, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Uzbek cuisine
  • Explore the local night market, Chorsu Bazaar, for some souvenir shopping and people-watching

Things to Know

  • Samarkand is a city with a rich history, so be prepared to learn about its past and significance
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques and mausoleums
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (June-August) due to extreme heat

Transportation

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get around the city, but agree on a price before you start your journey
  • Walking: Samarkand is a walkable city, and exploring on foot can be a great way to discover hidden gems

Tips

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases, as many locals speak Russian fluently
  • Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be strong in Samarkand

Day 2: Mosques and Mausoleums

Morning

  • Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world
    • Marvel at the stunning architecture and tile work
    • Take a guided tour to learn more about the mosque’s history

Afternoon

  • Explore the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, a collection of mausoleums and tombs
    • Wander through the peaceful gardens and take in the beautiful tile work
    • Learn about the significance of the necropolis and its history

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Old City Restaurant, serving traditional Uzbek cuisine with a modern twist
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the local streets for some evening strolls

Things to Know

  • Be respectful when visiting mosques and mausoleums, removing shoes and dressing modestly
  • Samarkand is known for its stunning tile work, so be prepared to take plenty of photos!

Transportation

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get around the city, but agree on a price before you start your journey
  • Walking: Samarkand is a walkable city, and exploring on foot can be a great way to discover hidden gems

Tips

  • Bring a camera with a good battery life, as you’ll want to take plenty of photos!
  • Try some local street food, such as somsa (meat or vegetable pastries) or shurpa (noodle soup)

Day 3: Historical Sites and Local Life

Morning

  • Visit the Afrosiyob Hill, a historic site with stunning views of the city
    • Take in the panoramic views of Samarkand
    • Learn about the history and significance of the hill

Afternoon

  • Explore the Khodja Akhrar Vali Complex, a collection of mausoleums and mosques
    • Wander through the peaceful gardens and take in the beautiful tile work
    • Learn about the significance of the complex and its history

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Tajik Restaurant, serving traditional Uzbek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Explore the local streets for some evening strolls and people-watching

Things to Know

  • Samarkand is a city with a rich cultural heritage, so be prepared to learn about its history and customs
  • Respect local traditions and customs when visiting historical sites and mosques

Transportation

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get around the city, but agree on a price before you start your journey
  • Walking: Samarkand is a walkable city, and exploring on foot can be a great way to discover hidden gems

Tips

  • Try some local kumis (fermented horse milk) or ayran (yogurt drink)
  • Be prepared for some uneven pavement and cobblestone streets when walking around the city

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the Samarkand Museum of History and Culture, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage

Afternoon

  • Depart for the airport or your next destination

Things to Know

  • Be sure to check the current entry and exit requirements for Uzbekistan
  • Samarkand is a city with a rich history, so be prepared to learn about its past and significance

Transportation

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get to the airport, but agree on a price before you start your journey
  • Airport Shuttle: Many hotels offer shuttle services to the airport, so be sure to check ahead of time

Tips

  • Be sure to try some local plov (pilaf) or manti (steamed dumplings) before departing Samarkand
  • Bring back some souvenirs, such as traditional Uzbek clothing or handicrafts