Why visit Samarkand?
The monumental heart of the Silk Road beats in the public squares and turquoise domes of Samarkand. Standing in the Registan, framed by the towering portals of the Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori madrasahs, travelers experience the sheer scale of Timurid architecture. Just a short walk away, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque stands as a testament to 14th-century imperial ambition, while the avenue of mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda showcases intricate tilework in every shade of cobalt and azure. Beyond the monumental tombs, the observatory of Ulugh Beg reveals the scientific heights of the medieval Islamic world.
At the bustling Siab Bazaar, the aroma of freshly baked Samarkand non bread, stamped with traditional patterns, fills the air. Diners gather in local chaikhanas to feast on Samarkand plov, a layered rice dish cooked with yellow carrots, beef, and raisins, alongside skewers of flame-grilled shashlik. Exploring the historic Russian Quarter offers an architectural shift to 19th-century brick mansions, while the paper mills of Konigil village on the city's outskirts demonstrate ancient mulberry paper-making techniques that once supplied the courts of Eurasia.
Plan your Samarkand trip with Tony AI
Tony AI creates personalized day-by-day itineraries based on your budget, travel style and interests. No more hours of research — get your perfect Samarkand plan in seconds.
Book your Samarkand trip
Our own Samarkand trips
Organised by Lia’s Travel, our licensed Greek travel agency — booked directly, no middleman.
See all our trips →Operated by Lia’s Travel · liastravel.com
Everything for your Samarkand trip
Book flights, stays, tours and more — all in one place
More options: Kiwi.com · Oojo · seats.aero · Arangrant · HopeGoo · QEEQ · VIP Cars · GetTransfer · ViaToVia · Saily · Yesim · GigSky · Klook · EF Ultimate Break · EF Adventures · AirHelp Plus · CruiseDirect
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Popular experiences in Samarkand
The things travellers book most here. You pay the same price as booking direct.
Top tours & activities in Samarkand
Rent a car in Samarkand
Compare rental cars from local and international companies, with free cancellation on most bookings.
Compare car rentals in Samarkand