How to get there
Samarkand is a historical and cultural center located in Central Asia, in Uzbekistan. The distance from Tashkent is 286 kilometers.
It is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with a rich history of more than two millennia. Samarkand is known for its architectural monuments and historical sights, which will definitely be interesting to see on a tour.
You can get to the city in different ways:
Air Travel:
Samarqand Xalqaro Aeroporti International Airport receives flights from various countries. Or you can fly to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, and then take a domestic flight to Samarkand.
Rail Transportation:
Samarkand has a train station through which trains from various cities in Uzbekistan, such as Tashkent and Bukhara, pass. It is also possible to reach it by train from Kazakhstan. From Tashkent, you can take the high-speed Afrosiyob train.
Buses and Shuttles:
You can also get to the city by bus or shuttle from nearby cities and towns. If you take a tour, you will most likely travel by bus as well.
Automobile:
You can use cab services or rent a car for independent travel.
It is important to keep in mind that for international travel, you should check visa requirements and other necessary documents for entering Uzbekistan in advance.
Sightseeing and entertainment
Let's start our guide to Samarkand by mentioning that there are many interesting sights and beautiful places. If you don't know what to see in Samarkand, save our list of places for a tour.
Registan
The main attraction of the city, a square in the center of Samarkand, where a beautiful ensemble of three madrasahs is located. An example of the art of urban planning and an interesting example of the architectural design of the main square of the city.
Ulugbek Madrasah
A spiritual, educational, and religious building from the XV century. The oldest madrasah in the architectural ensemble of Registan Square.
Gur-Emir Mausoleum
This place is included in the list of attractions of the "Pearls of the Commonwealth," one of the masterpieces of Persian architecture of the Timurid era.
Mausoleum of Khoja Donier
According to XVIII-century information, the ashes of the Old Testament biblical prophet Daniyar were brought here and buried by Amir Timur.
Khazret-Khyzr Mosque
A bright representative of the folk architecture of the Samarkand school. The composition of the mosque is asymmetrical, with its main elements being a winter khanaka covered with a dome and a columned iwan.
Mausoleum Rukhabad
A memorial and cult construction from the XIV century, it is the burial place of preacher, theologian, and mystic scientist Sheikh Burhaneddin Klych Sagardzhi.
Shahi Zinda Architectural Complex
One of the most interesting and mysterious architectural monuments of Samarkand, a complex consisting of a string of elegant tombs. It is definitely worth seeing.
Bibi Khanum Mosque
According to legend, the place got its name in honor of Tamerlane's favorite wife. After returning from a victorious Indian campaign, Timur began the construction of a cathedral mosque for Friday namaz, which was named Bibi Khanum.
Bazaars
The bazaars in the city are interesting, vivid, and colorful. It is definitely worth visiting to see the variety of goods. Here you can find anything from household necessities and products to souvenirs for tourists. Many people bring painted plates from here.
Ulugbek Observatory
The underground part of the observatory with the remains of a sextant has survived to this day and can be viewed. Once, scientists determined the height of the sun and other celestial luminaries with this sextant — local guides will tell you more interesting things during the excursion.
Old Quarters of Samarkand
A self-guided walk through the streets will help you feel the atmosphere of this city.
Where to stay
Samarkand has many options where you can stay during your tour: from expensive hotels to more budget options, hostels, and guesthouses. Most importantly, you can find beautiful, authentic accommodation here. Here are some of such hotels:
Jahongir Guest House
The house where the hotel is located was built in the second half of the 19th century by a local trader. There is a beautiful garden with flowers and a terrace. The rooms are decorated with traditional décor.
Registon Saroy Hotel
A family-run hotel in the city center, only 400 meters from the main attraction, Registan Square. Here you can enjoy true Uzbek hospitality.
Silk Road Empire Hotel
A historical boutique hotel. This place can transport you to the luxurious atmosphere of Uzbekistan's history. Each room in the hotel has its own story. Every corner is filled with rich centuries-old cultural heritage.
Darvozai Samarkand Guest House
This guest house offers bicycles, a garden, and barbecue facilities.
Hanifa Boutique Hotel
A hotel with an incredibly beautiful design. Here you can relax and soak up the atmosphere of life in Samarkand.
You can find even more hotels in the article linked here.
Conclusions
There are many reasons to visit Samarkand:
— it is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a rich history dating back more than two millennia.
— the architectural structures in Samarkand reflect the richness of the cultural heritage of this region. If you are interested in the beautiful places of Uzbekistan, it is worth coming here.
— you can experience traditional Uzbek culture, cuisine, and crafts such as carpet and pottery making.
— the people of Samarkand are known for their hospitality and cordiality.
— the city is easily accessible thanks to its international airport, railroad connections, and road infrastructure.
You can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Central Asia, enjoy the magnificent architecture, and meet the hospitable people of this fascinating city.
