Samarkand, Uzbekistan-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Samarkand

Morning

  • 6:00 AM: Start the day with a traditional Uzbek breakfast at Registon Restaurant, known for its delicious plov and shurpa.
  • 7:00 AM: Take a short taxi ride ( approx. $1) to the nearby Registan Square, one of the most iconic landmarks in Samarkand.

Mid-morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the majestic Registan Ensemble, a stunning complex of three grand madrasahs (Islamic schools). Marvel at the intricate tilework, arches, and minarets.
  • 11:00 AM: Wander through the adjacent Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane) and his family.

Lunch

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Malika Restaurant, located near the Registan Square, for a delicious lunch of Uzbek cuisine. Try their signature dish, plov.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM: Visit the magnificent Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest and most impressive mosques in Central Asia.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a historic burial site with stunning examples of mausoleums, madrasahs, and minarets.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner at Shabu Restaurant, known for its delicious barbecue and shashlik.
  • 9:00 PM: Stroll through the vibrant bazaar, where you can find a wide range of souvenirs, spices, and local handicrafts.

Day 2: Discovering Samarkand’s Hidden Gems

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at Nur Restaurant, located near the city center.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the intriguing Afro-Italien Ensemble, a complex of two ancient buildings, featuring stunning examples of Islamic architecture.

Mid-morning

Lunch

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Sogd Restaurant, located near the city center, for a delicious lunch of Uzbek cuisine. Try their signature dish, shurpa.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM: Visit the historic Sugdyur Mausoleum, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby Samarkand Carpet Museum, which showcases a wide range of traditional Uzbek carpets.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner at Sogd Restaurant.
  • 9:00 PM: End the day with a relaxing stroll through the city, reflecting on the amazing experiences and memories you’ve made in Samarkand.

Accommodation

  • Registan Hotel - A 4-star hotel located near the Registan Square, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Malika Hotel - A 3-star hotel located in the city center, offering affordable rooms and a convenient location.

Getting Around

  • Taxi - Available throughout the city, with fares starting from $1.
  • Bus - Public buses connect various parts of the city, with fares starting from $0.10.
  • Walking - The best way to explore the historic heart of Samarkand on foot.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Uzbek is the official language, but many locals speak Russian and some English. Consider hiring a guide or using a translation app to help you navigate.
  • Currency: Uzbek soms (UZS) are the local currency, but US dollars and euros are widely accepted. Credit cards are also widely accepted in most tourist areas.
  • Safety: Samarkand is generally a safe city for tourists, but take normal precautions to protect yourself from pickpocketing or other petty crimes.
  • Health: Medical facilities are available in the city, but it’s always best to bring any necessary medications with you.

Other Interesting Activities

  • Visit the Samarkand Aviation Museum, which showcases a wide range of exhibits on aviation history.
  • Explore the nearby city of Bukhara, known for its stunning ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.