Samarkand, Uzbekistan-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Samarkand

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Start your day at the Registan Square, a breathtakingly beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Admire the intricate tile work, ornate facades, and majestic minarets of the three madrasahs (Islamic schools): Ulugh Beg Madrasah, Tilya-Kori Madrasah, and Sher-Dor Madrasah.
  • 10:00 am: Visit the nearby Shir Dor Madrasah, known for its stunning tile work and intricate geometric patterns.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Grab lunch at Darvaza Restaurant, a cozy spot serving traditional Uzbek cuisine, such as plov (pilaf), shashlik (skewers), and manti (steamed dumplings).
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Afrasiab Museum to learn about the city’s history and see an impressive collection of ancient artifacts.
  • 4:00 pm: Explore the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, a mausoleum built for Timur (Tamerlane) and his sons.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Opa Opa Restaurant, which serves modern Uzbek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 9:00 pm: Stroll through the vibrant streets of Samarkand, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Siyob: A comfortable 4-star hotel located near the Registan Square, offering elegant rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Language: Uzbek (official), but many locals speak Russian and some English.
  • Currency: Uzbek som (UZS) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Samarkand has a continental climate; pack layers for spring and autumn months.

Transportation

  • Walking: The best way to explore Samarkand’s historic center.
  • Taxis: Available, but negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
  • Minibus: A cheap and efficient way to get around the city.

Tips and Tricks

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes.
  • Bargain at markets: The art of haggling is alive and well in Samarkand’s markets!
  • Learn a few words of Uzbek: Show respect by learning basic phrases like “assalomu alaykum” (hello) and “rakhmat” (thank you).

Day 2: Explore the Ancient City

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Visit the Kok Gumbaz Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture with stunning tile work.
  • 10:00 am: Explore the Siob Bazaar, one of the city’s oldest markets, where you can find everything from spices to souvenirs.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Grab lunch at Kokand Restaurant, which serves traditional Uzbek cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (same as Day 1), but explore its intricate architecture and history more closely.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Sogd Restaurant, which serves modern Uzbek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 9:00 pm: Stroll through the tranquil gardens of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque complex.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Siyob (same as Day 1): Still a great option, but consider booking a room with a Registan Square view!

Things to Know

  • Language: Same as Day 1.
  • Currency: Same as Day 1.
  • Weather: Same as Day 1.

Transportation

  • Walking: Still the best way to explore Samarkand’s historic center.
  • Taxis: Same as Day 1.
  • Minibus: Same as Day 1.

Tips and Tricks

  • Respect local customs: Same as Day 1.
  • Bargain at markets: Same as Day 1.
  • Learn a few words of Uzbek: Same as Day 1.

Day 3: Discover Hidden Gems

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Visit the Khodja Akhror Mausoleum, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture with stunning tile work.
  • 10:00 am: Explore the Afro-Asian Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Grab lunch at Khodja Akhror Restaurant, which serves traditional Uzbek cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Shakh-i-Zinda Necropolis, a fascinating collection of mausoleums and tombs.
  • 4:00 pm: Explore the Khirak-Bulun Complex, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture with stunning tile work.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Sogd Restaurant (same as Day 2), but try some of their delicious desserts!
  • 9:00 pm: Stroll through the tranquil streets of Samarkand, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Siyob (same as Days 1-2): Still a great option!

Things to Know

  • Language: Same as Day 1.
  • Currency: Same as Day 1.
  • Weather: Same as Day 1.

Transportation

  • Walking: Still the best way to explore Samarkand’s historic center.
  • Taxis: Same as Day 1.
  • Minibus: Same as Day 1.