Ultimate 3-Day Samarkand Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Begin your journey at the breathtaking Registan, the heart of ancient Samarkand, famous for its trio of majestic madrasahs adorned with dazzling mosaics and intricate tilework.

Registan

Stroll to the grand Gur Emir Mausoleum, resting place of Tamerlane (Amir Timur), and marvel at its azure dome and lavish interior.

Gur Emir Mausoleum

Enjoy a traditional Uzbek lunch at Platan, a local favorite serving authentic dishes in a charming garden setting.

Platan

Spend your afternoon exploring the sacred Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, a stunning avenue of mausoleums decorated in vivid ceramics, revered as one of the holiest sites in Central Asia.

Shah-i-Zinda

As dusk falls, savor dinner at Restaurant Samarkand, an elegant spot known for its rich plov, kebabs, and traditional décor.

Restaurant Samarkand

Start at the fascinating Ulugh Beg Observatory, where you can see the remnants of a giant 15th-century sextant and learn about Samarkand’s scientific legacy.

Ulugh Beg Observatory

Stop for a quick snack at the atmospheric Siyob Bazaar, where you can browse stalls brimming with fresh produce, nuts, dried fruits, and local sweets.

Siyob Bazaar

Visit Hazrat Khizr Mosque, a serene and historic mosque perched on a hill, offering beautiful views over the city and a sense of timeless tranquility.

Hazrat Khizr Mosque

For lunch, relax at Besh Chinor Chaikhana, a beloved teahouse shaded by ancient plane trees, serving fresh bread and hearty shurpa soup.

Besh Chinor Chaikhana

In the evening, stroll along the leafy University Boulevard, a popular promenade lined with gardens, and stop for coffee at a local café to watch the world go by.

University Boulevard

Begin at the historic Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world, famous for its grand scale and legendary backstory.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Walk to the nearby Hazrat Khizr Madrasa, a smaller, less-visited gem where you can appreciate local architecture and peaceful courtyards.

Hazrat Khizr Madrasa

Visit the fascinating Samarkand Paper Mill in Konigil village, where artisans revive the ancient craft of silk paper making using centuries-old techniques.

Samarkand Paper Mill

For lunch, try the homey Karimbek Restaurant, famed for its juicy shashlik and flavorful Uzbek salads.

Karimbek Restaurant

End your trip with a sunset walk through the Central Park (Alisher Navoi Park), where locals gather and you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and reflect on your Silk Road adventure.

Central Park