Curator’s statement
Along the Silk Road, the ancient capital of Samarkand is the Rome of the East. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world and at the crossroads of so many cultures. If you’re looking for a safe destination with fabulous markets, unmatched architecture from the 14th to 16th centuries, a fascinating history that captures many religions and philosophies and amazing one-of-a-kind handmade souvenirs, look no further.
The Fora Difference
Book with Deborah to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Samarkand
Unlock perks by contacting Deborah to book your trip.
Things to do in Samarkand
Take in the UNESCO site of Registan Square, built in the 15th century, where people would meet to hear royal proclamations. It’s lit up at night like a jewel box. By day, walk around the complex, buy souvenirs and soak in the atmosphere.
Wander through the Siyob Bazaar, full of unique handicrafts like hand-painted ceramics and beautiful displays of breads, fruits and nuts and Uzbek treats.
Walk along the most famous street in Samarkand. Visit the Bibikhanum Mosque, dedicated to the Mongolian wife of Temur and built after his Indian invasion, then enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
Hidden in the Old Town is the beautiful Gumbaz Synagogue with its decorated dome, built in1891. Call ahead to ensure it will be open.
Visit the Guri-Amir “Tomb of the King” ensemble, which is a mausoleum to Timur (Tamerlane), the conqueror.
Be amazed by the Ulugbek astronomical observatory, which was built in the 1420s. According to Babur’s (founder of the Mughal empire in India) words, who saw the observatory, it was three stories, and covered with beautiful glazed tiles.
Stare in wonder at the “alien-looking” misshapen skeleton heads from the Afrasiab people, who believed it was a sign of beauty at the Afrasiab Museum.
See the masterpiece of medieval architecture of the Temur era, Shakhi-Zinda necropolis. It consists of rows of refined, sparkling blue-colored tombs.
Places to eat & drink in Samarkand
Freshly-baked pastries and traditional Uzbek tea
Platan: A beautifully decorated restaurant with traditional murals, woodwork and stone that make it cozy and a bit romantic. Along with traditional Uzbek foods, they offer many vegetarian dishes.
Boulevard Restaurant & Bakery: Good for just a coffee or having a full dinner. Very attentive service. Very convenient to visit Gur I Amir “Tomb of the King” complex. Lovely homemade cakes, breads and other baked goods to boot.
Mone Bakery: Ice cream, two kinds of cheesecakes and specialty coffees make this a nice place to have a snack or break from sightseeing. They have a large range of savory dishes, too for a quick lunch.
Restaurant Samarkand: A cavernous restaurant that doubles as a wedding hall with traditional murals painted in the entryway and bright chandeliers. Dinners are very relaxed and can take a while, so be prepared to enjoy an evening out. Try kebabs, soups and steamed dumplings.
Restaurant KarimBek: Locals enjoy this meat-heavy restaurant for its sautéed veal with onion and mushrooms, and delicious lamb “Napoleon,” fresh breads and salads. The menu offers very good value for the price.
Need to know
If you see a souvenir you like, don’t wait. You may not see anything like it again on your trip. Souvenirs tend to be quite local to the area. Hand-painted ceramics, silk scarves and large decorative embroidered clothes called Suzani (where the name Susan comes from) make for excellent gifts from Samarkand.
Change money at a money changer rather than a bank. The rate will be much better. There are few ATMs and only high-end restaurants tend to take credit cards.
Visiting during the spring Festival of Nawruz can be an especially beautiful time of year to visit. Take in the celebrations and special decorations.
The cuisine of Uzbekistan is focused on meat and side dishes. Plov (pilaf) is the national dish and not to be missed, as is their fluffy white bread decorated with unique bread stamps.
Travel Advisor
Deborah Hankin
Get in touch with Deborah
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Deborah within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and travel recommendations, check out our Asia page.