Samarkand Highlights Tour with Traditional Bread Experience

Samarkand , Uzbekistan

Samarkand Highlights Tour with Traditional Bread Experience

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the highlights of Samarkand through its history, architecture, and living traditions on this immersive city tour with a traditional bread-baking experience.

Visit the city’s iconic landmarks while also stepping off the beaten path to a hidden local bakery, where the legendary Samarkand non has been baked for generations. Engage with local bakers as they knead, shape, and bake bread in traditional clay tandoor ovens, using techniques passed down through centuries.t art of baking in Samarkand's hidden gem of a bakery, where the legendary non bread comes to life. Engage with local bakers as they knead, shape, and bake this cherished staple in traditional clay ovens. Participate in the hands-on experience of shaping the dough and stamping intricate patterns, all while absorbing the rich stories of bread's significance in Uzbek culture. Enjoy the warm, freshly baked non straight from the oven, a true testament to Samarkand's culinary heritage.

Available options

Samarkand Highlights Tour with Traditional Bread Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Taste a variety of dried fruits

Private transportation

Bottled Water

Photo Stops at the Best Spots

Tasting of fresh bread

Participation in the baking process

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Visit to a traditional neighborhood bakery

Parking Fees

Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Go beyond the usual tourist routes and step into a hidden, family-run bakery in Samarkand where the city’s legendary non has been baked using ancient methods for generations. This is a rare local experience that most visitors never discover on their own.

You’ll be taken to a secret neighborhood bakery, tucked away from the main streets, where skilled bakers still use traditional clay ovens (tandir). Watch the entire process up close — from kneading the dough and stamping unique patterns to placing the bread inside the blazing oven. The aroma, heat, and rhythm of the bakery bring Samarkand’s living heritage to life.

Guests are welcome to join the baking process, try their hand at shaping the dough, and learn why Samarkand bread is famous across Central Asia for its flavor, texture, and long-lasting freshness. Once baked, enjoy the bread straight from the oven, perfectly warm and crisp, just as locals do.

The Gur-e Amir Mausoleum is the final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane). This stunning 15th-century monument, with its iconic blue ribbed dome and intricate tilework, is considered a masterpiece of Timurid architecture and the prototype for later Mughal tombs, including the Taj Mahal.

Registan is Samarkand’s iconic heart, a grand public square surrounded by three majestic madrasahs adorned with intricate tilework and towering minarets. Once a center for trade, education, and ceremonies, it showcases the pinnacle of Timurid architecture and is a symbol of Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage.

The Amir Timur Monument honors the great conqueror and founder of the Timurid Empire. Equestrian statue symbolizes power, justice, and leadership, standing as a proud reminder of Samarkand’s glorious medieval history and Amir Timur’s lasting legacy in Central Asia.

Siab Bazaar is Samarkand’s vibrant traditional market, famous for fresh fruits, spices, nuts, and local delicacies. A lively hub of daily life, it offers an authentic taste of Uzbek culture and a colorful experience of sights, smells, and sounds.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world, was built in the 15th century by Amir Timur in honor of his wife. Known for its grand scale, massive domes, and intricate tile decoration, it remains a striking symbol of Samarkand’s architectural glory.

Stop 7

Shakhi Zinda is a remarkable necropolis in Samarkand, known for its stunning array of mausoleums adorned with intricate tilework. This sacred site, meaning “The Living King,” holds tombs of nobles and relatives of Amir Timur and is a masterpiece of Timurid architecture and spirituality.

What's not included

Registan Square, 140101, Samarkand, Samarqand Region, Uzbekistan (must be paid on site)

Bibi-Khanym Mosque, MX6H+7V7, Bibikhonim Str., Samarqand, Samarqand viloyati, (must be paid on site)

Shah-i-Zinda, Samarkand Uzbekistan (must be paid on site)

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Samarkand

Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, known for its rich history and stunning Islamic architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks that reflect the city's status as a hub on the ancient Silk Road.

Top Attractions

Registan Square

Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, featuring three stunning madrasahs (Islamic schools) with intricate tile work and towering minarets. It's one of the most iconic sights in Central Asia.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee applies)

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

This mausoleum is the burial place of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. It's known for its stunning blue tile work and intricate design.

Historical/Architecture 1 hour Moderate (entry fee applies)

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

This ancient necropolis is a collection of stunning mausoleums and tombs, known for their intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee applies)

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

This grand mosque was built by Timur in honor of his favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. It's one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world and features stunning architecture and tile work.

Historical/Architecture 1 hour Moderate (entry fee applies)

Siab Bazaar

This bustling bazaar is a great place to experience local life and sample traditional Uzbek food. It's a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and sounds.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, budget for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

Plov is a rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is often served at celebrations.

Main dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Lagman

Lagman is a noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for colder weather.

Main dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Samsa

Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices. They're a popular street food and are often sold at bazaars.

Snack Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Non

Non is a traditional Uzbek bread, often baked in a tandoor oven. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is served with most meals.

Bread Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Exploring historic sites Horseback riding Visiting tea houses Enjoying a traditional hammam (bathhouse) Strolling through historic neighborhoods Attending local festivals Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer the best weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Uzbek
Widely spoken: Russian
English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

UTC+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Samarkand is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets and scams
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps

Getting there

By air

Samarkand International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Samarkand Railway Station

By bus

Samarkand Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded but are a good way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Afrosiab Kuk-Saroy

Day trips

Shakhrisabz

90 km from Samarkand • Full day

Shakhrisabz is a historic city known for its stunning architecture and ties to Timur (Tamerlane). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with several impressive ruins and monuments.

Penjikent

120 km from Samarkand • Full day

Penjikent is a charming town in Tajikistan, known for its historic ruins and natural beauty. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and the outdoors.

Ulugbek's Observatory

5 km from Samarkand • Half day

Ulugbek's Observatory is a historic site dedicated to the astronomical work of Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy and science in Central Asia.

Festivals

Silk and Spices Festival • May Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21 Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the city's many historic sites
Visit the bazaars early in the morning for the best selection and atmosphere
Try local specialties like plov, lagman, and samsa at traditional restaurants and street food stalls
Consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay for a more local and authentic experience