Samarkand Ancient Silk Road City Tour w/ Pickup & Lunch Option
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a journey along the legendary Silk Road, visiting iconic landmarks like the Registan madrasas in Samarkand. Discover ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning architectural masterpieces. Our expertly guided tour will take you to some of the most iconic sites and monuments along this historic path. Marvel at the grandeur of ancient cities, explore breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped this fascinating region.
Available options
Private City Tour
With Hotel Pickup & Drop<br/>Pickup included
Tour With Traditional Lunch
Private Tour<br/>Lunch<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Guide Service
Lunch (If Selected)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your adventure with a visit to the majestic Gur Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the great conqueror Timur. Marvel at its beautifully intricate architecture and historical significance.
2
Stop 2
Discover the heart of Samarkand at the Registan, a stunning ensemble of three madrasas adorned with intricate tile work and grandiose facades. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the city's historical and cultural grandeur.
3
Stop 3
Explore the ruins of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. Its impressive scale and ornate decorations offer a glimpse into the past splendor of Samarkand.
4
Stop 4
Wander through the necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda, a fascinating ensemble of mausoleums adorned with exquisite tilework. This sacred site holds the tomb of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.
5
Delve into the ancient history of Samarkand at the Afrasiyab Museum, which houses artifacts from the city's earliest periods. Learn about the rich heritage and archaeological discoveries that shape Samarkand's storied past.
6
Konigil: Experience traditional craftsmanship at the Tourist Village in Konigil. Observe artisans at work, creating beautiful handmade paper using ancient techniques, and take home a unique souvenir from your journey.
7
Visit the renowned Samarkand Bukhara Silk Carpets factory to witness the intricate process of carpet weaving. Admire the skill and artistry that goes into creating these exquisite pieces, and perhaps purchase a beautiful silk carpet to commemorate your trip.
8
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Siyob Bozor, Samarkand's largest market. Stroll through the bustling stalls, sampling local delicacies, and shopping for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
9
Conclude your journey with a visit to the serene Khoja Daniyor Mausoleum. This peaceful site, believed to be the tomb of the biblical prophet Daniel, offers a tranquil retreat and a place for reflection.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Ticket for Gur Emir Mausoleum -40 000sum
Ticket for Registan Square -65 000 sum
Ticket for Bibikhanim mosque-40 000 sum
Ticket for Shahizinda - 40 000 sum
Ticket for Afrosiyab museum-40 000 sum
Ticket for Tourist village Konigil- approximately 50 000 sum
Silk carpet-free Siyab Bazaar- free Khodja Doniyor-around 40 000 sum
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
2 reviews
5★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel Time is included in the total time
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
