Tashkent , Uzbekistan

Samarkand Day Trip from Tashkent

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12h - 14h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Best for travelers who have a day and do not want to miss a fairy tale city along the ancient Silk Road—Samarkand. Travel by high-speed train between Tashkent and Samarkand and back to Tashkent, train tickets and Door-to-Door Auto Transport Service are included.
An efficient way to see the best of Samarkand's top attractions
Immerse yourself in history of Samarkand with your guide
Enjoy this tour with just you and your private group
Plenty of photo ops of iconic Samarkand landmarks

Available options

Samarkand Day Trip from Tashkent

Pickup included

What's included

Train ticket from Samarkand to Tashkent

Train ticket from Tashkent to Samarkand

English speaking tour guide in Samarkand for the day trip

Air-conditioned vehicle (All transportation)

Entrance tickets to the monuments

Detailed itinerary

The Ulugbek Observatory (Ulugh Beg Observatory), built by Amir Temur’s grandson astronomer-king Ulugbek in XV century.

Stop 2

The complex Shahi Zinda (“alive king” in Uzbek) from XII-XX centuries. Burial place of royal persons and nobles. One of the most spiritual place in Uzbekistan.

Stop 3

Bibi Hanim mosque XV century. The mosque was built in honour of Temur’s chief wife, Saray Mulk Khanum.

Stop 4

Gur-Amir mausoleum (“the tomb of the king” in Uzbek) from XV century.

Stop 5

Registan square (“sandy place” in Uzbek) from XV-XVII centuries. A spectacular architectural ensembles, with fantastic Islamic designs and calligraphy etched into the facades of its mosques and madrassahs.

Ulugbek Madrasah built between 1417 and 1420is the oldest madrasa in Registan square. This construction work was carried on under Ulugbeg (the Astronomer King, the author of astronomic tables known throughout the world), Temur’s grandson, who was both an eminent ruler and scholar

Tilya-Kori Madrasah means Gold-covered madrasa was built in XVII century in Registan square. This is the one madrasa the travelers must go inside: the golden ceiling of the mosque, to the left of the courtyard, is utterly enthralling, and it is this gilt that gives the madrasa its name

Sher Dor Madrasah means the tiger or lion madrasa built between 1619 and 1636 by Yalangtush Biy, must be one of the most-photographed buildings in existence

What's not included

Lunch

Photo and video charges 5 usd (for photography cameras. It is free if travelers use phone cameras)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Duration of the tour is 12 to 14 hours which starts from your hotel in Tashkent, sightseeing in Samarkand, lunch time and driving you back to your hotel in Tashkent.

Note: In a high tourist season when the high-speed train is unavailable, we will replace this with the most-comfortable class of regular train.

After booking send copy of passport for booking train tickets, please

On this tour you visit architectural marvels which have a rich history and important religious sites. It’s recommended to follow a specific dress code when visiting these iconic landmarks. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tight, revealing, or transparent clothing. Women should cover their hair with a headscarf or shawl when they enter to holy places.

About Tashkent

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant city that blends modern urban life with rich historical heritage. Known for its Soviet-era architecture, bustling bazaars, and beautiful parks, it offers a unique mix of cultures and experiences. The city's rapid development and strategic location make it a gateway to Central Asia.

Top Attractions

Khast Imam Complex

This historic religious complex houses the Osman Quran, one of the world's oldest Qurans. It's a significant site for Islamic pilgrimage.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum)

Chorsu Bazaar

One of the oldest and largest bazaars in Central Asia, Chorsu offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of goods, from fresh produce to traditional crafts.

Market/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Amir Timur Square

Named after the famous conqueror, this square is the heart of Tashkent, surrounded by beautiful architecture and monuments.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Tashkent Metro

The Tashkent Metro is not just a mode of transport but a work of art, with beautifully decorated stations showcasing Soviet-era design.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours for a full tour 1,200-1,500 UZS per ride

Tashkent TV Tower

The Tashkent TV Tower is the tallest structure in Uzbekistan, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture/Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for the observation deck and suspension bridge)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

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

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Lagman

A noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a comforting and hearty dish, often enjoyed for lunch.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb or beef. It's a popular street food and often served with onions and flatbread.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Samsa

Baked pastries filled with meat, pumpkin, or potatoes. They are a popular street food and can be found in bakeries and markets.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Exploring the Chimgon Water Park Visiting the hot springs in Chimgon Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Exploring the Khast Imam Complex Visiting the Tashkent Metro stations Swimming in the Chimgon Water Park Skiing in the nearby mountains

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Uzbek
Widely spoken: Russian
English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tashkent is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Tashkent International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Tashkent Railway Station

By bus

Tashkent International Bus Terminal, Seragelsk Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is clean, efficient, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City City Center Yunusabad District Seragelsk

Day trips

Chimgon

25 km from Tashkent • Half day to full day

Chimgon is a popular resort town known for its hot springs, parks, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Ohangaron

70 km from Tashkent • Full day

Ohangaron is a picturesque area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and traditional Uzbek villages. It's a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Jomboy Valley

80 km from Tashkent • Full day to overnight

Jomboy Valley is a stunning area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and traditional Uzbek villages. It's a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Tashkent Fashion Week • April Tashkent International Film Festival • September Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use the metro for a unique and efficient way to get around the city, and take the time to appreciate the beautiful station designs
Visit the Chorsu Bazaar early in the morning for the freshest produce and fewer crowds
Try a traditional Uzbek plov cooking class for a unique and delicious cultural experience
Explore the city's parks and green spaces, such as the Amir Timur Museum Park and the Tashkent Botanical Garden, for a relaxing and scenic break from the bustling city