A City Tour Of Samarkand: The Pearl Of The East
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3h
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
Hello !
We are a team of professional guides in the ancient and beautiful city of Samarkand.
Itinerary:
The Gur-Emir Mausoleum is the burial place of Tamerlane and his descendants. You will hear related facts and legends.
Registan Square is a visiting card of Samarkand. I will tell you about the magnificent mosques and madrasahs located in it.
Bibi-Khanum Cathedral Mosque - You will admire its sky-blue dome and arch the size of the Milky Way.
Hazrat Khizr Mosque was reconstructed in the 19th century, replacing the one destroyed in the 13th century. The original mosque on this site dates back to the 8th century.
The memorial complex Shakhi-Zinda is one of the mysterious architectural monuments of Samarkand. It is believed that this is where the grave of Kusam ibn Abbas, an associate of the Prophet Muhammad himself, is located.
Let’s discover our beautiful cities together!
Important Note:
The remaining (Hours) will be allotted for the travel time from pick up until drop off.
Available options
A City Tour Of Samarkand: The Pearl Of The East
What's included
Walking Tour
Guide service
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Amir Timur and his beloved grandchildren Muhammad Sultan, Ulugbek and other family members are buried here. I will tell you about the architectural solutions of this place, about the affairs and fate of Timur and about the interior decoration of the tomb - I’m sure you will be captivated by the “starry sky”!
We will see from inside!
2
Stop 2
In the 15th-17th centuries it was the educational and spiritual center of the city. You will examine in detail the madrassas located on it: Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tallyakari. And I will share the features of the brilliant architecture of the Timurid era. You will imagine the times when these buildings served as religious schools and scientific centers, “read” the plots of the facades and simply enjoy the beauty of the complex.
We will see from outside!
3
Stop 3
Here we will talk about Amir Tamer again. He dreamed of building the best mosque in the world - inside you will learn more about this and discover ancient legends.
We will see from outside!
4
Hazrat Khizr Mosque was reconstructed in the 19th century, replacing the one destroyed in the 13th century. The original mosque on this site dates back to the 8th century and this Mosque was built on the site of a Zoroastrian temple.
We will see from inside!
5
Stop 5
The memorial complex Shakhi-Zinda is one of the mysterious architectural monuments of Samarkand. It is believed that this is where the grave of Kusam ibn Abbas, an associate of the Prophet Muhammad himself, is located.
We will see from outside!
What's not included
Entrance fee to the monuments cost 6 $
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
23 reviews
5★
22
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
91 reviews
5★
88
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Difficulty level of this excursion: medium. Only walking ability is required.
Not recommended for travelers with serious problem of legs.
Meeting point
From monument of Amir Timur you need to go to the right side till the entrance gate of Mausoleum of Amir Temur. A guide will wait you at the entrance and a black umbrella will be on his hands.
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
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