2026 Samarkand Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Here are two highly recommended local cuisine restaurants within walking distance from the heart of Samarkand, Registan Square ❤️ Both offer beer 🍺 and are solo-diner friendly, making them perfect for a meal between sightseeing. 【OLD HAVUZ】 The interior is as luxurious as a palace ✨ Polite and well-dressed waiters welcome you. With a photo menu available, it's easy to order and has a welcoming atmosphere for solo diners. Their specialty, Mastava, is a comforting soup with rice ❤️ You can also order beer, making it a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal. Mastava: 25,000 UZS Manti (per piece): 10,000 UZS Opening Hours: Approx. 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Location: MX4G+WGM, Qo’shhovuz ko’chasi, Samarqand About a 10–15 minute walk from Registan Square 【Bobur Shashlikhana (Kafe Bobur)】 A must-visit for shashlik lovers, this popular spot is bustling with locals 🎶 The reasonable prices make it an easy choice for a casual visit. A tandoor oven for baking samsa at the entrance will whet your appetite 🤤 The staff are efficient and friendly ⭐️ A photo menu is also available, so you can order with confidence. Enjoy shashlik with beer, and the cozy atmosphere is perfect for solo diners. This is the place to experience the local vibe. Shashlik: 28,000 UZS Plov: 40,000 UZS Opening Hours: Approx. 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Location: MX6H+9H7, Samarqand Within walking distance from Registan Square

If you're visiting Samarkand, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Amir Temur maqbarasi) is an absolute must-see ⭐️ This mausoleum is the resting place of Uzbekistan's great hero, Timur (Amir Timur), and his family. The exterior is majestic, with a dome adorned with intricate blue tile decorations that are truly stunning 😌✨. It's said that approximately 3kg of gold was used for the dome. The interior is serene and tranquil. With maps, videos, and painting exhibits, it offers a light museum-like experience where you can learn about history without feeling overwhelmed. The site is well-maintained and popular among tourists, making it a safe and comfortable place to explore even if you're traveling alone 😊. The surrounding park is also beautiful, and it's highly recommended to take a stroll and snap some photos 📷. While the blue-tiled Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum complex often steals the spotlight, this site is equally worth visiting 💡. It's a perfect spot for solo travelers to enjoy and be deeply moved by its beauty and history ✨. Access - Taxis are incredibly affordable for getting around the city 🚕. - The ride-hailing app "Yandex Go" is super convenient. - You can pay via credit card within the app, so no cash is needed. * Make sure to register your credit card in advance for a hassle-free experience! Admission Fee 🎫 - 75,000 UZS - Tickets can be easily purchased at the entrance. - Restroom fee: 3,000 UZS 📍Address Gur Amir Mausoleum, Oqsaroy St, Samarkand, Uzbekistan Solo Travel

The moment you step into Samarkand, your neck automatically switches to "looking up mode" — the domes here are not just architecture, but an immersive theater of Islamic aesthetics, weaving geometric rhythms, divine light, and millennia of faith into a tangible spiritual universe 🌌 When we bow and enter beneath the ancient domes, we step into a three-dimensional mandala of faith: The prayer rugs beneath our feet, with their warp and weft, represent the earth’s stability; The tiled garden patterns on the walls depict the flourishing scenes of the mortal world; Above, the "starry sky" 🌠 made of plaster and gold leaf is a masterpiece of craftsmanship — for centuries, countless onlookers have glimpsed the reflection of heaven here, and the fatigue in their necks is healed along with their gaze. Aksaray Mausoleum ✅ A hidden treasure 50 meters behind the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, seemingly locked from the outside but full of secrets inside ✅ Tickets cost 20,000 Uzbek soms (about ¥12), and staff come equipped with professional turntable tools to help clean camera lenses and take perfectly symmetrical photos — a blessing for those who aren’t good at photography! ✅ Off the beaten path with no crowds, the dome’s colors resemble a kaleidoscope, a must-visit for detail lovers Registan Square Madrasahs ✅ The heart of Samarkand! The domes of the three madrasahs are a "visual magic" — flat tops create a depth illusion through patterns, and looking up feels like the pressure of faith Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum ✅ The resting place of Emperor Timur, with a dazzling sky-blue glazed dome, and interiors shimmering with gold leaf and colorful tiles ✨ ✅ Beneath the nine stone coffins lies an underground crypt; the dark green coffin is Timur’s tomb, surrounded by the mysterious legend of the "grave-robbing curse" Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis ✅ Known as "the most romantic cemetery in the world," the avenue of tombs paved with turquoise tiles is breathtakingly beautiful ✅ The name means "The Living King," and it houses Timur’s nobles; mosaic murals tell stories of the Silk Road Hazrati Imam Complex ✅ A blend of religious sanctity and everyday life, with dome patterns so exquisite they take your breath away Bibi-Khanym Mosque ✅ The pinnacle of Timurid architecture, named after the emperor’s wife, with murals and domes that exude royal grandeur 💡 2026 Travel Tips: ✔️ Chinese citizens enjoy a 30-day visa-free stay! Just bring your ordinary passport and go 🇨🇳🇺🇿 ✔️ Respect local religious customs; dress neatly when entering religious sites and avoid loud noises ✔️ Check for "no photography" signs before taking pictures; do not photograph sensitive areas without permission, and follow local laws ✔️ Most attractions accept cash payments; exchanging for soms is more cost-effective, so carry small bills for entrance fees In Samarkand, every glance upward is a worship of beauty, and every dome holds healing power that transcends millennia — the visa-free season is here, so grab your camera and devotion, and go meet this date with the reflection of heaven!

THE GREAT SILK ROAD If you're tired of endless madrasahs and mausoleums in Uzbekistan, head to a unique place, in my opinion! In the restored building of the former Russian-Chinese bank, during the SCO summit, the exhibition "The Great Silk Road – Golden Heritage of Uzbekistan and China" was opened. As you enter the building, you immediately see quotes from the Chinese philosopher Confucius and the great Uzbek thinker Alisher Navoi. The first exhibition is dedicated to pre-Islamic art. Among the exhibits is the lower part of a Buddha sculpture found during excavations in Surkhandarya. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a stylized mulberry tree – a symbol of fertility and wealth. It is connected to the legend of the origin of silk and the story of the cocoon. Surrounding this installation are exhibits of Chinese porcelain from the collections of various museums in Uzbekistan. The exhibition concludes with paintings by Sanjar Jabbarov, dedicated to the theme of the Great Silk Road. Interestingly, this exhibition is housed in a Russian mansion of imperial construction. The building itself captivates at first glance!

Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 just blew me away with its epic blend of Silk Road and Soviet vibe! An interpretation of Arabian night. I spent 9 jam-packed days soaking up Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara — seriously, each city has its own flavor. Top Spots to Visit: Tashkent: - Metro stations: Every station is just an open-air museum, the soviet style metro is just astonishing. - Chorsu Bazaar (Yunusabad area, open daily 6AM–7PM) — must try their ready-to-eat pickles (10,000SOM) and pomegranate juice (20,000SOM) - Metro rides: Cheap, super easy, you can use Apple Pay to enter. - Kukeldash Madrasah (near Chorsu, 9AM–6PM) — gorgeous Islamic architecture. Tip: Use Yandex Map to get the accurate bus arrival time to move around. Samarkand: - Registan Square (Open 8AM–11PM) — must-see blue domes and photogenic facades. 100,000 SOM for ticket - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (9AM–7PM) — resting place of Timur, wild interior. - Shakh-i-Zinda Complex (8AM–7PM) — mosaic heaven for architecture nerds. 50,000 SOM for ticket. Bukhara: - Po-i-Kalyan Complex (8AM–7PM, old city center) — iconic minaret and mosque duo. - Lyab-i Hauz (open 24/7) — lively pond square for coffees and people-watching. Tip: Domestic flights are a solid option, but if you want to book night train to experience local way, try to get it 1-1.5 months before travel. Getting Around: - Within city: Metro or bus, with Yandex Map. - Intercity: Airplane for speed, train for views (book as early as possible!). Use 12Go for booking your transport. Sometimes the local web doesn’t work for foreigners. - Within Samarkand/Bukhara: Just walk — everything’s nearby. Food picks: Try plov, samsa, lagman, manti, and fresh tandoor bread 🥯 #UzbekistanAdventure #SilkRoadVibes #TripDotCom #CentralAsiaTravel #EpicItinerary

✨ Samarkand — a city where history meets magic ✨ Every corner here breathes history: from the majestic Registan to the quiet streets where centuries seem to have stood still. The city impresses with its vibrant architecture, mosaics, blue domes, and the scents of the eastern bazaar. At the market, you feel the true life of the city: fruits, spices, sweets, the laughter of merchants. And in the evening, it's so pleasant to simply stroll through the old quarters, watch the sunset over the mosques, and dream of journeys into the past. Samarkand is not just the history of the Silk Road, but also an incredible atmosphere of warmth, hospitality, and beauty. You’ll want to stay here at least one more day to breathe in the air preserved for thousands of years. 🌿 My Instagram: mashenkamartynova

And that’s something I’ve never felt!! The whole trip to Uzbekistan was accompanied by a song from the cartoon Aladdin. It’s incredible!! You can start your trip from Tashkent and spend 1-2 days there and visit a famous market “Chorsu”. Then, you easily can take a train to Samarkand or Bukhara (Samarkand is closer than Bukhara, but think about which way you’re going to come back and fly from). Samarkand and Bukhara are both wonderful dreamlike cities but at the same time they have such a different vibe! Protip: you should definitely visit Registon Square in Samarkand (but make sure you buy ticket in advance as they could be cheaper) and the Ark Citadel (that’s must see!!) in Bukhara About the last one - first, we didn’t want to go there as we’re not impressed with the pictures in reviews, but I’m so glad we did!! It’s such an incredible and unique place that you should see with your own eyes (entrance fee is about 5-6$ and you actually don’t even need a tour there - the stroll around the place will be enough and memorable)

Shah-i-Zinda is one of Samarkand's main historical complexes, famous for its azure mausoleums from the 14th and 15th centuries and the atmospheric "Corridor of Eternity." This is a must-see in Samarkand. I liked it the most in Samarkand. How to visit: It's best to come in the morning—it's quieter and more comfortable, allowing you to see the details of the tiles. Be sure to return at sunset: the illumination turns on, the colors deepen, and the photos are especially beautiful. Dress respectfully—cover your shoulders and knees; women are advised to wear a headscarf. The Afrosiab Museum and the Khazret-Khizr Mosque are nearby—they can be combined into one route. #samarkand

The Khazret-Khizr Mosque is one of the most revered and beautiful mosques in Samarkand, located on a hill at the entrance to ancient Afrosiab. It is believed that Khizr himself, the protector of travelers, stayed here, making the place especially significant for locals. The mosque is distinguished by its carved aivan, fine wood paintings, and panoramic views of the city. How to visit: Visit in the morning or at sunset—the light is softer at this time, and the view of Samarkand is especially stunning. The terrace offers, in my opinion, the most beautiful view of Samarkand. The interior is quiet and peaceful, perfect for a short break. Please observe the rules: modest dress, cover your shoulders and knees, and wear a headscarf for women. Shah-i-Zinda and the Afrosiab Museum are nearby. #samarkand

Longing for the Silk Road, I spent 11 days traveling around cities of Russian culture, amber, and ultramarine. I hope this was helpful. First, some information about Uzbekistan Airways. I booked through my usual booking site. However, I noticed that my name on the confirmation was listed as "MR." Isn't this dangerous? I've heard that if your name on your passport is different from yours, you can't board the flight. Why did this happen, it's a site I always use??? I panicked and contacted the booking site and spoke to an operator, but they told me to speak to the airline directly. I then tried messaging with the AI ​​on Uzbekistan Airways' website, but to no avail. I called a human operator and exchanged messages in English. They surprisingly said, "Oh, we'll correct your gender on your passport on the day, so don't worry about it." Seriously? Seriously? Anyway, I'm relieved. I took a direct flight from Narita to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. It was an Airbus. The temperature inside the plane was high, and it was especially hot after it got dark. I kept fanning myself with a fan. Even so, the temperature inside the plane was so high that I felt sick. Most of the entertainment on the monitors was Russian or Islamic. The only thing that Japanese people would be familiar with was a live-action version of Cheburashka. USB charging is available. The in-flight meal was better than I expected. Maybe because it was departing from Japan? Notes 📅 Travel Itinerary Day 1: Narita to Tashkent Evening Stroll ~ Magic City, Samarkand Darvoza Mall Day 2: Chorsu Market and City Mall Exploring the Tashkent Subway Day 3: Tashkent to Khiva via Urgench (✈️) Days 4-5: Stay in Khiva Day 6: Urgench to Bukhara (✈️) Day 7: Bukhara to Samarkand (🚄) Day 8: Stay in Samarkand Day 9: Samarkand to Tashkent (🚄) Day 10: Tashkent to Narita (✈️) #UzbekistanSoloTrip #Uzbekistan #SilkRoad #SoloGirlTrip

#falladventures Uzbekistan offers a rich blend of history, culture, and hospitality. Start your journey in Tashkent, the modern capital with vibrant bazaars like Chorsu and beautiful Islamic architecture at the Khast-Imam Complex. Take the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Samarkand, home to the magnificent Registan Square, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, and many treasures of the ancient Silk Road. Continue to Bukhara, a city where you can stroll through narrow streets leading to the Ark Fortress, the Kalon Minaret, and the lively Lyabi-Hauz area filled with tea houses and artisans. For a quieter and more preserved atmosphere, visit Khiva, a UNESCO-listed walled city known for its stunning minarets, palaces, and peaceful courtyards.

This holiday, we came to Uzbekistan with the best travel buddies and their family. Samarkand was probably the most anticipated stop of this trip and also the highlight of the entire journey. I had never believed in One Thousand and One Nights before, but I never imagined that when I came to Samarkand, the scenes from the stories could be so vividly brought to life. 👉Shah-i-Zinda Almost every visitor who has been to Samarkand says that Shah-i-Zinda is the most worthwhile place to visit. This is the necropolis of the female members of Timur’s family, with blue mosaic tiles covering the buildings, featuring intricate and exquisite patterns that are unforgettable. Perhaps because we traveled in winter, there were very few tourists here. It is said that in summer and autumn, there are many people. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to come around 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m., when you can also see Shah-i-Zinda illuminated. 👉Hazrat Hizr Mosque It is very close to Shah-i-Zinda, just a few hundred meters on foot. This mosque was built in the 8th century and has witnessed the vicissitudes of Samarkand’s history. From the platform at the back, you can get a distant view of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and much of the old city of Samarkand. Unfortunately, the weather was not good when we visited, but I believe it would be more beautiful on a sunny day. 👉Bibi-Khanym Mosque Once the largest mosque, it is named after Timur’s wife, Bibi-Khanym. It is said that India’s Taj Mahal was inspired by this mosque. The nearby Zagron restaurant is a good spot for views. Personally, I quite liked the food there, but many friends mentioned that the billing can be tricky and prices may be inconsistent. We didn’t encounter this, but indeed, the average cost here is higher than other restaurants. 👉Registan Square It can be said to be the local landmark. Whether at the train station, airport, or on the streets, you can see paintings inspired by Registan. It consists of Ulugh Beg Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, and Tilya-Kori Madrasah. In winter, don’t specifically wait for the 8 p.m. light show, as it most likely won’t happen. However, it is still very beautiful when lit up at night, truly giving a sense of One Thousand and One Nights. 👉Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum This is the tomb of Timur the Great and also the burial site of many members of Timur’s family. From Byzantium to the Ming Dynasty, Timur was a figure who stirred the waters single-handedly. The exquisite inlay craftsmanship, striking color combinations, and intricate designs inside his mausoleum are truly stunning.

Plov is usually eaten for lunch, so it's best to arrive before 1:00 PM to ensure there's enough plov and available seating 😂 In Samarkand, we visited Center of Plov No. 1, and in Bukhara, The Plov. The portions are huge; we shared one portion between two people, along with bread and salad ☀️ Samarkand and Bukhara plovs are national dishes of Uzbek cuisine, but they differ in ingredients, spices, and preparation methods. 🕍 Samarkand Plov (1 photo) Features: - Made with meat, usually lamb. - Includes a lot of spices: cumin, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron. - Uses carrots, onions, and rice, which are not mixed until the very end to preserve their structure. - Served in layers: on top is zirvak — golden meat, carrots, and onions, while rice is at the bottom. - Important: Samarkand plov uses yellow carrots, which are stewed rather than fried. 🕍 Bukhara Plov (3 photos) Features: - Cooked in vegetable oil. - Usually made with beef or chicken. - Main ingredients include rice, carrots, onions, and spices like cumin and turmeric. - Contains many sweet ingredients: raisins, dried apricots, and sometimes even nuts. - Garlic and red pepper are not added. - Specialty: each ingredient is cooked separately until semi-ready, then layered in a copper cauldron and finished together. Finally, the plov is drizzled with boiling oil, usually cottonseed or sesame oil.

Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Strategically located between India, Persia, and China, it was a key point on the Great Silk Road for centuries. The city has a long and dramatic history: Samarkand was almost wiped off the map by Genghis Khan's Mongols, but later, Tamerlane revived it and made it the capital of his vast empire. To make your trip truly memorable, I recommend having a photoshoot in traditional costumes at Registan Square.

📷Photo locations Photo ❶, Photo ❷ 📍Bibi-Khanym Mosque Photo ❸ 📍Gur Amir Mausoleum Photo ❹ 📍Shah-i-Zinda Photo ❺ 📍Registan Square Photo ❻ 📍Aksaray Mausoleum Photo ❼ 📍Hazrat Khizr Mosque

A millennia-spanning dialogue across time and space: from the blue domes of Uzbekistan to the snowy mountain city of Kazakhstan, this route connects the most brilliant civilizations of Central Asia by train. The author, driven by a passion for Silk Road history, spent 14 days traversing the remnants of Timur’s empire, the desert ancient city of Khwarezm, the Islamic sanctuaries of Bukhara, the exquisite mausoleums of Samarkand, and finally arriving at the autumnal Tianshan Mountains in Almaty. The itinerary was tight but full of surprises—overnight international trains, unexpected family feasts, and encounters with begging children; each stop was a vivid footnote of cultural collision. 📅 **Core Trip Information** **Travel Time**: 2024 National Day Holiday (late September to early October) **Duration**: 14 days **Budget**: International airfare about 5000 RMB + intercity transport 1500 RMB + daily expenses 300 RMB **Keywords**: Visa-free/e-visa, train pass, mosaic tiles, 3D light show 🗺️ **Route Highlights and Key Scenes** **1. Uzbekistan Cultural Triangle** - **Tashkent**: Golden chandelier at the Timur Museum, Soviet metro experience - **Khiva**: Main mosque with 200 wooden columns, the unfinished legend of the Katta Minor minaret - **Bukhara**: The story of Genghis Khan bowing at the Kalyan minaret, Russian-style garden of the summer palace - **Samarkand**: 3D light show at Registan Square, honeycomb dome of the Shahi Zinda mausoleum **2. Kazakhstan Natural Finale** - **Almaty**: Wooden St. Zenkov Cathedral, Shymbulak ski resort cable car, Turkish wraps at Green Bazaar **3. Transport Adventures** - Cross-border train with “dog police” inspecting luggage - 17 hours without signal on Uzbekistan high-speed train ⚠️ **Practical Tips** - **Visa**: Uzbekistan e-visa requires photo verification, Kazakhstan visa-free for 14 days - **Currency**: Exchanging USD is most cost-effective, airports reject damaged bills, Uzbekistan has automatic currency exchange machines - **Safety**: Beware of begging child gangs in Samarkand at night - **Language**: Russian is widely spoken, translation apps are essential This journey was like a puzzle completing the imagination of Central Asia—it’s not just a term in history books, but the sunlit shining tiles, the aunt sharing grapes on the train, and the suddenly illuminated golden church dome at the foot of the snowy mountains.

#falladventures 🥇 Explore Registan Square – 3 madrasas (15th-17th c.) with stunning turquoise domes 🥈 Visit Gur-e-Amir: Timur's mausoleum, inspiration for Taj Mahal 🥉 Shah-i-Zinda necropolis: "Street of the Dead" with 20+ glittering tombs 🥐 Taste plov & fresh non bread at Siyob Bazaar 🕌 Bibi-Khanym Mosque – once world's largest (1404) 🌳 Relax in ancient mulberry paper workshops 🚂 High-speed train from Tashkent: 2 hrs Best: Mar-May or Sep-Nov. Entry most sites 50-100k UZS. Total day budget ~$30.

Central Asia’s most beautiful medieval architectural ensemble, a millennium in a glance! The Registan Madrasa consists of three breathtaking buildings, truly Uzbekistan’s version of the "Encyclopedia of Islamic Architecture"! 💫 📍 Location: City center of Samarkand, next to Toshkent ko'chasi 🕒 Hours: Open year-round, 08:00-20:00 💡 Tips: 1️⃣ Recommended to visit at dusk, as the nighttime light show takes place here✨ 2️⃣ Each madrasa has its own unique features; the Ulugh Beg Madrasa in the middle is the top recommendation 3️⃣ The architectural details are exquisite, don’t forget to bring a telephoto lens 🌙 The nighttime light show is simply stunning! The madrasas shine resplendently under the lights, as if traveling back to the Middle Ages! 📸 Photo spots: 👉 Panoramic view of the main courtyard 👉 Colorful mosaic walls 👉 Sunflower-patterned domes

Blue Dream Through a Thousand YearsIf Samarkand is the dazzling crown of Silk Road civilization, then the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis is the most brilliant sapphire embedded in it. To avoid the overwhelming crowds, we set off at 6:30 in the morning and arrived just as the gatekeeper started work. Although the site wasn’t officially open yet, after paying the entrance fee, we were allowed in and managed to capture the entire complex without a soul in sight. Walking through it felt like stepping into the mythical scenes of "One Thousand and One Nights." Shah-i-Zinda means "The Living King." Legend has it that Kusam, the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, was martyred here, making it an Islamic holy site. It houses the tombs of royal family members, religious leaders, and nobles from the 7th to the 15th centuries. The 36 steps ascending from the entrance symbolize the journey from the earthly world to heaven. The Avenue of the Dead inside the necropolis is even more breathtaking; the blue floral tiles on the walls shine brilliantly under the sunlight, and the exquisite decorations and domes inside the tombs reflect the high status of their occupants. It’s hard to imagine these buildings have withstood a thousand years and witnessed countless dynastic changes. A poem describes it well: The blue of Samarkand is not a reflection of the sky, but a piece torn from the sky itself, inlaid upon this barren land.

Everyone's image of Samarkand seems to be all blue domes and mosaic mosques. But if you have time, the city actually has some interesting little corners that offer a different perspective on Samarkand. ⛪️Church of St. Alexius Metropolitan of Moscow This is a typical Russian Orthodox church, with yellow walls and a green roof, and stands out beautifully amidst the greenery. ⛪️Roman Catholic Parish of St. John the Baptist Compared to the former, this Catholic church is more minimalist. The stained glass and wooden structure inside exude a gentle, timeless feel. 📖Chinese Garden You'll pass by it on your way to the city center. In the center stands a statue of Confucius. Seeing familiar faces in a foreign land always brings a strange sense of familiarity. At that moment, you suddenly realize how far Chinese culture has come. 🏣Museum of Friendship between Uzbekistan and China Right next to the garden, it's a Russian-style building, formerly the Samarkand branch of the Bank of Russia-China. There aren't many exhibits inside, so I didn't go in specifically to explore. But the name itself conveys the symbolic meaning of "friendship." ⛲️Peoples' Friendship Square A square where locals stroll and relax. In its center is a statue of the great Uzbek poet Navoi. The square is surrounded by government offices and theater buildings. 🚗Lada Throughout Samarkand's streets and alleys, you can see vintage Ladas almost every few steps. This classic Soviet-era car has become a "living fossil" of the city. Taking a photo with one truly feels like something out of an old European movie. 🛍Siyob Bazaar Next to the Bibi Hanem Mosque, it's one of the largest markets in the area. You can buy dried fruits, spices, honey, carpets, and colorful pottery. I especially love the lively atmosphere. The stall owners will smile and invite you to try their food, and I can easily overbuy. 🏫 Samarkand Railway Station This is the most beautiful train station I've ever seen in Uzbekistan. The tall columns and stained-glass windows glisten brilliantly in the sunlight. If you're leaving by train, I recommend arriving a little early and spending a few extra minutes admiring this artistic building that commemorates "Farewell to Samarkand." #hellohalloween #historicallandmarks #localguides #historicalsites #cooltravelexperiences #worldheritage #travelinspiration

A must-visit stunning site in Samarkand! This is one of the greatest medieval architectures in Central Asia🔥 Important figures of the Timurid Dynasty rest here👑 📍Address: Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, Samarkand, Uzbekistan ⏰Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Please confirm holiday hours in advance) 📸Photo Tips: - Best time: Early morning or evening for the most beautiful light - Must-capture angles: Main dome and porch carving details - Outfit suggestion: Traditional local clothing for better photos✨ 🌟Tips: - Remember to hire a local guide to explain the historical stories! - Tickets cost about $5-10 - There are also beautiful silk shops nearby to explore 🌞Visit during the day to capture the stunning light and shadow on the architecture! Be sure to experience this legendary building that has witnessed over 700 years of history!

Conquering the two most iconic bazaars in the capital, Tashkent, and the ancient city of Samarkand❤️ If you're traveling to Uzbekistan, be sure to stop by the bazaars!✨ This place, packed with the essence of human life, is a place where colors, scents, and voices come together to stimulate your senses. [Chorsu Bazaar] (Tashkent) Boasting over 100 years of history, Chorsu Bazaar is Tashkent's largest market, dominated by its impressive, gigantic blue dome. The first thing that's overwhelming upon entering the dome is its vastness and beautifully curved ceiling.⭐️ The first floor is the meat zone.🥩. With the meat being slaughtered in the center, the meat on display is truly "fresh as can be." However, it does have a slightly distinctive smell, so be careful if you're sensitive to it. On the second floor, energetic shopkeepers pile up nuts and sell them by weight.🌰 Their friendliness, always asking if you'd like to try some, is also a charming feature. Outside the dome, there's a vast area selling everything from vegetables and fruits, souvenirs, freshly baked bread, clothing, and everyday items. This is a place where you can fully experience everyday life in Uzbekistan. 📍Access📍 Tafakkur ko'chasi 57, Toshkent Right next to Chorsu Bazar Subway Station🚃 The station is a little unassuming, so look for the subway sign. In fact, if you ask someone, "Where's the station?", they'll laugh and say, "It's over here!"😄 Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Open every day) 💰Free admission. Restrooms: 3,000 soum [Siyob Bazaar] (Samarkand) Siyob Bazaar, located near the tourist area of ​​Samarkand, is a market filled with the aroma of spices and dried goods.🌶️ As a city that once prospered through trade on the Silk Road, the variety of spices is surprisingly abundant. The vibrantly colored spices lined up in rows are like a painting. 🎨 The fruits and vegetables are juicy, and the dried fruits make perfect souvenirs. 🍊 There's also a clothing and household goods section, with a wide selection of colorful Uzbek traditional clothing. As you walk, you might encounter mothers with babies begging, so keep a close eye on your wallet. 📍Access📍 MX6H+QWW, Bibikhonim Str., Samarqand Conveniently located near the Bibikhonim Mosque, this bazaar is perfect for a quick stop between sightseeing. Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Closed Mondays) 💰Free admission. Restrooms: 3,000 soum 💡Travel Tip💡 Bargaining is essential at both bazaars! A good tip is to check the going rates around you first before buying. Bring a calculator and ask for actual figures to make the process smoother. The people of Uzbekistan are cheerful and kind, so don't forget to smile and say hello, even for the smallest of transactions. 😊 Chorsu is the "urban market," while Siob is the "historical market." Each has its own unique character, and both are places where you can truly experience the charm of Uzbekistan. 🧡 #ChorsuBazaar #JobBazaar #Tashkent #Samarkand #Uzbekistan #TravelGuide

The must-visit spots in Samarkand, but there's one you might want to skip. As the former capital of the Timurid Empire, Samarkand is home to some of the most iconic attractions in Uzbekistan. Among these, which are worth visiting, and which should you avoid? ⭕️ Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis As one of the most popular attractions in Samarkand, if you want to capture photos of an empty Shah-i-Zinda, make sure to arrive right at the 7 AM opening. Start by photographing the larger scenes, then move on to the smaller details, and take your time exploring afterward. If you’re not an early riser, visiting during the golden hour in the evening is also a good option, as the crowds tend to thin out after 6 PM. If you’re particularly fond of this site, you can visit both in the morning and evening, as the ticket allows multiple entries. ⭕️ Hazrat Khizr Mosque This is a free attraction located right next to Shah-i-Zinda. From here, you can enjoy a distant view of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. ❌ Bibi-Khanym Mosque Avoiding this site isn’t because it’s bad—the architecture is indeed grand, and there’s an interesting love story associated with it that you can look up. The courtyard also houses a giant Quran. However, due to earthquakes and human damage, the main structure is not open to the public. Only two smaller sections are accessible, and they primarily sell souvenirs. Since the view from the outside is not much different from the inside, it’s not worth spending money to go in. ⭕️ Registan Square Comprising three magnificent madrasahs built in different centuries, this is the heart of Samarkand. The splendid domes, towering minarets, and blue mosaic-covered walls showcase the pinnacle of Timurid architecture. The evening light show is a must-see, with two versions available—one simpler and the other more elaborate. The timing of the light show varies by season, so be sure to check with the staff on-site. ⭕️ Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum This is the resting place of Emperor Timur and some of his descendants. The massive ribbed blue dome is an architectural masterpiece that influenced later structures like the Taj Mahal. The interior is lavishly decorated, with colorful tiles and gold leaf creating a dazzling effect. The mausoleum houses nine symbolic sarcophagi, including those of Timur and his astronomer grandson Ulugh Beg. The legend of the "Curse of Timur," said to have caused wars after the tomb was opened, adds an air of mystery to the site. ⭕️ Aksaray Mausoleum Located just behind the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, its exterior is unremarkable, but the interior dome is stunningly intricate, creating a stark contrast. There’s a local man who charges a fee to use your phone on a rotating platform to capture videos and photos of the dome for you.

Located northeast of Samarkand, the Shahi Zinda Mausoleums are a sacred site resembling a blue labyrinth. Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, the complex is centered around the tomb of the saint Qusam ibn Abbas, known as the "Living King." The entrance fee is 50,000 soums. The view of the Samarkand Blue tiles is breathtaking. ❤️ This unique blue color is a Silk Road art form that combines Persian pigments with Chinese ceramic techniques. The soft morning light reflects off the tiles, making the blue glow even more deeply, so we highly recommend visiting early in the day. ☀️ [Tips for Getting Around] The staircase leading from the entrance is known as the "Stairway to Heaven." Legend has it that if you count the number of steps as you ascend, you will reach heaven if you reach the same number on both the outbound and return trips. ⭐️ Next, head to the approach area where the main mausoleums are lined up. The first thing you'll see is the approach to the temple, lined with mausoleums for Timurid royalty and aristocrats. On either side are mausoleums of various sizes, each with its own unique character. The mausoleums near the entrance feature ornaments that combine geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy, and the tile colors are relatively bright and vibrant. Towards the middle, mausoleums built for Timur's nieces and scholars line the grounds, and this zone is said to be the most beautiful in terms of architectural technique. The arches are decorated in shades ranging from pale turquoise to deep ultramarine, and the closer you get, the more breathtaking their intricacy becomes. And at the very back is the mausoleum of the saint Qusam ibn Abbas. This is the center of prayer for pilgrims, and a sacred atmosphere permeates the area. Take your time to admire the tile decorations on each mausoleum. The walls and arches are exquisitely decorated with geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy. 💡 If you're looking for a photo, the gradation of blue in the corridors leading to this spot is the perfect shot. 📸 [Visiting Tips] This is not just a tourist attraction, but a living Islamic pilgrimage site. • When in front of the tombs, bow gently and refrain from making noise, touching, or taking photos. • Women should wear clothing that covers their skin. A scarf is also recommended. • Walking on the cemetery grounds, touching the stones, or writing on the walls is prohibited. [Access Information] Taxi is convenient from the city center. 🚕 Enter "Shohi Zinda ko'chasi" into the Yandex Go app and you'll arrive in about 10-15 minutes. Fare is low, and you can easily call a taxi on your way back using the same app. 📍Address: Shohi Zinda ko‘chasi, Samarkand, Samarqand Region, Uzbekistan Hours: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Shahi Zinda is more than just a sightseeing spot; it's a spiritual journey. Even after walking through the Blue Corridor, the lingering light remains in your mind. That's the kind of place it is. 💙 #ShahiZinda #Samarkand #Uzbekistan #TravelGuide

Emirhan｜🌟🌟🌟🌟 The ambiance is great, and the terrace seats directly face the Tilla-Kori Madrasasi on Registan Square, offering a breathtaking view. It can get a bit chilly in the fall and winter, but blankets are provided. The food is average, though perhaps the cold weather that day also dampened the flavors. Ibrahim xoja Lagmon｜🌟🌟🌟 This noodle shop is mostly frequented by locals. It's very similar to beef ramen in China, and the flavor is good. However, the prices aren't exactly cheap. If you're craving this kind of noodle, most restaurants order lagman. Karimbek also has it, and the taste is similar, but the ambiance and cleanliness are incomparable. SAMARQAND OSH MARKAZI N1 (Tenntor Plova N1)｜🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 They're not exaggerating when they call themselves "No. 1"! Having eaten a lot of plov in Uzbekistan, this place is definitely worth the taxi ride. The place is almost entirely filled with locals. Two people can order two small portions or a large, and rest assured, you'll be able to finish the large portion! The waiter will bring you your salad, and you can choose from a variety of dishes, each one a hit. I recommend trying the local soup, Chalap, which tastes like yogurt mixed with salty soda and dill. It might be a little strange at first, but the more you drink, the more you enjoy it. It's the perfect way to beat the sluggishness of pilaf rice. Karimbek | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 A traditional restaurant frequented by locals. The menu is in Russian, but you can scan a QR code to get English and pictures. During peak hours, you'll need to wait for a table. The portions are generous, but there are occasional discrepancies between the pictures and the text, which can be difficult to communicate with the waiter. Fortunately, a helpful local woman at a nearby table who speaks Chinese helped us resolve the issue. People were dancing spontaneously in the hall, creating a wonderful atmosphere. #localguides #deliciousfood #hellohalloween #restaurant

Hotel prices in Uzbekistan are generally overpriced, with international chains often costing over $1,000. As for those seemingly beautiful hotels, they're often only beautiful in the public areas, with the rooms clearly out of proportion to the price. For a traveler like me who spends most of my time out and about, I certainly wouldn't waste money on a hotel that isn't for vacation purposes. After careful consideration, I settled on this hotel in Samarkand, located relatively close to the city center. 🏨＞ Wellfort Hotel They have a variety of room types, but I'm drawn to the cheapest economy room. Its style is different from the other rooms, with simple wooden decor and a unique loft-style layout, which adds a touch of character. Breakfast was still minimal but excellent, not much different from other hotels. It seems like breakfast here is pretty standard, nothing special to look forward to. The pool and sauna on the basement floor require reservations, but they're quite nice and worth checking out when you return to the hotel that evening. #hellohalloween #hotel #hotelguide

Shahi Zinda Necropolis in Uzbekistan is like an entrance to a blue fairy tale. Meaning "Living King," it is the resting place for the women of the Timurid family. Dozens of mausoleums form a blue corridor stretching hundreds of meters, with domes, walls, and floors all covered in exquisitely beautiful blue mosaics, known as "the most beautiful architectural complex in Central Asia." Remember to arrive early to enjoy the tranquility and light when there are fewer people, and feel the wisdom of the "Tree of Life" at the entrance. Come to Shahi Zinda to experience this unique romance and mystery, and discover stories of eternity and cherishing!

#hellohalloween If architectural beauty had a crown, Uzbekistan’s domes would wear it. Layered in turquoise tiles, golden patterns, and celestial mosaics, these masterpieces feel like portals to another world. Here are the most breathtaking domes you must see: 🌟 1. Registan Square — Samarkand Three madrasas face each other in perfect harmony, each topped with glowing blue domes that shimmer at sunrise and glow at night. 💎 2. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum — Samarkand The resting place of Timur (Tamerlane), featuring one of the most intricate ribbed sapphire domes in the world. 🌀 3. Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis — Samarkand A sacred street lined with mausoleums — every dome is a different pattern of blue, teal, and white perfection. 🏛️ 4. Kalon Mosque & Minaret — Bukhara Vast courtyard crowned with a majestic sky-blue dome rising beside the towering minaret. 🐪 5. Tilla-Kari Madrasa — Samarkand Outside: deep blue. Inside: drenched in pure gold. A dome that glows both day and night. 🧿 6. Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum — Khiva A hidden gem with emerald domes quietly reflecting in the desert sun.