The Ultimate Samarkand Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Samarkand, Uzbekistan? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history dating back over 2,500 years.
Known as the “Pearl of the East,” it was an important stop on the Silk Road, contributing to its vibrant cultural and architectural heritage.
Population: Approximately 600,000 residents.
Notable for its stunning Islamic architecture, including grand madrasahs and mosques.

Currency: Uzbek Som (UZS).
Spoken Languages: Uzbek (official), Russian, and some English in tourist areas.
Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant flowers. Summer can be extremely hot.
Most travelers require a visa, but eVisas (single/double/multiple entry) are available for tourism. Processing takes 3 days.
– Citizens of Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and China get 10-day visa-free entry with an onward ticket. U.S. and Vietnamese citizens aged 55+ receive 30-day visa-free stays.
Arriving via airport: Samarkand International Airport (SKD) is about 5 km from the city center. Taxis to the city cost around UZS 17,500–25,000.
– Pre-booking transfers via hostels/hotels or Yandex.Go app ensures transparent pricing.

The Registan area is great for tourists, close to the famous Registan Square, with easy access to attractions and a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to guesthouses.
The historical center offers charming boutique hotels with traditional decor and immersive local experiences.
The Shah-i-Zinda district features unique stays with picturesque views of grand mausoleums.
Tip: Book accommodations near the Gur-i Amir to Ulughbek observatory corridor to minimize reliance on taxis..

The city can be navigated easily on foot, especially the compact historical center.
Taxis are readily available; ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand or use an app like Yandex.Taxi for transparent pricing. Verify license plates via your app-booking. Avoid unmarked cars.
Typical taxi rates: Base fare: UZS 7,500 (~$0.60), Per km: UZS 3,180 (~$0.25), Hourly waiting fee: UZS 30,000 (~$2.40)
Local buses are available, but routes can be confusing for tourists. Recommendation: use taxis instead.
– Buses typically cost UZS 1,200-1,500 per ride.
Intercity trips: Pre-booked taxis cost $55 to Bukhara or $58 to Tashkent.

The drinking age is 18.
Although not vibrant like some western cities, locals enjoy socializing in parks, and you can find cafes with outdoor seating, especially around Registan Square.
Popular places for nightlife include Café 40 (offering a mix of local and international drinks), and the Garden Cafe for a more relaxed evening atmosphere.
Sampling local wines and vodka can be a highlight; look for local brands like Murod Naqshbandi wine.
Cultural night: attend live folk music nights at teahouses like Art Gallery Happy Bird (free entry; tea from UZS 10,000/$0.80).

Registan Square: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning public square is flanked by three grand madrasahs, showcasing magnificent tile work and architectural excellence.
– Tip: Registan Square’s nighttime light show (free) offers photo opportunities without crowds.
Shah-i-Zinda: A necropolis housing breathtaking mausoleums and a complex of beautiful, intricately decorated structures.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque: Once the largest mosque in the world, this majestic structure is known for its impressive entrance and the vibrant blue tiles that adorn its façade.
Ulughbek Observatory: A 15th-century astronomical site with a museum (entry ~$3). Part of the walkable “tourist strip.
Day trip ideas:
– Shahrisabz (18 USD round-trip taxi) for Timurid architecture.
– Konigil Village (12 km west) for paper-making workshops.

Stroll through the historic streets leading to Registan Square, immersing yourself in the ambiance of craftspeople and vendors selling traditional wares.
Walk along the Silk Road route, with stops at the ancient bazaars where you can experience local life and purchase souvenirs.
Enjoy a scenic view of the city by climbing the hill to the ruins of the ancient fortresses, such as the Ark, for panoramic views of the city.

Restaurants popular with locals include Karimbek, which is famous for plov, and Old Samarkand, which offers a variety of local dishes.
Uzbekistan is famous for its plov, a rice pilaf dish usually garnished with carrots, onions, and meat. Don’t miss trying this local staple at restaurants or in the plov centers.
Teahouse: Chaikhana No. 1 near Registan serves green tea with halva (UZS 15,000/$1.20) and hosts evening music sessions.
Tipping is not mandatory; however, rounding up the bill or providing 10% is considered thoughtful.

Handwoven suzani textiles and ceramics make excellent souvenirs from your visit.
Souvenir pricing: Handmade suzani textiles start at $25–40 (bargain down 20–30% in bazaars).
Transport tip: Use Yandex.Go for rides to avoid fare haggling. Drivers rarely speak English—have your destination written in Russian/Uzbe
Local tea houses, or chaikhanas, are places to relax and enjoy traditional tea; look out for those offering local pastries.
Be cautious of overly aggressive vendors in bazaars and tourist hotspots. Bargaining is expected, but if a price seems too high, don’t hesitate to walk away.
Dangerous areas: while Samarkand is generally safe, it’s best to avoid isolated areas after dark and to always keep an eye on your belongings (especially in crowded areas).
Stick to lit areas like Registan Square or Tashkent Street after dark (safest).

Recommended trip duration: 1-2 days