registan sqaure is pictured and is the best thing to do in samarkand

11 Things To Do In Samarkand: A Complete Guide

ByJames Fahey

Best Things To See In Samarkand

Registan Square is the first stop on any list of things to do in Samarkand, and it’ll eat up most of your camera roll before you’ve even had breakfast.

But it’s not the whole story. I fell down a Google rabbit hole planning this trip, convinced eight days was overkill for one Uzbek city. It wasn’t.

I’ll be honest, the “when to visit” question matters more here than people admit. Turn up in the peak summer heat, and you’ll be dodging the sun between every mosque and mausoleum, not the city. Spring and autumn are kinder, and the light on those turquoise domes is worth planning around, like waiting for the right moment in a film rather than rushing the scene.

Is Samarkand actually worth visiting, or is it just Registan Square with a supporting cast? Honestly, I was surprised how much sat outside the main square. Just outside Registan, I got talking to Madi, a local guide who wasn’t even working that day. She just wanted to practice her English. We ended up chatting for ages, and she pointed me towards a few spots I’d never have found on my own. That kind of thing sticks with you far longer than the square itself does.

Whether you’re travelling solo with three days to fill or you’re a couple stretching a week into something slower, this rundown covers what earns its place on a short itinerary and what you can happily skip.

But there’s more, and some of it deserves more of your time than the square does.

Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you make a booking through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my Privacy Policy.

registan square is picture and is one of the things to do in samarkand even at night Save

🇺🇿 Samarkand Quick Guide 🇺🇿

A Brief History Of Samarkand

I thought I had watched enough YouTube videos about Samarkand to know the history.

shah i zinda is pictured in samarkand and was one of my favourite with blue tiles and writing Save

I was badly mistaken.

Samarkand is one of, if not the, oldest inhabited cities in all of Central Asia. It was great to see all of the historical sites, which date back over 2,400 years.

The city was taken over by fierce power at different times. Numerous empires left their mark on this city. The Persian Achaemenids, Alexander the Great, and the Islamic Timurid dynasty all attacked and conquered.

I could see Islamic, Persian and Central Asian styles all mixed up together. It was during the Timurid reign that Samarkand actually became an Islamic centre of culture and art.

So it really is no surprise that all of the designs I saw had the typical Central Asian tiles, calligraphy and patterns, incredibly beautiful in my view.

close up of blue tiles in samarkand and seeing them is a unique wthing to do Save

The other madrasas, Sher-Dor Madrasa, Tilya-Kori Madrasa, and Ulugh Beg Madrasa, all feature impressive colours and designs.

You can expect to see beautiful domes (one of which you can climb with permission from the staff), all of which display the region’s stunning architecture.

The old buildings in Samarkand show how important the city was in the past, especially when it was a key stop on the Silk Road trading route, where different people would come together.

🇺🇿 Read My Full Uzbekistan Travel Guide To Plan Your Next Trip 🇺🇿

1. Registan Square

The atmosphere here is different to anywhere else in the city, and in a great way.

registan sqaure is pictured and is the best thing to do in samarkand Save

When I stepped onto Registan Square, I knew this was the heart and soul of the city of Samarkand. It’s not surprising that the city holds UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This square is surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs. Sher-Dor Madrasa, Tilya-Kori Madrasa, and Ulugh Beg Madrasa. During my visit, I was thrilled to have made it this far. Every tile, dome, and room looked like something from a bygone era. Full of stories, history and beauty.

When I visited, there was a local man playing traditional music in the middle of the square with a large group of students around him. It only added to the day.

The facades, perfect domes and tilework are glimmering. The square had bazaars and people traded here, but later became the madrasah complex. Travellers came here from all over the world to witness it for themselves.

When I was in Samarkand, I was lucky enough to admire Registan Square during both the day and night. At night, it was covered in lights, and I could witness a terrific musical show projected onto the buildings.

Sherdor Madrasa is pcitured in registan square and is one of the best things to do Save

In 8 months of travel, this was one of the most beautiful spectacles.

My biggest takeaway for anybody planning a visit to Samarkand is not to skip Registan Square. The best time to come is early morning, around 08.00 AM.

To avoid crowds and bus tours, go after 06.00 PM.

Registan Square, Samarkand - FULL Tour

I urge anybody visiting Samarkand to go at night (about 08.00 PM) as well as during the day, and you can appreciate the beautiful square in another capacity.

If I came back, I would try to go up the minaret at Ulugh Beg Madrasah to see the views at sunset, and it costs 60,140 UZS ($5.00/€4.38/£3.74).

Read This Guide About Registan Square

2. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Everyone talks about Registan Square, and this one gets less attention.

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is pictured and is one of the best things to do in samarkand Save

I was seriously impressed by the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.

This mausoleum is where Amir Timur and some of his relatives are buried.

Honestly, it’s a visually striking monument that got me more excited to explore further. Something that made me stop and think was the design. Many people say that this exact mausoleum inspired India’s and perhaps the world’s most impressive mausoleum, the Taj Mahal.

The Timurids built the Mausoleum, but the Soviets helped with restoration. The interior roof sparkles with golden and blue colours, while the exterior looks pretty much the same colour scheme as the Registan Square.

But here is what makes this place special.

inside Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is pictured with blue and yellow colours Save

The tombstone of Timur is actually a single block of green jade.

It was said to be the largest piece of Jade in the world. In 1740, Nadir Shah, a Persian, stole it and brought it to Persia, where it broke in half. The story proclaims that he had bad luck until he brought it back to Samarkand.

During my visit, I stepped inside the mausoleum, and I felt the importance of the man and his impact on Central Asia more broadly.

Do note that there is a little museum you pass through before entering his tomb, so make sure you take in as much information as you can to add some context.

Discover the AMAZING Timur's Mausoleum!

I suggest visiting early in the morning because when I went at lunchtime, there were loads of groups and it was hard to move inside.

🇺🇿 Book This Private Samarkand City Tour With Transportation Which Includes Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum 🇺🇿

3. Bibi-Khanym Mosque

When I visited, there was the kind of quiet that makes you put your phone away without thinking about it.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque is pictured at sunset with peole walking around and is one of the unique things to do in samarkand Save

Bibi-Khanym Mosque is an undeniably beautiful construction located in Samarkand.

It is generally accepted that it once reigned as one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world. When I visited, it certainly did feel like it.

When standing in the centre of the courtyard and looking up at the 40-metre height, it feels overwhelming and looks enormous. Almost intimidating.

I quickly realised I was in one of the most significant places in Islamic world history. Construction on the Bibi-Khanym Mosque started in the 14th century and was completed around 1405. It is easily one of the largest mosques I have ever seen in Central Asia. Maybe anywhere in the world.

It is said that Timur’s wife, Bibi-Khanym, was in charge of the project while he had larger issues like defeating enemies on the battlefield.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque dome is pictured things to do in samarkand Save

Because of this, it looks like it does today.

When I was exploring this place, I was truly able to start appreciating all of Samarkand’s architecture.

I suggest you spend some time strolling around the area to appreciate the finer details and size, which Timur had envisioned all those years ago. I was embarrassed to say I did not know of this place before arriving in Samarkand.

I visited at 07.00 PM when the sun was setting, and I am so glad I did.

🇺🇿 Find The Best Bibi-Khanym Mosque Tours 🇺🇿

4. Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Compared to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, this felt like a different place entirely.

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis is pictured in samarkand and is one of the best things to do Save

I went at around 05.30 PM, and while there were a few people around, it was not too busy to enjoy.

Shah-i-Zinda is a beautiful and sacred site where you can find the most beautifully decorated mausoleums. During my visit, I was fascinated by the fact that the remains of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, are said to be inside.

If you are interested in beautiful tilework and turquoise colours commonly associated with Uzbekistan, then this could be the most striking of all the attractions in Samarkand. While walking through the narrow alleyways, it carried a brilliant atmosphere and vibe of importance that other mausoleums did not.

For me, it was one of the most beautiful sights in the country.

james walks out from the tomb at Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Shah-i-Zinda has thousands of small white, blue and turquoise tiles, which make for a cool effect.

When we walked right to the end of the alley, at the end, you are greeted by, of course, more exquisite tile work and tombs. When I entered the Shodi Mulk, it sparkled like water. My best advice here is to take your time. Make sure you read all the information panels to learn about this attraction’s history.

If I were going back again, I would wear blue clothes to match well with the colour of the Necropolis for the pictures.

5. Ulugh Beg Observatory

I nearly wrote this off before I’d even seen it properly.

Ulugh Beg statue outside the Observatory with blue wall and sky, one of the top things to do in samarkand Save

Because it is not a big site compared to other places in Samarkand, many people feel it’s not worth it. But it is.

One of my favourite places to visit in Samarkand was the Ulugh Beg Observatory. This place was built by Ulugh Beg in the 15th century, and he was truly an interesting person.

The observatory was a place where Ulugh Beg could explore the sky. When I visited, I was impressed by the large sextant. I mean, this was enormous, and it was fun to see how people were able to explore astronomy, but the observatory is not what it once was.

It was fascinating to see how the Timurids were advancing scientifically during their golden age. Inside the museum, you can explore the items on display and learn about Ulugh Beg and his life.

the view inside the observatory is pictured Save

I visited around 04.00 PM, and there were maybe a dozen other people there.

But inside the museum, there were a few large group tours taking place, and it felt cramped. I wish I had gone in the early morning to beat the crowd.

My favourite things worth seeing in the museum were the model of the observatory in its prime, the beautiful blue and white ceramics, and the 15th-century narratives about Timur’s campaigns.

In 1449, Ulugh Begh was deposed by his son and beheaded on a pilgrimage to Mecca, and the site quickly fell into decline.

🇺🇿 Check Out These Ulugh Beg Observatory Tours 🇺🇿

6. Siyob Bazaar

I did not make it inside, but here is what I know from the outside.

clothes are pictured at a bazaar in samarkand Save

It is a large market found right beside Bibi-Khanym Mosque, so you could easily combine a visit to both.

We only passed by Siyob Bazaar when it was closing time. After visiting the mosque next door, the sun was setting, and people were packing up from the bazaar to go home.

But from all the reviews and activity we could see from outside, I knew this place had character and plenty of things to see. There is plenty of food, spices, clothes and crafts. I just wish we had more time here.

When I return to Samarkand, I know I will spend more time here.

🌶️ Book This Guided City Tour With Siyob Bazaar Visit 🌶️

7. Afrasiyab Museum

Not flashy, but genuinely one of the best things to do in Samarkand.

Afrasiyab Museum is pictured as guada walks into the building Save

This museum is packed full of artefacts and exhibits to learn about Samarkand’s history.

The museum is located right beside the ancient settlement of Afrasiyab.

Additionally, the museum gave me a really good understanding of the Sogdian civilisation, which had a big impact on the city’s development over the years.

When we explored the museum, it really did feel like a journey through time. The artefacts are well-maintained, and there is loads of interesting information on the displays. The standout item to look out for is the painting from pre-Arabic times.

It highlights the 7th-century ambassadors from China, Korea, and other places coming to the Samarkand court, making it one of the best-preserved pieces of Sogdian art anywhere in the world. It was discovered in 1965 and is what most people want to see when they visit the museum.

Afrasiyab Museum paiting is pictured, one of the best things to see in samarkand Save

This masterpiece is honestly fantastic.

We arrived at the museum around 02.00 PM, and there were large groups moving through, which were loud, and I couldn’t hear myself think.

Go early in the morning to miss this.

📜 Book This Afrasiab Museum & Ancient Ruins Tour📜

8. Afrasiyab Archaeological Site

This felt like it was built for the photo, not the experience.

goats and farmers cross the Afrasiyab Archaeological Site one of the cities best activties Save

In the late 19th century, an excavation team discovered this place. Under the ground, they excavated ancient structures, pottery, and artwork.

All of these finds allowed historians to paint a much more vivid image of what this city was like when it was thriving. When I visited, one lady was strolling around the small desert area, but she soon disappeared.

Later, it was just me and Guada, and we walked the hills looking for ancient artefacts, hoping we might get lucky and find something significant. Comparing the Afrasiyab Archaeological Site and modern Samarkand is like night and day.

However, it was fascinating to see how these important trade route cities have evolved from ancient times to the present. For me, the highlight was walking through the settlement and discovering the ruins which flourished between 500 BC and the Mongol Invasion of 1220.

2 farmers stop and look across Afrasiyab Archaeological Site with goats beside them one of my favourite things to do in samarkand Save

The settlement was also ransacked by Alexander the Great in the 4th century and later rebuilt by the Sogdians.

When I was there, I saw local farmers using the land for livestock. There was a large herd of cattle that walked through us as we navigated our way across the site. I gave a friendly wave to the farmer, who returned the gesture, and away they went. It was a positive interaction.

This desert area has some interesting stories and characters who must have moved through it in ancient times.

🇺🇿 I Recommend Book This Afrosiab Museum, Ulugbek Observatory & More Tour 🇺🇿

9. Registan Park And Islam Karimov’s Statue

Not every recommendation on this list earns its place.

Islam Karimov's Statue is pictured in tiger park samarkand Save

This one’s borderline.

Registan Park, just beside the square, is home to the grand statue of Islam Karimov. I found many people walking up to the monument and taking photos. There was a strong feeling of pride in the people I passed in the park.

While there isn’t much information in the park about Karimov, the statue is tall and beautifully designed, reminding me a little of Amir Timur’s statue not far away.

You can find out more about this divisive president should you want to. He was the first president of Uzbekistan. Any interaction I had with locals or people across Uzbekistan held him in high regard. Karimov is pictured standing confidently with his right hand in his pocket and looking out over Samarkand.

scooter handle bars are pictured at tiger park in Samarkand Save

I recommend getting an electric scooter to drive around the park, and you can get the app, scan the QR code and scoot away.

It was a great place to walk around as the sun was setting.

We purchased a small ice cream in the park, and many children were playing and running around with their families and friends. You can also buy other snacks like nuts, rent a bike or simply stroll until your heart’s content.

It’s a beautiful, large park that surrounds Registan Square.

10. Amir Temur Monument

I’ll be honest, I think this one’s overrated but worth visiting and here is why.

Amir Temur Monument in samarkand is one of the best things to do Save

The Amir Temur Monument in Samarkand is still a magnificent tribute to the once-powerful conqueror and leader.

We came across this monument in the very centre of the city on University Boulevard. I could tell that people viewed it as a symbol of pride for the people of the country.

What stood out was the large yet detailed design of the monument. Looking closely, you could see how well-made it is. Amir Timur is depicted seated with his hands crossed, and when I was looking at it, I felt like he was going to turn his head and speak to me.

the park beside Amir Temur Monument in samarkand is beautiful lots of green trees and two people walk Save

I am sure that Timur would feel proud to see this monument because it projects him as a powerful leader.

When we visited the monument, many local people showed up to take photos with their kids. It’s a nice place to see before moving on to Timur’s mausoleum, only a couple of hundred meters away. I was sure to take a few photos of this monument.

I suggest you slowly walk through Haji Muin Shukrullah Park. It’s a beautiful place and very well-maintained. It’s one of the best places to go because Rukhobod Mausoleum, Gur-i Amir Сomplex and the statue are so close to each other.

In half a day, you can hit three of the best things to do in Samarkand.

🇺🇿 Book This Day Tour To Shahrisabz Of Amir Timur 🇺🇿

11. Rukhobod Mausoleum

This is the one place I recommend to everyone, without hesitation.

Rukhobod Mausoleum is one of the best things to do in samarkand with light coming through the doors Save

Found directly across from Gur-i Amir Сomplex I found Rukhobod Mausoleum by accident.

I made a dedicated post about this place just for you.

What I loved was the wooden door with beautiful carvings as the light shone through as it was setting across Samarkand. Outside, the buildings look small and unimpressive. Once inside, you’ll see the tombs of mystic Sheikh Burhan al-Din Sagarji, a spiritual leader from the 14th century.

You won’t need to spend a lot of time here.

the tomb at Rukhobod Mausoleum is pictured Save

Inside there is a small donation box, and it is one of the oldest buildings in all of Samarkand.

It is painted white inside, and when the sun shines, it can be very bright, so wear sunglasses.

Best Day Tours From Samarkand

Samarkand has some incredible day tours to consider.

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I only took a day trip from Bukhara to see the Khorzem fortress in the south of the country. It went very well.

But my advice is to consider these day trips from Samarkand. I wasn’t aware of them all when I visited and would have loved to try them.

Tajikistan Seven Lakes Day Trip From Samarkand: Take one of the most popular tours in Samarkand. The Day trip to the seven lakes in neighbouring Tajikistan. Free cancellation and Fann Mountain and Panjaket are included.

2-Day Authentic Desert Yurt Escape from Samarkand or Bukhara: Stay overnight in an Uzbek yurt, eat homemade meals made by locals and see the Kyzylkum Desert.

Historical City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: See all the best bits in Samarkand for a reasonable price. Many of the attractions on this post are included.

One-day tour to Shakhrisabz: Motherland of Amir Temur: See the ruins of the Ak Saray palace, visit the tomb of Temur’s eldest son, Jahangir and enter the crypt intended for himself.

Is Samarkand Worth Visiting?

Samarkand has a deep mix of history and culture across these 11 attractions.

From my eight days exploring the city, it felt totally different to Tashkent, Khiva and Bukhara in some ways but familiar in others. Registan Square, particularly at night with the light show, left me genuinely thinking this was better than Tashkent.

Shah-i-Zinda’s necropolis is beautiful, whilst Bibi-Khanym Mosque’s scale feels almost unreal in person. Take your time wandering the sites, arrive early to beat crowds, and book tickets in advance for popular attractions.

Check out my complete Uzbekistan travel guides to plan your trip more effectively.

Thanks for reading,

James

FAQs

What Not To Miss In Samarkand?

Registan Square is the absolute highlight. I visited both day and night, and the evening light show is genuinely spectacular. The three madrassahs transform completely after dark. Shah-i-Zinda’s avenue of mausoleums features extraordinary tilework that’s breathtaking up close. Don’t miss Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Timur’s tomb). Visit Siab Bazaar for an authentic local atmosphere. Avoid the late morning at Registan when it’s extremely crowded. Book tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Is 2 Days Enough For Samarkand

Two days cover the main sites, but from my five-day experience, I recommend 3-5 days for a proper visit. This allows time to see Registan Square at different times, revisit favourite spots, and explore without rushing. The extra days let you soak in the atmosphere, discover quieter corners, and experience the city’s rhythm beyond just ticking off monuments. Three days minimum gives you breathing room for comfortable exploration.

What Time Is The Registan Square Light Show?

The light show usually starts around 08.00 PM, but arrive at 07.30 PM for the best seats. Shows run daily during high season and on special occasions. Tickets cost around 96,220 UZS ($8.00/€7.01/£5.98), and should be booked well in advance as they sell out quickly. The show is visible from outside, but viewing from inside offers the best experience with optimal seating for the projections on the madrassahs.

James Fahey is an Irish travel writer, photographer and video editor. His blog started in late 2021 but took off in 2023 when James spent eight months visiting Southeast Asia, Central Asia, India and Turkey. James spent time living in Washington D.C and Nairobi working and volunteering where the travel bug started to kick in. James has a goal – to make travel easier for people who want to visit the same places he has been.

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7 Comments

  1. The architecture is sheer overwhelming. All those beautiful tiles, the intricate carvings and details, it would take me weeks to take this beauty all in. The Registan Square is probably THE signature site of Samarkand, one of those monuments that one simply has to visit once in their lifetime. I would love to follow your advice and get a glimpse of it during the night, but I am a solo female traveller, and I am aware that this might not be the safest time of the day for me especially in such a religious country as Uzbekistan. What can you recommend?

    Carolin | Solo Travel Story

    Reply

    1. Yes, Uzbekistan is a very religious country. I can say that I witnessed and spoke to other female solo travellers in Registan Square. One option could be to go with an organised group tour which would mean joining more people, but then your not really traveling solo anymore. During the middle of the day I would argue is the safest time due to more visibility and more people around the square. You could also get a Yandex (like Uber) right to the front of the square, hop out, spend time there for the light show, and book another yandex to take you back from where you were dropped off. Hope it helps!

      Reply

  2. Oh my goodness, Samarkand’s architecture is breathtaking! I love the intricate tile and carvings and know I could happily spend hours soaking in each of the sites. Uzbekistan had not been on my list of future travel opportunities before seeing this post, but I’m definitely considering it now. Like Carolin, I wonder about the safety for solo female travellers and would likely consider joining a group for that reason.

    Reply

  3. WOW!! That architecture is just stunning. It’s not somewhere I’d considered visiting – until now! Your photos have definitely made me want to go and see all those amazing buildings for myself.

    I love that you had eight days there so really got time to see so much of the city. Thanks for sharing this.

    Reply

  4. After my trip to Northern Pakistan, and only getting the tiniest GLIMPSE, I know my next big trip will have to be the Silk Road countries because WOW. I mean the architecture alone! My mouth dropped at your photos of Registan Square…and then the attractions just got more beautiful from there! What did you think of the food when you visited?

    Reply

  5. I’ve been kind of obsessed with visiting Uzbekistan recently as it looks absolutely stunning. the colorful tiles, the opulent buildings, the massive doorways to magical hidden spots. The necropolis would be high on my list, how incredible is that? And the madrasahs (adorned with gold is a great descriptor). Your enthusiasm for Samarkland shines through, and I can only imagine the experience of exploring it.

    Reply

  6. After exploring most of Europe now I’ve started looking further afield and Uzbekistan just keeps moving it’s way closer to the top of my list. Samarkand looks stunning. Registan Square is clearly the heart of the city and I’ve found more reasons to visit this beautiful country from your post today, thank you!

    Reply

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