Samarkand, the heart of the Silk Road, is one of those places that feel like stepping into a vivid dream. As Alexander the Great once said,
“Everything I have heard about Samarkand is true, except that it is even more beautiful than I could have imagined.”
Walking through its ancient streets, you can feel the whispers of history and the grandeur of its past. Here are my top 10 things to do in this magical city.
1. Marvel at the Majesty of Registan Square
The beating heart of Samarkand, Registan Square, is the most breathtaking sight in the city. Surrounded by three stunning madrasas—Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori—this place is an architectural masterpiece. When the sun sets, the golden mosaics shimmer under the lights, creating an unforgettable experience. I recommend visiting at different times of the day to fully appreciate its beauty. For the best view, grab a seat at a nearby rooftop cafe and watch history come to life.
2. Visit the Legendary Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
If you want to experience the soul of Samarkand, Shah-i-Zinda is the place. This sacred complex, with its mesmerizing blue-tiled tombs, feels almost mystical. The name means “The Living King,” as it is believed that Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of Prophet Muhammad, is buried here. Walking through the corridors of this 14th-century masterpiece, I felt an eerie sense of timelessness, as if the spirits of Silk Road travelers still lingered in the air.
3. Explore the Magnificent Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Built by Timur (Tamerlane) as a tribute to his wife, this mosque was once one of the largest in the Islamic world. Legend has it that an architect fell in love with Bibi-Khanym and delayed construction so he could steal a kiss from her. The scale of this mosque is jaw-dropping, and even though time has weathered its grandeur, its beauty still dominates the skyline. Standing beneath its massive dome, I couldn’t help but imagine the power and ambition that built it.
4. Get Lost in the Siab Bazaar
No trip to Samarkand is complete without experiencing the energy of Siab Bazaar. This vibrant marketplace is a sensory overload—aromatic spices, fresh fruit, and the warm smiles of local vendors create a charming atmosphere. I sampled some of the best non (Uzbek bread) here, fresh from a clay oven. Don’t leave without trying the local dried fruits and nuts; they’re the best souvenirs you can take home.
5. Admire the Beauty of Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
The final resting place of Timur, Gur-e-Amir, is a masterpiece of Persian and Central Asian architecture. The dazzling azure dome and the intricately decorated interior make it one of Samarkand’s must-see sights. Standing before Timur’s tomb, I could almost hear the echoes of his conquests. “If you doubt our power—look at our buildings!” is a quote attributed to him, and this mausoleum is proof of his grand vision.
6. Take a Step Back in Time at Ulugh Beg Observatory
Ulugh Beg, Timur’s grandson, was not just a ruler but also a brilliant astronomer. His 15th-century observatory was one of the finest in the medieval world. Even though much of it is in ruins, the remaining sextant gives an insight into the scientific achievements of that era. Learning about how he charted the stars centuries ago made me appreciate how advanced this civilization was.
7. Discover the Tranquility of the Mausoleum of Saint Daniel
This is a place of peace and spirituality. The mausoleum is unique because it is venerated by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Legend has it that Saint Daniel’s body continues to grow, which is why the tomb is unusually long. Whether you believe the legend or not, the serenity of this place makes it a wonderful stop to reflect and soak in the history of Samarkand.
8. Take a Day Trip to Afrasiyab
Before Samarkand, there was Afrasiyab, the ancient settlement that dates back to the 7th century BC. The museum here offers fascinating insights into the city’s early history, with frescoes and artifacts showcasing a time before Islam shaped the region. Walking through these ruins, I imagined traders from China, Persia, and Byzantium passing through, leaving behind whispers of forgotten stories.
9. Taste the Famous Samarkand Plov
Food is an essential part of any travel experience, and in Samarkand, you must try plov. Samarkand’s version is different from other Uzbek cities—it’s cooked in layers rather than mixed. I had the best plov at Osh Markazi, a place dedicated entirely to this dish. The combination of rice, meat, carrots, and aromatic spices made it one of the most memorable meals of my journey.
10. Enjoy the Atmosphere of Khoja Akhrar Ensemble
This lesser-known gem is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Located near Registan, the ensemble is dedicated to Khoja Akhrar, a Sufi spiritual leader. Unlike the grand mosques and madrasas, this site feels intimate, with locals coming here for prayers and quiet moments. I loved just sitting in the courtyard, taking in the calmness of the place while reflecting on my incredible journey through Samarkand.
