Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Samarkand stands as one of the world’s oldest cities—a treasure trove of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Visitors begin to immerse themselves in its rich heritage even before landing, as the design of the international airport immediately captivates first-timers. Inspired by the legendary ruler and astronomer Mirzo Ulugbek, the airport’s architecture echoes the form of his astronomical manuscript, a catalog of over a thousand stars and constellations created in the 15th century. Today, Samarkand’s airport welcomes flights from 15 countries, primarily from neighboring CIS nations, Turkey, and increasingly from Europe, the UAE, and the United States. As the city reclaims its historical role as a crossroads between East and West, tourism is booming.
As ancient as Rome and steeped in a dynamic cultural tapestry, Samarkand offers myriad attractions for travelers of all interests—history buffs, religious pilgrims, food lovers, and culture seekers alike. Here are five reasons why this extraordinary city should be next on your travel list.
No visit to Samarkand is complete without wandering through Registan Square, a majestic plaza pulsing with centuries of history. Registan’s three grand madrasahs—iconic Islamic schools of learning—dominate the city skyline with their dazzling domes and towering minarets visible from every corner. The oldest building, commissioned six centuries ago by Mirzo Ulugbek himself, stands as a testament to the city’s golden age.
Ulugbek, a grandson of the legendary Amir Timur (Tamerlane), was not only a ruler but an avid astronomer who accurately calculated the length of the solar year and recognized Earth’s rotation long before Copernicus. His madrasah was adorned with celestial motifs—depictions of stars and planets—symbolizing an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Here, students studied an impressive curriculum spanning mathematics, geometry, logic, natural sciences, and the Quran.
“Ulugbek personally examined students on religious studies,” explains local guide Khursheda Fayzulayeva. “Only the most gifted boys, regardless of their social status, were accepted, as education was entirely free.”
The madrasah’s fame spread far and wide, and by the 17th century, two more madrasahs—Sherdor and Tillya-Kori—were erected to accommodate eager scholars. Sherdor and Tillya-Kori stand as masterpieces of Islamic architecture; Tillya-Kori also functions as a grand Friday mosque, built at a time when the city lacked a large congregational mosque. The mosque is famous for its golden mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca) and intricately carved minbar (pulpit), while the ceiling’s elaborate pattern symbolizes the wheel of life.
Today, Registan’s madrasahs have transformed into museums filled with artifacts, while former student quarters house souvenir shops. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comes alive every evening as a spectacular light and sound show projects the history of Uzbekistan on its ancient walls. Walking through Registan is not just sightseeing—it’s stepping into a living chronicle of a civilization that shaped the world.
To truly understand the soul of any Eastern city, one must explore its markets, and Samarkand’s Siab Bazaar is the perfect place to begin. As the largest and oldest bazaar in Uzbekistan, trading here has been thriving for over six centuries, making it a vibrant living relic of the Great Silk Road.
Here, the air is thick with the mingling scents of exotic spices, fresh herbs, ripe fruit, and the fragrant aroma of Samarkand’s famed flatbreads, or “lepeshkas.” These breads have garnered renown far beyond the city, with visitors often traveling from as far as the capital, Tashkent, just to taste them.
These breads are notable for their incredible freshness—they resist staleness and retain their flavor for months, making them an ideal gastronomic souvenir. At the bazaar, haggling is an art form and a social ritual; accepting the first price would be considered disrespectful. Engage with the enthusiastic sellers, taste the local delicacies, and savor the bustling atmosphere—a true marketplace immersion that connects you to centuries of trade and tradition.
Just a 20-minute drive from the city center lies the sprawling “Silk Road” tourism complex, an expansive area roughly the size of 520 football fields. This vibrant leisure oasis is built around the historic Samarkand Rowing Canal, an artificial waterway created during the Soviet era and once a training ground for elite athletes.
After decades of neglect, the canal was meticulously restored two years ago and has since been revitalized as a hub for both sports and recreation. Visitors can enjoy boat rides along the shimmering waters while admiring the modern hotels, wellness centers, charming restaurants, and wide promenades that line its shores.
Adjacent to the canal is the “Eternal City” historical and ethnographic park, a captivating architectural ensemble that recreates traditional homes and public squares from Samarkand and other prominent Uzbek cities such as Bukhara, Khiva, Ferghana, and Tashkent. Drawing inspiration from ancient manuscripts and local folklore, the park offers a panoramic and immersive glimpse into the country’s rich cultural mosaic—all in one place.
From May through September, the Samarkand climate heats up, with daytime temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F). For those seeking a refreshing escape from the heat, the city’s man-made lakes are perfect destinations for leisure and angling.
Fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at catching local species such as carp, common carp (sazan), white amur, and sturgeon. The lakes are stocked with over 13 tons of young fish, and visitors are supplied with fishing gear and bait. Whether you choose to take your catch home or indulge in the local tradition of cooking it on the spot, facilities provide firewood, skewers, and charcoal for grilling.
The fragrant aroma of freshly cooked national dishes often fills the air, making the experience a culinary adventure as well. Many travelers journey to Samarkand specifically to savor its legendary gastronomy—and fishing by the lake is an authentic, delicious part of that journey.
No visit to Samarkand would be complete without tasting its iconic plov, the regional take on Central Asia’s beloved pilaf. Unique for its preparation exclusively with beef—locals prefer to avoid lamb, believing it affects blood pressure—Samarkand’s plov carries a rich, distinctive flavor that food lovers chase far and wide.
Plov here is made with local yellow carrots and rice grown in the surrounding fields. True to tradition, the ingredients aren’t mixed but layered—steaming rice at the bottom, slices of carrot in the middle, and finely chopped beef on top—perfectly balanced in flavor and appearance.
Samarkand offers more than historic architecture and culinary delights—it invites you to experience its vibrant streets, stunning new neighborhoods, tranquil waterways, and hospitable people. The city’s greatest treasure lies in the warmth of its residents: friendly, openhearted, and eager to share their heritage in ways no travel guide can fully capture.
Prepare to discover Samarkand anew—through its dazzling history, lively markets, breathtaking landscapes, and the genuine smiles of a city that has welcomed travelers for over two millennia. Your adventure awaits in this timeless jewel of the Silk Road.
