Samarkand, once the heartbeat of empires that spanned across Asia, stands as a testament to the grandeur of medieval civilization and scientific brilliance. As a former epicenter of knowledge and innovation, this city is renowned for its monumental architecture and groundbreaking achievements. On this two-day Samarkand City Tour, you will delve into the rich tapestry of Samarkand’s history, exploring its legendary landmarks and uncovering its intellectual heritage.
Your journey begins with a high-speed train ride from Tashkent, arriving in Samarkand with a welcome that sets the stage for an immersive exploration. The tour highlights the majestic Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur and his closest companions, and the iconic Registan Square, the heart of medieval Samarkand and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Marvel at the grandeur of Bibi-Khanum Mosque and the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis, each a reflection of the city’s storied past.
The adventure continues with a visit to Ulugbek’s Observatory, where the astronomers of the 15th century made pioneering discoveries with remarkable precision. Experience the legacy of Samarkand’s scholarly pursuits by visiting the Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel, and witness the traditional art of paper-making in Konigil village, a craft perfected since Samarkand was among the first outside China to produce paper from mulberry trees.
This tour offers a unique window into Samarkand’s medieval splendor and its ongoing cultural heritage. With visits to both its famed landmarks and lesser-known treasures, the Two-Day Samarkand Tour by Train is an ideal introduction to one of Central Asia’s most fascinating cities.
Begin your Samarkand adventure with a prompt pickup from your hotel or residence in Tashkent at 07:15. You will be transferred to the railway station to board the high-speed train, Afrosiyob, which departs at 08:00. This comfortable journey will take you to Samarkand, arriving at 10:10.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a local guide and driver who will accompany you for the day’s exploration. Your tour starts with a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane) and his family. This grand structure reflects the architectural brilliance of the Timurid era and offers deep insights into the region’s historical legacy.
Next, you will head to Registan Square, Samarkand’s most iconic landmark. The square is surrounded by three stunning madrasahs—Ulugh Beg Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, and Tilla-Kari Madrasah—each adorned with intricate tilework and offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural and educational heritage.
Following this, visit the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, an impressive example of grand Islamic architecture commissioned by Timur himself. After exploring the mosque, you will proceed to the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis, a sprawling complex of mausoleums and shrines, known for its beautifully decorated tiles and historical significance.
Your final stop for the day will be the Ulughbek Observatory, an ancient astronomical site where 15th-century scientists conducted remarkable observations and calculations. The day’s sightseeing concludes with a visit to the vibrant Siab Bazaar, where you can experience the local market scene and sample traditional foods.
After a day of exploration, you will check into your hotel for an evening of relaxation and free time to unwind or further explore the city on your own.
On your second day, continue your journey through Samarkand with a visit to the Afrasiab Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient city of Afrasiab, offering insights into the early history and culture of Samarkand.
Next, visit the Tomb of Saint Daniel, a revered site with connections to various legends and spiritual traditions. From there, you will travel to Konigil village, where you will witness the traditional process of making Samarkand paper from mulberry bark. This ancient craft reflects the city’s historical role in the development of paper-making techniques.
Following your village visit, enjoy some free time for personal exploration or relaxation, with a car and driver at your disposal for any last-minute discoveries or shopping.
In the afternoon, you will return to the railway station for your train ride back to Tashkent. The train departs at 17:00 and is scheduled to arrive in Tashkent at 19:10. Upon arrival, you will be transferred back to your hotel or designated drop-off point, concluding your enriching two-day tour of Samarkand.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $610 | $360 | $320 | $300 | $280 |
All transportation throughout the tour Guided sightseeing tour Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Tickets for trains Tashkent-Samarkand-Tashkent Hotel accommodation (based on double/twin room sharing)
Full board (lunch and dinner) Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
I recently took the Two-Day Samarkand Tour and was thoroughly impressed. The highlights of the tour included the stunning Gur-Emir Mausoleum and the majestic Registan Square, both of which are must-see landmarks. The visit to Ulugbek Observatory provided an intriguing look into ancient astronomy. I enjoyed wandering through Siab Bazaar, which was bustling with local life and delicious treats. On the second day, the Afrasiab Museum offered a deep dive into Samarkand’s ancient history, and the paper-making demonstration in Konigil village was both educational and enjoyable. The logistics were smooth, with comfortable train rides and an informative guide. This tour offers a perfect blend of historical sites and cultural experiences, making it a great choice for anyone visiting Uzbekistan.
This tour was a fantastic way to experience the essence of Samarkand in just two days. From the moment we arrived on the high-speed Afrosiyob train, the tour was well-organized and informative. Gur-Emir Mausoleum and Registan Square were incredibly impressive, with their intricate designs and historical significance. The Shahi-Zinda Necropolis was a poignant and beautiful visit. The free time to explore Siab Bazaar added a local flavor to our trip. The second day’s visit to the Afrasiab Museum and Konigil village was insightful and unique, especially seeing the traditional paper-making process. The tour was well-paced, and the guide’s knowledge made the history come alive. A highly recommended tour for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike!
The Two-Day Samarkand Tour from Tashkent was an unforgettable experience. Our guide provided in-depth insights into Samarkand’s rich history, and the visits to Gur-Emir Mausoleum and Registan Square were the highlights. The architectural beauty and historical significance of these sites left us in awe. The Ulugbek Observatory was fascinating, showcasing ancient scientific achievements. The visit to the Siab Bazaar offered a vibrant taste of local culture. The highlight of Day 2 was the Afrasiab Museum, which offered a unique look into Samarkand’s past. The traditional paper-making demonstration in Konigil village was a wonderful touch. The train journey was comfortable, and the whole experience was seamlessly organized. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to dive deep into Central Asia’s history!