Over the last millenium or so, this eastern Uzbek city has exchanged hands countless times. After Mongol ruler Genghis Khan flattened it in 1220, the old town was rebuilt by the Timur-i-Leng Empire in 1369. It then prospered during the silk trade boom and much of the current architecture that stands today was built by this very leader. More recently, Samarkand was taken over by Russia in 1868 and for six years (between 1924 and 1930), it was actually the official capital of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic.
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Afrasiab is an ancient archeological site dating back to the Sogdian period in 500 BC. If you’re looking for old ruins, you won’t find any that outdate the ones here. The site also has an interesting on-site museum containing local artifacts and original Sogdian paintings. Afrasiab is located just down from the popular Ulugh Beg Observatory on the hill.
It’s easy to be taken aback by the sensory overload that an Uzbek market can deliver. Central Bazaar in Samarkand is no exception, with its multitude of species, wafting aromas, crowds of shoppers and vocal vendors. A walk around is a great way to sample the local way of life, while also snapping up a bargain.
The Registan Ensemble acts as a magnet for all visitors to Samarkand. This stunning collection of holy Islamic buildings actually comprises the town square. Three separate constructions (or medeses), named Ulugbek, Shirdor and Tilla Kari, can be explored from both inside and out, and feature spectacular patterns, huge blue domes and detailed carvings throughout.
An unmissable attraction for all those who have journeyed to Samarkand is the site of the Shahr-i-Zindar Monuments. These spectacular tombs, built for the former ruler Timur and his family, are a great example of the traditional Islamic architecture so prevalent in Samarkand. Get a close look and you’ll notice the hundreds of thousands of colored tiles that make up the pattern themes.
At the highest point of Samarkand, you’ll find this fascinating observatory. Built in the 15th century by the world famous astronomer Ulugh Beg, it was once regarded as one of the most advanced of its kind in the Islamic world. Although the site now lies in ruins, you can still explore the area (both above and below ground), and get a good feel of how it once operated.
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Delve deep into Uzbekistan's rich historical, religious and cultural tapestry in this unforgettable 10-day trip. After exploring the capital, Tashkent, it’s on to the beautifully blue-washed alleyways of Khiva. Meander around the holy city of Bukhara, before discovering the beloved and spiritual city of Samarkand.
The Grandest Tour returns in 2025 offering guests six Aman sanctuaries in seven different countries, in just one journey by private jet.
This 11-day itinerary takes you on a whirlwind culinary journey across Uzbekistan from Tashkent and Khiva to Bukhara and Samarkand. Snack on spiced lamb samsa, taste some of the sweetest melons and fruits fresh at the market, sample regional specialties of green noodles and fried fish, break bread with your hands, and devour skewers of tender grilled meats. Besides tasting some of the country’s best dishes, you’ll also get hands-on and learn how to cook them as well. After this tour, you’ll likely share the country’s obsession with plov!
Turn back time on this two-week tour of two amazing countries. Explore historical wonders of Tashkent and Khiva and uncover the crumbling cities of Merv and Mary and the fortress of Nissa. Camp by burning gas craters, get up close to the famous Akhal Teke horses of Turkmenistan and discover the palaces and mausoleums of mighty Emirs.
This nine-day tour will whisk you through the wonders just waiting to be uncovered in Uzbekistan. Travel across this stunning country by train alighting to delight in the jaw-dropping architecture of the mosques and madrasahs of Tashkent, Bukhara and Khiva, the dramatic reds of the Kyzyl Kum desert and the beauty of the Amu Darya river.
Fourteen days, two countries, eight cities and one rocket launch: there are not many journeys that you’ll make quite like this one. Over the course of two weeks, you’ll be treated to all the important historic sites of Uzbekistan and its ancient Silk Road cities, as well as witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event – the “Soyuz” rocket being launched into space from the cosmodrome in Baikonur.
Witness the wonders of southern Uzbekistan on this ten day adventure. Gaze at Tashkent’s marvellous mosques and minarets, the mosaics and madrasahs in Bukhara and the treasures of Tamerlane in Samarkand. Delve into the Uzbek countryside, stay in a local home in Darband and meet authentic practising shamans before returning to Tashkent.
This 11-day journey follows the ancient Silk Road of Uzbekistan, encompassing the historic trade cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand. The beauty, as well as the sheer scale of construction is enough to captivate thousands pilgrims and tourists alike. You'll also have time for a camel ride and night under the stars in the Uzbek desert.
Make the most out of your time in Central Asia with this action-packed, nine-day tour of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Starting in Almaty, Kazakhstan and ending in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, this tour will take you from the Charyn Canyon to the Gur-Emir mausoleum, visiting five major cities and touring historical and cultural attractions.
Discover the hidden treasures of two countries on this two-week tour. Marvel at the ancient architecture and explore the bustling bazaars of Uzbekistan’s big cities and plunge into the lakes, mountains and canyons of scenic Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll bathe in hot springs, picnic in meadows and even stay in a rustic local home.
Located in the heart of the city, the Dilimah offers convenience and comfort to visitors of this historic city. The 11 guest rooms are furnished with contemporary amenities and furnishings, and premium rooms feature a balcony. Facilities and services include 24-hour concierge, fitness center, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, indoor pool, business center, babysitting services, and on-site restaurant and bar. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
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It was everything we expected and then some. Remote Lands was great and I would definitely use your agency again for another trip
Our guide in Uzbekistan seemed to know everyone wherever we went which made us feel like locals.
