1. Explore the enchanting Shah-I-Zinda Necropolis

The enormous Registan Square might be the most famous of highlights in Samarkand, but it was my first glimpse of the enchanting Shah-I-Zinda Necropolis that truly left me in awe.

As soon as I’d set foot within the grounds of this fascinating necropolis, I felt as though I had been transported back to a bygone era – one where the ancient Silk Road was still in its heyday.

Built against the Afrasiab Hills on the outskirts of Samarkand, Shah-I-Zinda is not just a monument; it’s an enchanting alleyway framed by vibrant tiled mausoleums honouring Samarkand’s royalty, nobles and influential figures.

What’s even more special is that the necropolis begins with a steep staircase of 40 steps, symbolising the spiritual journey of repentance and prayer – a ritual common in pilgrimage traditions. 

For me, walking up those steps added a calm, almost meditative layer to my experience here, where every step deepened my sense of connection to the history of the Silk Road, even before arriving at the turquoise-tiled masterpieces themselves – truly something to remember.

Since most visitors come to pray or pay their respects here, always visit respectfully. 

Yes, it is absolutely gorgeous, but it is our utmost responsibility to remember Shah-I-Zinda wasn’t built as a playground for our photography or Instagram feed. 

So, if you want thinner crowds for your photography, I’d highly recommend an early morning or late afternoon visit.

2. Roam the lively Siab Bazaar

If you’re anything like me, only the idea of roaming around a local market will get you all amped up – and, let’s be honest, we all know there’s no better way to soak in the spirit and rhythms of local life.

The bustling Siab Bazaar, which is deemed Samarkand’s oldest and largest market, is no different and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the daily cadences of the Samarkandians.

Situated fairly close to the Bibi Khanum Mosque, the Siab Bazaar is easily one of my favourite things to do in Samarkand, as it’s the perfect place to sample regional delicacies, have a chit-chat with the locals, and, most importantly, go all-in on fresh produce, think spices, nuts, dried fruits, and traditional sweets. 

While experiencing it can be somewhat of a sensory overload, it’s precisely this organised chaos that helps you gain a deeper understanding of the Uzbeks and their day-to-day life, making it one of the most authentic experiences in Samarkand.

Oh, it’s also the place to get your hands on a traditional souvenir for yourself or a loved one.

3. Admire the majestic Registan Square

While there is plenty of Silk Road heritage to uncover in Uzbekistan, the first thing that often comes to a traveller’s mind is Samarkand’s famous Registan Square.

The thing is, even if you only just started researching your Uzbekistan trip, I am pretty sure you’ve seen, read or heard of the famous square at some point.

Situated at the heart of Samarkand, the enormous Registan Square is celebrated as one of the most beautiful squares in the world, and it is safe to say it has become Uzbekistan’s main lure.

Monumental, majestic, and mysterious, the iconic square is home to three of Uzbekistan’s best-preserved madrasas and wandering around its impressive grounds will leave even the most seasoned of travellers in awe.

Since each madrasa is spectacular in its own right, I elaborate more thoroughly on them below.

Tilla-Kari Madrasa

Located on the northern side of Registan Square, Tilla-Kari Madrasa is often considered the square’s centrepiece, which makes sense given its prominent position in the centre.

Tilla-Kari Madrasa, meaning ‘decorated with gold’, is celebrated for its lavish interior, and once you set foot inside, it’s easy to comprehend why.

You see, the main prayer hall, as the name indicates, is marked by gold leaf, intricate mosaics and delicate floral patterns, with its huge dome entirely covered in gold as the absolute highlight.

Ulugh Beg Madrasa

Constructed in the 15th century, the Ulugh Beg Madrasa is situated on the left side of Registan Square, and despite being the oldest of the three, it’s considered the best-preserved one.

This fascinating madrasa was built under the order of Timur’s grandson, and later renowned astronomer, Ulugh Beg, and was once the epicentre of spirituality, education and religion.

It’s also where you’ll find the exceptional Registan Sundial, an ancient gilded timepiece that serves as a true testament to early Islamic astronomy – this is by far my favourite piece in the entire Registan.

Sher Dor Madrasa

Standing proudly on the right side of Registan Square, the Sher Dor Madrasa is famed for its incredible mosaics of Lions chasing deer, something not all too common on Islamic buildings.

Built by Uzbek ruler Yalangtush Bakhodur under the Ashtarkhanid (Janid) dynasty, it’s stunning in every sense of the word, and its bold and unusual mosaics make it one of the best things to do in Samarkand – and for a good reason; Sher Dor Madrasa is truly something special!

4. Get artsy at Art Gallery Happy Bird

The legendary poet Oscar Wilde once said, ‘Life imitates art far more than art imitates Life’.

What he meant was that art doesn’t simply reflect reality but actively influences how we perceive the external world, as our perception is oftentimes shaped by the stories, photographs, and artworks we consume, rather than the other way around.

For that reason, I always make an effort to discover the work of local artists whenever I travel, which in Samarkand led me to the intimate, yet impressive Art Gallery Happy Bird.

You see, Happy Bird offers a refreshing alternative to Samarkand’s historical sites, showcasing plenty of crafts that reflect Uzbek culture and traditions, including clothing, paintings, textiles, and my personal favourites, calligraphy and graphic art pieces.

All in all, it’s an inspiring space, one where you can easily spend a few hours, and possibly even pick up a unique piece of art as a meaningful memento of your time in Samarkand – which, of course, is exactly what I did.

5. Marvel at the majestic Bibi Khanum Mosque

Located just a short walk from the bustling Siab Bazaar, the enormous Bibi Khanum Mosque is one of the most important things to do in Samarkand.

Built by Timur in the late 14th century as a token of adoration for his favourite wife, Saray Mulk Khanum (yes, Timur had a dozen wives), the gigantic mosque was built to be mentioned in the same breath as the largest mosques in the Islamic world.

Which it did.  

Characterised by a truly gigantic entrance archway, the most intricate of tilework, an extensive open-layout courtyard, and towering minarets that still dominate the skyline today, its grandeur was not merely reflected by its size – Bibi Khanum is easily one of Timur’s most fascinating symbols of ambition and power. 

Unfortunately, this also became Bibi Khanum’s downfall, as Timur’s ambition and the design risks that came with it eventually led to structural instability and partial collapse over the centuries.

Although we never truly know the full scope of its brilliance, the sheer magnificence of what we see today remains awe-inspiring, and leaving what once was to our imagination is what makes a roam around the grounds of the Bibi Khanum Mosque so magical.

6. Visit the Hazrat Khizr Mosque

Often overlooked in favour of other, more famous things to do in Samarkand, the 19th-century Hazrat Khizr Mosque is considered one of Samarkand’s oldest religious sites.

Built atop ancient foundations dating back to the 8th century, the Persian-style mosque is frequently associated with the wisdom and guidance of Khizr, a legendary mystical figure.

Today, people of all trades, backgrounds and generations come to the mosque for prayer, reflection, and pilgrimage, drawn by its peaceful hilltop setting and enduring spiritual essence.

The mosque itself is unlike other structures in Samarkand, with colourful wooden decorations, intricately carved wooden columns, a smaller, yet stunningly beautiful ribbed dome with a minaret, and last but not least, a charming veranda overlooking the city.

It also houses the Islam Karimov Mausoleum, where Uzbekistan’s first president was laid to rest, adding a touch of national and historical importance to the already impressive complex.

7. Roam the time-worn streets of Samarkand Old Town

Though there are plenty of mesmerising sights in Samarkand, the moments in between, wandering through its time-worn streets, have been some of my absolute favourites.

So, if you’re anything like me and enjoy going on a street photography mission whenever you travel, I am pretty sure you will appreciate a roam without a plan through the old town too.

From crumbling houses to worn-out Soviet-style cars parked in the quiet streets to locals going about their everyday lives, these humble moments offer a more intimate glimpse into Samarkand’s soul, not to mention amazing street photography opportunities.

8. Visit the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum – Tomb of the King

Without doubt, one of my favourite things to do in Samarkand is admiring the opulent Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, also known as the Tomb of the King.

Marking the final resting place of the legendary conqueror Timur, Gur-e Amir is relatively modest – legend has it that Timur himself never expected to be buried here, as he intended to be buried in Shahrisabz, his hometown. 

In reality, Gur-e Amir was built for his beloved grandson, Muhammad Sultan, who was seriously wounded during battle in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), a fate that would later claim his life.

From the outside, Gur-e Amir might appear merely a shadow of the grandeur of the facades of the famous Registan Square, but don’t let the exterior mislead you.

You see, the interior is as opulent as any I’ve seen in Uzbekistan, with deep blue and gold tones, golden inscription bands with intriguing calligraphy, intricate wall decorations complete with shimmering hexagons, and a level of craftsmanship that is reflected in every little detail.

Among historians, it is widely believed that the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum inspired the iconic Taj Mahal, and after visiting both, it is easy to see that the architectural blueprint and brilliance of the Uzbek tomb helped shape the latter’s design.

9. Behold the Observatory of Ulugbek

Despite being a little outside of Samarkand’s historic centre, at roughly 15 minutes from Registan Square, the Ulugh Beg Observatory is definitely worth your while.

Built in the 15th century by renowned Timurid ruler and astronomer Ulugh Beg, the observatory was, at some point, one of the most inventive astronomical centres in the Islamic world.  

Today, visitors still receive an intriguing glimpse into the city’s rich scientific legacy, and while much of its original structures sadly decayed over the centuries, the remains of the gigantic underground sextant still stand today and make for an impressive sight.

The sextant hints at the phenomenal accuracy with which Ulugh Beg and his scholars measured the stars and planets. What’s even more impressive is the moment you realise that this was achieved long before the invention of modern-day telescopes.

While the Observatory of Ulugbek is a fascinating point of call, hence the mention in this things to do in Samarkand guide, I think it’s wise to add this one to the ‘extra list’ if you’re short on time.