A Week in Samarkand

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on December 28, 2023

8:00 AM

Chorsu Bazaar

Start your day with a visit to Chorsu Bazaar to experience the vibrant local market culture and grab a quick breakfast of freshly baked bread and local cheese.
USD 5, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Registan Square

Explore the iconic Registan Square, marvel at the stunning architecture, and take plenty of photos. Admire the intricate tile work and grandeur of historical sites.
USD 10, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Platan Restaurant

Head to Platan Restaurant for a hearty Uzbek lunch with dishes like plov (rice pilaf), shashlik (kebabs), and various local salads.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Ulugh Beg Observatory

Visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an impressive site with a rich astronomical history. Learn about the scientific achievements of the medieval era.
USD 5, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Caravan Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at Caravan Restaurant, known for its traditional ambiance and delicious manty (steamed dumplings) along with local tea.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Immersion

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on December 29, 2023

9:00 AM

Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble

Begin your day at Shah-i-Zinda, a stunning ancient necropolis with beautifully adorned mausoleums. Feel the spiritual allure of this historical site.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Rukhobod Mausoleum

Explore Rukhobod Mausoleum, a hidden gem off the beaten path, and admire the intricate tile work and the peaceful ambiance.
USD 5, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Samarkand Restaurant

Head to Samarkand Restaurant for a traditional Uzbek meal. Try their samsa (savory pastries) and local kebabs for a fulfilling lunch experience.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Afrasiyab Museum

Visit the Afrasiyab Museum to learn about the ancient city of Afrasiyab and its archaeological treasures. Gain insights into the region's rich history.
USD 8, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Samarkand Platan

Relish a delightful dinner at Samarkand Platan, offering a mix of Uzbek and European cuisine. Try their signature dish, traditional shurpa (soup), and unwind after a day of exploration.
USD 18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and Craftsmanship

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on December 30, 2023

9:00 AM

Ulugbek Pottery Workshop

Experience the art of pottery-making at Ulugbek Pottery Workshop. Engage in a hands-on session to create your own ceramic masterpiece inspired by traditional Uzbek designs.
USD 10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Bibi-Khanym Restaurant

Indulge in a leisurely lunch at Bibi-Khanym Restaurant, known for its aromatic rice dishes and flavoursome meat kebabs. Take in the charming courtyard ambience.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Siab Bazaar

Explore Siab Bazaar for a cultural shopping experience. Witness the kaleidoscope of colours and scents as you browse through local spices, dried fruits, and handmade crafts.
USD 5, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Ulugh Beg Astronomical Museum

Visit the Ulugh Beg Astronomical Museum to delve deeper into the scientific contributions of the legendary astronomer. Discover ancient astrolabes and celestial maps.
USD 7, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Mirzabek Restaurant

End the day with a delightful dinner at Mirzabek Restaurant, serving a fusion of Uzbek and Middle Eastern cuisine. Try their signature dish, tandoori lamb, for a flavoursome end to the day.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Expeditions

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on December 31, 2023

10:00 AM

Mausoleum of Amir Temur

Begin the day with a visit to the Mausoleum of Amir Temur, an architectural masterpiece dedicated to the revered Central Asian conqueror. Admire the intricate designs and grandeur.
USD 8, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Grand Restaurant Caravan

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Grand Restaurant Caravan, known for its array of Uzbek and Russian dishes. Savour the diverse culinary offerings amid a charming atmosphere.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Samarkand Theatre

Catch a cultural performance at Samarkand Theatre to witness traditional Uzbek music and dance. Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms and vibrant costumes.
USD 10, 2 hours

6:00 PM

New Year's Eve Festivities

Join the locals in the New Year's Eve festivities in Registan Square, where music, dance, and lively celebrations create a jubilant atmosphere. Embrace the festive spirit and countdown to the new year.
Free, 3 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation and Reflection

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on January 1, 2024

10:00 AM

Ulugh Beg Memorial Complex

Spend the morning at the Ulugh Beg Memorial Complex, paying tribute to the influential astronomer and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
USD 5, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Traditional Uzbek Brunch

Indulge in a leisurely traditional Uzbek brunch at Gulshan Restaurant, featuring a variety of breakfast delights such as non (flatbread), olcha (fruit jam), and assorted pastries.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Visit the stunning Bibi-Khanym Mosque, a testament to the architectural grandeur of the Timurid era. Admire the majestic dome and intricate tile work.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Platan Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Platan Restaurant, relishing the delectable flavours of traditional Uzbek cuisine one last time. Savour the culinary journey through a rich tapestry of local delights.
USD 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploration Continues

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on January 2, 2024

9:00 AM

Afrosiab Museum and Site

Embark on a journey to the Afrosiab Museum and Site, where ancient artefacts and remnants of the old city offer insights into Samarkand's early history.
USD 8, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Lunch at Caravan Restaurant

Relish a satisfying lunch at Caravan Restaurant, enjoying the warm hospitality and a fusion of Uzbek and European flavours. Choose from a variety of culinary delights.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Ulugh Beg Madrasah

Explore the Ulugh Beg Madrasah, gaining an appreciation for the rich educational history and architectural splendour. Admire the detailed carvings and geometric patterns.
USD 8, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Shopping at Tashkent Darvoza

Spend time exploring the Tashkent Darvoza area for some souvenir shopping. Browse through a range of local handicrafts, fabrics, and artwork to find unique mementoes of your trip.
USD 30, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Samarkand Platan

Conclude your penultimate day with a memorable farewell dinner at Samarkand Platan, savouring the culinary craftsmanship and warm hospitality one last time.
USD 25, 2 hours
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Day 7: Departure Day

Samarkand, Uzbekistan on January 3, 2024

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Astor Restaurant

Kickstart your day with a delightful breakfast at Astor Restaurant, indulging in a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic local teas or coffees.
USD 10, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Take a final stroll through the local markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping, picking up unique trinkets and gifts to remember your Samarkand adventure.
Variable, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Grand Cafe Samarkand

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Grand Cafe Samarkand, savouring a mix of European and Uzbek culinary delights in a relaxed setting, reminiscing about your unforgettable experiences.
USD 18, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Final Explorations

Take a casual stroll through the Samarkand streets, admiring the architectural beauty and absorbing the local atmosphere one last time before heading to the airport.
Free, 1.5 hours
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