A family day out

An easy-paced day with children: the Registan in the morning, shady University Boulevard at lunchtime, then a paper mill, hands-on classes in the Eternal City and an evening musical fountain.

Practical information

The route is built around a relaxed pace with long breaks. The morning is on foot or short taxi hops; after lunch, a taxi takes you east to Konigil and Silk Road Samarkand, and the ride back to the centre in the evening is 15–20 minutes. If you need a child seat, book a car in advance — ordinary taxis rarely have one.

In summer the midday heat tires children quickly, so try to wrap up the morning walk by 11:00 and bring water, hats and sunscreen. Entry to the Eternal City is usually free, with master classes, shows and food paid separately; during festivals, evening entry may be ticketed.

Handy tip

Book master classes and shows ahead. The fountain may not run in rain or strong wind, in which case an evening stroll along the canal makes a fine substitute. Pushchairs cope well with the Registan's ramps and the Eternal City's smooth paths, though old-town pavements are uneven.