Getting to Samarkand
The high-speed Afrosiyob train runs from Tashkent in roughly 2 hours 10 minutes, and the international airport is just 6 km from the centre. Plus intercity buses, shared taxis and the border crossing to Tajikistan.
Practical information
Safety and emergency numbers
Samarkand is considered a safe city for visitors, though pickpockets work the crowded spots. The single emergency number is 112, and a dedicated Safe Tourism call centre answers on 1173.
Emergency numbers
Since 26 March 2025 a unified 112 service has operated across Uzbekistan, bringing police, ambulance, fire and gas emergency lines under one number. The older numbers still work: 101 for the fire service, 102 for police, 103 for an ambulance and 104 for gas emergencies.
The Interior Ministry's Safe Tourism call centre answers around the clock on 1173, with operators speaking English as well as Uzbek and Russian. Tourist police officers are stationed around Samarkand's main monuments — approach them for help or simply to ask the way. When calling for help, give a precise address or landmark, such as the name of your hotel or the nearest monument.
Everyday precautions
Violent crime is rare, but petty theft does happen at the bazaar, in the evening crowds around the Registan and on public transport. Don't keep documents, cash and phone in the same place. Be wary of street money-changers and self-appointed 'guides' offering overpriced services, and use official ride-hailing apps.
Drivers are fast and assertive and don't always yield to pedestrians. Cross only at designated crossings, and stick to well-lit streets at night.
Women travelling alone generally find Samarkand relaxed; more covered clothing helps deflect unwanted attention. If you lose your passport or other documents, report it to the police straight away and get a certificate: most embassies are in Tashkent, where replacement documents are issued.
Laws and restrictions
Carry your passport at all times: it's a legal requirement and police may ask to see it. Importing or flying a drone without special permission is banned and can lead to criminal charges. Medicines containing codeine and similar substances require a doctor's prescription. Don't photograph military sites, border posts or government buildings. Drug penalties are severe. Alcohol is widely sold, but public drunkenness is frowned upon.
Sources (7)
- gazeta.uz/en/2025/03/26/112/
- uzbek-travel.com/about-uzbekistan/news/call-center-for-tourists-safety-has-launched-in-uzb
- worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/uzbekistan/
- gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/uzbekistan/local-laws-and-customs
- travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/uzbekistan-travel-adv
- advantour.com/uzbekistan/drones.htm
- tourfixer.uz/en/blog/drone-laws-uzbekistan-2026-tourist-guide
Details may change — please check before you visit.
Practical information
Before you go
Getting around the city
The historic centre is compact enough to walk between the main sights. For longer hops there are ride-hailing apps, buses and a tram; since April 2025 paying by card is cheaper than cash.
Visas and registration
Citizens of many countries can enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days, and most others can apply for an e-visa. Hotels register you automatically; if you stay in a private home, you must register within three days.
Money, cards and tipping
The currency is the Uzbek som. Visa and Mastercard work in hotels, restaurants and supermarkets, but bazaars, teahouses and street taxis run on cash. ATMs are plentiful in the centre.
Phones, internet and Wi-Fi
A local SIM card takes a few minutes to set up with your passport and is by far the cheapest way to stay online. 4G is solid in town but fades in the mountains. Staying longer than 30 days means registering your phone's IMEI.
Climate and when to go
Samarkand sits around 700 metres above sea level, with hot, dry summers and cool, relatively wet winters. The best months to visit are April–May and September–October.
Etiquette and local customs
Samarkand's people are warm and welcoming, but shrines come with their own rules on dress, photography and greetings. A few simple habits will make your visit all the more rewarding.
Where to stay
Family guesthouses in the historic centre, larger hotels in the leafy 'new town' or the Silk Road Samarkand resort on the city's edge — the right choice depends on your trip and your budget.
Food: what and where to eat
Samarkand plov, the city's famous tandoor-baked bread, samsa and shashlik — the local food is a reason to visit in itself. Here's what to know about teahouses, bazaars and restaurants.
Health, pharmacies and drinking water
No vaccinations are required to enter Uzbekistan, and there is no malaria. The main concerns are drinking water, food hygiene and the summer heat. Sort out travel insurance before you go.
Accessible travel
Samarkand is slowly becoming easier to get around: the Registan has ramps and the newer districts are flat. But the historic monuments are full of steps, uneven paths and thresholds, so plan ahead.
