Weather in Samarkand

About Samarkand

Samarkand's blue-tiled monuments—the Registan, Guri Amir mausoleum, and Bibi Khanum Mosque—represent the pinnacle of Timurid Islamic architecture. The Registan's three madrassas display intricate tilework (kashi) in lapis lazuli blues; sunlight transforms the tiles' colour hourly. Samarkand was Timur's 14th-century capital; the Silk Road wealth funded this beauty.

Country

Uzbekistan

Best months to visit

May, June, August, September, October

Currency

UZS

Language

Uzbek, Russian, English

Things to do in Samarkand

Marveling at the Registan's three madrassas at different times of day for changing light Visiting Guri Amir mausoleum containing Timur's tomb and cenotaph Exploring the Bibi Khanum Mosque's vast courtyard and intricate tile work Shopping the Siab Bazaar for spices, silk, and Uzbek handicrafts Eating plov (rice pilaf), samosas, and tea at traditional chaikhanas Staying in Old Samarkand guesthouses converted from traditional homes

Weather by month

Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.

January

Cold, with occasional showers.

February

10C

Cool, with occasional showers.

March

16C

Cool, with some rainy days.

April

21C

Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.

Recommended

May

27C

Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.

Recommended

June

33C

Hot and humid, and mostly sunny skies.

July

36C

Very hot, and mostly sunny skies.

Recommended

August

34C

Hot and humid, and mostly sunny skies.

Recommended

September

29C

Warm and pleasant, and mostly sunny skies.

Recommended

October

21C

Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.

November

13C

Cool, with occasional showers.

December

Cold, with occasional showers.

Samarkand was one of the great cities of the Silk Road, and its turquoise-domed monuments — the Registan, Gur-e-Amir and Shah-i-Zinda — remain among the most spectacular Islamic architecture anywhere in the world. Few cities so completely live up to their legendary reputation, especially when the Registan's tilework catches the late afternoon light.

Best areas to stay in Samarkand

Registan area

The historic centre around Samarkand's most famous monument, with nearby guesthouses and restaurants.

Gur-e-Amir / Old City

Home to Timur's mausoleum and a network of older streets and smaller mosques.

Siab Bazaar

A lively traditional market near Bibi-Khanym Mosque, good for dried fruit, bread and spices.

Shah-i-Zinda

An avenue of ornately tiled mausoleums climbing a hillside, one of the most atmospheric sites in the city.

Getting to Samarkand

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Flights

Fly into Tashkent International Airport, then take the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Samarkand.

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From London

~6-7 hours direct from London to Tashkent, plus a 2 hour train onward.

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Getting around

The main sights are within walking distance of each other or a short taxi ride.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Samarkand?

April-June and September-October offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the monuments; summer can be very hot.

What is the Registan?

An ensemble of three monumental madrasas (Islamic schools) facing each other across a grand square, covered in intricate turquoise and blue tilework — Samarkand's signature sight.

How do I get to Samarkand from Tashkent?

The high-speed Afrosiyob train covers the journey in about 2 hours and is the most comfortable option.

Is Samarkand easy to visit independently?

Yes — the main sights are walkable or a short taxi ride apart, and tourist infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years.

What food should I try in Samarkand?

Samarkand is famous for its plov (rice pilaf), and the local version of non (bread) is considered among the best in Uzbekistan.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

The Registan at sunset is one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen — the colours on the tilework are unreal. Shah-i-Zinda was just as impressive and much quieter.

Olga P. · May 2024

★★★★★

Took the bullet train from Tashkent and it felt like arriving in a different world — domes everywhere you look. Siab Bazaar was a great place to try local bread and dried fruit.

James T. · September 2023

★★★★★

Grew up hearing about these monuments and they still exceeded expectations in person. Go early morning to the Registan before the crowds and tour groups arrive.

Dilnoza K. · April 2024