See, eat, drink
A short guide to Samarkand for course participants — the sights, the table and the tea.
What to see
Six sights that cover the heart of the old city.
Registan
The central square, framed by three madrasahs: Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor and Tilya-Kori. Go early for softer light, then return in the evening.
Gur-e-Amir
Timur's mausoleum, which also holds Ulugh Beg's grave. Look for the ribbed blue dome and the detailed interior.
Shah-i-Zinda
A necropolis lined with blue tilework. Dress modestly.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Built with wealth from Timur's Indian campaign. Restored courtyard and a marble Quran stand.
Siab Bazaar
Next to Bibi-Khanym: fruit, spices, nuts, dried fruit and the round local bread.
Ulugh Beg Observatory
A 15th-century astronomical site. The original building is in ruins, but it is still worth the visit.
What to eat
Plov first. Then everything that comes out of the clay oven.
Plov
The centrepiece. Samarkand's version is layered, uses yellow carrots and barberries, and often comes with quail eggs or dried fruit.
Non
Round flatbread from the clay oven (tandir), served with almost every meal. Break it by hand and never turn it upside down.
Shashlik
Marinated meat grilled over charcoal.
Lagman
A hearty noodle soup that Samarkand has made its own.
Samsa
Pastry baked in a clay tandir oven.
What to drink
Tea is the traditional companion to a meal.
Green tea
Served all day and offered to guests as a sign of hospitality.
Khovrenko Wine Factory
Tastings of wines, balsams and cognacs, for those who wish to try.
Dec 12: 08:30–17:10 · Dec 13: 09:00–17:00. See the sights before or after, and check opening hours and ticket prices first.