Samarkand Self-guided Walking Tour, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand is a city full of emblematic and historical sites. As the third largest city in Uzbekistan, one of the oldest continually-inhabited cities in the world and best known as the capital of the Timurid Empire, there is plenty to see and do. Although they are geographically spread out, it is possible to cover all of the city’s main sites on foot in a single day. Alternatively, you can break this tour up into several days and spend longer at some of the major attractions. Either way, check out my Samarkand self-guided walking tour below!

Start at Alisher Navoi Central Park (Markaziy Park). This large, green park is a relaxing place in the centre of Samarkand. Here you can find a statue of the famous Timurid-era poet Alisher Navoi, as well as several buildings displaying an impressive Russian colonial-style architecture including the Museum of Friendship and Religious Tolerance

Head out of the park and south east on Abdurakhmon Jomiy Street and you will find the Church Of St. Alexius Metropolitan Of Moscow. This ornate Russian Orthodox church dates back to 1912, and is dedicated to Saint Alexius, a 14th century bishop who is considered one of the patron saints of Moscow. It is possible to enter the grounds and explore the small garden area, and on certain days it may be possible to enter the church itself although we didn’t do this. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).