Cheapest Flights to Samarkand
About Samarkand
Samarkand, one of Uzbekistan's oldest and most historically significant cities, is located in the southeastern part of the country, nestled in the Zerafshan River valley. As of 2023, it has a population of approximately 1.1 million residents. Renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture and as a key stop on the ancient Silk Road, Samarkand offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical landmarks.
The city experiences a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summers can see temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F), while winters often drop below freezing, with January being the coldest month. Precipitation is relatively low, averaging around 350 mm annually, with the majority falling between November and April. The most favorable time to visit Samarkand is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Samarkand is served by Samarkand International Airport, situated approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Several airlines operate flights connecting Samarkand to major Saudi Arabian cities. Notably, Air Samarkand has initiated direct flights between Jeddah and Samarkand, operating two flights every Tuesday.
Additionally, travelers from Riyadh, Dammam, and other Saudi cities can access Samarkand via connecting flights offered by airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airways.
Samarkand's culinary scene is a delightful reflection of Uzbek traditions, featuring dishes like plov (a rice and meat dish), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and samsa (savory pastries). The city's vibrant bazaars, such as the Siyob Bazaar, offer an array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. A popular local beverage is green tea, often enjoyed throughout the day.
Tourists in Samarkand can explore numerous attractions that highlight its historical and cultural heritage. The Registan Square, with its trio of majestic madrasahs, stands as a testament to Islamic architecture. The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis offers a stunning avenue of mausoleums adorned with intricate tilework. Other notable sites include the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, and the Ulugh Beg Observatory.
Outdoor enthusiasts can visit the Amir Temur Botanical Garden, which showcases a diverse collection of plant species. The city's parks, such as Central Park, are popular spots for relaxation and social gatherings, providing insight into the daily life of Samarkand's residents.
Saudi Arabian citizens can visit Uzbekistan without a visa for stays up to 30 days. For longer stays or purposes beyond tourism, such as business or study, obtaining the appropriate visa is necessary. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
Transportation to Samarkand City Center from Airport
Samarkand Intl. Airport
You can reach Samarkand International Airport, which is about 5 kilometers away from Samarkand city center, by taking a taxi or taking the advantage of the hotel shuttle service. If you prefer public transportation, it is possible to reach the city center by choosing from five different bus lines. In Samarkand, where transportation costs are quite low, you only need a small amount of money to reach the city from the airport. Since Samarkand International Airport is very close to the city center, you can reach wherever you want in Samarkand in a short time.
Taxi
There are the taxis waiting at the exit of the arriving passenger terminal of the airport. Transportation to the city center by taxi costs about 3.000 - 4.000 Uzbekistani Som.
Bus
You can easily see the bus stops at the exit of the arriving passenger terminal. As the airport is very close to the city center, many bus lines pass through the city center. You can reach Samarkand city center by choosing from the buses 31, 10, 60, 18 and 37. One-way ticket price per passenger costs 600 Uzbekistani Som.
Hotel Shuttle Service
Many hotels in Samarkand offer airport shuttle service to their guests. You need to make a reservation in advance if you want to take advantage of the shuttle service provided by your hotel. Hotel shuttle service is a little more costly compared to taxis; however, it doesn't affect your budget that much because transportation by taxi is also very cheap. The main advantage of preferring this service is that the service driver will be waiting for you at the luggage delivery area, the shuttle will be ready for you and you will not need any navigation assistance.
Rent a car
You can see the offices of car rental companies at Samarkand International Airport. By renting one of the affordable cars, which are offered in different segments with various specifications, you can make your journey comfortable. You can reach the city center after driving about 5 kilometers by the rental car.
Completing the car rental procedures online before your journey will save your time. Please keep in mind that you must have an international driver's license to rent a car. After taking the airport exit on the road, you just need to follow the city center signs.
