Getting Around Samarkand. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Samarkand's public transportation system has a practical and budget-friendly way to navigate the city. It mainly comprises an extensive network of buses and shared taxis (marshrutkas). Samarkand does not have a metro or tram system.

Buses cover most of the city, connecting residential areas with major attractions, markets, and the train station. Marshrutkas operate on fixed routes but provide a more flexible, stop-on-demand service. Fares are very low, making public transport an extremely budget-friendly choice (approx. 2,000-4,000 UZS).

Public Transit Insights

Bus routes can be complex; English maps are not always available, but locals are helpful.
Payment is usually made directly to the driver upon boarding or exiting; have small UZS denominations ready.
Buses and marshrutkas operate from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM).
Public transportation generally does not accommodate wheelchairs or mobility impairments.

Route Navigation

Ask hotel staff for optimal routes or use offline mapping apps like Maps.me.

Crowd Awareness

Expect crowded buses/marshrutkas during peak hours; prepare for standing.

Local Assistance

Locals are generally friendly and willing to guide you with directions.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Hailing & Fares

Official taxis are yellow or have a taxi sign; hail from the street or at major sites.
Meters are rarely used; always negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Short rides within the city cost around 15,000-40,000 UZS (approx. 1.3-3.5 USD).

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Yandex Go is the most popular and reliable ride-sharing app, providing upfront fares.
Yandex Go provides a record of the driver and vehicle, and allows trip sharing.
Unofficial taxis (private cars) are common but less regulated; always agree on a price firmly.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Not common or widely recommended for tourists. Road conditions and local driving styles can be challenging. An IDP is necessary.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Generally not available or recommended for tourists due to safety concerns.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from some guesthouses. Good for exploring the city's relatively flat core.

Driving Info

Drive on the right. Speed limits 60 km/h urban, 90 km/h highway. Parking can be informal.

Walking & Cycling

Exploring Samarkand's historical heart on foot or by bicycle extends intimate insights into its beauty. The city's historic center is highly pedestrian-friendly and best explored this way.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The cluster of monuments around Registan Square, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is ideal for walking.
These sites are relatively close, forming a walkable loop.
The area around Siab Bazaar is also highly walkable, though it can be crowded.

Guided & Self-Guided Tours

Many local guides offer walking tours of the Old City, arranged via hotels or reputable operators.
Self-guided tours are simple with a good map or navigation app like Maps.me.
Bicycle infrastructure is minimal; cyclists share roads with vehicles.
Be cautious of traffic and pedestrians, especially around busy intersections.

Accessibility & Specialized Transport

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is generally poor; pavements are uneven.
Many historical sites have stairs and lack ramps; public transport is not accessible.
Arranging private transport with a driver is the most feasible option for mobility needs.

Tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services are limited, often operating as private tours.
No boat taxis, water transportation, cable cars, or funiculars are present in Samarkand.
No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians or cyclists in terms of safety.

Navigating Samarkand

City Center

Highly pedestrian-friendly; explore major monuments on foot.

Public Transport

Buses and marshrutkas are economical for wider city travel.

Taxis & Apps

Taxis are convenient; Yandex Go is the recommended ride-sharing app for fair pricing.

Transportation Advice

For a true cultural immersion, mix walking with public transport and occasional taxi rides. Always verify fares for taxis before starting your journey, unless using a ride-hailing app. Local transport in Samarkand, while not always modern, offers an authentic glimpse into daily life.

Enjoy the diverse ways to move through this ancient city, soaking in its sights and sounds at every turn.

Getting Around Samarkand