Samarkand's public transportation system has a useful and budget-friendly way to find your way through the city. It mainly comprises a comprehensive system 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 large 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).
Ask hotel staff for peak routes or use offline navigation apps like Maps.me.
Expect crowded buses/marshrutkas during peak hours; prepare for standing.
Locals are generally friendly and ready to guide you with directions.
Not common or widely recommended for tourists. Road quality and local driving styles can be challenging. An IDP is necessary.
Generally not available or recommended for tourists due to safety concerns.
Available from some guesthouses. Good for exploring the city's relatively flat core.
Drive on the right. Speed limits 60 km/h urban, 90 kilometers per hour highway. Parking can be informal.
Exploring Samarkand's historical heart on foot or by bicycle extends intimate understanding of its beauty. The city's historic center is highly pedestrian-friendly and best explored this way.
Highly pedestrian-friendly; explore major monuments on foot.
Buses and marshrutkas are economical for wider city travel.
Taxis are convenient; Yandex Go is the recommended ride-sharing app for fair pricing.
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 lift-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 old city, soaking in its sights and sounds at every turn.
