Samarkand to Tashkent tickets

About the ride from Samarkand to Tashkent

Continue your journey along the Silk Road from Samarkand to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the most populous city in Central Asia. 

Don't expect the same impressive Islamic architecture in Tashkent as you witnessed in Samarkand, though. After an earthquake destroyed much of the city in 1966, the Soviets went to town, adding their iconic brutalist style throughout the capital city. 

With its vibrant bazaars, trendy cafes, parks, interesting museums, and plenty of Soviet-era architecture, Tashkent is truly a fascinating blend of its history and future. 

Ready to move on to your next city in Uzbekistan? 

You'll have to decide between four different ways to get from Samarkand to Tashkent: 

1. Flight 

2. Train

3. Car 

4. Minivan

The fastest way is by flight, and surprisingly, this isn't the most expensive option. 

Your cheapest option is to take the train. It's faster than the car and minivan and will save you a lot of money!

If you are still weighing your options based on time, budget, and experience, we've rounded up everything you need to know about getting from Samarkand to Tashkent, including what to do when you arrive and details about the journey. 

Five fun things to do in Tashkent

Although some argue that Tashkent lacks the excitement of other Central Asian cities, it's important for you to develop your own perspective on the capital. 

The most effective way to do this is by exploring the top attractions:

1. Admire the Khast-Imam Complex. Built in the 16th century, this magnificent wonder withstood the forces of the devastating 1966 earthquake that destroyed much of the city. 

Still standing strong, the Khast-Imam is the spiritual center of Tashkent, home to stunning mosques, madrasahs, and the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman, one of the oldest Qurans in the world. Wander around, admire the architecture, get some great shots, and dress conservatively with shoulders and knees covered. 

2. Explore Chorsu Bazaar. Dive straight into Uzbek culture by putting yourself at the city's heart. The market is where to buy spices, textiles, fresh produce, and local souvenirs. 

3. Hop on the metro. Taking the metro in Tashkent isn't just about getting from A to B. It's a work of art. The city's metro system is renowned for its ornate Soviet-era architecture, with stations adorned with chandeliers, mosaics, and marble details. 

4. Stroll around Amir Timur Square. The central square won't take long, but it's still a part of the city you should see. Surrounded by impressive buildings like the Museum of History and the Forum Palace, you'll find a grand statue of Amir Timur at the center. 

In case you're wondering who this Amir Timur guy is, he was a 14th-century Turco-Mongol conqueror, also known as Tamerlane. He founded the Timurid Empire and is known for his military genius.

5. Learn about Uzbekistan's history. While you're at the square, pop into the Museum of History. Here, you can see fascinating artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country's rich history and heritage, from its ancient Silk Road days to its modern development. 

How to get from Samarkand to Tashkent

There are four ways to get from Samarkand to Tashkent: by flight, train, car, and minivan. 

By flight

Flying is the fastest way to get from Samarkand to Tashkent, with flights taking around one hour. 

Remember to also account for the time you spend transferring to and from the airport, checking in, and collecting your baggage on the other end. 

Uzbekistan Airways operates direct flights on Tuesdays and Sundays. Tickets cost around $60. 

Get ready for an early morning — or no sleep at all — as the flights depart at around 2:30 a.m. and arrive in Tashkent at 3:30 a.m. 

You'll depart from Samarkand Airport and arrive at Tashkent Airport. 

By train

With tickets from $7, the cheapest way to get from Samarkand to Tashkent is to take the train. 

It's also the fastest way by land. Depending on the train you take, the journey can take 2.5-4.5 

hours. Afrosiyob operates the faster high-speed trains, reaching up to 155 mph (250 km/h). These trains are more expensive, starting at $20 for a second-class ticket.

Speed and class are factors when choosing your ticket. On both trains, you'll find first- and second-class tickets. The higher the class, the more spacious and comfortable the seat, just like on an airplane.

Sleeper trains are also available, but you'll probably want to choose a standard seat for this short journey. 

There are many departures, offering ample flexibility for your journey. The trains depart from Samarkand Station and arrive at Tashkent Central or South stations.

There is a bathroom onboard the train.

By car

If you're traveling in a small group, hiring a private car can be the most convenient way to get from Samarkand to Tashkent. 

Cars take up to three passengers and start at just under $200. While it can be more expensive than other options, you'll get hotel pick-up and airport drop-off included in the price, meaning you won't have to think about a thing. 

The ride takes about four hours, and you can choose the departure time, offering ultimate flexibility. The luggage allowance is up to 33 lbs/15 kg per passenger.

By minivan

A private minivan may be a better option than a car for those in a larger group. Minivans can fit a maximum of seven people and cost around $340 to book the whole vehicle. If you fill it to capacity, it works out cheaper per person than the car. 

Like the private car, you'll receive door-to-door service and can leave whenever you like. Airport drop-off in Tashkent is also available. 

The trip takes about four hours, and you can bring up to 33 lbs/15 kg of luggage per person.

What to expect on the journey from Samarkand to Tashkent

Your experience on the journey depends on your chosen mode of transport. If you are flying, you will miss the overland views but be there in no time. 

Traveling by road or rail, you'll see more of Uzbekistan's beauty. 

If you are taking a car or minivan, you can ask the driver to stop whenever you need a break. 

When is the best time to visit Tashkent?

Visit Tashkent in the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to early November) when the weather is most pleasant. 

These months offer mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites, bustling bazaars, and lush parks. Spring brings vibrant blossoms and cultural festivals, while autumn offers crisp air and a harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets. 

While it's still possible to visit in the summer months of July and August, the weather is scorching, often exceeding 104°F (40°C), so most exploring would have to be done in the early morning or evening. 

How many days should you spend in Tashkent? 

Spending three to four days in the capital city of Uzbekistan gives you enough time to slow down and really experience its flavors. You can tick off the main sights like Khast Imam and Chorsu Bazaar while not feeling guilty about grabbing a coffee and taking it easy. 

Tashkent is a city that is more about the vibe than the things to do, and it takes time to experience this side. 

Where should you visit after Tashkent? 

Khiva was inscribed as Uzbekistan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. It is just as impressive as the country's more well-known cities. 

Now, you have two very different options to travel from Tashkent to Khiva — a 1.5-hour flight or a 15-hour train ride. Up for the adventure?