If you’ve got a layover in Samarkand, don’t let it go to waste sitting at SKD. The city, in Uzbekistan, is within easy reach — roughly 45 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SKD:
- Can you legally enter Uzbekistan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the UZS. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Samarkand from SKD
From SKD, the Taxi gets you to Samarkand in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Samarkand:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $8 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $23 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Samarkand.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SKD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Samarkand itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Samarkand
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Samarkand, two standouts are:
- Registan Square — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Samarkand.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SKD, you can spend time at SKD Business Lounge or try SKD Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Samarkand, local travelers recommend Platan. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurant Samarkand is another popular pick.
Back at SKD, SKD Airport Main Cafe is the go-to. SKD Airport Express Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at SKD
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SKD has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SKD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Samarkand and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Samarkand with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Samarkand may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.