Fastest way from Tashkent to Samarkand: Flight, about 0h 50min (from €15). Cheapest: Afrosiyob / Uzbekistan Railways, from €6 (about 3h 9min – 3h 47min). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): All Comfort, Uzbekistan Railway, Uzbekistan Railways; main departure point: Tashkent Bus Terminal.
There are 3 ways to get from Tashkent to Samarkand
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan Railway | Train | Tashkent South | €6 | 7 |
| Uzbekistan Railways | Train | Tashkent | €8 | 7 |
| Sharq | Train | Tashkent | €18 | 4 |
| Nasaf | Train | Tashkent | €18 | 2 |
| All Comfort | Bus | Tashkent Bus Terminal | €21 | 16 |
| Samarkand Shuttle | Bus | Tashkent Hotel Transfer | €42 | 2 |
| I way | Van / transfer | €96 | 2 | |
| Like a Local Travel | Van / transfer | €105 | 2 | |
| Silk Avia | Flight | Tashkent Airport | €37 | 1 |
| Uzbekistan Airways | Flight | Tashkent Airport | €38 | 2 |
Activate an eSIM before you go: internet the moment you land, no SIM to swap, zero roaming fees.
Practical tips
The Afrosiyob trains, especially for Tashkent–Samarkand, sell out fast. To secure your preferred time and avoid slower alternatives, purchase your tickets online a minimum of 2-3 days in advance, even more during peak season.
For Khiva or Nukus, don't automatically default to the train. A domestic flight (€55-90) can save you an 11+ hour train journey, giving you precious extra time for sightseeing.
Tashkent and Bukhara have multiple train stations. Always double-check your ticket for the correct departure or arrival station to avoid any last-minute confusion or missed connections.
While trains are fast, remember to budget time for getting to and from the stations. Taxis are generally affordable and widely available, but traffic can add delays in major cities like Tashkent.
For train and bus tickets, use platforms like 12go.asia or local Uzbek Railways websites. They offer instant confirmation and help you compare options, reducing stress and ensuring smooth bookings.
The journey experience
Navigating Uzbekistan's transport system from abroad can seem tricky, but getting from Tashkent to Samarkand is one of the easiest and most efficient routes. You'll quickly discover that this leg offers excellent high-speed rail options, making your journey comfortable and direct. Forget the guesswork: we'll lay out the precise travel times and real costs so you can plan with confidence and make the most of your time in these incredible Silk Road cities.
For your trip from Tashkent to Samarkand, the Afrosiyob high-speed train is by far the best choice. It covers the distance in about 3 hours and 10 minutes to 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs from €6, typically up to €16, depending on the class you choose. Uzbek Railways operates these modern, comfortable trains several times a day. Another option is a bus, taking about 4 hours and costing from €21, but it's less comfortable and often less reliable for schedules.
Given the popularity of the Afrosiyob train, especially for this key Tashkent–Samarkand route, it’s crucial to book your seats in advance – often several days ahead. This avoids the frustration of finding tickets sold out and being forced onto a slower, overnight train or a bus. While other parts of Uzbekistan might require a mix of transport, for this specific journey, the Afrosiyob is your best bet for speed and comfort, ensuring you arrive in Samarkand refreshed and ready to explore.
Frequently asked questions — Tashkent → Samarkand
The best way is undoubtedly the Afrosiyob high-speed train. It's fast, comfortable, and efficient, connecting the two cities in just 3 hours. While buses are cheaper, they are slower and less reliable. Flying is not an option for this short route, as there are no direct flights.
An Afrosiyob train ticket typically costs from €6 (up to €16), depending on the class (Economy, Business, VIP) and how far in advance you book. Bus tickets are generally more expensive, from €21, but offer a lower level of comfort and longer travel times (around 4 hours).
By Afrosiyob high-speed train, the journey takes approximately 3 hours. If you opt for a bus, the travel time will be around 4 hours, not including potential delays. Always factor in transit time to and from the stations as well.
Absolutely, yes. Afrosiyob tickets, especially for the popular Tashkent–Samarkand route, can sell out several days in advance, particularly during holidays or peak travel seasons. Booking online a few days ahead is highly recommended to guarantee your seat and preferred departure time.
Why visit Samarkand?
- ✓ Registan Square: Admire the breathtaking madrasahs of Ulugh Beg, Tilya-Kori, and Sher-Dor, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- ✓ Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis: Explore this stunning avenue of mausoleums, renowned for its intricate tilework and historical significance.
- ✓ Bibi-Khanym Mosque: Marvel at the grandeur of one of the largest and most impressive mosques in Central Asia, commissioned by Timur.
- ✓ Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Visit the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants, an architectural masterpiece with a ribbed dome.
- ✓ Siyob Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life, discover spices, fresh produce, and traditional Uzbek crafts.
When to visit Samarkand?
CONTINENTAL SEMI-ARIDE
April to May and September to October — pleasant temperatures avoid the extreme heat of summer and cold of winter.
What to do in Samarkand?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Samarkand?
For an independent traveler, 3-4 days are ideal to explore Samarkand's main historical sites at a comfortable pace. This allows for immersive visits to Registan, Bibi-Khanym, and Shah-i-Zinda. If time is limited, 2 full days can cover the essentials, but rushing is likely. To fully appreciate the city's ambiance and potentially take a day trip, consider 5 days.
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