Registan Square Tours and Tickets

The beating heart of the Uzbek Silk Road, Registan Square was once a congregation point for traders and travelers during the days of Timur’s empire. It is famed for its azure mosaics and Islamic architecture, as stunning, centuries-old tiled madrasas surround the square.

The highlights of Registan Square are the three madrasas—especially Ulugbek, the oldest, and Sher-Dor, known for its tiled tiger-like mosaics. You can walk inside the three buildings, which have been converted into souvenir bazaars. You’ll notice plenty of brides and grooms posing as the Registan Square is a popular spot for wedding portraits.

Plan for at least a few hours at Registan Square, as the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a feast for the senses. Architectural details range from the intricate tile work on the facades to the domed interiors. Bring a good-quality camera or smartphone, as you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities.

You can find a unique range of Uzbek handicrafts at Registan Square, including jewelry, ceramics, ikat textiles, embroidery, and much more. Prices tend to be reasonable, so this is a great place to pick gifts to bring back home. There are also antiques, although their authenticity may be hard to determine.

Yes, you can visit Registan Square on a tour. Most Samarkand tours stop at Registan Square. While you can glimpse the complex from the outside, it’s well worth the price of admission to enter the square. Tours often include transportation and visits to other Samarkand attractions, such as the necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda.

Yes, it is worth seeing the light show at Registan Square. After dark, a nightly laser show recounts the history of the region and the Timurid Renaissance. Pro tip: Come before sunset to catch the Registan during the Golden Hour, and then stay to see the show.