How to travel Tashkent to Samarkand by train
The train is the easiest way between Uzbekistan’s capital and its most famous Silk Road city. Here is what to know before you book.
Updated
Which trains run
- Afrosiyob, the high-speed train: about 2 h 10 min to 2 h 30 min. The most popular choice with visitors.
- Sharq, a conventional daytime train: about 3 h to 3 h 30 min. A good fallback when Afrosiyob is full.
- Nasaf, a conventional train continuing to Karshi: about 3 h 30 min.
Some long-distance overnight trains also pass through Samarkand. Timetables change between seasons, so treat any schedule you find online as a rough guide and confirm the exact departure when you book.
Day trip or overnight?
A day trip is possible with an early train out and an evening train back, but it is a long day and those trains are popular. If you can, give Samarkand at least one night: the Registan at dusk is worth it.
At the station in Tashkent
Daytime trains to Samarkand normally leave from the Central (North) station. Arrive 30 to 40 minutes before departure: there is a security check with bag scanners at the entrance, and staff check your passport and ticket at the door and again on the platform.
Arriving in Samarkand
Samarkand station is about 5 km from the Registan. Taxis wait outside, and ride-hailing apps work in the city. Allow around 20 minutes to the centre, longer at rush hour.
Planning the next leg
Most travellers continue to Bukhara, about an hour and a half by Afrosiyob. If you already know your dates, request both legs at once: you see the full cost in one quote. Check seats on the Tashkent – Samarkand seat calendar.