Practical Information

Climate: In Samarkand, the average air temperature in the fall is +20°C. The minimum temperature on average is +7°C. The maximum temperature is maintained at +29°C on average.

Official language: Uzbek

Local time in Samarkand: GMT+5

Local currency and exchange rates: Sum is used as Uzbekistan's official currency. Currency exchange rates are set by the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan that is available on Central bank of Uzbekistan's official web-site.  From Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 18:00 p.m., banks are open. There are plainly identified currency exchange offices all across Samarkand. Moreover, the hotels have money exchange facilities. The city has a large number of ATMs, and many businesses accept major cash cards.

Electricity: The power supply capacity in Samarkand is 220 volts, 50 Hz AC. Round pins fit into sockets.

Credit cards, shopping and tipping: Visa and MasterCard are the two most common types of cards. Almost all establishments accept card payments.  Taxis only accept cash, so you need to cash out. There are ATMs throughout the city, and in the vast majority of establishments it will be possible to pay for goods and services by card (public transport is paid mostly in cash).

Service in Samarkand public catering is charged in the check for food; depending on the institution, the percentage for service varies from 10 to 25 percent of the cost of the entire order. Tipping is considered "voluntary" and at the discretion of the consumer.