The city's main market; bread, dried fruit, spices and everyday goods.
Siab Bazaar, also spelled Siyob, is the largest bazaar in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, standing beside the Bibi-Khanym Mosque on Bibi-Khanym Street at the corner with Islam Karimov Street, the former Tashkent Street. It covers more than seven hectares, with a domed central building, several covered pavilions and open-air rows. Bread, dried fruit, nuts, spices, meat, dairy, ceramics and textiles are sold, and separate pavilions hold clothing and household goods. The bread sellers at the entrance bake Samarkand non in clay ovens; a loaf costs about 3,000 to 5,000 UZS (roughly $0.25 to $0.40). Most trade is for local shoppers, so souvenirs are secondary, but the dried-fruit and spice aisles are the best place for edible gifts. Bargaining is expected on non-food items; food is priced by weight and tasting is normal. Cash in som is the main payment. Hours are reported as about 07:00 to 19:00 with a weekly closing day that sources report inconsistently, so visitors should confirm locally. Mornings are best for freshness, and bags should be kept closed in crowds.
| Hours | Daily roughly 07:00–19:00 (closing day varies; verify) |
|---|---|
| Price | Free entry; non from 3,000 UZS (~$0.25) |
| Address | Bibi-Khanym Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan |
Location
Bibi-Khanym Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
39.6622, 66.9803 View on map
Highlights
- Samarkand non baked at the entrance
- Dried apricots, raisins, walnuts and halva by weight
- Spices and tea in the dome
- Next to Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Tips for visiting
- Arrive in the morning for bread and cooler aisles.
- Bargain politely on non-food items.
- Taste before buying dried fruit.
- Carry small som notes.
- Keep bags closed in crowded aisles.
When to visit
Mornings, spring through autumn.
Accessibility
Aisles are crowded and surfaces uneven or wet near food stalls, so wheelchair and stroller access is difficult.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Siab Bazaar?
Beside the Bibi-Khanym Mosque on Bibi-Khanym Street, about a ten-minute walk from the Registan.
Is bargaining expected?
Yes for non-food goods; food is priced by weight.
Are cards accepted?
Mostly cash in som; a few larger stalls take cards.