Zarafshon Parkside

This is probably one of the poshest hotels in Samarkand. There's a lot in this hotel that is right. But it's clear the industry is on a learning curve. The facilities are fine. Rooms are large, there's an ample garden in the back and a good swimming pool. Location is very good as you can walk to the Boulevard, the nearby park and even the historical sites. Many restaurants nearby and a convenient grocery store just opposite. Staff at the reception is young, professional and very attentive, some of the best I have seen in Uzbekistan.

(1) Sound insulation from the busy street does not work , it would probably take triple-glass but this is an investment the hotel should make. Traffic can be heard all night-long. (2) Beds are hard, as is the rule in Uzbekistan. This really should be reconsidered. (3) Lighting makes no sense at all. No reading lights. Bedside lighting is fixed to the walls and awfully bright. If you want to read, your family will have to stay up.

Kudos to the entire Zarafshon team! The location is perfect, the staff are incredibly kind, and from the moment I arrived, it genuinely felt like a home away from home. A very special shoutout to the front desk team: Javohir from the front desk was also my tour guide, and this ended up being one of the highlights of my time in Samarkand. It was wonderful experiencing the city through the eyes of a local. He didn’t just explain the history behind each cultural monument, but also shared stories about everyday Uzbek life, which made the experience feel far more personal and authentic. If you’re looking for a tour guide who can show you more than just the tourist side of Samarkand, definitely ask for Javohir. Umida was incredibly accommodating and warm. Talking to her genuinely felt like catching up with a friend I hadn’t seen in years. She made me feel comfortable from the very beginning. Sukhrob, with his constant smile, humble nature and willingness to help, also made my stay that much more memorable. Another special mention to the gentleman at the front desk who helped me book my flight ticket for the next part of my trip. I was feeling quite anxious about the travel arrangements, and he patiently helped me sort everything out and made the whole process feel much easier. That small act of kindness took a lot of stress off my shoulders and made me feel genuinely looked after. A special mention as well to the teams at Badr Restaurant and the breakfast restaurant. The food was absolutely fantastic and another highlight of the stay. More than anything, it was the people who made this experience special. I came to see Samarkand, but left with beautiful memories of the people who made me feel at home. A truly heartfelt experience. Thank you, Zarafshon team!

Swimming pool, breakfast, staff’s efficiency, location

Restaurant

barely a 5 star. trying to pass as one.

hotel staff behaviour, grounds, breakfast.