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Almaty, Kazakhstan

Destination Guide

Almaty

Kazakhstan

Best things to do in Almaty

24 curated attractions in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

May - September

Average temp

11°C/52°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Almaty

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, offers a unique blend of Soviet-era architecture and natural beauty, framed by the majestic backdrop of the Tien Shan mountains. The city is a cultural hub, known for its lush parks, busy bazaars, and a strong coffee scene that may surprise first-time visitors. The Green Bazaar is a spot where locals and tourists alike gather for fresh produce and spices, while the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen features the impressive Zenkov Cathedral, which is among the world's tallest wooden structures. Almaty appeals to those looking for a mix of urban life and outdoor activities, with options ranging from leisurely strolls in the Botanical Garden to skiing at Shymbulak. People come for the chance to enjoy both city life and natural landscapes within reach, all set against a backdrop of mountain views that make you question your fitness levels if you plan on hiking.

Who it's for

Cultural enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates a mix of urban and outdoor settings will find Almaty enjoyable. Those looking for a classic tourist experience might be disappointed by the lack of traditional attractions in favor of a more local vibe. If you prefer a purely modern cityscape or extensive public transit options, this may not be the place for you.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The city center is compact, and walking from one side to the other takes about twenty minutes
  • Public transport is generally good, with buses and the metro connecting most areas efficiently
  • Taxis and rideshare services are available but can be less reliable during peak hours
  • Big Almaty Lake is about a thirty-minute drive from the city, so plan accordingly
Kolsai Lakes National Park

Kolsai Lakes National Park

Nature
Auezov House Museum

Auezov House Museum

Historic houses & mansions
Gorky Park

Gorky Park

City parks
National Museum of Kazakhstan

National Museum of Kazakhstan

History museums
Zenkov Cathedral (Ascension Cathedral)

Zenkov Cathedral (Ascension Cathedral)

Churches & cathedrals
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

City parks
Almaty Central Mosque

Almaty Central Mosque

Mosques
Shymbulak Ski Resort

Shymbulak Ski Resort

Ski resorts
Medeu Skating Rink

Medeu Skating Rink

Stadiums & sports venues
Glory Memorial

Glory Memorial

Historical
Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake

Lakes
Almaty Tower

Almaty Tower

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Almaty Botanical Garden

Almaty Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens
Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill

Scenic viewpoints
Almaty Museum of Arts

Almaty Museum of Arts

Arts and Entertainment Venues
First President's Park

First President's Park

City parks
Arbat

Arbat

Urban Attractions
Almaty Circus

Almaty Circus

Family & kids' attractions
Almaty Zoo

Almaty Zoo

Zoos
Butakty Visitor Center

Butakty Visitor Center

Nature
Green Bazaar

Green Bazaar

Food markets & food halls
Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

History museums
Almaty Arasan Baths

Almaty Arasan Baths

Spas & bathhouses
Sunkar Falcon Center

Sunkar Falcon Center

Wildlife sanctuaries

Where to eat in Almaty

The places worth planning a meal around.

Sandik Restaurant

Sandik Restaurant

Kazakh · $15–$30

★ 4.5 · 1,283 reviews

Bolor Coffee Roasters

Bolor Coffee Roasters

Coffee Roastery · $$

★ 4.2 · 73 reviews

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