Almaty
Almaty stands as a beacon between mountain and plain. Behold the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan range, then explore Panfilov Park’s wooden Zenkov Cathedral. As apples scent the air, a nod to the city’s orchard-filled history, the spirit of the Silk Road lingers.
Chapters
Local Tips
• Medeu Skating Rink
• Big Almaty Lake
• Kok-Tobe Hill
• Zenkov Cathedral
• Charyn Canyon
• Seasonal Smog
• Traffic Congestion
• Remote Ski Resorts
Currency: –
Festivities: –
Almaty Guide
Guide for 1 Day
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Bauyrzhan Baursak, where you can try the famous deep-fried dough balls called baursaks.
- Take a short walk to the Green Bazaar and wander through the colorful stalls selling spices, dried fruits, and local handicrafts.
- Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country’s history, culture, and art.
Midday
- Head to Bisket, a cozy cafe serving up a fusion of Kazakh and European cuisine for lunch.
- Explore the Panfilov Park and pay your respects at the Zenkov Cathedral, a beautiful wooden Orthodox church that is over 100 years old.
Afternoon
- Discover the Abay Opera House, a stunning Neo-Classical building that is home to some of the best performances in the city.
- Take a stroll through the Arbat Street, a pedestrianized avenue lined with cafes, shops, and street performers.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Zheti Kazyna, a traditional Kazakh restaurant that serves up a variety of meat dishes and local delicacies.
- Sip on a cocktail at the trendy BarBaris, a speakeasy-style bar with a cozy atmosphere.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife at Soho, a popular club that features local DJs and live music.
Guide for 2 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start the day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Zheruik, a cozy restaurant that serves fresh bread, jams, and delicious omelets.
- Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which showcases the country’s rich history and culture.
- Explore the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral, one of the few wooden buildings in the world that has survived earthquakes and fires.
Midday
- Savor a delicious lunch at Bauyrzhan, a popular restaurant that serves traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak and kuyrdak.
- Visit the colorful Green Bazaar, where you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices and souvenirs.
Afternoon
- Take a cable car to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Visit the Almaty Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, which showcases the traditional instruments of Kazakhstan’s various ethnic groups.
Evening
- Enjoy a dinner of shashlik and lagman at Nauryz, a cozy restaurant with a beautiful garden.
- Sip on some local beer or cocktails at Barrel, a popular bar with a laid-back atmosphere.
- End the day with a walk around the beautiful Park of the First President.
Day 2
Morning
- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Pushkin, a cozy cafe with a great selection of pastries and coffee.
- Visit the Abay Opera House, one of the most beautiful buildings in Almaty and home to the country’s best opera and ballet performances.
- Explore the colorful and vibrant Arbat Street, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Uryuk, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Kazakh and Uzbek dishes.
- Visit the Almaty Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.
Afternoon
- Explore the Panfilov Park, one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Almaty, and home to the famous Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame.
- Visit the Auezov House Museum, the former home of the famous Kazakh writer Mukhtar Auezov.
Evening
- Enjoy a dinner of delicious seafood at Ostrovok, a cozy restaurant with a beautiful view of the city.
- Sip on some local wine or cocktails at Bar Bar Bar, a trendy bar with a great selection of drinks.
- End the day with a walk around the beautiful Park named after 28 Panfilov Guardsmen.
Guide for 3 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Enjoy a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Navat.
- Visit the beautiful Ascension Cathedral.
- Stroll through the lush Park named after 28 Panfilov Guardsmen.
Midday
- Try out some Kazakh delicacies at Beshbarmak.
- Get a glimpse of the local art at A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts.
Afternoon
- Explore the stunning First President’s Park.
- Take a cable car to the top of Kok Tobe Hill for breathtaking views of the city.
Evening
- Dine in style at Kishlak.
- Sip on some local beer at Taproom Almaty.
- Dance the night away at The Room Club.
Day 2
Morning
- Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at The Coffee Room.
- Admire the unique architecture of the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan.
- Learn about Kazakh history at the Abay State Opera and Ballet Theatre.
Midday
- Relax and rejuvenate at Arasan Wellness & Spa.
- Savor some Georgian cuisine at Khinkalnaya.
Afternoon
- Visit the colorful Green Bazaar.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of National Musical Instruments.
Evening
- Feast on some mouthwatering Uzbek dishes at Chaykhana.
- Sip on some signature cocktails at The Bar At Park Hotel.
- Enjoy local live music at Ukulele.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Tartine.
- Visit the impressive Medeu ice skating rink.
- Explore the beautiful Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some pizza at Pizza Celentano.
- Take a stroll through the picturesque Aray Park.
Afternoon
- Discover the hidden gems at the Sadykov Art Gallery.
- Experience the thrill of paragliding at Medeu.
Evening
- Dine on some delectable Japanese cuisine at Miyabi.
- Sip on some cocktails at the swanky Sky Bar.
- Enjoy a night of fun and laughter at The Kazakh State Circus.
Guide for 5 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sultan Restaurant, known for its traditional Kazakh cuisine.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Panfilov Park, home to the famous Zenkov Cathedral – a stunning wooden building.
- Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
Midday
- Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Nauryz Restaurant, featuring a mix of Kazakh and Uzbek cuisine.
- Head to the Green Bazaar and browse through the colorful stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.
Afternoon
- Explore the modern side of Almaty at the bustling Arbat Street, lined with shops, cafes and street performers.
- Take a cable car ride to the top of Kok Tobe Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Evening
- Dine at Oriental Cafe and try the traditional Kazakh dish, Beshbarmak.
- Relax with a drink at the trendy The Bar Bar.
- Experience a traditional Kazakh music and dance performance at the Abay State Opera and Ballet Theater.
Day 2
Morning
- Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Kishlak Restaurant, serving a variety of Central Asian dishes.
- Visit the Almaty Tower, the tallest TV tower in Central Asia, and take in the stunning views of the city.
- Explore the Ascension Cathedral, a beautiful Russian Orthodox church with a unique blue and white exterior.
Midday
- Try the famous Kazakh meat dish, Plov, at Uzbegim Restaurant for lunch.
- Visit the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments to learn about the traditional music of Kazakhstan.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by mountains.
- Explore the Medeu Skating Rink, the highest skating rink in the world.
Evening
- Dine at Mad Murphy’s Irish Pub, offering a mix of Irish and Kazakh cuisine.
- Visit the Almaty Opera House for a ballet or opera performance.
- Experience the local nightlife at Bar Gosti, a popular bar known for its live music and cozy atmosphere.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Tartine, a cozy French bakery with freshly baked pastries.
- Visit the Central Mosque, the largest mosque in Kazakhstan.
- Explore the Arasan Baths, a traditional public bathhouse with hot and cold pools.
Midday
- Lunch at Bazaar Food Court, a unique food court with stalls selling different cuisines from around the world.
- Visit the 28 Panfilov Heroes Memorial Park, a tribute to the soldiers who defended Moscow during World War II.
Afternoon
- Take a relaxing stroll through the Botanical Garden, featuring over 5,000 species of plants.
- Explore the Kasteev State Museum of Arts, showcasing a collection of Kazakh and Russian art.
Evening
- Dine at Moloko Bar, featuring a mix of European and Kazakh cuisine.
- Try the local beer at Shymkent Brewery, a popular brewery in Almaty.
- Visit the Almaty Circus for a thrilling acrobatic performance.
Day 4
Morning
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Line Brew, a cozy cafe with a variety of coffee and breakfast options.
- Visit the Independence Monument, a symbol of Kazakhstan’s independence from the Soviet Union.
- Explore the Palace of the Republic, a modern concert hall with a unique architectural design.
Midday
- Lunch at Old Granny Restaurant, serving traditional Kazakh dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- Explore the Abay Kunanbayev Museum, dedicated to the famous Kazakh poet and philosopher.
Afternoon
- Visit the Almaty Zoo, home to over 7,000 animals from around the world.
- Explore the Atakent-Expo Center, featuring exhibitions and events showcasing Kazakh culture and industry.
Evening
- Dine at Urusai, a Japanese restaurant with a mix of traditional and fusion dishes.
- Experience the local nightlife at The Bank, a popular bar and nightclub in Almaty.
- Visit the Almaty Arena for a thrilling ice hockey game.
Day 5
Morning
- Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Besqaynar Restaurant, featuring a mix of Kazakh and European cuisine.
- Visit Chimbulak Ski Resort, a popular winter sports destination with stunning mountain views.
- Explore the Sunkar Falcon Farm, featuring a collection of birds of prey.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Madlen Cafe, a cozy cafe with a variety of European and Kazakh dishes.
- Visit the Zenkov Cathedral Museum, showcasing the history and architecture of the famous wooden cathedral.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic drive to the Charyn Canyon, a stunning natural wonder with unique rock formations.
- Explore the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Kazakhstan.
Evening
- Dine at Buhara, a traditional Uzbek restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
- Experience the local nightlife at Bar 1958, a trendy bar with a mix of Kazakh and international drinks.
- Visit the Almaty Circus for a thrilling acrobatic performance.
Guide for 1 Week
Day 1
Morning
- Indulge in local favorites at Zheti Kazyna.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen.
- Marvel at the intricate designs of the Zenkov Cathedral.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Beshbarmak.
- Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan.
Afternoon
- Take in the stunning views from the top of Kok Tobe Hill.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments.
Evening
- Savor a traditional Kazakh dinner at Kazakh Aul.
- Sip on cocktails at the trendy BarBaris.
- Experience the local nightlife at Dostyk Plaza.
Day 2
Morning
- Fuel up with breakfast at Coffee Room.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Ascension Cathedral.
- Wander through the colorful Zelyony Bazaar.
Midday
- Enjoy a tasty lunch at Nauryz.
- Take a trip to the Almaty Zoo.
Afternoon
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Chocolatieria.
- Admire the unique architecture of the Abay Opera House.
Evening
- Indulge in a luxurious dinner at Belvedere.
- Sip on craft beers at the cozy Bar Tom.
- Experience a traditional Kazakh show at the Kazakh State Circus.
Day 3
Morning
- Wake up with breakfast at Bella Vista Cafe.
- Marvel at the impressive collection at the National Museum of Kazakhstan.
- Take a stroll through the picturesque Park of the First President.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with lunch at Pizza di Roma.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Almaty History.
Afternoon
- Take in the stunning views from the top of Shymbulak Ski Resort.
- Experience the thrill of snow tubing at Medeu Ice Rink.
Evening
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at La Grenouille.
- Sip on cocktails at the chic Sky Lounge.
- Experience local music at the Oscar Club.
Day 4
Morning
- Start your day with breakfast at Star Cafe.
- Take a trip to the beautiful Big Almaty Lake.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Kazakh Instruments.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with lunch at Brioche.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame.
Afternoon
- Wander through the charming Arbat District.
- Take in the breathtaking views from the top of Almaty TV Tower.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Turnir.
- Sip on local beers at the lively Pinta Pub.
- Experience the local nightlife at Jazzystan Club.
Day 5
Morning
- Fuel up with breakfast at City Coffee.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Military Equipment.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with lunch at Shashlykoff.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Presidential Palace.
Afternoon
- Take in the stunning views from the top of Chimbulak Ski Resort.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Geology.
Evening
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at Da Vinci Ristorante.
- Sip on cocktails at the trendy Barbados.
- Experience local music at the Hard Rock Cafe.
Day 6
Morning
- Wake up with breakfast at Starbucks.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Repression Victims.
- Take a stroll through the charming Green Market.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with lunch at Uryuk Cafe.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Almaty Tower.
Afternoon
- Wander through the picturesque Park named after 28 heroes of Panfilov.
- Take in the breathtaking views from the top of Almaty Hill.
Evening
- Indulge in a luxurious dinner at Esentai Terrace.
- Sip on cocktails at the chic Cocktail Bar.
- Experience local music at the Night Flight Club.
Day 7
Morning
- Start your day with breakfast at Paul Cafe.
- Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Zhastar Park.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with lunch at Domino’s Pizza.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Almaty Central Mosque.
Afternoon
- Wander through the charming Auezov District.
- Take in the stunning views from the top of Republic Square.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Old Times.
- Sip on local beers at the lively Beer House.
- Experience the local nightlife at Bar 23.
Where to Stay
Coming soon for Almaty!
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Best Season
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