Things To Do
in Almaty
Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is known for its stunning natural surroundings, blending modernity with historical charm. Nestled in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, it serves as a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures. The city offers a diverse cultural scene with museums, galleries, and theaters, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
Almaty's vibrant streets are filled with parks, cafes, and markets, making it a delightful destination for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the lush greenery of the park.
Head to the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan's history and culture. Afterward, visit the Green Bazaar for lunch and to experience local market life.
Finish your day at Kok Tobe Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and have dinner at a restaurant overlooking Almaty.
Take a day trip to Medeu, the world's highest ice skating rink, and enjoy some outdoor activities like ice skating or hiking.
Visit Shymbulak Ski Resort for some skiing or snowboarding, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Have lunch at a mountain restaurant.
Return to the city and explore the trendy nightlife area of Dostyk Avenue, where you can find bars and live music venues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within the city) | $3 |
| 🏨Night in a hotel | $40 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $0.30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Vibrant culinary scene with diverse dining options.
- Limited English proficiency among locals can pose communication challenges.
- Public transport may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours.
- "Сәлем!" - Hello!
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Сізге не керек?" - What do you need?
- "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me
- "Сау болыңыз" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Almaty
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic hilltop with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
A striking wooden cathedral located in Panfilov Park, offering vibrant colors and architectural details.
The picturesque ice skating rink surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing stunning landscape shots.
Food in Almaty
Almaty Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat and served over pasta.
Must-Try!
A popular rice dish cooked with meat and carrots, often seasoned with spices.
A type of sausage made from horse meat, often served at special occasions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.
Try local favorites like samsa (savory pastries) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers) from various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common, and addressing people by their first name is considered polite.
Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and it's customary to try a bit of everything offered.
Showing respect to elders is important in Kazakh culture; always greet them first.
Safety
Tipping in Almaty
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10% of the bill. It's appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in markets and smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) can be hot, but it's perfect for hiking in the mountains and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Autumn (September to November) offers cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for photography.
Winter (December to February) is cold, perfect for skiing and other winter sports in the nearby resorts.
Almaty at Night
Hiking in Almaty
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that leads to the stunning Big Almaty Lake, known for its turquoise waters and picturesque mountain backdrop.
A moderately challenging hike that takes you through lush forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Airports
How to reach Almaty by plane.
Located about 15 kilometers from the city center, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Kazakhstan and offers flights to many destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kazakhstan, known for their rich cultural traditions and nomadic heritage.
A significant minority in Almaty, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and influencing the local language and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Kazakhstan, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans.
Ice hockey also enjoys popularity, especially during the winter months, with various leagues and teams in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Almaty.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly salads and soups.
Gluten-free options are limited, so it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out.