Things To Do
in Pavlodar

Pavlodar is a vibrant city located in northeastern Kazakhstan, situated on the banks of the Irtysh River. It serves as an important industrial and cultural hub, known for its beautiful parks and historical architecture. The city has a rich history, influenced by various cultures over the centuries, making it a unique place to explore.

With its diverse attractions and welcoming atmosphere, Pavlodar offers visitors a blend of modernity and tradition.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Pavlodar Regional Museum to learn about local history and culture, followed by a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Victory Park.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café and then visit the impressive Cathedral of the Intercession, one of the city's architectural highlights.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and explore the vibrant promenade along the Irtysh River, where you can enjoy a scenic sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a trip to the nearby eco-park where you can enjoy walking trails and the serene natural environment.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the local arts center to experience Kazakhstan's contemporary art scene and perhaps catch a performance.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a bar or club to experience the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🍕Fast food combo$5
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Harsh winters can be challenging for some.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello!
  • "Рахмет!" - Thank you!
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me
  • "Сіз қайдансыз?" - Where are you from?
  • "Менің атым ..." - My name is ...

Places to Visit in Pavlodar

Visit one of these nice places.

Irtysh River Promenade

A beautiful location for capturing sunset views, with scenic pathways and vibrant city life.

Cathedral of the Intercession

A stunning architectural marvel, perfect for photographing intricate designs and its serene surroundings.

Victory Park

This park features lush greenery and monuments, providing excellent opportunities for capturing nature and history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pavlodar

Pavlodar offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Kazakh dishes as well as international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Pavlodar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A traditional dish made of boiled meat served over pasta, often accompanied by a rich broth.

Must-Try!

Kazy

A type of sausage made from horse meat, seasoned and traditionally served as a delicacy.

Plov

A flavorful rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, popular in Central Asian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls offering traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling 'samsa' (savory pastries) and 'shashlik' (grilled skewers) throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pavlodar experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F), while summers can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet people warmly, using a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact.

Hospitality

If invited to a local's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit.

Dress Code

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pavlodar is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure. It's advisable to stay informed about local laws and customs.

Tipping in Pavlodar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, tipping is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, with blooming flowers and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather, ideal for enjoying the outdoor cafes and parks, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography.

Winter

Expect cold temperatures and snow, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Pavlodar at Night

Pavlodar has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city offers a mix of traditional Kazakh music and modern beats in nightclubs, making it a great place to socialize and enjoy local culture. Popular areas for nightlife include the river promenade and city center, where you'll find bustling bars and entertainment options.

Hiking in Pavlodar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kokshetau National Park

Located a few hours from Pavlodar, this park offers stunning hiking trails through picturesque landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.

The Altai Mountains

Famous for their breathtaking views and diverse wildlife, hiking in the Altai Mountains is an unforgettable experience for adventurers.

Airports

How to reach Pavlodar by plane.

Pavlodar Airport (PWQ)

Located about 12 km from the city center, Pavlodar Airport connects the city with major destinations in Kazakhstan and neighboring countries.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pavlodar is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas encourage walking. However, some suburbs may require public transport or taxis to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group in Pavlodar, the Kazakhs have a rich cultural heritage and traditions that play a significant role in the city's identity.

Russian Community

A significant portion of Pavlodar's population is of Russian descent, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Pavlodar, with local teams competing in the national league and attracting passionate fans.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey enjoys immense popularity, with several teams in the region and a strong following, especially during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pavlodar is manageable, with most areas experiencing moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Biking is also becoming more popular, with designated lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pavlodar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some eateries offer rice and vegetable dishes that cater to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Pavlodar includes both public and private facilities. Emergency services are available, and hospitals are equipped to handle most medical needs. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide